Bolivia’s Central Bank Explores Wholesale CBDC to Modernize Financial Landscape

Bolivia's central bank is advancing plans to launch a wholesale central bank digital currency (CBDC), targeting interbank transactions as part of a broader modernization effort. The initiative aims to enhance financial system security and efficiency, with a deliberate focus on wholesale applications over retail solutions.

The MOVE aligns with global trends where central banks prioritize large-scale digital currency frameworks. Wholesale CBDCs are designed to streamline high-value transactions between financial institutions, reducing costs and improving liquidity management. Bolivia's strategy reflects a calculated approach to strengthening its financial infrastructure without the complexities of retail adoption.

Cross-border payments and risk mitigation emerge as key benefits. The wholesale model could position Bolivia's banking sector for faster settlements and more resilient transaction mechanisms. This development signals growing institutional recognition of blockchain's potential in sovereign financial systems.