The European Central Bank strongly criticizes PayPal in its efforts to establish its own Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). The ECB emphasizes the importance of developing its own digital currency, warning against the risks of relying on private entities like PayPal for payment transactions. The push for a CBDC comes as part of the ECB’s strategy to enhance financial stability and regain control over the digital payment system.
The European Central Bank (ECB) is moving closer to the development and potential issuance of a digital Euro, according to Fabio Panetta, an ECB Executive Board member. In a recent meeting with the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs of the European Parliament, Panetta stated that the central bank is nearing the end of its research and investigation phase and will soon decide on the next steps for the digital currency.
One of the key aspects discussed by Panetta is the legal tender status of the digital Euro. He emphasized that this status would give individuals the right to access and make payments with the digital currency. Panetta also highlighted the importance of making the digital Euro as accessible as essential utilities, such as electricity and water, across the Eurozone.
Another significant aspect of the digital Euro is its potential to provide enhanced privacy and data protection in payment transactions. Panetta mentioned that the new payment solution based on the central bank digital currency (CBDC) would minimize risks related to money laundering and terrorism financing. However, he issued a warning about relying solely on private providers, particularly big tech companies like PayPal, to offer such services. Panetta expressed concerns about private providers aiming to expand their customer base and gain market share, potentially leading to revenue generation and monopolies.
While centralized private companies would retain full control over their stablecoins, the control that a central bank would maintain over programmable money like the digital Euro would be even greater. This centralized currency control could serve as an opportunity for Europe to take the lead in the international debate on central bank digital currencies, with a particular focus on privacy and preserving monetary sovereignty in the digital age.
Currently, only 11 countries, mainly in the Caribbean, have fully launched a CBDC, as reported by the Atlantic Council CBDC Tracker. However, there are 130 countries researching these digital currencies, indicating a global interest in exploring and understanding their potential benefits.
In conclusion, the ECB is making progress towards the development and potential issuance of a digital Euro. The central bank recognizes the importance of legal tender status, accessibility, and enhanced privacy in the digital currency. Furthermore, there are concerns about relying solely on private providers and the need to preserve monetary sovereignty through centralized currency control. The digital Euro presents an opportunity for Europe to lead the international debate on central bank digital currencies while prioritizing privacy and ensuring widespread usability.