Austria's ATM network becomes a rescue for 329 communities

Austria's ATM network becomes a rescue for 329 communities

The Austrian National Bank (OENB) and the Community Association have made a pioneering agreement to improve access to ATMs in under -provisioned regions. At the end of February it was decided to set up up to 120 new ATMs in communities that are currently without such a service. This is intended to significantly increase the number of ATM locations in Austrian rural areas, because currently there is no ATMs or bank branches in 329 municipalities. The institutions announced this step on Wednesday, and the constellations are expected to take place from June, as burgenland.orf reported.

new devices for better access

The first phase provides for the installation of 60 ATMs, while the other 60s to follow in the end of 2029 at the latest. Municipalities are contacted directly to find suitable locations that then have to play an important role in providing the necessary infrastructure such as electricity. OENB-GOUVERNENER Robert Holzmann emphasized that this measure serves to shorten the paths to the next ATMs and thus support the offer of cash for the affected population. The securing of the existing ATMs is guaranteed by the end of 2029 to prevent banks from withdrawing from rural regions, Hotmann continues as kleinezeitung.at reported on the safety of cash supply.

The municipal association supports the affected communities and appeals to take the opportunity to improve cash supply. President Johannes Pressl encouraged the municipalities to take the initiative in order to make access to cash easier for their residents. At the same time, higher security standards are also taken into account as part of this initiative in order to minimize possible risks from crime. Holzmann announced that the OENB will only set up ATMs in municipalities that do not fall below the existing moratorium that was completed between the community of the community and the banks.