This is reported by RBC-Ukraine referring to the Deputy Chairman of the NBU Oleksiy Shaban. It is also noted by Kontrakty.UA.
"The hryvnia, as the currency of Ukraine, is a legal means of payment in Ukraine, accepted by all individuals and legal entities without any restrictions throughout the territory of Ukraine for conducting payment operations and settlements," he stated.
According to him, the primary purpose of e-hryvnia will be to effectively perform all functions of money, complementing cash and funds stored in accounts, rather than serving as a replacement.
Users will have the ability to choose without restrictions which form of hryvnia (cash or cashless, including e-hryvnia) to use for their transactions, explained the Deputy Chairman of the NBU.
"A complete abandonment of cash transactions in Ukraine is even impossible, especially considering the martial law. In modern conditions, citizens must have quick and convenient access to funds, including cash, to meet their basic needs (especially given the likelihood of blackouts, shelling, and other critical events)," added Shaban.
Confidentiality of Transactions
As noted by the Deputy Chairman of the NBU, confidentiality during the use of e-hryvnia will be maintained. The e-hryvnia platform (the software and technical complex for issuing e-hryvnia, conducting payment operations, and managing wallets, which will be overseen by the National Bank) will not process or store personal data about users.
"The National Bank will not have access to or own any personal information about e-hryvnia users. It will act solely as the operator of the e-hryvnia platform, ensuring its continuous and secure operation," added Shaban.
Recall that the National Bank of Ukraine is exploring the feasibility of implementing its own retail digital currency (CBDC) - e-hryvnia. The e-hryvnia is set to complement cash and funds stored in accounts. It will not replace them but will offer an additional option that can be used at will.