The European Central Bank has begun preparatory work to invest a small portion of its non-monetary policy own funds portfolio in tokenised securities. The purchases would be settled in central bank money through the newly launched Pontes platform, giving the ECB practical experience across trading, settlement, systems and portfolio management using distributed ledger technology. Initial investments will focus on euro-denominated securities issued by euro area central and regional governments, agencies and European supranational institutions. The initiative forms part of the Eurosystem’s tokenised finance strategy, alongside Appia, which is developing a blueprint for a European tokenised financial ecosystem. Once preparations are complete, the ECB’s Executive Board will determine the operational details and timing, taking account of tokenised issuance and broader market developments.
2026-09-21European Central Bank
European Central Bank prepares own funds investments in tokenised securities settled via Pontes
The European Central Bank is preparing to invest a small portion of its own funds in tokenised securities, with settlement in central bank money through Pontes. Initial purchases will target euro-denominated public sector and European supranational securities. The Executive Board will determine operational details and timing after the preparatory work.