Cash connects people

Estimating the number of banknotes in circulation globally is a significant challenge. Some countries do not publish the data while others only do so irregularly. Furthermore, central banks follow different practices with regard to the inclusion of lost, destroyed or unredeemed notes. The biggest discrepancies result from the inclusion or not of certain denominations such as older, unused or withdrawn denominations. The study concludes that there are significantly more than 900 billion banknotes in circulation worldwide, significantly more than the 550 billion cited in various industry papers.

In a new book 'The Power of Cash,'Jay Zagorky highlights the benefits of cash, from privacy to national security. To ensure future demand, we must expose children to cash early. Advocacy groups should focus on educating youth through classroom activities and contests.

Cash remains vital in Germany despite declining usage. A Bundesbank study reveals its importance for reliability, inclusion, and education. While digital payments rise, cash's unique benefits ensure its continued relevance.

Beyond technicalities, cash serves as a unifying force in society that should not be underestimated.

A penny for your thoughts? The humble penny is more than just a coin—it's a symbol of American history and thrift. As debates about its future continue, let's explore why every penny counts.

Elsewhere on the Web provides updates and links to articles related to cash, money and payments curated on the web. This month, Bulgaria and Mozambique see cash in circulation increase whereas the in UK cash usage rebounds as shoppers use it to help them budget. India is halting its move towards a cashless society to embrace financial inclusion for all.

The Chinese New Year, celebrated globally, is marked by the tradition of giving red envelopes filled with money, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. This custom leads to a significant surge in cash demand, prompting financial institutions to implement innovative solutions to distribute the red envelopes. The fusion of tradition with modern banking practices highlights the dynamic nature of this cultural celebration.

The re-election of Donald Trump has strengthened the influence of BigTech, fostering closer ties between tech giants and the U.S. government. As tech companies expand into financial services and cryptocurrencies, concerns about privacy, financial censorship, and dependence on digital infrastructure grow. Cash remains a crucial counterbalance, offering privacy, economic freedom, and resilience during crises.

It’s the holiday season—a time for joy, cheer, and Christmas gifts. The perennial dilemma reappears every year: gift or cash? Economic utility vs sentimental value: it's a debate as old as time.

CashEssentials was honored to hold a seminar on the Future of Cash at the High-Security Printing Conference in Bangkok last week. We asked participants how they imagine the future of cash.

New research highlights that cash not only influences how much we spend but also fosters a profound sense of psychological ownership that digital payments do not replicate.

As a worldwide partner to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Visa has a monopoly on all debit, credit and mobile payments. Spectators are venting their frustration. Paradoxically, the campaign demonstrates the importance of cash in terms of inclusion, protection of privacy and resilience.