The Federal Reserve launched its FedNow instant-payments service Thursday, following several years of developing a system officials say will allow the faster flow of cash for businesses and individuals.
"The Federal Reserve built the FedNow Service to help make everyday payments over the coming years faster and more convenient," Fed Chair Jerome Powell said.
The American Bankers Association said it welcomes the FedNow developments, noting that the central bank joins the Clearing House, which put its payments service online in 2017, as two major providers in the space.
There are still some outstanding questions about FedNow, such as whether banks will charge for the service.
As FedNow goes online, Fed officials are studying the implementation of a central bank digital currency, with some saying they think FedNow could mitigate the need for a CBDC.
Persons:
Jerome Powell, Wells, Rob Nichols, FedNow
Organizations:
Federal Reserve, Service, JPMorgan Chase, American Bankers Association, ABA
Locations:
U.S, Wells Fargo