323 new ATMs, Albanians continue to withdraw cash - BoA: Deposits account for only 37% of the number of transactions
While the number of ATMs continues to grow, Albanians continue to use them primarily for a single function: withdrawing cash.
According to the latest data from the Bank of Albania, in the first half of 2026, 323 new ATMs were installed in the country, bringing the total number of active ATMs to 1,414. Most of them only offer cash withdrawal services, while a few also include the function of depositing money or ordering transfers.
Despite the fact that 363 ATMs in Albania also serve to perform bank transfers such as transferring money from one account to another or settling debts, zero such transactions were carried out at ATMs during the first half of the year. Some of the transfer orders can be easily carried out from the comfort of home via phone, therefore receiving this service through ATMs is seen as unnecessary.
Meanwhile, not even half of ATMs have the function of depositing money. Adding this service to all ATMs would shorten the lines and waiting time at physical bank counters to perform such a simple action, while also significantly reducing costs.
But how much money has circulated in ATMs during the first half of the year?
Around 322 billion lek was the total amount withdrawn and deposited at ATMs during the January-June period. Statistics show that 63% of ATM transactions were cash withdrawals and 37% deposits, i.e. 192 billion and 68 billion lek.
A larger number of ATMs means an increase in the financial inclusion of citizens and their access to banking services. However, the increase in ATMs offers more opportunities for individuals to withdraw physical cash, and consequently to use the latter more for making payments, instead of using a card for making electronic payments.
ATM services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It saves time, reduces costs for the customer, and reduces the burden on bank employees.
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