BANK OF CANADA PREPARES FOR DIGITAL CURRENCY IN CASE ONE IS NEEDED”

Imagine a world where the Canadian dollar exists not only as physical cash but also as a digital entity, readily available for online and in-person transactions via your smartphone or digital wallet. After several years of exploring the possibility of introducing a digital currency in Canada, the central bank is shelving the idea. The Bank ofThis is the vision the Bank of Canada is cautiously exploring, not as an immediate replacement for our familiar banknotes, but as a preparedness measure. How does the transmission of monetary policy change when a central bank digital currency (CBDC) is introduced in the economy? Does CBDC design matter? We study these questions in a general equilibrium model with nominal rigidities, liquidity frictions, and a banking sector where commercial banks face a leverage constraint.While the Bank of Canada has no immediate plans to launch a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), often referred to as a digital dollar, it's actively engaging in research, development, and public consultations to be ready should the need arise.This proactive approach isn't about replacing the current system, but about ensuring Canada remains competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape and can offer Canadians a safe, reliable, and accessible digital payment option in the future.

Think of it as a contingency plan. The Bank of Canada confirmed to CBC News it has shifted its focus away from the idea of introducing a digital Canadian dollar, which could be used for online purchases and money transfers.The Bank of Canada recognizes the increasing digitization of payments and the potential for private cryptocurrencies to gain widespread adoption.A digital Canadian dollar could provide a stable, government-backed alternative, preventing reliance on volatile and potentially unstable private currencies. Bank of Canada ‘contingency planning’ in case public digital currency becomes necessary, official says. The BoC doesn't currently have cause to issue a digital currency, butSo, while you won't be seeing a digital dollar in your digital wallet tomorrow, the Bank of Canada is diligently laying the groundwork to make it a reality if the future demands it.

Why is the Bank of Canada Exploring a Digital Currency?

The motivation behind the Bank of Canada's exploration of a digital currency stems from a confluence of factors reshaping the global financial landscape.It's not just about keeping up with technological trends; it's about ensuring the stability, security, and accessibility of the Canadian dollar in an increasingly digital world.

• Declining Cash Usage: Canadians are using cash less frequently, opting instead for debit cards, credit cards, and digital payment platforms.If this trend continues, the Bank of Canada wants to ensure Canadians still have access to a public form of money.
• Rise of Cryptocurrencies: The growing popularity of cryptocurrencies, while representing innovation, also poses potential risks.These private currencies can be volatile and may not be subject to the same regulatory oversight as traditional currencies.A digital Canadian dollar could offer a safer, more stable alternative.
• Innovation in Payments: The payments landscape is evolving rapidly, with new technologies and platforms emerging constantly. The Bank of Canada (BOC) is winding down its work on a retail central bank digital currency, according to an update on its website. The announcement did not mention a wholesale CBDC but emphasizedThe Bank of Canada wants to be at the forefront of this innovation, ensuring Canada's payment system remains efficient, competitive, and accessible.
• Financial Inclusion: A digital dollar could potentially improve financial inclusion, particularly for those who are unbanked or underbanked. Canadian consumers showed skepticism toward the widespread early adoption of the Bank of Canada’s (BOC) concept of a digital dollar. The Canadian central bank conductedBy providing a readily accessible digital form of money, the Bank of Canada could help bridge the financial divide.

Contingency Planning for the Future of Money

The Bank of Canada's approach to a CBDC is primarily focused on contingency planning. It will be interesting to see where this digital currency race will end up. Bank of Canada Prepares for Digital Currency In Case One Is Needed Saying goodbye to one of the few greatThey are building the capabilities to issue a digital dollar should it become necessary. I am pleased to share with you the Bank of Canada s 2025 27 Strategic Plan. Three-year plans have long guided our institution―they are key to charting a clear and focused course of action and holding ourselves accountable. With each one, we carefully assess the evolving landscape in Canada and around the world.This proactive stance involves several key aspects:

• Research and Development: The Bank is conducting extensive research on the technological, economic, and legal implications of a digital currency.This includes exploring different design options, assessing potential risks and benefits, and evaluating the impact on the financial system.
• Technological Infrastructure: The Bank is developing the necessary technological infrastructure to support a digital currency, including the systems for issuance, distribution, and settlement. Tim Lane, vicegovernatore della Bank of Canada, ha discusso dell'argomento alla conferenza FinTech RDV 2025 di Montreal. L'uomo ha dichiarato che, sebbene al momento non vi sia un caso d'uso convincente per una Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), l'istituzione sta comunque lavorando ad un prototipo:This is a complex undertaking that requires significant investment and expertise.
• Public Consultations: The Bank is actively engaging with the public, businesses, and other stakeholders to gather feedback on the design and implementation of a digital currency.This includes online surveys, workshops, and consultations with experts.
• International Collaboration: The Bank is collaborating with other central banks around the world to share knowledge and best practices on CBDCs. In 2025, the Bank continued to build its capacity for issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC)a digital form of money the central bank would make available to allThis collaborative approach helps ensure that Canada's digital currency strategy aligns with global standards.

