ECB Launches Blockchain Settlement Service, Pontes

The European Central Bank (ECB) has launched its blockchain settlement service, Pontes, in live operation. This initiative connects the ECB's payment infrastructure with distributed-ledger markets, enabling banks and investors to settle eligible tokenized transactions using central-bank euros.

Deutsche Bank, Santander, and Clearstream were among the first institutions to complete onboarding through Pontes. The service operates from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CET on business days, facilitating wholesale transactions in ECB-backed money.

The development supports Ethereum's tokenization narrative and BNB Chain's role in on-chain finance, as it places a small allocation into highly rated euro-denominated tokenized securities.

Remittix, a project aiming to bridge digital assets with ordinary bank accounts, is gaining attention. Its PayFi network accepts over 50 cryptocurrencies and delivers value in more than 30 fiat currencies directly to supported bank accounts.