Convert Currency in Google Sheets: A Step-by-Step Guide (2024)

Need to handle different currencies in your financial spreadsheets? Google Sheets makes currency conversion simple with real-time data.

This guide shows you how to use the GOOGLEFINANCE function for accurate, up-to-date conversions. Perfect for budgeting, accounting, and tracking international transactions, it’s a must-know for professionals and personal finance buffs.

Setting Up Currency Conversion in Google Sheets

In Google Sheets, users can accurately and efficiently perform currency conversion by employing the built-in GOOGLEFINANCE function which accesses real-time exchange rates for a variety of currencies.

Understanding Currency Codes and Symbols

Currency conversion relies on three-letter currency codes, like USD for U.S. dollars or GBP for British pounds, which standardize transactions across borders.

These codes are more consistent than currency symbols that can vary in appearance and usage.

Using GOOGLEFINANCE to Get Real-Time Exchange Rates

The GOOGLEFINANCEfunction can fetch real-time exchange rates. To find the current rate, simply use the formula: =GOOGLEFINANCE(“CURRENCY:SourceCurrencyTargetCurrency”), replacing SourceCurrencyand TargetCurrencywith the relevant currency codes.

For example, if you want to convert 100 USD to EUR, you’d enter =100 * GOOGLEFINANCE(“CURRENCY:USDEUR”) in a cell.

When you press ‘Enter,’ Google Sheets will calculate the current equivalent in Euros using the latest exchange rate.

See Also

Understanding Currencies | PIMCOHow to Read and Calculate Currency Exchange RatesHow to calculate exchange rates | Western UnionHow to Calculate Exchange Rates | WorldRemit

Creating a Conversion Formula

For converting currencies, enter =Amount * GOOGLEFINANCE(“CURRENCY:SourceCurrencyTargetCurrency”)in a cell.

For instance, to convert 150 GBP to JPY, you would use the formula =150 * GOOGLEFINANCE(“CURRENCY:GBPJPY”), and the result would be the amount in Japanese Yen.

Implementing Historical Exchange Rates

Google Sheets also allows users to fetch historical exchange ratesby specifying a start_dateand optionally an end_date.

The syntax extends to =GOOGLEFINANCE(“CURRENCY:USDGBP”, “price”, DATE(YYYY,MM,DD), DATE(YYYY,MM,DD), “DAILY”)or “WEEKLY”.

Example: Historical Conversion Formula for USD to GBP on 01/01/2023: =GOOGLEFINANCE(“CURRENCY:USDGBP”, “price”, DATE(2023,1,1), DATE(2023,1,1), “DAILY”)

Applying Conversion to Multiple Currencies

To convert amounts to multiple currencies dynamically, use cell references in your formula. This way, if you have a list of different currencies you want to convert from USD, changing the target currency code in your spreadsheet will automatically update the conversion.

For example, setting up a formula like =A2 * GOOGLEFINANCE(“CURRENCY:USD”&B2) allows you to convert an amount in column A from USD to any currency listed in column B.

Advanced Techniques and Troubleshooting

When converting currencies in Google Sheets, users may need to employ more advanced techniques for bulk conversions and troubleshoot common issues that come up. This section covers efficient mass conversions, resolving cell reference errors, and ensuring the latest conversion rates.

Mass Converting Currencies Using Fill Handle

For users needing to convert currenciesacross numerous cells, the fill handle is an effective tool.

After entering the GOOGLEFINANCEfunction for currency conversion in the first cell, simply drag the fill handle down

This will apply the formula to adjacent cells.

Resolving Errors with Cell References

Errors may occur if cell references within the GOOGLEFINANCEformula are incorrect. Users should ensure that each cell reference is valid and points to the intended cell containing the currency codes or amounts.

If an #N/A or #REF! error appears, checking the cell references for typos or unintentional changes is crucial. Absolute references (e.g., $A$1) should be used when the currency codes do not change as the formula is copied.

Ensuring Up-to-Date Conversion Rates

The GOOGLEFINANCEfunction provides real-time exchange rates, but rates may not update as expected.

To avoid outdated information, incorporating the TODAYfunction within the formula can force the sheet to refresh daily.

Conclusion

Converting currency in Google Sheets is straightforward with the GOOGLEFINANCE function. It’s ideal for managing finances across currencies in real-time.

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