- Bank of Canada finds that Canadians see “weak incentives” to adopt a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
- A majority of Canadians have easy access to financial services, reducing the appeal of a CBDC.
Beyond the Appeal: Why CBDCs Struggle in Canada
The Bank of Canada has released a compelling discussion paper exploring the potential adoption of central bank-issued digital currencies (CBDCs) among its citizens. Delving into the nation’s current financial landscape reveals an environment where most Canadians find little motivation to embrace this new form of currency.
Deciphering the Canadian Financial Landscape
In its analysis, the bank reviewed a hypothetical setting wherein cash usage was negligible, assessing the role a CBDC could serve, especially for those without extensive banking access. A telling statistic emerged from this exploration: a whopping 98% of Canadian adults possess a bank account. Moreover, 87% hold a credit card, and a commendable 90% of households, both rural and urban, enjoy high-quality internet connectivity.
Our latest survey results show that 92% of merchants have no plans to go cashless.
Read more results from our survey: https://t.co/DX0lUJ90u7#cdnecon #PaymentMethods #Survey pic.twitter.com/017UYxiIC4
— Bank of Canada (@bankofcanada) August 8, 2023
These figures imply a significant percentage of the populace already has substantial access to traditional financial services. In such a scenario, replacing tangible cash with its digital counterpart, the “digital loonie,” could inadvertently hinder those who rely heavily on cash or are technology-averse. Such individuals might find their payment options reduced, even struggling with day-to-day transactions.
One major repercussion of this potential CBDC apathy is its impact on the retail sphere. If a sizeable portion of consumers remains indifferent or even resistant to CBDCs, merchants might not see the value in accommodating this digital currency, further diminishing its perceived utility.
Instead of zeroing in solely on CBDCs as a panacea, the paper suggests alternative strategies that could genuinely assist those with limited banking access. Some of these include enhancing internet connectivity, propagating the availability of low-cost banking services, fostering increased collaboration between merchants and distant communities, and, importantly, continuing the provision of cash.
It’s crucial to understand that the Bank of Canada isn’t forecasting a definite Canadian reaction to CBDCs. Indeed, the allure of CBDCs could broaden owing to various unforeseen reasons. Yet, the discussion paper underscores that the hurdles to widespread CBDC acceptance, both for consumers and merchants, are formidable.
Cash’s Undying Reign
The discussion paper reinforces the timeless value of cash. Eliminating cash would erase offline payment methods, invaluable in emergencies like severe weather events or extensive power failures. Such potential scenarios only accentuate the need for innovative digital payment solutions that operate offline and underline the critical role of maintaining a cash-based system.
Moreover, the Bank of Canada reaffirmed its dedication to issuing cash as long as there’s a demand. The introduction of a CBDC would only coincide with the rise of a truly cashless society or the widespread adoption of foreign CBDCs or renowned cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
