One difference is in the nature of the foreign currency involved.

Did you know they also have been expected to handle foreign currency?

However, a small black market for foreign currency is still active.

Which is true: we're short of foreign currency, as you know.

But, where possible, take some cash in a foreign currency.

They also found large amounts of local and foreign currency in the office.

They're already getting less foreign currency since the £ was floated.

Then the customer right ahead of you wants to pay in a foreign currency.

People with access to foreign currency are buying even more.

Reserves of foreign currency provide a small return in interest.