Currency exchange

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Q 2: What is the ruling on exchanging currencies (in the black market)? For instance, exchanging 3,000 Algerian Dinars (DZD) for 3,000 French Franks (FRF), which means 300%, given that the legal way to do it is 300 DZD for 340 FRF.

A: If the exchange is made in the same currency, they should be equal, and they should be exchanged in the same meeting. It is Haram (prohibited) to exchange unequal sums, or delay the exchange of one of them. If they are two different currencies, (Part No. 13; Page No. 445) it is permissible to exchange them, whether in the black market or elsewhere. It is Haram to delay paying one or both of them.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.