Rupiah Weakens: Is it Necessary to Have US Dollar Savings?

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The weakening trend of the Rupiah exchange rate against the US dollar has prompted some Indonesians to consider having savings in US dollars. However, this financial strategy is not always suitable for every household. People must clearly understand the benefits of having savings in US dollars. Financial planner and Founder of Finante.id, Rista Zwestika, says that having some savings in US dollars can be a good diversification strategy. In addition, savings in US dollars are also important for people who have import businesses or global investment goals. “However, this does not mean that everyone should move all of their savings to US dollars,” she said. According to her, US dollar savings should ideally be adjusted to the needs and financial profile of each individual. One of the first steps that can be taken is to ensure that emergency funds and routine needs remain safe in Rupiah. “Determine the purpose of having US dollar savings, whether it is for asset value protection, travel, education, or investment,” she explained. The step of having US dollar savings can be done by starting to save US dollars regularly and gradually, without having to start with a large amount. Rista suggests that people can use official instruments such as foreign currency accounts, foreign currency deposits, or dollar-based investments according to their risk profile. “In principle, US dollar savings are more suitable as a diversification tool and preparation for future needs, not just to pursue profits from currency exchange rate differences,” said Rista. She advises people not to panic or rush into making extreme decisions when the US dollar rises. “The main focus remains on financial goals and individual needs,” she said. Rista explains that when daily needs and emergency funds are secure, the increase in the US dollar can be a momentum to start diversifying assets. “Including considering dollar-based instruments gradually,” she added. For information, the Rupiah exchange rate in the spot market is still closed weaker on Friday (May 15, 2026). The Garuda currency weakened 0.39 percent to IDR 17,597 per US dollar. Currency and Commodity Analyst, Ibrahim Assuaibi, said that the weakening of the Rupiah was triggered by a combination of external and domestic sentiments, ranging from rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the strengthening of the US dollar to high interest rate trends. “External conditions are causing the dollar to strengthen, then oil prices are also rising and have an impact on the weakening of the Rupiah,” said Ibrahim in a statement, Friday (May 15, 2026).