As digital payments increasingly dominate daily transactions, the European Central Bank (ECB) believes a digital euro could be essential for maintaining public financial accessibility. In a recent speech at the France Payments Forum, ECB executive board member Piero Cipollone stated that ‘in the digital age, cash alone cannot do the job.’ This sentiment was echoed by his belief that private digital payment services are convenient but lack the reach and adaptability needed to effectively serve all public financial needs. This proposal aims to ensure a wider range of choices for citizens by providing a secure and accessible digital euro alternative. While a digital euro wouldn’t completely replace cash, it will work alongside existing forms of currency, ensuring continued relevance in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The ECB emphasizes that this new digital currency would be designed with privacy as a top priority, preventing any restrictions on how individuals utilize the funds.