European Central Bank selects network service providers for the digital euro
As part of the preparation phase for the digital euro pilot and for a potential issuance of the digital euro, the European Central Bank (ECB) has selected two network service providers (NSPs) following the call for applications initiated on 27 August 2025 and the subsequent invitation to tender.
The ECB published the outcome of these procedures on 30 October 2026.
“The selected NSPs will provide the connectivity services required to connect participating payment service providers and national central banks to the digital euro service platform and to enable communication between its different components.” – according to the press release.
The ECB has signed service agreements with the following providers:
- Nexi Payments S.p.A and Deutsche Telekom Business Solutions GmbH (temporary grouping);
- Telefónica de España, S.A.U., Telefónica Global Solutions, S.L.U. and Indra Soluciones Tecnologías de la Información, S.L.U. (temporary grouping).
The contract with the first-ranked provider entered into force on 28 September 2026 and will initially cover the connectivity needs for the digital euro pilot. The contract with the second-ranked provider will start in May 2027.
“Both NSPs will be ready as of 2029 to deliver the required connectivity services for potential issuance of a digital euro, subject to the ECB Governing Council’s decision on the next phase of the project. All payment service providers offering the digital euro will have the option to connect to the digital euro components through either of the two NSPs.” – the ECB said.
The service agreements are designed to give the ECB flexibility to adjust the services requested in line with evolving needs during the pilot and any subsequent phases of the project.
