In rural areas, the way to the next cash output machine should be shorter. The Austrian National Bank (OENB) and the Austrian Community Association have agreed on this. With new devices, the OENB ensures a gap closure of the ATM network in the country.
In the previous year, the municipal association with the banks concluded an agreement on securing the location of the money issuers existing on January 1, 2024. National Bank governor Robert Holzmann already assured that the white spots in Austrian cash supply. Now the time has come: On February 26, the OENB and the community of the municipality signed a five -year agreement for up to 120 new ATMs in the country. “The next ATM is often further away, especially in rural areas. With the agreement on the preparation of new devices, we manage to halve the distance for the affected population. This makes access to cash for the Austrians easier, ”says Holzmann.
OENB brings 120 new ATMs
The content of the agreement is to set up up to 120 new ATMs in municipalities, in which there is neither a money issuer nor a bank branch. In 2024 there were a total of 329 such communities across Austria. With 120 additional devices, more than a third of these communities can be reached.
The municipalities were prioritized as possible locations based on several criteria such as the municipal size, the current distance to the next ATM and the respective infrastructure. Up to 60 ATMs are to be set up in the first wave, further devices will follow at a later date.
Municipalities that come into question to set up a device are contacted directly by the municipal association and must ensure a suitable area and also the power supply of the device. “I appeal to the affected communities to take this opportunity and enable their residents to make a significant relief in everyday life!” Said Johannes Pressl, President of the Austrian Association.
Community Association: Moratorium with banks as a guarantee
However, what should not happen by the agreement, however, is a withdrawal of the banks from their supply function by closing bank money machines and a relocation to the OENB. Compliance with the moratorium concluded in the previous year between the municipal association and the banks prevent the closure of the bank money machines until 31.12.2029. “The OENB will therefore only set up ATMs in communities that are outside the scope of the moratorium,” emphasizes Governor Holzmann.
The Austrian City Association endeavors to join the OENB’s agreement in spring.
Everyone involved also announced that they focus on higher security standards. “It will be crucial for the next few months and years to not only ensure cash supply through ATMs geographically, but also in terms of safety. I am committed to this and for intensive cooperation, ”says Holzmann.
Cash is the safest means of payment worldwide
The popularity of cash is still unbroken in Austria: 94 % of people cannot imagine a world without cash. With the additional service level in the supply, the OENB thus makes a significant contribution to ensuring the freedom of choice of payment for the Austrians.