Digital euro to be tested from 2026 and fully rolled out by 2029

The European Central Bank (ECB) aims to test the digital euro (CBDC) in pilot projects starting in 2026 and roll it out across the entire EU by 2029.

The European Central Bank (ECB) wants to test the digital euro (CBDC) in pilot projects from 2026 and roll it out across the entire EU by 2029. The legal framework should be in place by 2026, after which technical tests will begin.

View post on X should give the digital euro “free and universal access to a universally accepted payment option for all Europeans,” even during crises like cyberattacks or network outages.

Critics fear, however, that the currency could undermine citizens' privacy and weaken the position of commercial banks, because people could store their money directly with the ECB. To limit that risk, a deposit cap of about €3,000 per person is being considered.

The ECB stresses that cash will continue to exist, but sees the digital euro as a necessary complement in a society where digital payments are becoming increasingly dominant.