Clearstream to Test ECB’s Pontes DLT Settlement Solution Ahead of Launch | LeapRate
Clearstream said Monday that it will take part in the Eurosystem’s Pontes testing programme, supporting the introduction of distributed-ledger technology-based settlement in central bank money ahead of the solution’s launch.
The post-trade services provider said it will carry out a series of end-to-end tests, in line with the European Central Bank’s testing and certification framework for market participants, before the Pontes launch set for 21 September 2026.
The activities are said to be designed to validate settlement processes, connectivity and operational readiness within the Pontes ecosystem.
Clearstream added that while giving clients the general ability to test Pontes, it also plans to conduct concrete testing with different partners across a range of use cases.
According to the company, the joint programme will focus on demonstrating interoperability between market infrastructures and validating delivery-versus-payment settlement in central bank money.
The firm’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.
Clearstream described the Pontes testing programme as an important step towards greater interoperability across market infrastructures and one that supports the development of a harmonised European digital capital market.
