The Eurosystem launches Pontes, a new solution for settling wholesale tokenized asset transactions in central bank money

22 September 2026

On 21 September, the Eurosystem launched the first phase of Pontes, the new solution that enables wholesale tokenized asset transactions to be settled in central bank money. This is the first tangible step in the implementation of the Eurosystem's strategy to accompany the evolution of finance towards new models based on tokenization, i.e. the process of issuing or representing financial assets in the form of digital 'tokens' recorded on distributed ledger technology (DLT) networks.

These technologies can increase the efficiency of markets by facilitating the automation of processes and greater integration between the different life-cycle stages of financial instruments. In this context, Pontes provides a secure environment for market participants to settle transactions using central bank money, helping to transfer the stability of and trust in central bank money into the new digital ecosystem.

The launch of Pontes is the result of extensive preparatory work carried out by the Eurosystem together with market participants. Indeed, the testing conducted in 2024 with public and private entities confirmed the importance of being able to settle tokenized transactions using a risk-free asset such as central bank money. The market is already showing significant interest in Pontes, as demonstrated by the fact that an initial group of market participants and DLT operators has already completed onboarding and is ready to start using Pontes immediately, while additional participants are committed to connecting to it in the coming months.

Pontes is part of a broader Eurosystem strategy for financial innovation. In parallel, work continues on the Appia initiative, which has brought together central banks and public and private operators to define a blueprint for the development of an integrated European ecosystem of DLT-based financial services by 2028.

As stressed by Piero Cipollone, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, Pontes brings the 'stability and trust of central bank money' to the tokenized asset market, helping to make the European financial system more innovative and competitive.

For more information: Pontes – European Central Bank