500 euro note to be stopped in 2018 (2)

(ANSA) - Rome, May 4 - The European Central Bank on Wednesday said the 500-euro banknote, criticised for being used by criminals, would stop being issued "around the end of 2018" but existing notes will remain legal tender. Judicial authorities have said the note is used by smugglers, money launderers and other criminals in a range of activities.