European Union: Published European Central Bank Report following inquiry into the design and distribution of a digital euro

On 18 October 2023, the European Central Bank (ECB) published the report following the conclusion of the inquiry into the design and distribution of a digital euro. The objective of the inquiry was to investigate potential design and distribution models for a digital euro. The ECB designed a digital euro of which distribution will be both online and offline, with intermediaries such as banks overseeing the process. Individuals without access to applications will be able to employ cards provided by a public office. The report indicates that the digital euro could be used for all digital payments across the euro area. However, the decision on whether to issue a digital euro has not been determined, and the ECB has decided to initiate a digital euro project preparation phase. The preparation phase will consist of testing and experimentation to create a digital euro that aligns with the Eurosystem's standards and user preferences.