Cash continues to dominate as the most frequently used payment method at points of sale across the Eurozone, accounting for 52% of all transactions. Points of sale represented 58% of all daily payments in 2024.
According to the European Central Bank’s (ECB) 2024 survey on consumer payment preferences in the Eurozone, cash remained the leading payment method at points of sale. However, its share decreased by 7% over two years. In terms of value, cards emerged as the most significant payment tool, holding a 45% share, compared to cash transactions, which accounted for 39%.
Cash was predominantly used for transactions under €50, while cards were preferred for higher-value purchases.
For online payments, cards also led, representing 48% of transactions. Electronic payment solutions, including digital wallets and mobile apps, accounted for 29% of online payments.
62% of respondents reported access to instant payments, with 45% utilizing the service in 2024. The Netherlands stood out with 88% of respondents having access to instant payments.
The adoption of crypto-assets in the Eurozone saw significant growth, doubling from 4% in 2022 to 9% in 2024. Slovenia (15%) and Greece (14%) reported the highest ownership rates.
Most crypto-asset holders use them solely for investment purposes:
- the Netherlands: 90% for investments, 2% for payments;
- Germany: 82% for investments, 6% for payments;
- France: 57% for investments, 25% for payments;
- Lithuania: 30% use crypto-assets for both investments and payments.
According to the British Retail Consortium study, the U.K. saw a continued rise in cash use for the second consecutive year, with debit cards remaining the most common payment method.
