Marco Babic is a journalist based in Pfäffikon, Switzerland specializing in economics, central banks and statistics. Also translating from German into English.

SNB Tests Trading and Settlement of Digital Central Bank Money

12 Oct 2023  |  www.finews.com  |  English  |  Digital Currency

The Bank for International Settlements and the central banks of France, Singapore, and Switzerland have completed Project Mariana, which tested cross-border trading and settlement in wholesale central bank digital currency (wCBDC) using decentralized finance concepts on a public blockchain. The project, developed by BIS Innovation Hub centers and the respective central banks, successfully tested trading and settlement between simulated financial institutions with hypothetical wCBDCs in Swiss francs, euros, and Singapore dollars. The initiative is experimental and does not indicate an intention to issue wCBDC or endorse DeFi or any specific technology.

Tags:

Digital Currency Central Banks Financial Technology

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Egungwu Chukwuka Benjamin is a distinguished Nigerian freelance journalist, born on March 4th, with roots in Enugu State from his father's side and Anambra State from his mother's.

A Mass Communication graduate with National Diploma from Gateway Polytechnic, Saapade Ogun State and Higher ...

Ways To Make Nigerians Embrace Digital Currency

29 Dec 2023  |  championnews.com.ng  |  English  |  Digital Currency

The introduction of eNaira and cNGN stable coin by Nigeria, the first African country to roll out a central bank digital currency, aims to facilitate digital trading but may not stabilize the Naira. The collaboration between Nigerian banks and payment companies to create cNGN after lifting the cryptocurrency ban offers an alternative legal tender. To encourage adoption, strategies such as issuing debit cards, integrating digital currency into the National Youth Service Corps' payment system, collaborating with higher institutions, mandating digital currency for tax payments, and digitalizing interstate transportation payments are suggested. Adoption will require time, trust, and awareness, particularly among the educated and urban residents.

Tags:

Digital Currency Cryptocurrency Adoption

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I am a London-based writer with extensive experience of writing and editing copy on politics, economics and business. My articles have appeared in many of the world's leading current affairs publications, including The Economist, Bloomberg Businessweek, Forbes, Foreign Policy and others. 

I work ...

Asian And Middle East Central Banks Claim Success With Digital Currency Pilot

28 Oct 2022  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)

Project mBridge, a pilot scheme involving central banks and commercial lenders from China, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the UAE, has successfully demonstrated the potential of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) to facilitate faster and more efficient cross-border payments. During a six-week trial, over 160 payments and foreign exchange transactions worth approximately $22 million were processed. The pilot confirmed that a multi-CBDC platform could enhance payment speed and efficiency, reduce settlement risks, and support the use of local currencies in international payments. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority hailed it as the largest CBDC pilot for cross-border transactions to date. The Bank of Thailand reported a reduction in transfer times from days to seconds. The UAE Central Bank highlighted the security and cost-effectiveness of the system. Plans for further development of the mBridge platform include improving interoperability with domestic payment systems and adding liquidity management and foreign exchange features. The success of the pilot may encourage other countries to join the initiative.

Tags:

Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Cross-border payments Project mBridge

Hello and welcome to my profile !

To introduce myself : 

I have an extensive experience in media production, living and working across four continents for a wide range of public and private entities.

As a multimedia producer and reporter, I have :

- reported on European social and ...

Between Stability and Headwinds: Reflecting on 25 Years of the Euro

10 Jan 2024  |  fr.euronews.com  |  French  |  Euro Currency

The Euro currency, established on January 1, 1999, has become one of the world's most important currencies, used daily by approximately 350 million people and second only to the US dollar in global transactions. The European Union highlights the Euro's role in protecting its citizens and businesses, defending its values, and promoting its interests through rule-based multilateralism. The future of the Euro includes potential expansion to more EU member states, the introduction of high-tech banknotes to prevent counterfeiting, and the development of a digital Euro to complement physical currency, enhance monetary sovereignty, and foster competition in the European payments sector. The digital Euro's development phase began in November 2023.

