Cashless society

The cashless society is getting closer – but Germany is lagging behind.

Cash usage compared (2025):

• Sweden: only 10% cash (many shops NO longer accept cash)
• Netherlands: approx. 25% cash
• UK: approx. 30% cash
• Germany: still approx. 50% cash (Europe's front-runner in cash use!)

Advantages of going cashless:

✅ More convenient, faster, more hygienic
✅ Better overview of spending (everything in the app)
✅ Less risk of robbery/theft

Risks:

❌ Total surveillance possible (who buys what where?)
❌ Technical dependence (system failure = no paying)
❌ Exclusion: older people, homeless people, refugees without an account

Tip: even in a cashless world, always keep €200–500 in cash at home – for emergencies (power cut, IT failure).