Eurosystem Advances Digital Euro Project to Next Phase
The Eurosystem has transitioned to the next phase of its digital euro initiative, marking a pivotal step toward potential issuance by 2029. Technical preparations concluded successfully, with a pilot possible by 2027 pending legislative approval by 2026. The MOVE aligns with EU leaders' calls to accelerate development while safeguarding monetary sovereignty and privacy.
ECB Governing Council emphasized flexibility in implementation, noting legislative hurdles remain. A digital euro aims to enhance payment innovation and competitiveness across Europe, though final issuance decisions await regulatory clarity. The project underscores Europe's strategic push for financial resilience amid global CBDC race.