130 countries are actively exploring introducing digital currencies

A recent study reveals that 130 countries, covering 98% of the global economy, are actively exploring digital currencies, with almost 50% in advanced stages of development or implementation. The US-based Atlantic Council's research highlights that all G20 nations, barring Argentina, are making substantial progress. Eleven countries, including several Caribbean nations and Nigeria, have already launched central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Meanwhile, pilot testing in China covers 260 million people across 200 scenarios. India, Brazil, and the European Central Bank are preparing to introduce digital currencies, with the latter planning a digital euro pilot for a possible 2028 launch. Despite these advances, a retail version of a digital dollar in the US has seen a slowdown, with only a wholesale version moving forward.