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"The Georgian Lari (GEL) serves as the official currency of Georgia, a nation located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia."
Introduction
The Georgian Lari (GEL) serves as the official currency of Georgia, a nation located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. With a history spanning decades of economic and political changes, the lari stands as a symbol of Georgia's journey towards stability, growth, and integration into the global economy.
This article delves into the origins, significance, and features of the Georgian lari.
Historical Evolution
Predecessor Currency: Before the lari, the Soviet ruble was the official currency in Georgia due to its status as a Soviet republic. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia gained independence and began to consider establishing its own currency.
Introduction of the Lari: The lari was introduced in 1995 as a replacement for the Georgian coupon, a temporary currency used during the early post-Soviet years. The lari was named after a traditional Georgian monetary unit used in medieval times.
Key Features of the Lari
Currency Code: The currency code for the Georgian lari is GEL, often used to identify it in international financial transactions.
Subdivisions: One lari is subdivided into 100 tetri. Tetri coins are commonly used for smaller denominations.
Banknotes and Coins: The lari is issued in various denominations of banknotes and coins, each featuring Georgian historical and cultural symbols.
Economic Impact and Stability
The Georgian lari has played a role in the country's economic stability and growth:
Stabilization: The introduction of the lari marked a significant step towards establishing a stable national currency and regaining control over Georgia's economic destiny.
Inflation Control: Over the years, the Georgian government and central bank have worked to control inflation and maintain the stability of the lari to ensure economic growth.
Investor Confidence: A stable and well-managed currency enhances investor confidence and facilitates international trade and investment.
Challenges and Future Outlook
External Factors: The lari's value can be influenced by external factors, including changes in global commodities markets and geopolitical developments in the region.
Diversification: Georgia continues to work towards diversifying its economy to reduce dependency on a few key sectors and enhance overall economic resilience.
Conclusion
The Georgian Lari, with its historical significance and role in Georgia's journey towards economic stability and growth, reflects the resilience of a nation striving for prosperity and global integration.
As Georgia continues to navigate the complexities of the modern economic landscape, the lari remains a symbol of its efforts to establish a stable and prosperous future.