Anza, a dev collective behind Solana, recommended the adoption of Agave v1.18.12 into the blockchain’s devnet and testnet. This new version of the mentioned client ships with a central scheduler that aims to reduce congestion by increasing fee collection and reducing conflicting transactions. Anza is calling for increased testing on this functionality. Anza Calls for […]
Mauritania Central Bank Partners With Giesecke+Devrient to Develop a National CBDC
The Central Bank of Mauritania (CBM) has partnered with Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) to develop and launch a digital version of the national currency. The Germany-based security technology firm is expected to assist the CBM in outlining the prerequisites for a national Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). Outlining Prerequisites for a Central Bank Digital Currency The Central […]
Nigerian Central Bank Governor Denies Using Forex Reserves to Defend Local Currency
The Nigerian central bank governor has refuted claims that the bank is using the country’s foreign exchange reserves to shore up the naira. The governor attributes the decline in reserves to debt repayments and other payments, which are made because they help to maintain Nigeria’s credibility. Maintaining Nigeria’s Credibility Yemi Cardoso, governor of the Central […]
Central Bank of Fiji Warns About Penalties For Purchasing Cryptocurrency
The Reserve Bank of Fiji, Fiji’s central bank, reminded Fijians that cryptocurrencies were not accepted as legal tender in the country. In a recent press release, the institution reinforced that purchasing cryptocurrency with funds held in Fiji was illegal and that penalties could be applied to citizens doing so without the bank’s approval. Reserve Bank […]
Russian Central Bank Chief: Mass Adoption of Digital Ruble Expected in 5 to 7 Years
Elvira Nabiullina, head of the Russian central bank, has stated that the mass launch of the digital ruble will take five to seven years. This appears to contradict recent suggestions by the chairman of the State Duma Committee on the Financial Market that the launch will begin next year. No Decision Before 2025 Elvira Nabiullina, […]
Nigerian Central Bank Prohibits Use of Foreign Exchange as Collateral for Local Currency Loans
The Central Bank of Nigeria has barred the use of foreign exchange as collateral for local currency loans. In its April 8 letter addressed to banks, the CBN warned of severe consequences for banks that fail to comply with the latest directive. Halting the Slide of the Naira Hamstrung by ongoing shortages of U.S. dollars, […]
Central Banks Kept Purchasing Gold in February; China Continues Gold Run
Central banks kept up demand for gold in February, registering net purchases of 19 tonnes. Albeit the purchasing trend continued, purchases fell 58% compared to January’s demand, according to IMF and World Gold Council numbers. China reported the largest gold accumulation, acquiring 12 tonnes to maintain a 16-month gold purchasing streak. Gold Demand Still High […]
BIS Announces Project Agorá: Central Banks Bet on Tokenization for Cross Border Settlements
The Bank for International Settlements, the central banks’ bank, announced the launch of Project Agorá, a joint private-public initiative seeking to examine the potential benefits of tokenization for improving cross-border settlements. Agorá includes the participation of seven central banks and private institutions to be convened by the Institute of International Finance (IIF). BIS to Explore […]
Zimbabwe’s Central Bank Launches Gold-and Forex-Backed ‘Structured Currency’
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has introduced a foreign exchange and gold-backed “structured currency” to replace the struggling local currency. The structured currency banknotes will be “fully convertible into the reserve currency on demand.” The central bank has also reduced the annual interest rate from 130% to 20%. Structured Currency Supported by Solid Fundamentals The […]
India’s Digital Rupee Expands: Non-Banks to Offer Central Bank Digital Currency Wallets
India’s central bank has announced that it will enable non-bank payment system operators to offer central bank digital currency (CBDC) wallets. Noting that “necessary changes will be made to the system to facilitate this,” the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said the initiative is expected “to enhance access and expand choices available to users.” Non-Bank […]
Nigerian Central Bank Not in Charge of Crypto Regulation, Says Governor
According to the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Securities and Exchange Commission is responsible for regulating cryptocurrencies. However, the governor said the central bank will collaborate with law enforcement agencies and regulators overseeing the Nigerian crypto sector. The Central Bank’s Change of Heart In a surprise announcement, Yemi Cardoso, governor of the […]
Financial Markets Tense as Inflation Rise Suggests US Central Bank May Keep Rates Steady
The U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI), experienced a 3.2% increase over the 12 months ending in February, marginally higher by 0.1% compared to January’s CPI. This development is not being well-received by the financial markets, as the U.S. Federal Reserve might postpone any reductions in the benchmark federal funds rate. Persistent Inflation Pressures Fed, Leaving […]
Economic Intelligence Unit: Nigerian Central Bank Lacks Capacity to Defend Local Currency
The Economic Intelligence Unit has stated that the Central Bank of Nigeria cannot halt the rapid depreciation of the local currency. The continued volatility of the naira is expected to result in erratic regulation, primarily affecting businesses that hold foreign exchange. Nigeria Presses Ahead With Reforms The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) has stated that the […]
Central Bank of the Philippines to Complete Wholesale CBDC Pilot This Year, Hints at Securities Focused Use Case
The Central Bank of the Philippines revealed that it aims to conclude the ongoing wholesale CBDC pilot, Project Agila, later this year. The pilot, which currently includes the participation of six local financial institutions, might be the gate for democratizing access to securities according to Deputy Governor for Payments and Currency Management Sector Mamerto Tangonan. […]
Nigerian Central Bank, Real-World Asset Firm Partner to Revive Struggling CBDC
Gluwa, a platform for real-world assets, announced on March 7 its partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria. The partnership arrangement aims to improve the functionality of the Nigerian central bank’s digital currency and promote financial innovation through blockchain technology. Improving the CBDC’s Utility Gluwa, a real-world assets platform, has entered into a partnership arrangement […]