Although the Riksbank is now making a power to ensure that there are more cash in Swedish society, there is much that points to the opposite. The Cash Uprising organization sees how ATM after ATM disappears.
In the Riksbank’s compilation “The payment report 2025” it is clear that you want to see that there are more cash out in the community. The reasons behind are several, but the escalated situation in the outside world may be the most important for the Riksbank.
– It is important to have cash for preparedness because we have many digital payment systems in Sweden and it works well but we are dependent on both electricity and the internet working to be able to pay with digital systems, have first Deputy Riksbank Manager Anna Breman said in a previous interview with Sweden’s radio.
The Riksbank itself plans, among other things, to open more banknotes where companies can come to pick up and leave cash.
Read more: The number of cash can increase in Sweden
Don’t miss: Latest news – take part in what is happening right now
More and more ATMs are shut down
At the same time, the use of cash is low, which has caused more and more ATMs to shut down. In 2017, there were a total of 2,655 ATMs throughout Sweden, according to The Riksbank. In 2024 that figure was 1,977 – and fewer it will be.
“The background is that more and more people are increasingly choosing to pay digitally instead of cash. As the demand for cash decreases, we adapt our service based on it” Jenny DanielssonCommunications Manager at Bankomat AB, stated in a previous email to News24.
Read more: ATMs disappear in 2025: “Adapting our service”
Don’t miss: What cash is valid 2025? Here is the correct answer
Harsh criticism: “insanity”
In 2024, 95 ATMs were closed and this year another 35 ATMs are planned to be removed. The organization Cash Uprising is critical of this trend.
– In light of the new security policy situation, it is insane that we let cash infrastructure
Mounted down, says Björn Erikssonchairman of the cash uprising, in a press release.
While ATMs are shut down, few new ATMs are installed.
– We need the cash to not be completely vulnerable in a crisis or war situation. If the cash system continues to be discontinued, it will not work, Eriksson continues.
Don’t miss: So much money you can take out in an ATM
Read more: The requirement: Cash should be able to be used – everywhere
Cash Uprising: The Riksbank’s proposal does not secure the survival of cash
The Riksbank’s proposal to introduce requirements for grocery stores and pharmacies to be able to receive cash is not enough according to the cash uprising. Especially when there are no ATM to withdraw cash from.
– It does not matter if the grocery stores can receive cash if they become increasingly difficult to obtain. When an ATM removes its vending machines, it is contrary to the political will to safeguard the cash and strengthen our community preparedness, Eriksson concludes in the press release.