Digital Euro Nears Launch: ECB Responds to 80% Surge in Cashless Payments

The European Central Bank (ECB) is about to launch a digital euro as demand for cashless transactions grows across the eurozone.

Written by: Arslan Butt • Monday, June 16, 2025 • 2 min read

• Last updated: Monday, June 16, 2025

Quick overview

The European Central Bank is set to launch a digital euro to meet the growing demand for cashless transactions in the eurozone.
ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasized that the digital euro will complement, not replace, physical cash, which remains popular among many Europeans.
The digital euro aims to protect Europe's monetary sovereignty, unify payment options, and enhance transaction security across the eurozone.
Approval from the European Parliament and Council is needed before the digital euro can be rolled out, while cash will continue to circulate alongside it.

The European Central Bank (ECB) is about to launch a digital euro as demand for cashless transactions grows across the eurozone. ECB President Christine Lagarde told Xinhua News Agency in a June 12 interview that the central bank is almost ready with the plan, pending legislative approval.

“We started six years ago,” she said. “We are long term committed.” She said the transition is driven by consumer demand as more Europeans prefer digital payments.

According to ECB data, over 80% of euro area consumers now use digital methods for daily purchases. Despite this, Lagarde said the ECB will keep cash, “Many Europeans still like cash. I like cash.”

The digital euro is not meant to replace physical currency. It will be a digital counterpart so all Europeans have access to a sovereign payment system in a digital world.

Why the Digital Euro Matters

The ECB is moving fast as the global financial system is changing and private payment platforms are competing. Without a digital alternative, the eurozone will fragment into separate digital systems.

Lagarde said the digital euro will:

Protect Europe’s monetary sovereignty in a tech world
Unify payment options across all 20 eurozone countries
Strengthen security and resilience of transactions
Make peer-to-peer and business payments easy

The central bank wants to offer a public digital payment tool that competes with foreign controlled solutions so Europe keeps control of its financial infrastructure.

What’s Next

Before launch the digital euro needs approval from the European Parliament and Council. Once cleared the ECB will roll out the system fast. Lagarde said cash will still be in circulation and even new banknotes will be issued in the future.

This dual approach – keeping physical currency and introducing a digital one – reflects the ECB’s commitment to financial inclusion and payment choice.

As Lagarde said:

“We want a European offer, a solid currency that helps you transact online, peer-to-peer, and business-to-business.”

With policy momentum and public interest aligned, the digital euro could soon become a cornerstone of Europe’s financial future.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR See More

Arslan Butt

Lead Markets Analyst – Multi-Asset (FX, Commodities, Crypto)

Arslan Butt serves as the Lead Commodities and Indices Analyst, bringing a wealth of expertise to the field. With an MBA in Behavioral Finance and active progress towards a Ph.D., Arslan possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics. His professional journey includes a significant role as a senior analyst at a leading brokerage firm, complementing his extensive experience as a market analyst and day trader. Adept in educating others, Arslan has a commendable track record as an instructor and public speaker. His incisive analyses, particularly within the realms of cryptocurrency and forex markets, are showcased across esteemed financial publications such as ForexCrunch, InsideBitcoins, and EconomyWatch, solidifying his reputation in the financial community.