käteisriippuvuus

Käteisriippuvuus is a Finnish term that translates to "cash dependency" or "reliance on cash." It describes a situation where individuals, businesses, or even entire communities depend heavily on physical currency for their transactions and financial activities. This dependency can arise from various factors, including lack of access to digital payment systems, low digital literacy, distrust in electronic banking, or cultural preferences for handling money physically.

In many parts of the world, and historically in Finland as well, käteisriippuvuus was the norm. However, with the rapid advancement of technology and the widespread adoption of digital payment methods like credit cards, mobile payment apps, and online banking, cash dependency has significantly decreased in many developed nations. Finland, in particular, has seen a strong trend towards a cashless society in recent decades.

Despite this trend, pockets of käteisriippuvuus can still exist. This might be found among certain elderly populations who are less comfortable with technology, in rural areas with limited internet access or banking infrastructure, or among small businesses that primarily serve customers who prefer cash. The implications of käteisriippuvuus can include challenges for financial inclusion, difficulties in tracking economic activity, and potential security risks associated with handling large amounts of cash. Conversely, some argue that maintaining some level of cash accessibility is important for privacy and as a backup in case of technological failures.