Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) are reshaping the financial landscape globally. Already implemented in ten countries, CBDCs offer inclusive digital payment solutions, particularly beneficial for regions with limited access to traditional banking systems. However, in more advanced financial systems, CBDCs may appear less compelling. The joint Bruegel and Intereconomics event will address what CBDCs are, discuss the issues and prospects they represent, and explore countries' experiences with CBDCs.

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After almost four decades of price stability, inflation has recently approached historical highs. Initially driven by global energy and food price increases, the magnitude of the surge in inflation caught central banks and markets by surprise. Despite monetary policy tightening, inflation upside risks are large. How can central banks restore control – and with it their own credibility? Featuring contributions from participants in the CEPS 2023 Ideas Lab session on inflation, this Forum examines the options for central banks, the obstacles in their paths and the best course of action.

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The war in Ukraine has brought the challenges stemming from Europe’s dependency on natural gas and oil imports into sharp focus. This has also highlighted another dependency – that on raw materials that are critical for the EU’s transition to a low-carbon economy. A strategic approach to raw material management can help negate the risks posed by a dependency on imports of critical raw materials. Improving resource efficiency is also necessary to sustain socio-economic progress in the face of finite natural resources.

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Having had little time to absorb the economic and social shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, the EU is confronted with yet another crisis – rising energy prices due to Russia’s war in Ukraine coupled with inflation reaching historic levels. Household burdens vary greatly across and within EU member states, requiring different policy responses. In this Forum, contributors consider specific responses from individual EU member states and the EU as a whole to determine best practices and gauge how they may be more effectively applied.

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After decades of increasing globalisation in trade, capital and information flows, we are currently experiencing a shift due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia’s war in Ukraine and divisions over the conflict. Disrupted supply chains, US-China trade tensions and the gradual demise of the WTO have altered the geopolitical landscape. Where is globalisation heading? Are we seeing the beginning of a more multipolar world order? Where does the EU fit in this new scheme? This Forum, featuring contributions by the speakers at the 2022 joint Intereconomics/CEPS conference, examines geopolitics and geoeconomics in a changing global order.

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