Central Bank Digital Currencies

Definition ∞ Central Bank Digital Currencies represent a digital form of a country’s fiat currency, issued and backed by its central bank. Unlike cryptocurrencies, CBDCs are centralized and typically aim to replicate the stability and regulatory oversight of traditional cash within a digital format. These digital instruments offer a sovereign liability, providing a secure and reliable medium for transactions and value storage. Their design often incorporates features intended to enhance payment system efficiency and financial inclusion.
Context ∞ The global discourse surrounding CBDCs centers on their potential impact on monetary policy, financial stability, and privacy concerns. Many nations are actively researching or piloting CBDC projects to assess their feasibility and implications for existing financial infrastructures. A critical future development involves the international interoperability of various CBDCs and their role in cross-border payments, potentially reshaping global finance.