Central Banks Embark on Digital Currency Efforts: Global Reactions Vary

Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) are gaining traction worldwide as governments globally explore and pilot digital fiat currency initiatives. As of September 2025, over 87 countries, representing nearly 90% of global GDP, are actively engaged in these efforts. This surge reflects a shift towards centralized control of currency management, yet the experimental nature of CBDCs remains evident with political resistance and limited adoption hindering widespread use. 87 countries have embarked on digital fiat currency initiatives as per September 2025 data, according to the International Monetary Fund. Leading figures in this space include the U.S. Federal Reserve, European Central Bank, and People’s Bank of China. Recent legislative actions in the U.S., underscore ongoing debates surrounding CBDC issuance and control. For instance, Chair Jerome Powell has stated