Cash Holds Strong Amid Euro Area's Digital Payment Push

The European Central Bank has released research on payment methods across the euro area. The study found that cash is still widely accepted by businesses, despite a push towards digital payments.

In 2026, 92% of companies in retail, hospitality, and arts sectors accepted cash, up from 90% in 2024. This marks a rebound in cash acceptance following the pandemic.

Card payments remained steady at 88% in both years. Mobile payments saw significant growth, with almost double the number of businesses accepting them in 2026 compared to 2024.