Sibos 2026 to Examine the Dollar’s Global Role

Sibos 2026 will bring together representatives from banks, payment networks, technology companies, regulators and central banks to discuss changes in the international monetary system.

The U.S. dollar is expected to feature in discussions about cross-border transactions and global financial infrastructure. The dollar remains the main currency for international trade, foreign-exchange transactions and central-bank reserves. Its use is supported by the size of the U.S. economy, the liquidity of dollar markets and the role of U.S. financial institutions in international payments.

The conference will examine factors that could reduce reliance on the dollar. These include the growing use of other national currencies in trade, alternative payment systems, changes in sanctions policy and digital currencies issued by central banks or private companies.

Participants will discuss how banks settle cross-border payments when countries use different currencies and payment networks. They will also examine the effect of faster payment systems, tokenized assets and digital money on correspondent banking, the process banks use to handle payments for institutions in other countries.

The conference will take place in 2026 as part of the annual Sibos event organized by Swift, the financial messaging network used by banks and other financial institutions. The agenda will cover the dollar’s international role alongside payment security, financial regulation and access to global markets.

Discussions will focus on data that can affect currency use, including changes in trade invoicing, reserve holdings, payment volumes and the availability of alternatives for banks and businesses.