EU Council Greenlights Digital Euro With ‘Offline’ Mode — Privacy Concerns Addressed
The European Union has finalized its negotiating position for legislation enabling the European Central Bank to issue a digital euro, featuring an offline payment option. This MOVE aims to preserve cash-like privacy while adapting to digital economic trends.
Technical preparations concluded in October 2025, with ECB President Christine Lagarde confirming the system's readiness. The decision now hinges on legislative approval, marking a critical juncture in Europe's digital currency evolution.
Privacy advocates note the offline functionality could address surveillance concerns, though implementation details remain under scrutiny. The two-track approach balances innovation with traditional financial values, potentially setting a global standard for central bank digital currencies.
