China’s forthcoming digital currency: implications for foreign companies and financial institutions in China

Purpose To answer key questions about China’s forthcoming digital currency, the Digital Currency Electronic Payment (DCEP) or “digital yuan.” Design/methodology/approach Discusses prospective legal standards and guidelines; expected features compared with traditional payment methods and other digital currencies; how DCEP works; status of pilot programs; use of DCEP for cross-border payments; transparency, data protection and cybersecurity issues; and key implications for foreign businesses and financial institutions in China. Findings When DCEP is officially launched in China, there is little doubt that the population can easily adapt to its use. The launch of DCEP can have significant ramifications on a global scale, as it could reduce China’s reliance on the SWIFT system for international banking and offers the first glimpse of the internationalization of the renminbi (RMB). Practical implications Foreign companies operating in China, hi-tech businesses, retailers, financial institutions, and mobile app developers need to track the development and acceptance of DCEP, monitor arising risks, assess how their financial products fit, and adjust business operations, reporting requirements and financial reserves related to the requirements and use of DCEP, expected growth in fintech surrounding digital currencies. Originality/value Practical advice from experienced mergers and acquisitions, private equity, strategic investment and capital markets lawyers.