Even the smallest village will be required to install an ATM

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 03. 20. 11:47

According to the latest government decree published in the Hungarian Gazette, it will be mandatory to operate at least one automatic teller machine (ATM) in every settlement in the country. The decision aims to provide the population with unhindered access to cash withdrawals. The details of the installation and maintenance of the ATMs must be developed by the Ministry of National Economy, which has been given until April 30 to assess the cost requirements and develop an implementation plan, Index points out.

Currently, 5,140 ATMs are in operation in Hungary, while there are a total of 3,136 settlements in the country. However, this does not mean that every settlement has an ATM: for example, 1,225 ATMs operate in Budapest, while many smaller villages do not have the option of withdrawing cash at all. The current government decision aims to change this situation.

The installation and continuous operation of an ATM involves significant costs, which is why banks have so far primarily set up ATMs in locations where they could expect significant traffic and returns. However, the decision will also provide ATMs to smaller settlements where operation may be unprofitable for banks.

Financial institutions typically pass on the costs to customers in the form of various fees. However, Minister of National Economy Márton Nagy has previously indicated that the government does not look favorably on significant increases in account fees, so it is questionable what financing model will be developed for the installation and maintenance of ATMs.