European Union finalizes draft rules for digital euro

The European Parliament has approved a draft regulation that will govern the future digital euro, a central‑bank‑issued electronic currency that will complement cash. The rules require that basic payment services be provided free of charge, work both online and offline, and be usable without a traditional bank account.

Merchants will be obliged to accept the digital euro and fees for basic transactions will be capped, “Le transazioni non devono essere soggette a commissioni eccessive da parte dei fornitori di servizi di pagamento”. The proposal also introduces safeguards against external sanctions, ensuring that individuals cut off by non‑EU measures can still access essential payment services.

The draft will be voted on by the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on 23 June and then in plenary in early July, with a final adoption targeted by the end of the year. A pilot phase is expected to start in 2028 and the full roll‑out the following year. The digital euro will not replace banknotes but will provide a sovereign, inclusive payment infrastructure for all EU citizens.