Historical Bitcoin to Malagasy Ariary Price Movement
The BTC/MGA currency pair represents Bitcoin’s valuation against the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Madagascar’s currency depreciation, reliance on cash-based economies, and limited banking infrastructure have led to growing interest in Bitcoin as an alternative asset. BTC/MGA is influenced by Madagascar’s monetary stability, import dependency, and the emergence of informal crypto markets across the island nation.
Historical Overview of BTC/MGA Price Trends
2017–2019: Bitcoin Gains Footing Amid Currency Weakness
- BTC/MGA rose to MGA 50 million by late 2017, as Bitcoin adoption grew globally.
- Access to Bitcoin was limited to tech communities using P2P platforms due to absence of local exchanges.
- Bitcoin started being used for cross-border purchases, especially in urban centers like Antananarivo.
2020–2021: Bull Run and Rising Informal Market Adoption
- BTC/MGA surged to MGA 210 million by the end of 2021, reflecting Bitcoin’s global rally.
- Madagascar’s informal economy increasingly adopted Bitcoin for trade settlement and remittances.
- The Central Bank of Madagascar maintained a neutral stance, observing global regulatory developments.
2022: Correction Phase with Sustained Informal Demand
- BTC/MGA corrected slightly to MGA 190 million amid global crypto market downturns.
- Despite the correction, Bitcoin remained a key hedge against local currency depreciation and import-driven inflation.
- P2P Bitcoin markets expanded across secondary cities like Toamasina and Fianarantsoa.
2023: Stabilization and Grassroots Expansion
- BTC/MGA stabilized near MGA 200 million as global markets began recovering.
- Bitcoin’s role in remittance channels and cross-border e-commerce transactions solidified further.
- Public discussions on digital asset policies began within Madagascar’s financial regulatory circles.
2024–2025 (YTD): Halving Rally and Informal Market Growth
- Following the 2024 halving, BTC/MGA reached MGA 340 million in Q1 2025.
- As of April 2025, BTC/MGA trades between MGA 335–340 million.
- Grassroots crypto adoption initiatives continue to thrive amidst lack of formal regulatory frameworks.
BTC/MGA Yearly Comparison Table
| Year | Avg. Price (MGA) | Year High | Year Low | Annual Performance | Market Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | MGA 45 million | MGA 50 million | MGA 25 million | ✅ Tech-driven adoption | Currency weakness |
| 2021 | MGA 200 million | MGA 210 million | MGA 100 million | ✅ Bull run | Informal trade utility |
| 2022 | MGA 185 million | MGA 190 million | MGA 170 million | ❌ Market correction | P2P expansion |
| 2023 | MGA 198 million | MGA 200 million | MGA 190 million | ✅ Stabilization | Remittance usage |
| 2025* | MGA 337.5 million | MGA 340 million | MGA 335 million | ✅ Halving rally | Grassroots initiatives |
Key Factors Driving BTC/MGA Valuation
- Currency Depreciation – The Ariary’s consistent devaluation makes Bitcoin an attractive hedge.
- Informal Economy Integration – Bitcoin is increasingly used in informal trade settlements and cross-border payments.
- Remittance Efficiency – Bitcoin offers a low-cost alternative for remittance flows from the Malagasy diaspora.
- Access Limitations – Absence of local exchanges channels Bitcoin adoption through P2P networks.
- Global Bitcoin Cycles – BTC/MGA aligns with international halving events and market movements.
BTC/MGA Market Structure Insights (2025)
- P2P platforms and informal OTC markets are the primary Bitcoin access points in Madagascar.
- SMEs and traders leverage Bitcoin to manage cross-border transactions amidst forex constraints.
- Regulatory dialogues have begun, but formal crypto policies are yet to be implemented.
- Bitcoin-focused grassroots initiatives aim to enhance digital financial literacy in Madagascar.