ECB Working Paper: The Role of Stablecoins as Crypto Safe-Haven Is Questionable

A recent study part of the European Central Bank (ECB) working paper series has concluded that stablecoins are susceptible to shocks derived from U.S. monetary policy changes. Contractionary shocks make stablecoins react negatively, being even more relevant than traditional crypto shocks to stablecoins, while money market funds (MMFs) thrive. ECB Paper: Stablecoins Are Susceptible to … Read more

Privacy Fears Undermine Support for Digital Euro in Germany

Skepticism about the digital euro is strong in Germany, especially among older citizens who prioritize privacy and security in financial transactions. Many Germans remain resistant to the idea of a digital currency, with about half unable to imagine using it. Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel has called cash “sacred” in Germany, reflecting deep-rooted concerns about losing … Read more

Slovenia Launches First Digital Bond in EU Sovereign History

On July 25, 2024, Slovenia issued its first digital bond, marking a significant milestone as the first EU sovereign and one of the earliest worldwide to do so. The bond issuance occurred under the European Central Bank’s (ECB) wholesale central bank money settlement experimentation program. The settlement was executed on-chain in wholesale central bank digital … Read more

ECB Maintains Interest Rates Amid Persistent Inflation Concerns

The European Central Bank (ECB) maintained its interest rates on Thursday, indicating that domestic price pressures and elevated inflation levels will persist into next year. After a recent rate cut, the ECB adopted a cautious stance, suggesting more evidence is needed before making another move. The ECB highlighted that while corporate profits are mitigating some … Read more

ECB Publishes Digital Euro’s First Progress Report

The European Central Bank (ECB) has published its first progress report on the digital euro preparation phase, highlighting key design features and ongoing developments. The report emphasizes high privacy standards for both online and offline payments, aiming to provide users with a cash-like level of privacy. First Progress Report on the Digital Euro Preparation Phase … Read more

Digital Euro Holding Limit: Debate Continues

The president of Germany’s central bank has highlighted the ongoing debate about the holding limit for the digital euro, Europe’s central bank digital currency (CBDC). He noted that recent Bundesbank research indicates that the optimal amount could be in the range of 1,500 to 2,500 digital euros per person. ‘The Jury Is Still Out Here’ … Read more