CBDCs are expected to have a significant impact on global financial stability due to several reasons. Firstly, CBDCs could reduce the need for intermediaries in financial transactions, resulting in a reduction in transaction costs and facilitating faster settlements. This reduces the likelihood of potential issues arising from intermediaries, such as market disruptions or the collapse of a financial institution.
Secondly, CBDCs have the potential to enhance financial inclusion by providing access to financial services to previously underserved populations. By providing access to a digital currency that is backed by the central bank, people can participate in the financial system more easily, regardless of their income or geographical location.
Thirdly, CBDCs could help address the issue of cash disappearing from the financial system. As more people move towards digital transactions, physical currency is becoming less relevant. CBDCs could replace cash as a more secure alternative, thereby reducing the possibilities of fraud, counterfeiting, or money laundering.
While CBDCs offer various benefits to the global financial system, they also pose potential risks to financial stability. One of the most significant risks is the possibility of a sudden and significant shift in capital flows, as investors seek the safety of a particular CBDC. This could result in market instability and cause severe economic stress, especially if it happens abruptly.
Another possible risk of CBDCs is related to cybersecurity. The digital nature of CBDCs implies that they are susceptible to cyber attacks, which could result in the loss of funds, disruption to the financial system, and threats to national security.
Lastly, the emergence of CBDCs could lead to the displacement of traditional financial institutions such as banks, as people start to hold and transfer money through digital channels. This could affect the stability of the financial system, as traditional banks play a crucial role in providing credit, which is vital for economic growth.
In conclusion, the emergence of CBDCs could have a substantial impact on global financial stability. While they offer many potential benefits, their adoption could also pose significant risks and challenges. It is, therefore, essential to consider all possible implications of the introduction of CBDCs and ensure they support financial stability while providing the expected benefits.