The European Central Bank dismisses
#Bitcoin as a "speculative asset" and reaffirms its commitment to the development of a Digital Euro (
#CBDC ). ECB Executive Director Isabel Schnabel emphasizes the differences and outlines the cautious approach towards
#Cryptoassets đŹ ECB's Stance: Schnabel, speaking through the ECB X account, clarifies that the
#centralbank has no plans to purchase
$BTC , categorizing it as a speculative asset that lacks the characteristics of money. The ECB remains focused on its exploration of a digital euro
Digital Euro Development: Schnabel underscores the ECB's commitment to the digital euro, aiming for a fast, easy, and secure instrument for daily payments. The ECB sees this digital currency coexisting with physical
#money , not replacing it, in efforts to adapt to an evolving financial landscape
đ Lack of Intrinsic Value: The ECB cites concerns over crypto-assets, emphasizing their perceived lack of intrinsic economic value, high volatility, and speculative nature. Schnabel notes that Bitcoin's market valuation is driven purely by speculation
đŤ Bitcoin Rejection: Schnabel explicitly states, "The ECB is very unlikely ever to buy BTC reinforcing the central bank's stance on steering clear of the leading cryptocurrency. The ECB's strategic vision aligns with a regulated and controlled digital euro
đ Digital Euro Benefits: The ECB aims to launch the digital euro in 2026, under strict regulatory supervision. Schnabel highlights its potential as a widely accepted, secure, and privacy-respecting payment option. The digital euro is positioned to coexist with traditional cash
𤨠Privacy Concerns Addressed: Schnabel dismisses concerns about personal privacy related to the digital euro, asserting that it would offer an additional, ECB-backed payment option while meeting the highest privacy standards, akin to physical cash
In summary, the ECB's cautious approach to Bitcoin aligns with its strategic focus on developing a regulated and controlled digital euro. The central bank aims to address evolving financial needs while maintaining privacy standards and steering clear of speculative assets