The European Central Bank (ECB) selected 2 network service providers (NSPs) for the digital euro (CBDC) pilot project and its potential launch.
The ECB signed agreements with 2 technology consortia that will connect payment service providers and national central banks to the digital euro infrastructure. The contractors were selected through a competitive tender process.
The selected network service providers will be responsible for the infrastructure connecting participants to the digital euro and facilitating data exchange between its various components.
The contracts were awarded to 2 consortia:
- Nexi Payments S.p.A. and Deutsche Telekom Business Solutions GmbH. The consortium brings together an Italian payment operator and a German provider of telecommunications and IT solutions. The agreement took effect on September 28, 2026. During the initial phase, the contractor will provide network infrastructure for the digital euro pilot project.
- Telefónica de España, S.A.U., Telefónica Global Solutions, S.L.U., and Indra Soluciones Tecnologías de la Información, S.L.U. The consortium consists of Spanish companies specializing in telecommunications infrastructure and information technology. Its contract will take effect in May 2027.
By 2029, both providers must be ready to connect participants to the digital euro infrastructure if a decision is made to issue the digital currency. Progression to the next phase of the project will depend on a decision by the ECB Governing Council.
All payment service providers offering digital euro transactions are expected to be able to choose either of the 2 network operators to connect to the CBDC. The infrastructure will therefore provide alternative connectivity channels through independent consortia.
The agreements also allow for changes to the scope and range of services provided. This will enable the ECB to adjust network infrastructure requirements as the pilot project progresses and during subsequent stages of digital euro implementation.
The selection of contractors doesn’t constitute a final decision to issue the digital euro. The ECB previously selected payment service providers to participate in the digital euro testing program and opened applications for trials of new CBDC payment use cases scheduled for 2027. The potential launch of the digital euro is planned for 2029.
