Fed Chairman Powell on CBDC: “It’s Better To Get It Right Than Be First”

The seminar focused on the benefits and risks of digital currencies as well as their policy implications. This isn’t the first time Powell has discussed digital currencies. Earlier this year, he labeled Facebook’s Libra project a “wake-up call.” He also stated that whether a digital currency helps the U.S. to preserve the centrality of a trusted and accepted currency is “an open question.”

On Monday, in a highly anticipated webcast, Powell offered more clarity on the U.S. Government’s digital currency position. When queried on the potential role of a CBDC for domestic and international cross-border payments, Powell was measured in his comments. He acknowledged the potential of CBDCs for improving the payment systems and that the U.S. is committed to “carefully and thoughtfully” exploring them. Powell pointed out that in the U.S., many factors reduce the imperative for a quick CBDC launch,

“we have a strong demand for cash, mature and well-regulated banking sector, and most people already have access to the electronic payments system.”

Regardless of timing, Powell also emphasized that if any digital dollar were to be issued, it would be viewed as a “complement,” not a replacement for cash.

The First Mover Advantage

On the issue of whether or not there is a first-mover advantage for CBDCs, Powell offered the perspective that “it’s more important to get it right than to be first.” According to Powell, getting it right means focusing on potential risks and the tradeoffs that need to be thought out carefully,

“we have a responsibility to the U.S. and to the world that any steps with a digital currency be taken safely.”

In outlining some of the key issues that would need to get dealt with for a safe CBDC launch, he mentioned three problem areas:

• Ensure protection of the CBDC from cyber attacks, counterfeiting, and fraud.
• Consideration of how a CBDC could affect policy and monetary stability.
• Determining how to fight illicit activity while preserving CBDC user privacy.

Staying Ahead of the CBDC Curve

In conclusion, the Fed chairman touched on how the U.S. plans to remain on the front of CBDC developments. According to Powell, the Fed is collaborating with the private sector, taking a multidisciplinary approach, harnessing the power of the Federal Reserve System, surveying design options, and actively engaging in a series of experiments and research projects. “We can be, and we must be at the forefront of research.” The panel also featured Agustín Carstens, general manager of the Bank for International Settlements; Nor Shamsiah, Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia; and Governor of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority Ahmed Alkholifey. The panel was moderated by Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the IMF.