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Digital Euro Euro Currency European Economy

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Lisa Gibbons is a journalist. 

A self starter, blockchain advocate with a love for creative writing. Lisa began writing about post-colonial identities in 2012 and has kept up her love for the written word. She is a keen writer in the Blockchain and Crypto space. Lisa enjoys research and ...

Georgia Partners with Ripple for Digital Lari Pilot; SEC Drops Charges Against Executives

07 Nov 2023  |  TheStreet Crypto: Bitcoin and cryptocurrency news, advice, analysis and more  |  English  |  Digital Currency

The National Bank of Georgia has selected Ripple as its technology partner for the pilot project of the digital lari, Georgia's currency. Ripple will provide its central bank digital currency (CBDC) platform for the project after a formal selection process. The partnership aims to integrate blockchain technology and create a digital asset for the Georgian currency. Additionally, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has dropped charges against two Ripple executives, although it will continue to pursue claims against the company for alleged Section 5 violations concerning XRP sales. This legal development comes as Ripple focuses more on international operations, and the price of XRP has seen a recent increase.

Tags:

Digital Currency Cryptocurrency Regulatory Affairs Financial Technology

Pavlos Giorkas is a versatile freelance author and a journalist/editor based in Nicosia, Cyprus, with over 10 years of writing experience. He regularly contributes to multiple online publications in various industries such as health, technology, crypto, finance and digital marketing.

Can Cryptocurrency Replace Money?

09 Aug 2023  |  BITNEWSBOT  |  English  |  Digital Currency

Cryptocurrencies have the potential to revolutionize the financial industry by offering benefits such as decentralization, security, and efficiency. However, challenges like volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and scalability issues need to be addressed. Central banks play a crucial role in regulating the economy, and their interaction with digital currencies will be significant. The potential for mainstream adoption is growing, driven by factors like accessibility, security, lower transaction costs, and financial inclusion. The future of cryptocurrencies will depend on technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and global acceptance.

Tags:

Digital Currency Cryptocurrency Financial Trends

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I’m a reporter based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Seven years experience in broadcasting and journalism. I’ve mastered in hosting, news anchor, vox-pop, cross-over, voice-over, news writing script and news writing skills. My news angle forte is politics and crimes in dual language Malay and English. 
...

Woman loses RM33,800 to digital currency investment scam

27 Jan 2022  |  www.kosmo.com.my  |  Malay  |  Digital Currency

A 41-year-old woman in Kuala Lumpur lost RM33,800 to a non-existent digital currency investment scam she found on social media. She was enticed by an ad promising 400% returns on investment within a month. After making seven transactions between December 28 and 30, she was unable to withdraw RM147,114 from her e-wallet on January 15. The victim was instructed to pay RM29,423 as a security deposit before withdrawal, which led her to realize the scam and report to the police on January 26. Assistant Commissioner Mohd. Mahidisham Ishak of the Kuala Lumpur Commercial Crime Investigation Department stated that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code.

Tags:

Digital Currency Scam Investment Fraud

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Jamil Khan is a journalist based in Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan.

Digital currency can make the financial system safer—II

10 Dec 2021  |  Brecorder  |  English  |  Digital Currency

The article discusses the rapid global adoption of digital currencies, highlighting China's pioneering efforts with the e-yuan and its plans for broader implementation. It mentions other countries like Sweden, Norway, the EU, the US, and several African nations, including Nigeria, which have introduced or are planning to introduce their own digital currencies. The text emphasizes the benefits of digital currencies in terms of transparency, inclusivity, and combating corruption and money laundering. It advocates for Pakistan to adopt digital currency to transform its financial system and eliminate corruption.

Tags:

Digital Currency Financial System Economic Transformation

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Center

Political View

Dominic Kirui is a freelance journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya. He has been published at Thomson Reuters, News Deeply, Equal Times, The Epoch Times, WAF Magazine, Civic Ideas, ITWeb Africa, and African Arguments.

Contacts:

Cell:  ******

       :  ******

Email: ******

Twitter:  @Domie_Kirui

...

