ECB Prepares to Invest in Tokenised Securities

The European Central Bank (ECB) has started preparing to invest in tokenised securities as part of its efforts to gain experience and knowledge using distributed ledger technology (DLT) in financial markets.

The bank's non-monetary policy portfolio provides income for operating expenses, and the initiative will support the Eurosystem's goal of making central bank money 'fit for the digital age'.

The ECB aims to gain first-hand experience throughout the whole investment lifecycle, including trade execution, settlement, systems, and portfolio management.

The preparatory work includes the use of Pontes, a solution launched on 21 September 2026, which enables settling tokenised assets in central bank money.