Prospects for the implementation of the digital currency of the National Bank of Ukraine in the context of global digitalization

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the economic implications of implementing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) in Ukraine (e-hryvnia) within the framework of global digitalisation. The study covered the period from 2023 to 2024. The study employed an analytical approach based on a comparative analysis of international experiences in CBDC implementation, focusing on China, Sweden, the Bahamas, Nigeria, the United States, and the European Union. The study examined pilot projects, strategies, and conceptual frameworks designed for the implementation of the e-hryvnia and the level of digitalisation within the financial infrastructure of Ukraine. The key findings of the study are critical factors influencing the successful integration of digital currencies into national economies. The analysis indicated that countries actively adopting CBDCs seek to address technological, economic, and social readiness challenges. Furthermore, the findings suggested that the implementation of the e-hryvnia in Ukraine could be justified and effective, provided that the necessary technical and economic conditions are met to facilitate its seamless integration into the national financial system. The dynamics of the payment system development of Ukraine reflect its preparedness for the introduction of a digital currency. In 2023, a total of 7.91 billion cashless transactions were conducted, amounting to UAH 6.14 trillion. In 2024, within the first nine months alone, transactions reached 6.4 billion, with a total value of UAH 4.79 trillion, representing a 7.72% increase in the number of transactions and a 4.45% rise in transaction volume compared to the corresponding period in 2023. Moreover, by 2024, the proportion of cashless transactions in the total volume of payments had increased to 94.5% by number and 64.81% by value. The study concluded that the successful introduction of a digital currency in Ukraine will require continuous enhancement of the country’s payment infrastructure and the implementation of measures to ensure the security and transparency of financial transactions.