CAIRO, Mar 2 – Egypt’s net foreign assets increased by $4.02 billion to reach a record $29.54 billion in January, according to data released by the Central Bank of Egypt on Monday.
The rise reflects continued dollar inflows supported by Gulf investments, currency reforms, and higher remittances. Data from the central bank shows that remittances from Egyptians abroad reached $4.0 billion in December. This brought total inflows for 2025 to $41.5 billion, up from $29.6 billion in 2024. January figures for remittances have not yet been released.
Foreign assets held by commercial banks rose by about $1.67 billion during the month. At the same time, assets at the central bank remained largely unchanged. Net foreign liabilities declined across both commercial banks and the central bank, further supporting the overall position.
Egypt’s net foreign assets measure the difference between foreign assets and liabilities held by the banking system, including the central bank and commercial lenders. The indicator turned negative in February 2022 as the apex bank intervened to support the currency amid external pressures.
However, conditions improved after a sharp currency devaluation in March 2024. Net foreign assets returned to positive territory by May 2024 and have continued to strengthen since then.
