The European Central Bank launched Pontes, linking tokenised-asset trades to central-bank-money settlement, and said it is preparing own-funds investments in tokenised securities.
The European Central Bank launched Pontes on 21 September as the first operational step in its tokenised-finance strategy. The service connects distributed-ledger transactions to Eurosystem TARGET services for settlement in central-bank money. Euronews likewise reported that banks can use it to settle tokenised-asset trades.[1], [2]
The ECB said an initial group of participants and infrastructure operators has completed onboarding, with more institutions due to connect in coming months. It plans to expand features and operating hours gradually, with full implementation expected by 2028. The statement places Pontes beside the Appia initiative. Appia is working toward a blueprint for a more integrated tokenised-finance ecosystem.[1]
A separate ECB release says it is preparing direct investments in tokenised securities to gain experience in trading, settlement, custody and portfolio management. Euronews reported that part of the ECB's own funds will be invested through the system. The initial purchases are described as euro-denominated public-sector and supranational securities.[1], [2]
