Clearstream to Test ECB’s Pontes DLT Solution Ahead of Launch

Clearstream will participate in the Eurosystem's Pontes testing program, supporting the introduction of distributed-ledger technology (DLT)-based settlement in central bank money.

In line with the ECB's testing and certification framework for market participants, Clearstream will engage in a series of end-to-end tests ahead of the Pontes launch, set for September 21, 2026. These activities are designed to validate settlement processes, connectivity, and operational readiness within the Pontes ecosystem.

As part of this effort, while giving its clients general ability to test Pontes, Clearstream already plans to conduct concrete testing with different partners, covering a range of use cases. The joint testing program will focus on demonstrating interoperability between market infrastructures and validating delivery-versus-payment (DvP) settlement in central bank money.

Clearstream’s involvement builds on previous DLT initiatives, including its contribution to the Eurosystem’s exploratory work on wholesale central bank money settlement for DLT-based transactions.

The Pontes testing program represents an important step towards greater interoperability across market infrastructures and supports the development of a harmonized European digital capital market. Clearstream continues to contribute to the evolution of next-generation financial markets, helping bridge traditional and digital finance while supporting the future settlement of digital assets in central bank money.