The Bank of England has initiated a public consultation to determine the theme for its next series of banknotes, which will replace current designs featuring historical figures such as Winston Churchill, Jane Austen, and JMW Turner. The consultation invites the British public to submit nominations and ideas, with potential themes ranging from cultural icons like The Beatles and David Attenborough to symbols of national identity including British wildlife and traditional foods. This move reflects an effort to modernize the currency and promote diversity, though it has sparked debate and criticism regarding the removal of historical figures. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank (ECB) has launched a public design competition for the next generation of euro banknotes, offering two theme options: "European culture" and "rivers and birds." This contest is open to graphic designers across the European Union, aiming to shape the future appearance of the euro. The ECB is also progressing with technological preparations for the euro digital currency, planning to tender services for European companies by the end of 2025.