Digital payment trends drive use of reverse ATMs and shift cash habits

The global shift toward digital economies is manifesting through different trends in the United States and South Africa. In the U.S., reverse ATMs, or cash-to-card kiosks, are emerging as a bridge for consumers in increasingly cashless environments. These machines allow users to insert paper currency to receive a prepaid card, which can then be used at venues like Lambeau Field, where traditional cash is no longer accepted.

In South Africa, consumers are moving away from traditional ATMs due to high fees, long queues, and travel costs. According to the South African Reserve Bank’s Cost of Cash Industry Report 2026, many individuals are finding supermarket tills to be a more efficient and attractive option for accessing cash than standard ATM services.