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Digitalisation has spread to every corner of our lives and transformed how we pay. In this new era, a digital euro would guarantee that citizens in the euro area can maintain free access to a simple, universally accepted, safe and trusted means of payment. A digital euro is not meant to replace cash, but rather to complement it. Together, they give people more choices about how to pay, and make it easier for them to do so, increasing financial inclusion.
The Eurosystem will continue to ensure that all citizens have access to euro banknotes and coins across the euro area.
“The euro belongs to Europeans and we are its guardian. We should be prepared to issue a digital euro, should the need arise.”
Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB
A digital euro would make your daily payments faster, easier and more secure. It could support the digitalisation of the European economy and actively encourage innovation in retail payments.
The ECB and the national central banks of the euro area are exploring the benefits and risks so that money continues to serve Europeans well.