PBOC to Enable Interest-Bearing Digital Yuan Wallets from January 2026

The People's Bank of China plans to allow commercial banks to pay interest on digital yuan (e-CNY) wallet balances starting January 2026, marking a shift from a pure "digital cash" model toward a deposit-like framework. The updated CBDC design adds value storage and cross-border payment features, which could enhance domestic adoption and position the digital yuan as a more versatile instrument in international finance. Analysts note that these interest-bearing wallets may compete with traditional bank deposits while still requiring strong public trust and cybersecurity safeguards.