In response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent executive order promoting dollar-backed stablecoins, the European Central Bank is emphasizing the need for a digital euro to maintain the competitiveness of eurozone banks.

ECB board member Piero Cipollone expressed concerns to Reuters that the U.S. initiative could attract customers away from European banks, underscoring the urgency for the ECB to develop its own digital currency.

President Trump’s executive order aims to “promote the development and growth of lawful and legitimate dollar-backed stablecoins worldwide,” positioning the United States as a leader in the cryptocurrency sector. 

This move is seen as a potential threat to European banks, as stablecoins — cryptocurrencies typically pegged to the U.S. dollar — could lure clients seeking alternatives to traditional banking services.

Stablecoins function similarly to money market funds by offering exposure to short-term interest rates in official currencies, predominantly the U.S. dollar. 

In contrast, a digital euro would serve as an online wallet guaranteed by the ECB but operated by entities such as banks. This system would enable individuals, including those without bank accounts, to make payments, with holdings likely capped at a few thousand euros and not accruing interest.

Digital Euro as a threat to banks

However, European banks have expressed concerns that a digital euro might lead customers to transfer funds into ECB-backed wallets, potentially reducing bank deposits. 

The ECB is currently exploring the practical implementation of a digital euro, with a final decision pending legislative approval from European lawmakers, according to Reuters. 

President Trump’s executive order also prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing its own central bank digital currency, further distinguishing the U.S. approach from potential European strategies.

As the ECB deliberates on the introduction of a digital euro, the global landscape of digital currencies continues to evolve. Countries like Nigeria and China have already launched their own digital currencies or are conducting pilot programs, reflecting a broader trend toward the adoption of central bank digital currencies worldwide.