In the digital era, it should not be surprising that central banks, too, are discussing the potential merits and drawbacks of digital forms of a central bank currency (CBDC). There are currently many operational issues relating to CBDC that remain unresolved. This pertains, for example, to the technology implemented.
From a longer-term perspective, one can appreciate, for example, that the current situation of price stability is a great improvement on the situation in many countries in recent decades. Making the euro a lasting success is of course an ongoing process and indeed, in line with the title of Hans’ speech, “a permanent challenge and task”.