Microsoft Excel is a powerful tool that offers various features for data manipulation and analysis. One of its useful features is the ability to convert currencies, making it easier to work with financial data from different countries or regions. This article delves into the methods available for currency conversion in Excel, providing a comprehensive guide for users to effectively manage their international financial data.
Key Facts
- Currencies Data Type: Excel introduced the Currencies data type, which allows you to get and compare exchange rates from around the world. This feature is available for Microsoft 365 accounts.
- Entering Currency Pairs: To use the currency converter, you need to enter the currency pair in a cell using the format “From Currency / To Currency” with the ISO currency codes. For example, you can enter “USD/EUR” to get the exchange rate from US Dollars to Euros.
- Converting Currency: After entering the currency pair, you can select the cells and insert a table. Then, go to the Data tab and select the Currencies data type. If Excel finds a match between the currency pair and the data provider, the text will convert to a data type, and you’ll see the Currencies icon in the cell.
- Extracting Information: Once the currency pair is converted, you can extract more information from the Currencies data type. Select the converted cells and click the Insert Data button or press Ctrl/Cmd+Shift+F5. You’ll see a list of available fields, such as Price (exchange rate) and Last Trade Time (time of the exchange rate).
- Using the Currency Data: You can use the converted currency data in formulas or calculations. To ensure the data is up to date, you can go to the Data tab and select Refresh All to get an updated quote.
Currencies Data Type
Excel introduced the Currencies data type, which allows users to obtain and compare exchange rates from around the world. This feature is exclusively available for Microsoft 365 accounts.
Entering Currency Pairs
To utilize the currency converter, users need to input the currency pair in a cell using the format “From Currency / To Currency” with the ISO currency codes. For instance, entering “USD/EUR” will provide the exchange rate from US Dollars to Euros.
Converting Currency
After entering the currency pair, users can select the cells and insert a table. Then, they can navigate to the Data tab and choose the Currencies data type. If Excel finds a match between the currency pair and the data provider, the text will convert to a data type, and the Currencies icon will appear in the cell.
Extracting Information
Once the currency pair is converted, users can extract more information from the Currencies data type. By selecting the converted cells and clicking the Insert Data button or pressing Ctrl/Cmd+Shift+F5, a list of available fields will be displayed. These fields include Price (exchange rate) and Last Trade Time (time of the exchange rate).
Using the Currency Data
The converted currency data can be utilized in formulas or calculations. To ensure the data is up to date, users can go to the Data tab and select Refresh All to obtain an updated quote.
Conclusion
Excel provides multiple methods for currency conversion, catering to the diverse needs of users. The Currencies data type offers real-time exchange rates, while formulas and external data sources provide flexibility and customization options. By leveraging these features, users can efficiently manage their international financial data and make informed decisions based on accurate currency conversions.
References
- Get a currency exchange rate – Microsoft Support
- How to Convert Currencies in Excel
- How to convert currencies using Excel – Acuity Training
FAQs
How do I convert currencies in Excel?
Excel offers multiple methods for currency conversion. You can use the Currencies data type (available for Microsoft 365 accounts), formulas, or external data sources.
What is the Currencies data type in Excel?
The Currencies data type allows you to obtain and compare real-time exchange rates from around the world. It provides accurate and up-to-date currency conversion.
How do I use the Currencies data type in Excel?
To use the Currencies data type, enter the currency pair in a cell using the format “From Currency / To Currency” with the ISO currency codes. Then, select the cells, insert a table, and choose the Currencies data type from the Data tab.
Can I use formulas to convert currencies in Excel?
Yes, you can use formulas to convert currencies in Excel. A simple formula is to multiply the amount by the exchange rate. For example, to convert USD to EUR using an exchange rate of 0.85, you can use the formula “=A2*0.85”, where A2 contains the USD amount.
How do I import external data sources for currency conversion in Excel?
You can import external data sources, such as web pages or CSV files, that contain currency exchange rates. Once imported, you can use the data to convert currencies using formulas or Power Query.
How do I ensure that the currency exchange rates are up to date in Excel?
If you are using the Currencies data type, Excel automatically updates the exchange rates when you open the workbook or refresh the data. For formulas and external data sources, you can manually update the exchange rates by refreshing the data or using a data connection.
Can I convert multiple currencies at once in Excel?
Yes, you can convert multiple currencies at once in Excel. You can use the Currencies data type to convert multiple currency pairs simultaneously. Alternatively, you can use formulas or Power Query to apply the same conversion rate to a range of cells.