Summary:
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) plans to launch a Gold-Backed Digital Token (GBDT) for retail purposes. Governor John Mangudya announced that the GBDTs will be used for transactions, complementing the use of the US dollar. The RBZ also plans to educate the public about the benefits of GBDTs through nationwide awareness campaigns. The GBDTs align with the characteristics of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) and are backed by gold coins. The Bank launched the GBDTs on May 12, 2023, and has received applications worth ZW$50.50 billion. The tokens aim to stabilize the Zimbabwean dollar and address inflation issues.
Key Points:
– RBZ plans to launch Gold-Backed Digital Tokens (GBDT) for retail purposes.
– GBDTs will be used for transactions, complementing the use of the US dollar.
– The RBZ plans to educate the public about the benefits of GBDTs through nationwide awareness campaigns.
– GBDTs align with the characteristics of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) and are backed by gold coins.
– The tokens aim to stabilize the Zimbabwean dollar and address inflation issues.
Hot Take:
The launch of the Gold-Backed Digital Tokens (GBDTs) by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) shows the country’s commitment to addressing inflation and stabilizing the Zimbabwean dollar. By introducing a digital instrument backed by gold, the RBZ aims to provide an alternative investment and strengthen the national currency. The success of the GBDTs in attracting investors and the plans for nationwide awareness campaigns indicate a positive outlook for the implementation of this digital currency. With the measures taken by the government and the RBZ to ease inflation, adopting GBDTs for local transactions is a promising step towards economic stability.