The Central Bank of Namibia is actively exploring CBDC issuance
The Bank of Namibia is exploring issuing a Namibia Dollar central bank digital currency (CBDC), and will reportedly soon publish a public consultation paper on the topic. The main motivation would be to “ensure that individuals operating in an increasingly digitalized economy continue to have access to central bank money”. [Read more at the Bank of Namibia]
Private digital crypto-assets as investment? Bitcoin ownership and use in Canada, 2016-2021
The Bank of Canada published a study of the dynamics of Bitcoin awareness and ownership from 2016 to 2021. In 2021, Canadians’ awareness of Bitcoin remained stable at about 90%, while ownership increased to 13% from the 5% observed in 2018-2020. Canadian Bitcoin owners in 2021 were more likely to be male, aged 18 to 34 years old, with a university degree or high income. They largely see Bitcoin as an investment. The increase in Bitcoin ownership was driven by widespread increases in savings and wealth by Canadian households during the pandemic, coupled with Fintech firms providing accessible and user-friendly platforms for buying Bitcoin. [Read more at the Bank of Canada]
Kiffmeister’s Global Central Bank Digital Currency Monthly Monitor
Just a reminder that I produce a monthly digest of central bank digital currency (CBDC) developments exclusively for the official sector. So for any of you out there who work for a central bank, ministry of finance or international financial institution who would like to receive it by email on the first business day of every month, please DM me on LinkedIn or email me at chronicles@kiffmeister.com.
