- The G20 endorsed clear pathways for responsible digital asset innovation while prioritizing financial stability and trust.
- Stablecoins remain a key focus as the G20 awaits Financial Stability Board findings on cross-border arrangements.
- G20 members backed stronger cross-border payments, ISO 20022 adoption and risk-based FATF standards for digital assets.
Digital assets gained direct recognition from G20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in Asheville, North Carolina. At their August 31 and September 1 meeting, the group backed clear pathways for responsible innovation while stressing financial stability. The statement also covered cross-border payments, stablecoins and financial regulation.
Digital Assets Enter G20 Finance Agenda
The G20 said digital financial innovation, including digital assets, can support broad-based economic growth. It also recognized the private sector’s role in driving that innovation. However, the group paired that recognition with safeguards for financial stability and trust in monetary and payment systems.
It committed to regulatory frameworks that support sound digital asset innovation. The G20 also said it awaits Financial Stability Board findings on global stablecoin arrangements.
The findings will address cross-border implications, data sources and availability. The issue forms part of the group’s wider financial sector modernization work.
Cross-Border Payment Rules
The statement renewed the G20’s commitment to improving cross-border payments. Members called for longer operating hours for large-value payment systems used by banks and central banks. They also encouraged wider adoption of the harmonized ISO 20022 data model.
In addition, the group called for easier cross-border transmission of financial services data. However, members said those efforts should account for data security and domestic legal frameworks. These measures fall under the G20 Roadmap for Enhancing Cross-border Payments. The statement also referenced work on artificial intelligence.
FATF Standards Remain Part of Digital Finance
The G20 reaffirmed support for Financial Action Task Force standards. They cover money laundering and terrorism financing. Members called for risk-based supervision covering money laundering and proliferation financing.
Notably, the group asked countries to prioritize FATF standards where virtual asset use is significant. It also welcomed stronger efforts against fraud and illicit finance involving artificial intelligence. The statement followed the United States G20 Presidency’s 2026 Finance track priorities.
Digital assets and financial sector issues were among those priorities. Finance ministers and central bank governors met alongside private sector representatives, invited countries and international organizations.