From Cash to Digital: What Will Change with the Digital Euro

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Published on 12/12/2025

On 5 December, the final event in the series "Lo scambio infinito" took place at MAXXI in Rome. The initiative, promoted by the MUDEM – Money Museum and MAXXI, explores the connection between money, ideas, art and innovation. Chiara Scotti, Deputy Director General of Banca d'Italia, spoke about the prospects for the digital euro and the role of public money in the everyday lives of tomorrow's European citizens. Many young people attended.

The payment system is like an electricity grid: invisible yet essential for our daily activities, explained Dr. Scotti, sharing practical examples of how the digital euro will change the way we pay - from shopping at the market to splitting the bill for a pizza with friends.

The digital euro will be the electronic version of banknotes, which will not be replaced but complemented by this new solution. A public and inclusive option that expands payment possibilities for citizens and businesses.

Key Points

• Simpler, universal payments: a single solution, free for everyday use, always accepted across the euro area, available via app or card.
• True accessibility: offline functionality, simplified interfaces, tools designed for those with lower digital literacy.
• Privacy protection: safeguards equal to or stronger than current instruments, with an offline confidentiality level similar to cash.

Finally, the Deputy Director General outlined the next steps expected in the coming months: a crucial political decision involving the European Parliament and Council, and a pilot phase to test features and use cases before full implementation of this new instrument.

In an increasingly digital world, the digital euro will likely be the first direct experience of public money for many young people: intuitive, immediate and universal. A decisive step towards European digital citizenship.

Find out more by visiting the dedicated page on Banca d'Italia's website and the in-depth article in our Made Easy section.