ECB Board Member Criticizes Bitcoin and Ethereum’s Lack of Real Value at Rome Conference

• In a recent speech, European Central Bank Governing Council member and Governor of the Bank of Italy, Fabio Panetta, made critical remarks about Bitcoin and Ethereum.
• Panetta highlighted the lack of intrinsic value in these leading cryptocurrencies during the Italian Banking Association’s Annual Meeting in Rome.
• He further elaborated that both Bitcoin and Ethereum do not meet the fundamental functions of money, comparing investments in these assets to gambling.

Discover the latest insights on Bitcoin and Ethereum, as ECB Governing Council member Fabio Panetta questions their intrinsic value and functionality.

ECB Governing Council Member Criticizes Bitcoin and Ethereum

At the Annual Meeting of the Italian Banking Association held in Rome, Fabio Panetta, a member of the European Central Bank’s Governing Council and Governor of the Bank of Italy, criticized Bitcoin and Ethereum. He asserted that these cryptocurrencies lack intrinsic value, as they are not issued by any central authority.

Lack of Intrinsic Value in Major Cryptocurrencies

Panetta emphasized that Bitcoin and Ethereum do not possess any inherent value. He argued that since these digital assets are not backed by any real or financial assets and are highly prone to volatility, they fail to perform the core functions of money. Panetta stated, “Bitcoin and Ethereum, as unbacked cryptocurrencies, lack intrinsic value, frequently trade in opaque circuits, and are not viable as means of payment, store of value, or unit of account.”

Bitcoin and Ethereum Compared to Gambling

Continuing his critique, Panetta compared investing in Bitcoin and Ethereum to gambling due to the speculative nature of these assets. He indicated that the lack of underlying guarantees for these investments makes them susceptible to significant fluctuations and risks.

Cryptocurrencies and Financial Stability Risks

Panetta also raised concerns about the potential use of cryptocurrencies in illicit activities, such as tax evasion and money laundering. He highlighted the high volatility and risks linked to these assets, stressing that they often facilitate activities outside the legal financial system.

Upcoming Guidelines on MiCA Regulations

Panetta concluded his speech by announcing that the Bank of Italy would soon release guidelines on implementing the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations. These guidelines aim to protect crypto investors, ensure compliance with MiCA laws, and potentially increase scrutiny and penalties for market violations in Italy.

Conclusion

Fabio Panetta’s remarks serve as a critical reflection on the roles and risks associated with Bitcoin and Ethereum. As the Bank of Italy prepares to enforce MiCA guidelines, investors and market participants should stay informed about regulatory developments that could shape the future landscape of cryptocurrency investments.