From warnings about offline payments to concerns about scammers, here are this week's biggest developments in central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) from around the world.

The HKMA is taking its exploration of a digital Hong Kong dollar (e-HKD) to the next level. Phase 2 of the e-HKD Pilot Programme is now open for applications, inviting businesses to propose creative ways to utilize this digital currency.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority launched its e-HKD Pilot Programme last Thursday. The scheme will involve 16 firms from the finance, payments and technology sectors, including Ripple, which will showcase a real estate tokenization solution.