European Central Bank launches Euro banknote design vote

The European Central Bank (ECB) has launched a public consultation to select designs for the next series of Euro banknotes, which are expected to enter circulation by 2028 or 2029. The survey, open until September 21, 2026, allows citizens to vote on ten shortlisted designs based on two themes: ‘European Culture’ and ‘Rivers and Birds’. Cultural motifs include figures such as Maria Callas, Ludwig van Beethoven, Marie Curie, Miguel de Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci, and Bertha von Suttner.

In a separate development regarding digital currency, a study by the ZEW - Mannheim Centre for European Economic Research indicates that a majority of German companies view the planned digital Euro as unnecessary. According to the survey of 800 businesses, 77 percent expect no impact from the digital currency, while only 7 percent anticipate positive effects. Critics suggest the ECB needs to better communicate the potential benefits of the digital Euro to the business sector.