The Dollar Rises in Mexico and Breaks Its Negative Streak: Here’s How It Affects Your Money Transfers

The dollar exchange rate moved this February 20 in three key countries for the Latino community in the United States.

Why it matters: The exchange rate determines how much your remittances are worth and how much money your family actually receives.

In short: The dollar rose for the first time this week in Mexico, continued climbing in Colombia, and slipped slightly further in the Dominican Republic.

The Dollar Rises in Mexico and Breaks Its Negative Streak

Banco de México (Banxico) reported today that the dollar stood at 17.27 pesos.

In banks, the average rate is:

Buy: 16.8982 pesos

Sell: 17.4883 pesos

This marks the first increase of the week in the dollar exchange rate in Mexico.

“Today, Friday, February 20, 2026, the average dollar exchange rate in Mexico is 17.19 pesos.”

Vía: https://t.co/22Urc9suGO pic.twitter.com/0DhCLHRGJ4

— Colegio de Contadores Públicos de México (@colegiocpmexico) February 20, 2026

What it means: If you send money today, your dollars convert into more pesos than yesterday. For larger transfers, the difference can add up.

The Dollar Rises in Colombia: Upward Trend Continues

Banco de la República reported an official dollar rate of 3,701.810 Colombian pesos.

Market average:

Buy: $3,550

Sell: $3,670

The dollar strengthened again against the Colombian peso.

Dollar Exchange Rate in Mexico Today – PHOTO: Shutterstock

What it implies: If you send money to Colombia, your dollars may convert into more pesos than earlier in the week — an advantage for remittances.

However, it may also affect domestic prices if the trend continues.

Dollar Price in the Dominican Republic: Slight Decline

Banco Central de la República Dominicana reported the dollar at:

Buy: $61.0179

Sell: $61.5627

For those sending remittances, this means your money may stretch slightly less in Dominican pesos compared to previous days.

How the Exchange Rate Affects Your Family Budget

The exchange rate impacts more than it seems.

If you send $300 or $400 per month, even a small variation can represent hundreds of pesos in difference over the course of a year.

It also matters if you:

Are paying a mortgage back home.

Cover medical expenses.

Plan to invest or start a business.

Are traveling soon.

Timing your transfer can work in your favor.

Key tip: Checking the rate several days before sending money can help you decide the best time to do so, especially when monitoring the dollar exchange rate.

Convenient Options for Sending Money from the U.S.

When the dollar rises, many people take advantage and send money.

These are common alternatives used by the Hispanic community:

RIA Money Transfer: Allows you to send cash or transfers via its app using a card or bank account. Funds can be received in Mexico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.

Remitly: Very popular among Latinos. Allows transfers from the U.S. to Mexico, with pickup options at Oxxo, Banorte, BanCoppel, Banco Santander, and others. It is registered and regulated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, adding a layer of security.

Revolut: Offers international transfers through its app and may provide competitive exchange rates depending on your plan.

Xoom (by PayPal): Allows transfers to bank accounts or cash pickup locations.

Between the lines: Often the real difference is not in the visible fee, but in the exchange rate applied by each company.

What to Do With Your Money When the Dollar Rises

The price of the dollar changes daily, but the real impact depends on how you save and send your money. These tools can help you make better decisions amid exchange rate volatility.

Ria Money

When the dollar rises or falls, the exchange rate makes the difference. Ria Money allows you to send money considering the real-time value of the dollar at the moment of transfer.

Send money

CIT Bank

In times of volatility, it’s not only about how much the dollar is worth, but where you keep your money. CIT Bank offers savings options designed for long-term stability.

Explore options

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What Could Move the Dollar Next?

The market is primarily watching the United States.

Data such as inflation and employment often trigger rapid changes in the dollar.

Expectations regarding interest rates also play a major role. If rates remain high in the U.S., the dollar could stay strong. If there are signals of cuts, it could lose momentum.

In Mexico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic, any announcements from their central banks may also lead to adjustments in the dollar exchange rate in Mexico and across the region.

Practical conclusion: The dollar has already shifted direction this week. Staying informed can help you make the most of your next transfer.

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