In an enlightening session with House Democrats, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell highlighted the critical need for a robust legislative framework to govern stablecoins, sparking interest and discussions among policymakers. During this private gathering with the House Financial Services Committee, Powell expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations concerning stablecoin legislation, signaling that an agreement might be on the horizon.
Moreover, Powell emphasized the importance of Congressional approval for the introduction of any central bank digital currency (CBDC), underscoring the Federal Reserve’s position on the matter. He remarked, “If we’re going to have a CBDC, Congress needs to authorize it,” reflecting a cautious but open stance towards the development of digital currencies under the Fed’s purview.
This stance aligns with previous statements made by Powell and other Federal Reserve officials, reiterating their commitment to proceeding with caution and ensuring proper legislative backing before making any moves towards adopting a CBDC. The dialogue between the Federal Reserve and Congress is a crucial step in shaping the future landscape of digital currencies in the U.S., with stablecoins and potential CBDCs at the forefront of this evolving narrative.