Upcoming Currencies

Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

United Arab Emirates – Digital Dirham

The UAE plans to launch its Digital Dirham in Q4 2025. This CBDC will be legal tender for retail use and is also intended for wholesale and cross-border transactions. A dedicated Digital Dirham wallet will accompany the launch. Ledger Insights

Brazil – DREX

The Central Bank of Brazil aims to release its blockchain-based digital currency, DREX, for general use in 2025. The pilot phase has already seen successful transactions. Reuters+2OMFIF+2cbdctracker.org+2

European Union – Digital Euro

The European Central Bank is progressing with the Digital Euro project, with plans to define its design and regulatory framework in 2025. The initiative aims to offer a digital form of public money, complementing cash. Digital Watch Observatory+2ElHuffPost+2Mastercard+2

Global CBDC Momentum

As of 2025, 44 countries are piloting CBDCs, including major economies like China and members of the G20. This marks an increase from 36 pilots the previous year, indicating growing global interest in digital currencies. Reuters

Stablecoins & Regional Digital Currencies

Hong Kong – Stablecoin Regulation

On May 21, 2025, Hong Kong passed a bill establishing a licensing framework for fiat-referenced stablecoin issuers. This move is part of Hong Kong’s strategy to enhance its competitiveness as a global hub for digital assets. Reuters

Africa – Lumi Gold Coin

In January 2025, the African Diaspora Central Bank began minting physical gold coins for the Lumi currency, circulating alongside notes and electronic money. The Lumi serves as legal tender within certain African regions and aims to support developmental initiatives. Wikipedia+1Mastercard+1

Physical Currency Updates

United States – Federal Reserve Notes

The Federal Reserve’s 2025 print order ranges from 4.1 to 5.9 billion notes, valued between $83.2 billion and $113.0 billion. This includes the production of nonsequential $20 bills starting in May 2025. Federal ReserveFRB Services

Australia – Redesigned $5 Note

Australia plans to redesign its $5 note to reflect the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander connection to the country, replacing the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The Reserve Bank of Australia invites submissions for the new design, emphasizing Indigenous themes. The Guardian

Philippines – Polymer Banknotes

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas unveiled new polymer banknotes (₱50, ₱100, and ₱500) in December 2024, featuring native flora and fauna. These notes are part of a series focusing on the country’s biodiversity and are being circulated in limited quantities.