Kenya’s interest in cryptocurrency on the rise

01 Oct 2023  |  itweb.africa  |  English  |  Digital Currency Ownership

Over four million Kenyans own cryptocurrency, making it one of the largest shares in Africa, according to a UNCTAD report. The report attributes Kenya's high cryptocurrency ownership to low exchange fees, fast remittance speeds, and increased internet access. Despite the global cryptocurrency market losing half its value since November 2021, John Karanja of BitHub Africa believes the market will recover. UNCTAD calls for more regulation, especially in advertising, to protect consumers in countries with low financial literacy.

Tags:

Digital Currency Ownership Cryptocurrency Financial Regulation

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For over 20 years I was an English-language journalist based in Moscow. Following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, I left Russia. However, I continue to closely monitor developments in Russia (and my homeland, Belarus), contributing articles on Russia-related topics. My focus lies ...

Digital ruble expected to launch in 2025

01 Aug 2023  |  www.intellinews.com  |  English  |  Digital Currency

Russia is set to introduce the digital ruble, a central bank digital currency (CBDC), by 2025, following the adoption of relevant legislation by the State Duma. The Central Bank of Russia will operate the digital ruble platform, ensuring security and facilitating transactions. The digital ruble will primarily serve as a payment and transfer medium, with no interest on assets held. Pilot projects will run in 2023 and 2024, with full deployment expected by 2025-2027. The digital ruble aims to offer cheaper transaction fees compared to existing payment systems. While some experts see potential benefits for tech-savvy companies, others express skepticism about security and differentiation from current non-cash systems. Russia's stance on cryptocurrencies remains restrictive, with potential allowances for foreign trade transactions amid international payment challenges.

Tags:

Central Bank Digital Currency Digital Currency Russian Economy

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Center

Political View

I’m Anh Le, I have more than 10 years experience in video production. Let me support you.
I am willing to participate in nonprofit projects for the community.

Financial Impacts of Foreign Digital Money

06 Dec 2023  |  www.imf.org  |  English  |  Digital Currency

A two-country New Keynesian model with endogenous currency substitution and financial frictions is developed to examine the impact of a stablecoin issued in a large foreign economy on a small developing economy. The introduction of the stablecoin amplifies currency substitution, reduces bank intermediation, weakens monetary policy transmission, worsens the impacts of recessionary shocks, and increases banking sector stress. Capital controls can inadvertently raise stablecoin adoption, increasing exposure to foreign shocks. Unlike a domestic CBDC, banning stablecoin payments can mitigate these negative effects.

Tags:

Digital Currency Economics Financial Policy

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Eben Mabunda is a journalist, Financial Analyst and Business Anchor/Writer based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He is trained in Financial Management as well as in Journalism and Mass Communications.

Kelvin Ng is a journalist based in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

APAC: key fintech updates (Dec 2023)

01 Dec 2023  |  Lexology  |  English  |  Central Bank Digital Currency

The Bank of Japan is reviewing various countries' experiments with distributed ledger technology (DLT) and central bank digital currencies (CBDC). Indonesia's regulator has released an AI code of ethics, and Singapore has launched a whitepaper on the use of generative AI in fintech. These updates highlight significant regulatory and technological advancements in the fintech sector across the Asia-Pacific region.

Tags:

Central Bank Digital Currency Fintech Artificial Intelligence

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Timothy Obiezu is a multimedia journalist with years of reporting and broadcast experience. He freelances for global media outlets like VOA, TRT World, Vice News, etc from his current based in Abuja, Nigeria.

A shortage of banknotes accelerates the adoption of digital payments in Nigeria

22 Feb 2023  |  Voice of America  |  French  |  Digital Payments

In Nigeria, a banking report indicates that the volume of electronic payments has increased following cash shortages caused by a redesign of the local currency, the naira. Online transactions increased by 55% in January alone, according to the study.