What are the Potential Benefits of a Digital Canadian Dollar?

Introducing a digital Canadian dollar could offer several potential benefits for Canadians and the Canadian economy:

• Enhanced Security and Stability: A CBDC would be backed by the Bank of Canada, providing a level of security and stability that is not available with private cryptocurrencies.
• Improved Payment Efficiency: Digital payments can be faster, cheaper, and more efficient than traditional payment methods.A digital dollar could streamline transactions and reduce transaction costs.
• Increased Financial Inclusion: A digital dollar could make financial services more accessible to underserved populations, such as those who are unbanked or underbanked.
• Reduced Risk of Illicit Activities: A CBDC could be designed with features that make it more difficult to use for illicit activities, such as money laundering and terrorist financing.
• Preservation of Monetary Sovereignty: A digital dollar could help protect Canada's monetary sovereignty in a world where private cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Addressing Concerns and Challenges

While a digital currency offers potential benefits, it also raises several concerns and challenges that must be addressed:

• Privacy: Canadians are concerned about the potential for the government to track their financial transactions.The Bank of Canada needs to ensure that a digital currency is designed with strong privacy protections.
• Cybersecurity: A digital currency would be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Bank of Canada governor Tiff Macklem, right, and senior deputy governor Carolyn Rogers speak to reporters in Ottawa on Wednesday, after announcing the bank was holdingThe Bank of Canada needs to invest in robust cybersecurity measures to protect the digital dollar from hacking and fraud.
• Financial Stability: A CBDC could potentially disrupt the traditional banking system. Bank of Canada Deputy Governor Tim Lane spoke at FinTech RDV 2025 in Montreal, and declared that although at the moment there is not a compelling case for a central bank digital currency (CBDC), a prototype is on the way and the Bank plans to consult with a wide range of stakeholders to potentially design a central bank digital currencyThe Bank of Canada needs to carefully manage the introduction of a digital currency to minimize any negative impact on financial stability.
• Accessibility: A digital currency needs to be accessible to all Canadians, regardless of their technological proficiency or access to the internet.The Bank of Canada needs to ensure that a digital dollar is user-friendly and inclusive.
• Democratic Concerns: There are concerns about potential government overreach and the control of financial data. Bank of Canada is preparing for creating its own digitalRobust oversight and safeguards are necessary.

Public Consultations and Stakeholder Engagement

The Bank of Canada recognizes the importance of engaging with the public and other stakeholders in the development of a digital currency.Extensive consultations are being conducted to gather feedback and address concerns.

• Online Surveys: The Bank has launched online surveys to gather public input on the design and features of a digital dollar.These surveys ask Canadians about their preferences for privacy, security, and accessibility.
• Workshops and Roundtables: The Bank is hosting workshops and roundtables with experts, businesses, and community groups to discuss the potential impacts of a digital currency.
• Collaboration with Other Central Banks: The Bank is collaborating with other central banks to share knowledge and best practices on CBDCs.

One notable consultation involved a public survey where Canadians were asked about their preferences for features like offline usability, fund recovery in case of theft, and the ability to transact without a bank account.This feedback is crucial for shaping the design of a potential digital dollar to meet the needs of Canadians.

Design Considerations for a Digital Canadian Dollar

The design of a digital Canadian dollar is a complex undertaking that involves balancing competing priorities.The Bank of Canada is considering several key design features:

• Security: The digital dollar must be secure from hacking and fraud.This requires robust encryption and authentication measures.
• Privacy: The digital dollar must protect the privacy of users' financial transactions.This requires careful consideration of data storage and access policies.
• Accessibility: The digital dollar must be accessible to all Canadians, regardless of their technological proficiency or access to the internet. Among the countries that have launched central bank digital currency (CBDC) or are conducting large-scale pilots, adoption remains slow and limited due to various challengesThis requires a user-friendly interface and alternative access methods.
• Efficiency: The digital dollar must be efficient to use for both consumers and businesses. building, as a contingency, the capability to issue a cash-like central bank digital currency (CBDC) to the public, should the need ever arise. The Bank currently has no plans toThis requires fast transaction processing and low transaction fees.
• Interoperability: The digital dollar should be interoperable with existing payment systems.

Examining the Report on Rights and Freedoms

A report examining the implications of a CBDC on rights and freedoms highlights the importance of careful consideration during the design process.The report stresses the potential for a digital currency to be used for surveillance and control, emphasizing the need for strong safeguards to protect civil liberties.

This includes:

• Limiting Data Collection: Minimizing the amount of personal data collected during transactions.
• Ensuring Transparency: Providing clear and accessible information about how data is used and protected.
• Establishing Independent Oversight: Creating an independent body to oversee the use of the digital currency and ensure compliance with privacy laws.

