Definition ∞ Payment system risk encompasses the various hazards associated with the operation and settlement of financial transactions within a payment network. These risks include operational failures, cybersecurity threats, liquidity shortages, and credit defaults among participants. Effective management of payment system risk is essential to maintain financial stability and public confidence in monetary transactions. Mitigating these risks is a primary concern for financial authorities.
Context ∞ The introduction of new digital payment systems, including those based on blockchain technology, brings novel payment system risks that regulators and central banks are actively studying. News reports frequently highlight concerns about the stability of stablecoins, the security of decentralized finance protocols, and the potential for systemic disruptions. Establishing robust oversight is critical to address these evolving challenges.