This section explores the multifaceted concept of , shaped by social, historical, cultural, political, economic and financial contexts. seems paradoxically familiar yet alien, especially in light of emerging digital from diverse issuers, which challenge traditional monetary norms. Our objective is to guide readers through this evolving landscape, examining new instruments and their relation to traditional arrangements and forms, and highlighting potential risks and opportunities for retail users. A broader societal understanding of the monetary system is essential as it deeply influences resource allocation, wealth distribution and the very foundations of the social fabric. This section serves as an introductory overview, with future updates planned to delve deeper into complexities and nuances.

Digital money instruments

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Legend

  • Central bank digital currency*

    Central bank digital currency*

    Central bank digital currency*

    Central bank digital currency*
  • Bank reserves

    Bank reserves

    Bank reserves

    Bank reserves
  • Bank deposits

    Bank deposits

    Bank deposits

    Bank deposits
  • Tokenised bank deposits*

    Tokenised bank deposits*

    Tokenised bank deposits*

    Tokenised bank deposits*
  • E-money

    E-money

    E-money

    E-money
  • Stablecoins

    Stablecoins

    Stablecoins

    Stablecoins
  • Cryptoassets

    Cryptoassets

    Cryptoassets

    Cryptoassets
  • Technology:

    • Shared digital ledger
    • Closed digital ledger
  • Issuer:

    • Central bank
    • Commercial banks
    • Commercial banks/non-banks
    • Open protocols
  • Type:

    • Public money
    • Regulated** private money
    • Unregulated private money
  • Emerging form of digital money
  • Conventional, established forms of digital money
  • * not yet widely available
  • **defined as ‘formally integrated into the national currency system’ (Learn more)

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