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The payments landscape is poised for a significant transformation with the rise of programmable money and smart contracts explored in The Payments Association’s (TPA) latest white paper, “Coding Cash: Exploring the Horizon of Programmable Money and Payments.” This publication serves as a pivotal resource for the payments industry, aiming to clarify the distinctions between programmable money and payments, showcasing how these technologies can revolutionise financial transactions.
TPA’s efforts over the past few years have significantly advanced understanding within the industry, beginning with the introduction of central bank digital currency (CBDC) concepts to policymakers. This initiative, starting with Project New Era, has produced a green paper and involved various seminars and education sessions in the UK Parliament for MPs and Peers. It has been conducted in close collaboration with the Crypto and Digital Currencies APPG, chaired by Dr Lisa Cameron MP.
The strategic launch of TPA’s latest white paper in the UK Parliament was designed to ensure policymakers fully grasp the implications of programmable money. This is vital as the differences between programmable money and programmable payments are still not widely understood.
The white paper refrains from discussing the more controversial uses of programmable CBDCs to maintain a neutral and focused dialogue on the benefits and cautious approach required in their implementation.
Nevertheless, the flexibility of programmable payments can be harnessed for beneficial purposes, including automated tax calculations, streamlined welfare payments, enhanced compliance monitoring, and more efficient settlement processes for trades and transactions, all without compromising individual liberties.
Findings from TPA stress the importance of clearly distinguishing these technologies and their applications to prevent misconceptions and potential misuse. As we navigate this complex landscape, aligning our strategies with future compliance and policy developments becomes increasingly crucial.
Looking forward, the move towards a fully programmable financial ecosystem presents both challenges and opportunities. It is essential to proceed with a balanced approach, leveraging the benefits of these technologies while protecting against potential abuses.
The insights provided in “Coding Cash” mark the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey in digital finance. As the potential of programmable money unfolds, it’s clear that the conversation about digital finance extends beyond technological innovation to shaping a future that aligns with democratic values and enhances financial inclusion. The ongoing work ensures that our financial infrastructure is robust, inclusive, and adaptable, ready to embrace the future of money in an increasingly digital global economy.