Digital euro will take off under the guidance of the ECB in November 2023

On October 18, 2023, the European Central Bank (ECB) announced a major step in the financial evolution of the European Union: the launch of the preparatory phase of the digital euro, scheduled for November 2023. This important transitional initiative aims to modernize payment systems within the EU, facilitating online transactions and international trade. In this article, we take a detailed look at the aims and operation of the digital euro, compare it to cryptocurrencies and take a critical look at this major financial breakthrough.

What is the digital euro?

The digital euro aims to create a digital version of the euro, equivalent to cash. This digital currency would be used for all digital payments within the euro zone, enabling instant payments in central bank money (CBDC). Designed as a complement to cash rather than an alternative, the digital euro should facilitate everyday transactions in an increasingly digital economy. With the digital euro, the ECB aims to emphasize data protection, payment system resilience and innovation in the European payments industry. Basic use of the digital euro would be free of charge for private customers, accessible via their payment service provider or a dedicated Eurosystem application.

Digital euro objectives

1. Facilitating financial transactions

By simplifying financial transactions, the digital euro will make monetary exchanges more efficient and accessible, for both individuals and businesses. This will contribute to a more fluid and dynamic European economy.

2. Modernizing the payment system

By offering a digital alternative to cash, the digital euro will modernize the payment system. It will bring the European Union into line with the standards of an increasingly digital economy.

3. Improving accessibility

By being widely available, accessible and easy to use, the digital euro guarantees that all citizens and businesses in the euro zone will be able to participate in electronic transactions without difficulty.

How the digital euro works

1. Storage in an electronic wallet

The digital euro will be held in an electronic wallet placed with banks or qualified intermediaries.

2. Electronic payments

Users will be able to make the usual electronic payments in-store, online or between individuals. They will be able to use their phone, online and offline cards to make these transactions.

Digital Euro vs. Cryptocurrency

According to the ECB, the main difference between the digital euro and cryptocurrencies lies in their guarantee and management. Unlike cryptocurrencies, a digital euro would be guaranteed by the European Central Bank, one of whose missions is to ensure the stability of a currency and preserve its value. On the other hand, again according to the ECB, cryptocurrencies are neither guaranteed nor managed by a central institution, which means there is no guarantee that their value will remain stable. What's more, with the digital euro, users can rest assured that they will be able to exchange their digital currency for cash when necessary, offering additional security compared to cryptocurrencies, where no such guarantee exists.

Critical reflections on the digital euro

1. Threat to traditional institutions and financial stability

The introduction of CBDCs poses a major challenge for traditional banks. By enabling individuals to deal directly with the central bank, CBDCs could dilute the deposits of private institutions and reduce their control over the money supply. This could lead to a loss of customers, especially for smaller banks, thus reinforcing financial instability, particularly in times of crisis.

2. Monitoring and data collection

Another major concern is the massive collection of data. While CBDCs could promote financial inclusion, they could also generate an unprecedented volume of data. This raises legitimate concerns about individual privacy and civil liberties. Some researchers therefore warn against the increased surveillance power of central banks.

3. The need for transparent public debate

Faced with these challenges, it seems imperative to involve citizens and businesses in a transparent public debate. The preparatory phase of the digital euro raises profound questions about trust, both in this new form of currency and in cryptocurrencies. An open and inclusive dialogue is essential to fully understand the implications of this major financial transition that will impact everyone.

Conclusion: a delicate balance between centralized power and individual freedom

Ultimately, the digital euro offers advantages, but also considerable challenges. The coexistence of the central currency and cryptocurrencies offers citizens a choice, enabling a delicate balance between centralized power and individual freedom. Careful management of this transition is essential to preserve privacy, civil liberties and citizens' trust in the European financial system.

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