European Central Bank Launches Pontes Service to Connect Payment Systems with Blockchain Financial Markets

According to Reuters, the European Central Bank launched the Pontes service that day, connecting its payment system with blockchain-based financial markets to enable banks and investors to settle on-chain transactions using ECB-backed euros rather than relying on stablecoins or other private currencies. Initial participating institutions include Deutsche Bank, Santander, and clearing house Clearstream Bank, with the service initially operating on weekdays from 08:00 to 16:00 CET.