Wholesale Settlement Layer

Definition ∞ A wholesale settlement layer is a foundational system for high-value financial transactions between institutions. This layer processes large-scale payments and securities transfers between banks, central banks, and other financial market participants. It is designed for efficiency, security, and finality in interbank settlements, often operating in real-time. Modernizing this layer with distributed ledger technology could significantly enhance the speed and transparency of institutional finance.
Context ∞ The concept of a wholesale settlement layer is a key discussion point in central bank digital currency (CBDC) news, with many nations exploring its implementation using blockchain or DLT. Such a layer could streamline cross-border payments, reduce counterparty risk, and facilitate the settlement of tokenized assets. Its development is viewed as a crucial step towards creating more robust and efficient financial market infrastructures for the digital age.