The European Central Bank (ECB) has selected two network service providers (NSPs) for the digital euro.

This step follows a call for applications and an invitation to tender. It forms part of the preparation for the digital euro pilot and a potential issuance.

The ECB signed service agreements with two temporary groupings. Nexi and Deutsche Telekom form one of them.

Its contract entered into force on 28 September 2026 and will initially cover the connectivity needs of the pilot.

Telefónica de España, S.A.U., Telefónica Global Solutions, S.L.U. and Indra Soluciones Tecnologías de la Información, S.L.U. form the other grouping. Its contract starts in May 2027.

Both providers will supply the connectivity that links participating payment service providers and national central banks to the digital euro service platform.

They will also enable communication between the platform’s different components.

From 2029, each provider will be ready to deliver the connectivity needed for a potential issuance of the digital euro.

This depends on the ECB Governing Council’s decision on the next phase of the project. Payment service providers offering the digital euro will be able to connect through either provider.

The agreements are designed to let the ECB adjust the requested services as needs evolve during the pilot and any later phases.

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