ECB Advocates for Digital Euro to Counter US Crypto Policies

The European Central Bank (ECB) is ramping up efforts to introduce a digital euro, aiming to address growing concerns about the rise of private sector stablecoins tied to the US dollar. Recent developments in the United States, including an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, have intensified discussions around digital currencies within the European Union.

During a recent conference, ECB board member Piero Cipollone highlighted the potential impact of Trump’s executive order on traditional banking systems. He expressed concerns that stablecoins supported by the US government could drive customers away from banks and reduce their revenue streams. Cipollone stated, “I guess the key word here (in Trump’s executive order) is worldwide. This solution, you all know, further disintermediates banks as they lose fees, they lose clients… That’s why we need a digital euro.”

Earlier this week, President Trump signed an executive order focusing on cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies. The order outlines several key objectives, including evaluating the creation of a strategic national Bitcoin and crypto stockpile. It also seeks to promote the growth of private sector stablecoins tied to the US dollar, encouraging their development under lawful and regulated frameworks.

At the same time, the executive order instructs federal agencies to halt efforts to develop a central bank digital currency (CBDC) for the United States.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has also taken steps to support the private sector’s involvement in crypto. Under new leadership, the SEC recently rescinded Staff Accounting Bulletin 121, a rule that previously required banks to classify customer-held crypto assets as liabilities on their balance sheets. By reversing this policy, the administration aims to create a more favorable environment for banks to engage with crypto assets.