Tags:

Currency Shortage Digital Payments

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Olusegun is a journalist with over a decade experience. He focuses on issues related to Africa including technology as they impact lives of end-users. He's worked for the world's largest tech media and event company, International Data Group IDG, the European Union Election Observation Mission (...

Digital Yuan Access Extends to WeChat’s Over one Billion Users

10 Jan 2022  |  www.bitcoininsider.org  |  English  |  Digital Currency

China's WeChat, developed by Tencent, will support the digital yuan (e-CNY), potentially tripling its user base. WeChat joins Alibaba and JD in facilitating digital yuan payments, marking a significant step ahead of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. The People’s Bank of China has also enabled e-CNY usage through pilot wallet apps and major domestic banks. The digital yuan's rollout will be closely watched for its implications on cross-border transactions, anti-money laundering measures, and data privacy concerns.

Tags:

Digital Currency Technology Finance

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Elena Roda is a journalist and communication specialist based in Como, Italy. She's regularly writing for local La Provincia, focusing on economy, and national La Stampa, focusing on energy, sustainability, and climate. She's a fixer for BBC Scotland in Italy, covering political, social and ...

Digital Euro: What It Is and Why It Might Be Introduced

01 Oct 2023  |  www.upday.com  |  Italian  |  Digital Currency

The European Central Bank (ECB) is set to decide in October whether to proceed with the introduction of a digital euro, following an analysis initiated in July 2021. The digital euro would serve as an additional payment method alongside cash and electronic payments, issued directly by the ECB. It aims to meet the growing demand for secure and reliable electronic payments and would not rely on intermediaries like banks. The digital euro could potentially coexist with traditional bank accounts, with a proposed limit of 3,000 euros per person to avoid complete disintermediation of banks. The new currency would likely use QR codes or Bluetooth technology instead of traditional credit card PINs.

Tags:

Digital Currency European Central Bank Financial Technology

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Richie Santosdiaz is a known international trade and economic development subject matter expert - both as a consultant as well as commentator on this realm in both print and also video (live and pre-recorded). He is bilingual (English and Spanish) and has done 100+ pieces/interviews mainly in the ...

How is Mauritius Trying to Bolster its Economy? Fintech Overview in 2024

03 Mar 2025  |  thefintechtimes.com  |  English  |  Digital Currency

Mauritius is actively enhancing its economy by focusing on its tech and fintech sectors, aiming for high-income status by 2030. The country's strategic location and bilingual population position it as a gateway between Africa and South Asia. The financial services sector, contributing significantly to GDP, is supported by initiatives like the Digital Rupee pilot and fintech innovation labs. Key organizations such as the Bank of Mauritius and the Financial Services Commission play pivotal roles in this economic strategy, while fintech ventures like Flash, Limit Markets, and Learnleapology are emerging as significant players.

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Digital Currency Economic Growth Fintech

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Pavan Shamdasani is a freelance travel and lifestyle journalist based in Hong Kong. He's written for TIME, CNN, Tatler, Variety and SCMP, as well as a host of in-flight magazines.

Pavan has traveled to over 45 countries in the past decade, and has interviewed everyone from Red Hot Chili Peppers ...

Here’s all that you need to know about altcoins

19 Jan 2022  |  Prestige Online - HongKong  |  English  |  Digital Currency

The article provides an overview of altcoins, which are all cryptocurrencies other than Bitcoin. Altcoins, which number over 16,900 according to CoinMarketCap, aim to replicate Bitcoin's success but with improvements such as using proof-of-stake mechanisms for less energy consumption and faster transaction validation. Ethereum is highlighted for its smart contract capabilities and the anticipation of Ethereum 2.0. The article discusses the skepticism around altcoins and advises caution in investment, suggesting a focus on established currencies. It also categorizes altcoins into stable coins, security tokens, meme coins, and utility tokens, with examples provided for each. Notable altcoins mentioned include Ethereum, Litecoin, Stellar, Cardano, Polkadot, Bitcoin Cash, and Dogecoin.

Tags:

Digital Currency Cryptocurrency Altcoins Blockchain Technology Investment

Ajay Kumar Shukla is a journalist.

