Capitec and Standard Bank expand ATM networks amid shifting banking trends

South African banks are showing diverging strategies regarding physical cash infrastructure. While Nedbank, Absa, and First National Bank have reduced their cash machine networks since 2023 due to the rise of digital and cellphone banking, Capitec and Standard Bank have expanded their presence.

Capitec significantly increased its cash service capacity, adding 900 devices between 2023 and 2025 to reach a total of 8,798 machines, recyclers, and kiosks. This expansion aligns with growing cash transaction revenues for the bank, which rose from R596-million in 2024 to R619-million in 2025. Standard Bank also saw a modest increase in its network, growing from 3,450 machines in 2023 to 3,496 by the end of 2025.

In Namibia, Standard Bank has introduced Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) across its nationwide ATM network. This service allows international visitors to view and complete cash withdrawals in their home currency, providing greater transparency and clarity for travelers during transactions.