In 2016, the Bank launched the FinTech Center in the Payment and Settlement Systems Department. Since its inception, the Center has engaged in efforts to encourage novel technologies that would contribute to the further convenience and efficiency of financial…
When considering CBDC versus mobile money, the similarities between the two technologies outweigh their differences. Yet, CBDC is said to be different from any other type of payment instrument including mobile money, card payments, or electronic funds…
The Afghanistan Payments System (APS) was spearheading the modernization of retail banking in the country—and was poised to ride that momentum well into the future—when the Afghan government collapsed in August 2021. Ahmad Shakir Wali, Managing Director…
In 2021, the Oesterreichische Nationalbank (OeNB) joined forces with OeKB CSD GmbH, the Austrian Treasury (the Republic’s debt management office OeBFA), Raiffeisen Bank International AG and Erste Group Bank AG to launch DELPHI, a joint research project…
While the industry’s focus remains largely on modernising retail transactions, wholesale payment systems, which ultimately underpin and enable rapid retail transfers to take place, have not yet benefitted from meaningful transformation. This is especially…
As part of the implementation of its 2019–2023 strategic plan, whose motto is “To be an efficient, innovative Central Bank and a force for change at the service of the country,” Bank Al-Maghrib strengthened in 2020 its positioning as a catalyst for innovation…
The main drivers that motivate Arab central banks and monetary authorities to engage in a CBDC project reflect initially the importance of promoting a cashless economy and fostering financial inclusion. The first four drivers are: (i) to move to a cashless…
The Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE) has been proactive in creating an enabling environment for innovation in digital financial services in response to consumer demands and changing market needs. This is evident with the release of the Practice Note for…
How the industry is charting the course for transformative payments in 2022 and beyond with Discover® Global Network, EMTECH, FIS, ProgressSoft, RTGS.global, StoneX, Tietoevry, and Visa.
Fostering innovation brings with it different challenges depending on the level of development, market size or even the geographic position of a country. When compared to the frontrunners, small markets face barriers that are much more challenging than…
