ECB launches digital euro pilot with 36 providers

The ECB picked 36 providers for a digital euro pilot in 2027, testing payments and user experience. The final launch depends on legislation, aiming for readiness by 2029.

The European Central Bank (ECB) has chosen 36 payment service providers from across the euro area to join a digital euro pilot program. This initiative is set to begin in the second half of 2027 and will run for 12 months. The pilot aims to test digital payments, offline transactions, in-store purchases, and e-commerce, focusing on optimizing the user experience ahead of a potential digital euro launch. Participants include major entities such as Deutsche Bank, Adyen, Revolut Bank, Stripe Technology Europe, Worldline, CecaBank, and Uinku Payments, representing a diverse range of member states. The selection process prioritized diversity in business models and geographic coverage, following over 50 applications received in March 2026. The program will utilize a beta version of the digital euro, which will mirror the features outlined in proposed legislation but will not have legal tender status. The final decision on issuing the digital euro will depend on legislative approval, with the goal of being ready by 2029.