In July 2021, the European Central Bank confirmed that it is beginning a two-year investigation into the digital euro, with sights set on a 2026 launch. It is a bold step for the payments industry, and one that could open up exciting new opportunities within Europe. While the issuance of central bank digital currencies remains largely in the hypothetical stage, over 85% of central banks are investigating it. The introduction of CBDCs now appears inevitable, and countries such as China and Sweden are in the trial stages of implementation. Giesecke+Devrient is working with several central banks on this – including a ... (full story)