New ATM network brings cash supply to rural communities!

New ATM network brings cash supply to rural communities!

A sensational turn in the cash supply of Austria! On February 26, 2025, the Austrian National Bank (OENB) and the Austrian Community Association signed a pioneering agreement that provides for the establishment of up to 120 new ATMs in rural areas. National Bank governor Robert Holzmann expressed himself optimistically and explained: "With this agreement, we succeed in significantly reducing the distance to the next ATM in many municipalities and thus significantly facilitating access to cash for the population."

The initiative is a direct result of the last signed agreement between the municipal association and the banks, which should ensure that ATMIONATEN is also available in remote regions. "The list of new ATMs is crucial to secure cash supply in Austria," said Matthias Schroth from the OENB and emphasized the need to cooperate from all communities and organizations. Especially in the run -up to Christmas, in which many people shop locally, the availability of cash is highlighted in order to enable spontaneous purchases and individual expenses.

important developments for rural communities

The 329 municipalities without ATM or bank branch are particularly affected, and more than a third of these communities can be reached with the new devices that are installed in the first wave. The municipal association appeals to the affected communities to provide suitable areas for the new machines and is optimistic about the safety of cash supply granted. "Cash is more than just a means of payment, it is a symbol of freedom and self -determination," added Ingrid Korosec, President of the Senior Citizens' Association, and underlined the great relevance for older people.

The OENB announced that the machine could start the listing of the machines this year. The first wave of machines is particularly important to meet the needs of the population and to ensure cash supply in the course of progressive digitization. The platform bargain & society, which is supported by various institutions, emphasizes the importance of cash availability in an increasingly digitized world and asks everyone involved to promote and further expand this important initiative in order to guarantee the freedom of choice of payment for all Austrians. Further information can be found in an OENB report.