Chinese Commercial Bank Enables Digital Yuan-Cash Conversion at ATMs

The Industrial and Commerce Bank of China has become the first bank in the country to launch a feature converting cash to the digital yuan.

AccessTimeIconJun 18, 2021 at 7:30 a.m. UTC
Updated Sep 14, 2021 at 1:13 p.m. UTC
10 Years of Decentralizing the Future
May 29-31, 2024 - Austin, TexasThe biggest and most established global hub for everything crypto, blockchain and Web3.Register Now

A state-owned Chinese commercial bank has enabled a feature that allows users to convert their digital yuan to cash at more than 3,000 automated teller machine (ATM) locations in Beijing.

According to a report by Xinhua Finance on Friday, the Industrial and Commerce Bank of China (ICBC) has become the first bank in the country to launch such a feature.

The move effectively lets users switch between digital and non-digital versions of government-issued currency with ease, bringing the nation one step closer to having a digital currency built atop a blockchain network.

The report also noted the Agricultural Bank of China, or AgBank, one of the nation's "Big Four" lenders, had installed a similar feature at more than 10 ATMs in Beijing's Wangfujing shopping area.

The People's Bank of China, the country's central bank, has been working on trials of its digital yuan with other commercial banks and payment providers in a bid to establish a digital currency.

Disclosure

Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information has been updated.

CoinDesk is an award-winning media outlet that covers the cryptocurrency industry. Its journalists abide by a strict set of editorial policies. In November 2023, CoinDesk was acquired by the Bullish group, owner of Bullish, a regulated, digital assets exchange. The Bullish group is majority-owned by Block.one; both companies have interests in a variety of blockchain and digital asset businesses and significant holdings of digital assets, including bitcoin. CoinDesk operates as an independent subsidiary with an editorial committee to protect journalistic independence. CoinDesk employees, including journalists, may receive options in the Bullish group as part of their compensation.


Learn more about Consensus 2024, CoinDesk's longest-running and most influential event that brings together all sides of crypto, blockchain and Web3. Head to consensus.coindesk.com to register and buy your pass now.