Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system utilizing a new form of digital cash held by users in deposit accounts with banks, backed by central bank liquidity and recorded on a centralized ledger, for making payment, in a single currency or cross-currency. An embodiment of the present invention simultaneously, instantly and finally makes the corresponding adjustments to the assets and liabilities of all banks in the correspondent chain on the ledger between the payer and payee for a payment in a single currency. For cross-currency payments, an embodiment of the present invention provides competitive rates from foreign exchange traders; settles the payment and the associated foreign exchange transaction in a new form of integrated tri-party transaction which is instant and legally final for the payer, payee and foreign exchange trader; and simultaneously, instantly and finally makes corresponding adjustments to the ledger for all associated parties.