On July 4, US Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis announced that if elected president, he would immediately block the introduction of a central bank digital currency (CBDC).
Beginning
According to DeSantis, the Federal Reserve plans to consult with representatives of the legislative and executive branches of the US government and pass legislation that would allow the use of CBDCs. Florida, where DeSantis serves as governor, has banned the use of CBDCs, and he expects other states to follow suit.
DeSantis has also expressed concern about the World Economic Forum’s plans to phase out cash and crypto, which is why he plans to use CBDC.
DeSantis’ comments refer to a report from 2022 in which the Fed made a statement that matched his description, but which also explained that the Fed was taking no position “on the ultimate desirability” of a CBDC.
DeSantis’ claims have been met with counter-criticism from decentralization advocates who argue that this restrictive approach runs counter to the values that underlie Bitcoin and other public cryptocurrencies. Many countries that are introducing CBDCs have described restrictions on illegal purchases and transaction tracking that are already being applied to financial transactions.
Consequently, DeSantis’ opposition to CBDCs reflects a broader debate about the role of cryptocurrencies in the economy and society. While some claim that CBDCs can improve finance and reduce transaction costs, others raise concerns about privacy, government interference, and the potential for abuse.
Cryptoslit
RCO NEWS