CBDC, or Central Bank Digital Currency, is a type of digital or virtual currency that is issued and regulated by a country’s central bank. Unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are decentralized and operate without a central authority, CBDCs are centralized digital currencies. They represent the digital form of a nation’s fiat currency (like the dollar, euro, or yen) and are backed by the authority of the country that issues them.

CBDCs aim to bring the convenience and security of digital forms like cryptocurrencies into the regulated banking sector. They have the potential to streamline payments, reduce costs, and increase financial accessibility. However, their implementation also raises important questions about privacy, security, and the broader impact on the financial system.