The financial world is witnessing a quiet revolution: the rise of CashTechThe expression was first coined by CashEssentials and is the encounter of cash and technology. It brings together innovative companies who leverage software and modern communications technology to improve cash services: access to cash; acceptance of cash; and the efficiency of the cash cycle for all stakeholders. More. This emerging field, where cashMoney in physical form such as banknotes and coins. More meets technology, is reshaping how consumers and businesses interact with physical moneyFrom the Latin word moneta, nickname that was given by Romans to the goddess Juno because there was a minting workshop next to her temple. Money is any item that is generally accepted as payment for goods and services and repayment of debts, such as taxes, in a particular region, country or socio-economic context. Its onset dates back to the origins of humanity and its physical representation has taken on very varied forms until the appearance of metal coins. The banknote, a typical representati... More. Recent innovations prove that physical currencyThe money used in a particular country at a particular time, like dollar, yen, euro, etc., consisting of banknotes and coins, that does not require endorsement as a medium of exchange. More remains vital—especially when enhanced by digital solutions. Two standout examples are Revolut’s deployment of ATMs in Spain and Lloyds Bank’s partnership with PayPoint to enable cash deposits at retail locations. These developments underscore a broader trend: even digital-first banks and fintechs recognize the enduring importance of cash, and are investing in technologies to make it more accessible, secure, and convenient.
In June 2025, Revolut, the digital bank with over 55 million customers, made headlines by launching its first branded ATMs in Spain. The move marked a significant shift for a company built on digital-first principles. The initial rollout includes 50 ATMs in Madrid and Barcelona, with plans to expand to 200 across the country by 2026. These machines offer fee-free withdrawals for Revolut customers, competitive foreign exchangeThe Eurosystem comprises the European Central Bank and the national central banks of those countries that have adopted the euro. More rates, and the ability for non-customers to obtain a Revolut debit card on the spot. In Spain, which was chosen as a pilot market, the number of ATMs has peaked in 2008 with 61,714 devices and has since dropped by 3.3% per year to 37,393 devices in 2024.
Revolut’s ATMs are not just about convenience; they represent a strategic blend of physical and digital banking. Users can locate ATMs via the Revolut app, which provides real-time information on opening hours and directions. The machines are placed in high-footfall areas, ensuring accessibility. This initiative is part of Revolut’s broader vision to offer a seamless, global financial experience, combining the best of digital innovation with the tangibility of cash.
Meanwhile, in the UK, Lloyds Banking Group has partnered with PayPoint to allow customers to deposit cash at over 30,000 retail locations nationwide. Launched in August 2025, the service enables Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland customers to deposit notes and coins by generating a barcodeMethod for encoding information, which can be read by machines. Barcodes store information using a combination of printed parallel lines (bars) and in the spaces that are left between them. Reading stored data is performed using optical readers. More in their banking app, which is then scanned at a PayPoint counterAutomatic device for the counting of banknotes or coins. More. This solution addresses a critical gap left by the decline of bank branches, ensuring that even those without easy access to a branch can deposit cash conveniently. With 99.5% of the UK population living within a mile of a PayPoint location, the service is both inclusive and practical.
The PayPoint partnership is a prime example of how CashTech can leverage existing retail infrastructure to maintain cash accessibility. It also highlights the role of technology in modernizing cash handling, making it faster and more secure for both customers and retailers.
Beyond these high-profile examples, the CashTech landscape is rich with innovation. The CashTech Innovation Awards, recognize advancements that enhance access to and acceptance of cash. Recent winners include :
The resurgence of CashTech is driven by several factors. Regulatory efforts, such as the UK’s Access to Cash legislation, have underscored the need not only to protect but to redesign cash infrastructure. Consumer demand also plays a role: cash continues to be widely used and consumers are calling for improved access to cash.
CashTech solutions address key pain points: they improve financial inclusionA process by which individuals and businesses can access appropriate, affordable, and timely financial products and services. These include banking, loan, equity, and insurance products. While it is recognised that not all individuals need or want financial services, the goal of financial inclusion is to remove all barriers, both supply side and demand side. Supply side barriers stem from financial institutions themselves. They often indicate poor financial infrastructure, and include lack of ne... More, reduce the cost and complexity of cash handling, and integrate cash transactions with digital systems for better tracking and security. By doing so, they ensure that cash remains a viable and efficient paymentA transfer of funds which discharges an obligation on the part of a payer vis-à-vis a payee. More option in an increasingly digital world.
As technology evolves, so too will CashTech. Future innovations may include AI-powered cash managementManagement and control of cash in circulation. More, blockchain-based cash tracking, and even more seamless integration between cash and digital wallets. The goal is not to replace digital payments, but to create a hybrid ecosystem where all forms of money—physical and digital—coexist and complement each other.
The most promising CashTech innovations of 2025 will be celebrated at the Future of Cash Conference in Warsaw, Poland, from November 3-5, 2025. This event brings together experts from central banks, financial institutions, retailers, and technology providers to explore the future of cash and recognize groundbreaking solutions. Innovators are invited to submit their projects for the CashTech Innovation Awards and contribute to shaping a sustainable, accessible future for cash. For more information and to submit your innovation, visit the Future of Cash 2025 Call for Papers .