kontantbruget

Kontantbruget refers to the use of physical cash in transactions, including coins and banknotes, and the broader patterns of how cash is accepted and circulated within an economy. It covers both the share of payments made with cash and the volume of cash held by households, businesses, and banks, as well as public attitudes toward cash versus electronic payment methods.

Across many economies, kontantbruget has declined as card payments, mobile wallets, and online transfers have become more common. The trend varies by country and demographic group; some jurisdictions maintain high levels of cash use due to infrastructure, trust in institutions, or a sizable unbanked population. Cash remains important for small purchases, privacy, and offline transactions during outages or in remote areas.

Measurement and policy-makers: Central banks and statistical agencies track cash in circulation, the value and number of notes and coins, and the share of transactions conducted with cash. Data inform policy debates on cash accessibility, withdrawal limits, fees, and the potential introduction of digital alternatives such as central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).

Debates around kontantbruget address inclusion, resilience, and economic efficiency. Proponents of widespread cash usage emphasise privacy and accessibility; opponents warn of costs and crime risks; most economies aim to balance cash availability with broader moves toward digital payments, ensuring that all citizens retain access to convenient payment options.