Swiss National Bank Prolonges Digital-Franc Pilot By Two Years

As a seasoned crypto investor with a background in Swiss finance, I find the SNB’s decision to extend its digital-franc pilot program by two years an encouraging sign. Switzerland has always been at the forefront of financial innovation, and this move reaffirms their commitment to exploring CBDCs and their potential integration into the traditional financial system.


The Swiss National Bank (SNB) has prolonged its digital franc experiment by an extra two years. This decision underscores Switzerland’s dedication to investigating central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and their role within the financial infrastructure. Originally initiated to evaluate the practicality and consequences of a digital franc, this ongoing project will now assess the currency’s functionality, safety, and adaptability in real-life situations.

Swiss National Bank Prolongs Digital-Franc Pilot By Two Years

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) has announced an expansion of its central bank digital currency (CBDC) pilot project, which will run for at least two additional years beyond its current duration, starting from December 2022. SNB Governing Board member Antoine Martin commended the initiative’s progress since its inception, emphasizing its significance in furthering CBDC technology research.

The expanded pilot project intends to increase involvement from financial institutions, allowing a more diverse range of financial deals to be facilitated through the wholesale CBDC. This endeavor signifies Switzerland’s dedication to investigating the pros and cons of CBDCs, aligning with the global shift toward digitally innovative finance solutions.

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) intends to expand the duration of the digital franc’s pilot program. This move aims to collect extensive data regarding the digital currency’s performance and user experience. By doing so, it could pave the path for greater acceptance or advancements in the field of digital financial instruments.

FlowBank’s Closure and Financial Market Supervision

Recently, FINMA, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority, announced that FlowBank, a Swiss online bank specializing in crypto transactions, would be shutting down due to insolvency. The bank did not meet the required minimum capital standards and carried a heavy debt load, leading FINMA to take decisive action.

Deposits worth up to CHF 100,000 are securely insured; however, uncertainty surrounds the protection of cryptocurrency holdings with FlowBank. FINMA’s rigorous supervision underlines Switzerland’s dedication to preserving financial security and serving consumer interests in the burgeoning crypto marketplace.

As a crypto investor, I’ve come to realize the significance of adhering to regulatory guidelines and maintaining financial stability within Switzerland’s banking sector. The recent closure of certain institutions serves as a reminder of the potential repercussions for those who neglect these essential requirements.

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2024-06-20 14:23