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The impact digital and mobile technologies have had on the financial services industry is undeniable, but innovation in the ATM self-service channel and the unique characteristics of cash will prove just as significant in the quest for greater financial inclusion.

The domestic schema Cartes Bancaires intends to increase ATM interchange fees in order to increase revenue for running ATMs.

It is often argued banks want to get rid of cash but here are ten reasons why they should support it.

Three of Britain’s four largest banks have teamed up to launch banking hubs specifically designed to cater to the needs of businesses managing cash and cheque transactions.

SoCash, a Singaporean startup that turns shops into virtual bank branches, via a mobile app, has raised $6 million in funding, led by cash automation company Glory, with the participation of venture capital funds.

For the first time, some researchers are claiming that the number of installed ATMs may have marginally declined worldwide, with key markets such as China, the USA, Japan, Brazil and India experiencing a lag in growth. However, in no way is this correlated to a decline in cash demand. The decline seems to be limited to a few major markets and could well be due to structural factors.

Banks, fintechs and payment solution providers have injected billions of dollars into blockchain based-projects, but according to a new report from the World Economic Forum and Accenture few projects have actually delivered the expected results.

The euro was introduced to the world in 1999, though the notes were launched in 2002. It is today the currency of the 343 million citizens of the euro area. It is the second largest reserve currency and the second most traded currency in the foreign exchange market. As of end 2018, with more than €1.2 trillion of banknotes and coins in circulation, the euro has surpassed the U.S. dollar.

Efforts to ban cashless retail are gaining momentum across the US. After Philadelphia, New Jersey, San Francisco, Massachusetts, and other cities and states have taken action to guarantee the acceptance of cash. In total there are 11 bills currently approved or making their way through the legislative process.

The Dutch government is putting forward a package of measures to Parliament, aimed at fighting against money laundering. Two of these measures specifically target cash: banning cash payments above and scrapping the €500 note.

As Facebook publishes its white paper on Libra, the code-name for its future global digital currency, it is probably timely to reflect on the value of privacy and more particularly the value of privacy in payments.

In honour of International Day for Monuments and Sites, CashEssentials is giving you a glimpse of the world right at the reach of your pocket!