Central Bank of Bolivia closes 18th Monetary Conference on digital payments and central bank digital currency challenges

The Central Bank of Bolivia announced the conclusion of its XVIII Monetary Conference, “Monetary Policy in the Digital Era”, which drew more than 4,000 in-person and virtual participants and centred on the global shift toward digital payments and its implications for monetary policy and the wider economy. In remarks referenced by acting President Edwin Rojas Ulo, presentations examined the role of central banks in money issuance, payment system operation, financial inclusion and financial stability, including design and implementation challenges for central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Speakers emphasised that CBDC development should be tied to clear monetary policy objectives such as financial inclusion, payment efficiency and monetary stability, while maintaining system security and public trust. The programme also discussed regional experiences including Brazil’s Pix payment system and its rapid adoption in 2024, increased use of stablecoins in Argentina and blockchain-enabled exchange tools such as SWAPX for BRL–USDT swaps, tokenisation and blockchain applications to improve efficiency, liquidity and access to capital, and Panama’s legislative initiatives to integrate new financial technologies, highlighting the importance of a clear and technically robust regulatory framework for virtual assets. Rojas Ulo encouraged translating the event’s ideas and connections into new initiatives and projects to help adapt to digital-era changes with an emphasis on equity.