Crypto toolkit: Decoding central bank digital currencies

In our Toolkit podcast series, we are taking a deep dive into one accounting topic each month that goes beyond the basics and deeper into areas that require judgment. This month, we have covered digital assets–from the overall landscape to the accounting and reporting impacts.

In this episode, Heather Horn was joined by Craig Stronberg and Nataly Yackanich, directors in PwC’s Intelligence group, to wrap our crypto series with a discussion of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).

In this episode, you will hear:

• 1:58 - The current stance of the Federal Reserve towards CBDCs
• 4:53 - The benefits and potential implications of having CBDCs as an available form of payment
• 10:38 - An outlook of the current state of CBDCs in other countries
• 13:18 - Challenges central banks face in implementing CBDCs
• 20:02 - The pros and cons of CBDCs from the perspectives of multiple stakeholder groups
• 34:27 - How CBDCs are impacted by geopolitical considerations
• 38:18 - How creating digital currency can impact the climate
• 39:24 - A look at the future of CBDCs

Want to learn more? Listen to our previous podcasts in the Crypto toolkit series, Getting smarter on digital assets, Accounting for holding digital assets, and Transacting using digital assets. Also, read our Crypto assets guide, and check out our recent publication on new SEC rules for crypto-assets.

Nataly Yackanich is the lead financial services analyst for PwC Intelligence. She advises stakeholders on the business implications of emerging issues in the financial services industry. She is a CFA charterholder with significant buy- and sell-side experience covering multiple industries, including financial services, industrials, and technology.

Craig Stronberg leads the Business Acumen capability for PwC Intelligence, spearheading the team of analysts that provides macroeconomic, sector, and geopolitical intelligence to key stakeholders. Named as one of the "100 Most Creative People in Business” by Fast Company, Craig had a nearly 20 year career in national security affairs working for and advising numerous agencies and international partners, having been decorated five times. His focus has been on numerous areas, including counterintelligence, economic espionage, counterterrorism, cyber threats, political-military issues, special operations integration, and support for major events such as the Olympic Games.

Heather Horn is PwC’s National Office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.