German MP Expresses Preference For BTC Over Digital Euro
Cotar Proposes Bitcoin As A Legal Tender
In a striking departure from the European Central Bank’s (ECB) pursuit of a digital euro, German Bundestag member Joana Cotar has proposed acknowledging Bitcoin as a legal tender within Germany’s financial landscape. Cotar’s endorsement of Bitcoin as legal tender represents a potential shift in the country’s approach to digital currencies.
Also, it contrasts the ECB’s ongoing endeavors towards developing a euro central bank digital currency (CBDC) – the digital euro. Cotar is spearheading efforts to conduct a preliminary assessment to establish a robust legal framework that officially recognizes Bitcoin’s status as legal tender.
Her advocacy extends beyond mere recognition; it encompasses the need for a balanced regulatory environment that provides legal certainty for companies and citizens. Meanwhile, Cotar admits she knows about potential money laundering and tax evasion issues often associated with Bitcoin usage.
To amplify her cause, Cotar has launched the “Bitcoin in the Bundestag” initiative. This initiative is designed to educate her parliamentary peers about Bitcoin’s many merits.
Her advocacy objectives include privacy protection, robust security standards, and a regulatory approach that avoids undue restrictions. Unlike many of her counterparts, who typically prefer a broader spectrum of cryptocurrencies, Cotar’s exclusive focus remains on Bitcoin.
The lawmaker’s initiative is solely Bitcoin-oriented because of her conviction in the digital asset’s unique technological attributes and societal significance.
Why Cotar Opposes The Digital Euro
Meanwhile, Cotar stated that she opposes the digital euro CBDC because Bitcoin’s decentralized nature makes it a more fitting digital asset for Germany, enhancing financial freedom and privacy. While Cotar champions Bitcoin’s adoption, the ECB, under President Christine Lagarde’s leadership, is progressing towards developing the digital euro.
The ECB’s digital euro is a CBDC that is easy to use, respects privacy, and enables quick payment transactions. Cotar’s efforts to make Bitcoin legal tender in Germany could influence other nations to make a similar move, considering Germany’s substantial economic influence within Europe.
Adopt A Cautious Approach to Digital Euro Legislation – EU Financial Service Chief
Reports indicate that countries like Ireland, Spain, France, and Italy have started developing digital euro prototypes. While some nations, like France, set ambitious goals for functional prototypes by autumn 2023, others, notably Germany, exercise prudence.
They are still in the phase of carefully assessing the benefits and risks associated with this transformative financial tool. Meanwhile, the EU Financial Services Chief, Mairead McGuinness, has pointed out the increasing use of card and mobile payments and the decreasing reliance on cash.
Hence, she calls for digital central bank money and the EU’s obligation to explore this option in response to the growing financial paradigm.
Panetta’s Insights
Meanwhile, ECB Executive Board Member Fabio Panetta outlined the apex bank’s forthcoming presentation of findings from a year-long exploration of a CBDC. Panetta clarified that while the Governing Council would evaluate moving to the next phase of the project, any decision regarding issuing a digital euro would only materialize after adopting relevant legislation.
He emphasized that such a critical decision could be deferred as the upcoming elections might delay the legislation process. Additionally, Panetta stressed the importance of an inclusive European digital payment system.
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