EU charts roadmap for tokenised financial markets
A new roadmap aims to advance tokenised financial markets and improve central bank settlement and infrastructure interoperability.
The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled Appia, a strategic roadmap for developing Europe’s tokenised financial ecosystem anchored in central bank money. The initiative aims to guide the shift from traditional finance to tokenised markets while ensuring stability and interoperability.
A key component of Appia is Pontes, the Eurosystem’s distributed ledger technology (DLT) settlement solution. Pontes, set for Q3 2026 pilots, will enable central bank money transactions and connect DLT infrastructures with the Eurosystem’s TARGET2, T2S, and TIPS services.
The ECB has opened a public consultation inviting feedback and proposals from both public and private sector stakeholders. Respondents’ input will help refine the roadmap and shape the long-term blueprint for Europe’s tokenised financial system.
Appia also complements ongoing efforts on the digital €, with payment service provider selection planned for 2026 and a 12-month pilot trial in the second half of 2027.
The initiative highlights the ECB’s commitment to integrating emerging technologies while preserving financial stability.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!