Digital euro: first operations could begin as early as 2027 – ECB decision depends on law

Digital Euro may enter into real circulation as early as 2027. This was stated by a member of the Executive Council European Central Bank Piero Cipollonespeaking in the European Parliament.

According to him, the ECB is already completing the preparation of all technical infrastructure, but the final decision on the launch will be made only after European legislators approve the necessary legal package.

If the regulatory framework is approved in 2025, then by mid-2027 it could begin pilot operation and conducting the first real transactions, and the full launch of the digital euro is possible in 2029.

What does the digital euro promise?

Cipollone emphasized that consumers, traders and banks “everyone will benefit” from the introduction of a new form of money. According to him, reducing dependence on payment infrastructures controlled outside EUwill increase sustainability, autonomy and financial security of Europe.

He dismissed concerns about rising bank costs, noting that European credit institutions are already losing a significant portion of commissions due to the dominance of international card systems. With a digital euro, a different compensation model will operate, which will provide financial benefits to banks.

The ECB sees the digital euro as digital analogue of cashwhich does not replace, but complements the usual banknotes and coins. The goal is to ensure that payments continue to run smoothly, both digitally and physically, regardless of decisions made outside Europe.

European infrastructure and protection of sovereignty

Cipollone clarified that the digital euro is being created exclusively on the basis European infrastructure: All selected providers are EU citizens and are subject to European control. This should protect the EU’s monetary sovereignty in the face of the proliferation of stablecoins (most of which are denominated in foreign currencies) and unsecured cryptocurrencies.

Online and offline at the same time

Digital euro functions online and offline will be complementary. The user will be able to pay for purchases both in electronic services and in areas without communication – for example, in remote areas. The offline mode is expected to provide stability and availability at a level close to cash.

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