Belgian banks to install more ATMs following regulatory pressure

Belgium’s four major banks have pledged to expand their network of neutral cash machines following concerns from the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) over accessibility. By the end of 2026, the number of Batopin-operated ATMs will increase from 970 to 1,040.

Batopin, an alliance of BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC, Belfius, and ING Belgium, was established to manage a shared ATM network as bank branches continue to close. The original plan aimed for 970 locations nationwide, but following a BCA investigation, the banks have agreed to install additional machines to ensure better accessibility.

The competition watchdog raised concerns that customers were facing longer distances to withdraw cash, potentially reducing service quality. Batopin CEO Jeroen Ghysel stated in business newspaper De Tijd that with the expansion, “95 per cent of Belgians will have access to an ATM within 5 kilometres of their home.”

”95 per cent of Belgians will have access to an ATM within 5 kilometres of their home”

The expansion is part of a broader effort to balance digital banking trends with the need for cash access. Cash withdrawals have halved in the past five years, but regulators continue to push for widespread availability. 

The BCA has now closed its investigation, deeming the banks’ commitments sufficient, though the federal government plans to reassess its cash accessibility policy within a year.

^{A cash point in Anderlecht, Brusssels © BELGA PHOTO HATIM KAGHAT}