ECB selects two provider groups for digital euro network connectivity
The ECB announced network service agreements for its digital euro pilot and potential later issuance. The selection is preparation, not a decision to issue a currency.
What the record says
The European Central Bank announced October 30 that it selected two network service provider groups to connect participating payment providers, national central banks and components of a digital euro platform.
One group comprises Nexi Payments and Deutsche Telekom Business Solutions. The other comprises two Telefónica companies and Indra Soluciones Tecnologías de la Información. The first-ranked contract took effect September 28 for initial pilot connectivity; the second is scheduled to start in May 2027.
The ECB says both providers will be ready from 2029 for connectivity associated with potential issuance, subject to the Governing Council’s decision on the project’s next phase. The agreements allow services to be adjusted as needs evolve.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Read the ECB announcement for the scope of the pilot and conditional future stages.
Limits and what is not established
Provider selection and readiness targets do not establish that a digital euro has launched, that issuance is approved, or that 2029 is a guaranteed currency-launch date.
Sources checked November 1, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
European Central Bank: original information