ECB Seeks Specialists for Digital Euro Payment Systems

TLDR

• The European Central Bank has opened applications for experts to draft rules for digital euro payments at ATMs and card terminals.
• The new workstream will define how devices connect and process digital euro transactions, including offline payments.
• The ECB aims to ensure that people can use the digital euro at checkouts and withdraw it from cash machines across the eurozone.
• A separate group will design a certification framework for providers offering digital euro payment tools and infrastructure.
• Christine Lagarde confirmed that the technical phase has ended and political institutions must now decide on legislation.

The European Central Bank has invited experts to help shape technical rules for its planned central bank digital currency. The bank wants specialists to draft standards for ATMs and card payment terminals across the eurozone. The move comes as lawmakers review legislation that would authorize the issuance of a digital euro.

ECB Advances Digital Euro Rulebook for Payments Infrastructure

The ECB opened applications for experts to draft parts of the rulebook covering ATMs and in-store terminals. The bank said the work will define how machines process digital euro transactions. It will also address device connectivity and support for offline payments.

The ECB stated that the goal is seamless use across the eurozone. It said devices must allow customers to pay at checkout or withdraw funds from cash machines. Officials confirmed that current payment standards will support the new currency where possible.

ECB President Christine Lagarde said in December that preparatory work had concluded. She said, “We have completed the technical and preparatory phase.” She added that political institutions must now decide on the next steps.

The European Council and the European Parliament are reviewing the project. If lawmakers approve the legislation, the governing council could decide to issue the currency. The ECB has signaled a potential rollout by 2029.

Another workstream will define how point-of-sale systems handle transactions. It will set rules for secure connections and data processing. It will also ensure compatibility with existing card networks.

A separate group will design a certification framework. The ECB said this group will define testing and approval standards. Providers will need certification before offering digital euro payment services.

The bank said certification will cover both payment tools and infrastructure. It will outline how companies validate systems used in stores and networks. The ECB aims to ensure uniform acceptance standards across member states.

European Banks Push Qivalis Euro-Pegged Token Plan

While the ECB advances its project, a group of 12 European banks is developing a euro-pegged stablecoin. The banks include BBVA, ING, and BNP Paribas. They formed the Qivalis initiative to launch the token in the second half of 2026.

The consortium plans to offer blockchain-based payments linked to the euro. It said the token will avoid reliance on dollar-backed stablecoins. The group aims to provide settlement options for digital transactions within Europe.

The Qivalis project focuses on private sector innovation. The participating banks intend to build infrastructure that supports distributed ledger technology. They seek to expand euro-denominated payment tools in digital markets.

The ECB continues its preparations while lawmakers debate the proposal. Officials have not set a final issuance date. However, the bank maintains that it stands ready if legislation passes.

Lagarde has reiterated that political approval remains essential. She has emphasized that the governing council will act only after legislative clarity. The ECB will continue technical planning during the review process.

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