ECB expands digital euro payment testing

• The European Central Bank selected 36 payment providers to test the digital euro.
• The pilot will examine how the digital currency works in real-world payments.
• The ECB said the testing will help shape future digital euro development.

The European Central Bank has selected 36 payment providers to test digital euro payments in a new pilot programme.

The participants include banks, fintech firms and payment companies from across Europe.

“The innovation platform will help us explore how the digital euro could support new payment solutions,” the ECB said.

The pilot will test everyday payments, online shopping and other financial services using a digital euro.

The ECB said the testing will help identify practical uses while supporting privacy, security and efficiency.

The central bank has not decided whether to issue a digital euro, and the project remains in its preparation phase.

The ECB said feedback from the pilot will help guide the next stage of work before any final decision is made.