High on UPI success: India looks to scale global digital currency landscape, joins ranks with China to rollout CBDC

03 Nov 2022  |  bfsi.economictimes.indiatimes.com  |  English  |  Digital Currency

India, following the success of its Unified Payments Interface (UPI), has launched a pilot for its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), known as the e-Rupee, joining China in the global digital currency landscape. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced two versions of the e-Rupee: retail (CBDC-R) for general use and wholesale (CBDC-W) for financial institutions. The pilot involves nine banks and aims to enhance financial inclusion and efficiency in the monetary system. Globally, 19 G20 countries are exploring CBDCs, with 16 in development or pilot stages. The initiative is expected to bolster India's digital economy and provide an additional payment avenue without replacing existing systems.

Tags:

Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Digital Currency Financial Inclusion

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Callum Smiles is a journalist based in the south of England. I have worked across Europe with an up to date passport and full clean driving licence. 
Along with millions of views when covering illegal immigration and 15 minute cities I am most known for my work in Davos at the annual World ...

Maxime Bernier says 'NO' to digital currencies, government 'control' over citizenry

02 Oct 2023  |  www.rebelnews.com  |  English  |  Digital Currency

Maxime Bernier, leader of the People's Party of Canada, strongly opposes the Bank of Canada's exploration of a central bank digital currency (CBDC), citing concerns over government control and privacy. He argues that a digital currency would enable the government to manipulate monetary policy and monitor citizens' financial activities. The Bank of Canada has initiated public consultations on the matter, emphasizing the need to prepare for future economic changes. Bernier remains skeptical, referencing past government actions such as the freezing of bank accounts during the Freedom Convoy and criticizing the potential for misuse of centralized financial information.

Tags:

Digital Currency Government Control Privacy Concerns

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Right

Political View

Sergio Vargas is a journalist currently in Panamá City, Panamá.

Lagarde pressures the end of the euro

12 Dec 2022  |  www.merca2.es  |  Spanish  |  Digital Currency

Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, announced the introduction of a digital euro, which aims to reduce money laundering and terrorism financing but raises concerns about user privacy and freedom. The euro's value has been volatile, with significant declines and recent recoveries. The Federal Reserve's actions to control inflation have influenced the euro-dollar exchange rate. Upcoming economic data and interest rate announcements are expected to cause market volatility. The text criticizes the control and lack of anonymity associated with the digital euro and highlights the broader economic implications.

Tags:

Digital Currency Financial Crisis Economic Policy

Interpretive

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Center-Left

Political View

Ajay Verma is a journalist based in Chandigarh, India.

RBI announces integration of pre-sanctioned credit lines for banks into UPI system

05 Sept 2023  |  www.money9.com  |  English  |  Digital Currency

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the integration of pre-sanctioned credit lines for banks into the UPI system. State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced the facility of Central Bank Digital Currency. Flipkart has set a target of providing over 1 lakh seasonal employment opportunities before the festive season.

Tags:

Digital Currency Banking Employment

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Marta Vidal is a journalist specialising in deeply reported features on social justice, human rights and environmental issues across the Mediterranean.  Her work has been published by The Guardian, Washington Post, BBC, Al Jazeera, DW, Mongabay and other outlets. 
Her portfolio: ****

The Diputació de València creates a digital currency to revitalize rural commerce in the Serranía and Rincón de Ademuz

29 Nov 2024  |  Valencia News: Últimas noticias de Valencia  |  Spanish  |  Digital Currency

The Diputació de València has launched an innovative initiative to boost local commerce in the rural areas of Serranía and Rincón de Ademuz through a digital currency system based on blockchain technology. The project, named 'Connecta Comercio Rural', aims to revitalize rural commerce and is funded by European funds. It involves a mobile application for managing digital wallets and making local payments, rewarding citizens for positive behaviors like recycling and community participation. The initiative seeks to address rural depopulation by strengthening local commerce, with the support of local governments and necessary training for stakeholders.

Tags:

Digital Currency Rural Development Blockchain Technology

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