ECB Chief Renews Bitcoin Criticism as Euro Slides and DeFi Momentum Grows

ECB President Christine Lagarde reignited criticism of Bitcoin, stating it has no “underlying value”, again positioning it as a speculative technology rather than real money.

She framed her remarks as caution about what she perceives as overhype in crypto markets.

Eric Balchunas, a senior ETF analyst, responded by comparing her take to asking McDonald’s CEO whether WeightWatchers has value, implying conflict of interest in central-bank critiques.

Lagarde’s comments land at a moment when the Euro has lost over 40% of its purchasing power since 2002, critics note. Her defense of centralized systems comes as digital assets grow in appeal as alternatives amid inflation and monetary erosion.

The ECB, for its part, argues that speculative assets like Bitcoin pose risks to financial stability and lack legal legitimacy. Bitcoin advocates counter that crypto offers a hedge against fiat devaluation and centralized monetary control.

Moreover, the widening gap between fiat-based policies and decentralized finance has deepened the public’s skepticism toward central banks. Inflation in the Eurozone remains high, while Bitcoin’s algorithmic scarcity appeals to investors seeking long-term value preservation. Consequently, Lagarde’s comments may reinforce the perception that central banks are defending outdated systems.

Lagarde’s critique underscores a deeper challenge that central banks risk losing influence over liquidity and monetary supply in a world of decentralization. As citizens gain access to non-state financial tools, the role of central banks becomes more symbolic than functional.

In response, the ECB is advancing its digital euro project, aiming to reclaim relevance.

Yet, public perception remains divided. Many Europeans fear that a central bank digital currency (CBDC) could increase surveillance, while cryptocurrencies symbolize autonomy and privacy. Hence, the ECB faces a credibility test as it attempts to modernize without tightening its control further.

Europe’s economic stagnation, rising debt, and declining purchasing power have intensified calls for innovation.

Policymakers face growing pressure to balance regulation and adaptation in the digital era. Significantly, as Bitcoin adoption grows globally, citizens may question whether the Euro can maintain relevance.

Look for the ECB to continue pushing stablecoin regulation, close regulatory loopholes, and define how non-EU issuers comply. She has already made clear that Bitcoin will not enter ECB reserves.