Central Bank of Honduras Exploring CBDC and Digital Future

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The European Central Bank at Dusk, Frankfurt, Germany
Credit: pexels.com, The European Central Bank at Dusk, Frankfurt, Germany

The Central Bank of Honduras is taking a significant step towards embracing the digital future. They are exploring the possibility of introducing a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).

This move is aimed at increasing financial inclusion and promoting economic growth. The bank is working to create a digital wallet system that will allow citizens to store and manage their money electronically.

The Central Bank of Honduras is also investing in digital infrastructure to support the development of a digital economy. This includes upgrading their systems and processes to be more efficient and secure.

As the bank continues to explore the possibilities of CBDC, it's clear that they are committed to staying ahead of the curve in the rapidly changing financial landscape.

A unique perspective: Roshan Digital Account

Financial Inclusion in Honduras

Financial inclusion is a pressing issue in Honduras, where around 60% of the population lives in poverty.

In 2021, just 37.85% of citizens over 15 had bank accounts.

Credit: youtube.com, Honduras: Rural saving banks go digital

The country heavily relies on family remittances, which account for 25.9% of GDP.

Honduras has a high mobile phone penetration rate, with 81% of the population having a mobile phone.

Mobile internet access is also widespread, with 72% of the population having mobile internet.

However, broadband access is less common, with only 52% of the population having it.

Additional reading: Access Bank South Africa

Central Bank of Honduras' Stance

The Central Bank of Honduras (BCH) has made its stance on Bitcoin clear. They define Bitcoin as a virtual asset and clarify that it is not regulated in Honduras, nor is it considered a legal tender.

The BCH is the sole issuer of legal tender banknotes and coins in the national territory. This means that they have authority over the country's monetary system.

Using Bitcoin in Honduras is officially not against the law, but it's also not supervised or guaranteed by the BCH. This means that individuals who use Bitcoin do so at their own risk.

Credit: youtube.com, Friday, 03 February 1950 The Central Bank of Honduras is created1

The BCH is exploring the possibility of issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) that would be recognized as legal tender in the country and regulated by the BCH. This could give the government more control over the country's monetary system.

Here are some key points to summarize the BCH's stance on Bitcoin:

  • Bitcoin is not regulated in Honduras.
  • Bitcoin is not considered a legal tender in Honduras.
  • Using Bitcoin in Honduras is not against the law, but it's not supervised or guaranteed by the BCH.
  • The BCH is exploring the possibility of issuing a CBDC.

Digital Assets and CBDC

The Central Bank of Honduras has taken a cautious approach to digital assets, warning citizens about the risks of volatility and lack of legal backing. They've emphasized that only the BCH can issue legal tender coins and bills, and that Honduran law is clear on this.

The bank has also clarified that Bitcoin is not regulated in Honduras and is not considered legal tender. However, using Bitcoin in Honduras is not against the law, and users bear the responsibility for any risks they face.

The BCH is instead exploring the possibility of issuing a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) that will be recognized as legal tender and regulated by the bank. This move suggests that Honduras is opting for a more controlled approach to digital assets, rather than embracing decentralized cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

Twitter's View on CBDC

A farmer in Honduras carefully harvests carrots from a vibrant green field, showcasing sustainable agriculture.
Credit: pexels.com, A farmer in Honduras carefully harvests carrots from a vibrant green field, showcasing sustainable agriculture.

Twitter users were abuzz with speculation about Honduras' plans for digital assets, with some mentioning the country in their posts.

Max Keiser tweeted Honduras' flag, saying "It's happening..." before the Central Bank made an announcement.

Samson Mow, who had earlier said he didn't think Honduras would make a Bitcoin announcement, was wrong.

Honduras has decided to go with a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) instead of Bitcoin.

The Human Rights Foundation's Alex Gladstein noted that this move underscores the government's desire for monetary control over freedom.

The Twitterati is now speculating about which country will be the next to make a move, with some wondering if Honduras will surprise everyone and make an announcement.

Warning Against Volatile Digital Assets

The Central Bank of Honduras has issued a warning against volatile digital assets, cautioning citizens about the risks of using them as payment. Digital assets are not regulated or backed by law in Honduras.

The bank's warning is clear: citizens who transact with digital assets will bear responsibility for any risks they face due to their high volatility. This is a stark reminder that digital assets are not a safe or stable store of value.

Bank of Spain Building in Madrid
Credit: pexels.com, Bank of Spain Building in Madrid

In fact, the Central Bank of Honduras has stated that only it can issue legal tender coins and bills, and regulate the payments system. This means that any digital assets used as payment are not recognized or supported by the Honduran government.

A recent initiative in Santa Lucia, Honduras, aims to attract tourists and businesses by allowing them to accept Bitcoin as payment. However, this move should not be seen as an endorsement of digital assets by the government.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • The Central Bank of Honduras has warned citizens about the risks of using digital assets as payment.
  • Digital assets are not regulated or backed by law in Honduras.
  • Citizens who transact with digital assets will bear responsibility for any risks they face.
  • Only the Central Bank of Honduras can issue legal tender coins and bills.

It's essential to be aware of these facts before considering the use of digital assets as payment.

Maggie Morar

Senior Assigning Editor

Maggie Morar is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in business and finance, she has developed a unique expertise in covering investor relations news and updates for prominent companies. Her extensive experience has taken her through a wide range of industries, from telecommunications to media and retail.

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