Date: February 2024
A groundbreaking study has investigated the potential Impact of Central Bank Digital Currency on Banking deposits, shedding light on the dynamics between these two financial instruments. The research, which developed and estimated a structural model, examined the decision-making process of households in selecting a financial institution to deposit their digital money. The study found that households consider multiple factors when choosing where to deposit their funds, including the interest paid on digital money, the availability of complementary financial products, and access to in-branch services. The researchers discovered that a non-interest-bearing CBDC lacking complementary financial products can significantly displace bank deposits, but only if it offers an extensive service network.
However, the study also revealed that imposing a substantial limit on CBDC holdings can effectively mitigate the displacement of bank deposits. This finding suggests that prudent regulatory measures can be implemented to strike a balance between the introduction of CBDCs and the stability of traditional banking systems.
Impact of Central Bank Digital Currency on Banking Preferences
The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and financial institutions as they navigate the potential introduction of CBDCs. Understanding the nuanced relationship between CBDCs and bank deposits is crucial for ensuring the smooth integration of these digital currencies into the financial landscape while safeguarding the stability of existing banking systems.
As discussions around CBDCs continue to evolve, this study offers a comprehensive analysis of the competition between CBDCs and bank deposits, informing decision-makers and stakeholders about the potential implications and necessary regulatory measures. The study, which utilized a unique Canadian dataset, examined the interplay between banks and CBDCs by accounting for the provision of complementary financial products and the value consumers place on physical service locations.
By developing a comprehensive structural model that incorporates these essential factors, the researchers were able to address various questions surrounding CBDCs. Firstly, they discovered that the competitive advantage enjoyed by banks, resulting from the provision of financial products that complement deposits, significantly mitigates the impact of a CBDC. This finding underscores the importance of recognizing the added value banks offer beyond simple deposit services.
Secondly, the study highlighted the critical role of service location networks in determining the success of a CBDC. A CBDC lacking physical service locations showed minimal traction, while leveraging existing infrastructure such as Canada Post offices as service locations yielded a take-up rate comparable to that of cash. Importantly, this approach was found to benefit rural households, underscoring the potential for CBDCs to enhance financial inclusion.
Additionally, the research revealed that banks with larger market shares are more responsive to the introduction of a CBDC, enabling them to retain a greater portion of deposits. This finding emphasizes the need for banks to adapt and innovate in the face of evolving digital currency landscapes.
The study examined the potential effects of implementing a limit on CBDC holdings, a measure frequently discussed by policymakers. While such a limit was found to significantly reduce CBDC adoption, its impact on consumer surplus—the overall benefit experienced by consumers—was comparatively modest. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions as they navigate the complex terrain of CBDC implementation. By considering the interplay between banks, complementary financial products, service locations, and market dynamics, decision-makers can make informed choices that promote financial stability, inclusivity, and consumer welfare. As discussions surrounding CBDCs continue to reshape the financial landscape, this study offers a comprehensive analysis of their impact on banks, shedding light on Impact of Central Bank Digital Currency on Banking Preferences.
References:
https://www.bankofcanada.ca/2024/02/staff-working-paper-2024-4/
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