Global regulatory trends for digital public infrastructure

This timely report explores how foundational DPI systems, such as digital identity, real-time payments and consent-based data sharing frameworks, are transforming financial ecosystems by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs and expanding access to financial services. Drawing on institutional case studies and direct engagements with central banks, regulators, technologists and policymakers, the report offers practical insights to help navigate the governance and regulatory implications of DPI at scale.

Positive correlation between digital public infrastructure and improved digital financial services outcomes 

Drawing on evidence from 113 jurisdictions that have adopted at least one core DPI component, with 56 implementing all 3, the report signals a global shift toward integrated DPI and digital financial services (DFS) infrastructure. However, this rapid uptake also introduces governance, security and interoperability challenges, requiring regulators to adapt and find new ways to balance innovation with oversight.  

Early empirical evidence shows that jurisdictions with all three core components coincide with better outcomes across DFS indicators, such as an increase in debit or credit card ownership and digital payment usage. Furthermore, higher DPI maturity also appears to be linked with better access to credit, more effective government support delivery and increased financial resilience. 

“DPI is not only enabling digital access, but also reshaping how trust, control and inclusion are governed in financial systems,” says Bryan Zhang, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CCAF. “This report presents emerging global experiences and highlights where co-ordinated regulation can help unlock the full potential of DPI.”

Effective cross-regulatory governance and foundational principles of DPI are essential 

“DPI spans multiple regulatory domains, and fragmented oversight risks stalling innovation and weakening consumer protection. Early lessons point to the need for stronger cross-regulator and cross-border collaboration.” comments Pavle Avramovic, Head of Market and Infrastructure Observatory at the CCAF.

The report highlights key regulatory gaps and co-ordination challenges where DPI systems straddle multiple sectors and oversight mandates. It also outlines actionable design principles, interoperability, openness, modularity and transparency to guide policymakers toward inclusive, innovation-enabling governance.

This launch is part of CCAF’s broader mission to support evidence-based financial regulation and the inclusive growth of digital financial ecosystems worldwide.