Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- stability / stəˈbɪl ɪ ti / (n.) – a situation in which something can't be changed easily
Example:The president promised peace and economic stability in his speech.
- initiative / ɪˈnɪʃ ə tɪv / (n.) – a plan or program created to achieve a goal or solve a problem
Example:The government’s new initiative focuses on helping families by giving them work opportunities.
- fluctuate / ˈflʌk tʃuˌeɪt / (v.) – to change level or value frequently and continuously
Example:The prices of their products and services fluctuate because of supply and demand.
- threaten / ˈθrɛt n / (v.) – to be likely to cause harm or damage to someone or something
Example:The war threatens the growth and development of the country.
- holding / ˈhoʊl dɪŋ / (n.) – property that is owned by someone, such as land, company, or buildings
Example:The man will leave all his holdings to his only son.
Article
Read the text below.
Britcoin is moving closer to reality.
U.K. authorities said British businesses and consumers are likely to need a digital version of the pound, formally asking for public comment on the idea of introducing a central bank digital currency.
More than 80% of the world’s central banks are considering launching digital currencies or have already done so, according to the consultant PwC.
“While cash is here to stay, a digital pound issued and backed by the Bank of England could be a new way to pay that’s trusted, accessible and easy to use,” Treasury chief Jeremy Hunt said in a statement. “That’s why we want to investigate what is possible first, whilst always making sure we protect financial stability.”
The call for public input comes almost two years after the Treasury and Bank of England said they were considering introducing a digital currency.
While Prime Minister Rishi Sunak suggested naming the initiative “Britcoin” when he was Treasury chief, the Bank of England has stressed that the potential currency shouldn’t be confused with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
Backed by the central bank, the new currency would be “reliable and retain its value over time,” in contrast to cryptocurrencies that can fluctuate wildly and threaten the holdings of investors, the Bank of England says on its website.
The proposed digital currency would be denominated in pounds, with 10 pounds of digital currency always equal to a 10-pound note, the bank said. Held in a digital wallet, the currency could be used to pay for goods and services electronically.
Supporters of central bank digital currencies say they make digital transactions easier and cheaper and expand access to the financial system because they can be used by people who don’t have bank accounts.
This article was provided by The Associated Press.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Treasury chief Jeremy Hunt said, “Cash is here to stay.” What do you think is the future of cash (ex. it will stay, it will be replaced)? Why do you think so? Discuss.
- Hunt also said, “We want to investigate what is possible first, whilst always making sure we protect financial stability.” Do you agree or disagree with this action? Why? Discuss.
Discussion B
- The British government is asking for public comment on the idea of a central bank digital currency. If this happened in your country, what would be your opinion? Discuss.
- Why do you think the U.K. is asking for public comment? Do you think it’s a good idea to get the public’s opinion about certain issues? Discuss.