BEIJING -- China began a process Friday to give legal backing for a digital version of its currency, positioning itself as the global leader in the field after having launched trials involving actual payments by consumers ahead of other countries.
Beijing looks to cement trailblazer status in virtual currencies

China's official app for digital yuan is seen on a mobile phone next to 100-yuan banknotes. © Reuters
BEIJING -- China began a process Friday to give legal backing for a digital version of its currency, positioning itself as the global leader in the field after having launched trials involving actual payments by consumers ahead of other countries.