In this festive episode, we reflect on our previous year's wishes regarding the payments landscape, discuss what has come to fruition and what remains unfulfilled. We explore the challenges posed by regulations, the importance of accountability in public institutions, and the potential of innovations like the digital euro, stablecoins and EUDI wallet. Our conversation also touches on the disappointments surrounding open banking in Europe and concludes with a hopeful outlook on the future of payments and the need for a more effective regulatory framework.