The CBDCTracker.org central bank digital currency (CBDC) May 2014 update is now available. The CBDCTracker.org database is the most accurate and up-to-date source of information on global CBDC projects. Also make sure to read the summary of specific developments in May by key contributor Atakan Kavuklu.

Project mBridge reaches minimum viable product stage

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Project mBridge is accepting value added products and new use cases as it reaches minimum viable product stage (MVP). The project aims to explore multi-central bank digital currency (CBDC) platform shared among participating central banks and commercial banks, built on distributed ledger technology (DLT) to enable instant cross-border payments and settlement. The project was launched in 2021 by the BIS Innovation Hub, in collaboration with the Bank of Thailand, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, the People’s Bank of China and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. The Saudi Central Bank is now joining mBridge as a full participant. There are also now more than 26 observing members. [Read more at the BIS]

UK Digital Securities Sandbox consultation feedback closed

The joint Bank of England (BOE) and U.K. Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Digital Securities Sandbox consultation closed on May 29, 2024. Ledger Insights reviewed four sets of feedback representing a wide range of opinions. Two aspects mentioned the most were the lack of discussion of digital payment instrument and volume limits. I would like to provide a link to the actual consultation feedback, but it Looks like Ledger Insights had access to some inside track. [Read more at Ledger Insights]

Upcoming Speaking Engagements:

• CBDC Conference, Istanbul, September 10-12. The conference will offer representatives of central banks, commercial banks, technology providers, policy makers and academics the perfect platform to learn about the latest CBDC developments, exchange ideas with experts and peers. [Find out more and register here][Central bank delegates may be eligible for free registration (email registration@cbdc-conference.com to find out more)]

• Digital Currency Conference, London, September 23-24. The conference will bring together policymakers, regulators, and technology and innovation experts to network and discuss all aspects of digital currencies. And enter the KiffmeisterDCC code at registration to get a 20% discount! [Find out more and register here]

And just a reminder that I produce a monthly digest of central bank digital currency (CBDC) developments exclusively for the official sector. So (only) if you work at a central bank, ministry of finance or international financial institution (e.g., the BIS, IMF, OECD, World Bank) and 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 john@kiffmeister.com.