"Norway has an efficient and secure payment system, with stable operations, fast payments and low economic costs. At the same time, we are facing a more severe and complex threat landscape, characterised by increased geopolitical tension and rapid technological advances, in particular in the field of artificial intelligence. Systematic work is still required to mitigate vulnerabilities and ensure sufficient resilience", says Deputy Governor of Norges Bank, Pål Longva.

The authorities and the financial sector are collaborating on measures to strengthen payment system preparedness, in order to prepare Norway for more severe incidents.

"A number of measures have been proposed to strengthen payment system preparedness. The follow-up of these measures is well under way, and it is important that this work is prioritised. Contingency arrangements will not be enhanced until the measures have been implemented", says Deputy Governor Longva.

If one solution fails, the payment system will be more resilient if there are sound alternatives in the infrastructure and among banks and users. A secure payment system is primarily ensured through efficient and robust digital solutions. However, cash still plays an important role, particularly for contingency preparedness and for those who are not able, or do not wish to, pay digitally", says Deputy Governor Longva.

The analyses in the Financial Infrastructure Report show that the role of stablecoins is increasing in some niche payment system applications, but that so far they play a limited role in normal payments.   Regulation could make stablecoins more attractive but will not ensure that they have all of the characteristics of general-purpose means of payment.

About the Financial Infrastructure Report

In its annual Financial Infrastructure Report, Norges Bank discusses developments, vulnerabilities and risks in the financial infrastructure. The Report is a part of Norges Bank’s work to promote financial stability and to contribute to an efficient and secure financial infrastructure.

About the publication Retail Payment Services

Norges Bank seeks to contribute to a productive public debate about means of payment and developments in their use. The publication Retail Payment Services includes annual statistics on the use of electronic means of payment and in-store and ATM cash withdrawals. Annual questionnaire surveys are used to gather information about, for example, households' use of cash.