Deutsche Bank conducted a large-scale survey among 4,850 residents of Europe, the UK, and the USA, which revealed that, despite growing interest in digital currencies, most people still prefer cash.
Respondents are not ready to drastically change their habits and remain cautious about central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Many participants expressed the opinion that a rapid transition to digital money could pose adaptation challenges.
It was also noted that cash will remain an important part of the economy in the coming years, as people are accustomed to its use and see no reason to abandon it in favor of fully digital alternatives.
Credit and debit cards continue to be popular payment methods, but they do not completely replace cash.
Deutsche Bank emphasizes that 94% of central banks worldwide are actively exploring the possibility of introducing CBDCs and are at various stages of development. Despite this, only 16% of those surveyed believe that digital currencies will become a primary tool for everyday transactions, and just 31% are willing to transition to their use gradually and in stages.
Additionally, 21% of respondents expressed a readiness to use cryptocurrencies for payments, indicating some interest in alternative forms of digital assets, although the majority still prefer more traditional payment methods.