Bank of Canada's Strategic Plan (2025-2027)

The Bank of Canada's strategic plan for 2025-2027 outlines its priorities and objectives for the coming years. CBDC project, Uruguay has successfully piloted its digital currency (the e-peso), Venezuela’s central bank issued a cryptocurrency backed by oil (the petro), and Saudi ArabiaThis plan includes a focus on:

• Modernizing the Payments System: The Bank is committed to modernizing the payments system to make it more efficient, secure, and accessible.
• Exploring Digital Currencies: The Bank will continue to explore the potential of digital currencies, including the development of a digital Canadian dollar.
• Promoting Financial Stability: The Bank is committed to promoting financial stability and protecting the Canadian economy from shocks.
• Engaging with Stakeholders: The Bank will continue to engage with stakeholders to gather feedback and address concerns about the future of money.

The Global Landscape of CBDCs

Canada is not alone in exploring the possibility of a Central Bank Digital Currency.Many other countries around the world are also researching and developing CBDCs.

• Bahamas: The Bahamas launched the Sand Dollar, the world's first CBDC, in 2020.
• Nigeria: Nigeria launched the eNaira in 2021.
• China: China is piloting the digital yuan (e-CNY) in several cities.
• European Union: The European Central Bank is exploring the possibility of a digital euro.
• United States: The Federal Reserve is researching the potential of a digital dollar.

While some countries have already launched CBDCs, adoption rates have generally been slow and limited. We’re exploring the possibility of issuing a digital form of the Canadian dollar, also known as a central bank digital currency (CBDC). Find out what a digital dollar is, why we’re doing this research, how we’re approaching design work and how we’re listening to Canadians. You See moreThis is due to a variety of factors, including technological challenges, regulatory hurdles, and user skepticism.

The Future of the Canadian Dollar

The Bank of Canada's work on a digital currency is a forward-looking initiative that aims to ensure the Canadian dollar remains relevant and accessible in a rapidly evolving digital world. The Bank of Canada released a report in November 2025 on its public consultations toward the possible development of a digital Canadian dollar. As a central bank digitalWhile there are no immediate plans to launch a digital dollar, the Bank is diligently preparing for the possibility that one may be needed in the future.

The decision to adopt a CBDC in Canada would ultimately be made by the Canadian Parliament, following extensive consultations with the public and other stakeholders. After several years of exploring the possibility of introducing a digital currency in Canada, the central bank is shelving the idea. The Bank of Canada confirmed to CBC News itThe Bank of Canada is committed to providing Parliament with the information and analysis it needs to make an informed decision.

Why a Digital Dollar Might Be Needed

The Bank of Canada doesn't currently see a compelling reason to issue a digital currency, but several scenarios could change that.

1. Widespread Adoption of Private Cryptocurrencies: If cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin become widely used for everyday transactions, it could undermine the role of the Canadian dollar and weaken the Bank of Canada's control over monetary policy.
2. Emergence of a Cashless Society: If cash usage declines significantly, it could leave some Canadians without access to a public form of money. 캐나다 은행은 당장은 디지털 통화 발행 계획이 없지만, 발행 가능성을 배제하고 있지는 않다고 한다. 민간 디지털 통화가 대량 채택될 가능성과 현금 없는 사회가 도래할 가능성 때문이다. 캐나다 은행의 팀 레인(Tim LaneA digital dollar could ensure that all Canadians have access to a safe and reliable payment option.
3. Technological Disruption: If a new payment technology emerges that threatens the dominance of traditional payment systems, a digital dollar could help Canada remain competitive.

These scenarios highlight the importance of the Bank of Canada's contingency planning efforts.By being prepared to issue a digital dollar, the Bank can ensure that Canada is ready to adapt to the changing financial landscape.

Conclusion: Preparing for a Digital Future

The Bank of Canada's exploration of a digital currency is a testament to its commitment to innovation and its dedication to ensuring the stability and accessibility of the Canadian dollar.While a digital dollar is not on the immediate horizon, the Bank's proactive approach is crucial for preparing Canada for a future where digital payments are likely to play an even greater role.By conducting research, developing infrastructure, and engaging with the public, the Bank of Canada is laying the groundwork for a digital future where the Canadian dollar remains a trusted and reliable form of money.

Key Takeaways:

• The Bank of Canada is preparing for the possibility of a digital Canadian dollar, but has no immediate plans to launch one.
• The Bank is motivated by declining cash usage, the rise of cryptocurrencies, and the need to modernize the payments system.
• Public consultations are essential for shaping the design and implementation of a digital currency.
• A digital dollar could offer several benefits, including enhanced security, improved payment efficiency, and increased financial inclusion.
• Concerns about privacy, cybersecurity, and financial stability must be addressed.

What do you think about a digital Canadian dollar? 1. Introduction. Over the past few decades, technological advances have enabled consumers to significantly change the way they make payments, moving from primarily paper-based methods, such as cash and cheques, toward digital payments in the form of debit, credit and prepaid cards, mobile payments (e.g, Apple Pay or Google Pay), electronic transfers of funds (e.g, Interac e-transfer) andShare your thoughts with the Bank of Canada during their public consultations and help shape the future of money in Canada!