Fintech Forward Newsletter - Issue 12
30 January 2025
In response to recent geopolitical moves that have shifted the digital currency landscape, this week’s newsletter focuses on CBDCs.
No sooner had we learnt of the Bank of England’s ‘Digital Pound Lab’, wherein the potential of a UK CBDC will be tested, than President Trump signed an executive order effectively killing the digital dollar—in favour of cryptocurrencies and plans for a national crypto stockpile. With more than 130 countries still exploring the potential of CBDCs, a clear global divide has now emerged, with dollar-backed “stablecoins” now set to become the de facto digital dollars. Further to this, the likes of Europe and China are now in the clear to set global standards around privacy and cybersecurity.
If all of the above makes no sense at all, or you could do with a refresher on this week’s theme, we have included a handy guide to cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and CBDCs, and a webinar on CBDCs, from Forrester. We have also included an overview of a report from GlobalData that assesses whether CBDCs really are the future.
New 'Digital Pound Lab’ for ‘hands-on’ CBDC experimentation
The Bank of England is launching a 'Digital Pound Lab' for hands-on experimentation as it prepares for a potential UK central bank digital currency. Currently in the design phase, the Bank and HM Treasury are defining a clearer proposition for the digital pound.
Forrester: A guide to cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and CBDCs
Central banks issue fiat money, not cryptocurrencies, though banks can create fiat-backed stablecoins. CBDCs are central bank-issued digital currencies, either wholesale or retail. Retail CBDCs, driven by declining cash use, are mostly still in development, except in China and India where the digital rupee and digital yuan are already being tested.
Death of the digital dollar a boon for China and Europe
In a move highly anticipated by the cryptoassets sector, President Trump’s executive order to ban a US CBDC could well be a gift to other countries to set global standards for digital currencies.
Top Tip
Are CBDCs really the future?
As projects continue to face hurdles before large-scale implementation, this article by GlobalData, explores key challenges for CBDC implementation including ensuring interoperability, addressing privacy concerns, and overcoming infrastructure limitations in emerging markets.
Webinar
Decoding Central Bank Digital Currency
As the digitisation of money reshapes payment flows, banks and financial services are increasing their investments in technology and fintech. This on-demand webinar by Forrester covers the latest developments of CBDCs, offering guidance on how financial institutions can best prepare.
Blog
What can we learn from the financial services sector?
The financial services industry’s pragmatic approach to AI adoption offers valuable lessons. By starting with strategy, maintaining ethical standards and ensuring human oversight, organisations can unlock AI’s potential while mitigating its risks.
Report
B2B Marketing Trends Report 2025
Read Metia's new report featuring seven key trends to learn how to monetize your AI strategy, harness intent data, and build greater affinity with your customers.