ECB Launches Pontes, a Settlement System for Tokenized Assets

The European Central Bank (ECB) has launched Pontes, a new settlement system for tokenized assets. This marks a significant step in the Eurosystem's plans to integrate distributed-ledger technology into European financial markets.

Pontes allows banks and market participants to access risk-free central bank money when settling transactions involving assets recorded on-chain. The ECB said this was a key requirement identified during Eurosystem trials of distributed-ledger technology in 2024.

The system initially offers a core set of services, with additional features and longer operating hours to be introduced gradually. Full implementation is expected by 2028.