CBDCs explained: How could they impact global finance
Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) are increasingly becoming the forefront of financial discussions. As of 2023, about 130 countries, representing 98% of global GDP, are exploring the implementation of CBDCs. This piece delves into the specifics of CBDCs, benefits, and challenges and offers a comprehensive view of the current CBDC landscape. Dive into the realm of finance today, and one term you’re bound to encounter is central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Imagine these as digital alter-egos of our well-known physical cash, meticulously minted and regulated by central banks. Many see them as a safe haven in the tumultuous sea of crypto assets, offering an element of security that some find comforting. CBDCs are not a recent fad. They’ve been on the stage of financial innovation for more than three decades. The year 1993 saw the Bank of Finland create the Avant smart card, an electronic form of cash that stands as the world’s first CBDC, albeit short-lived. Ho...