European digital payment sovereignty and emergency cash preparedness

A survey by the digital association Bitkom reveals a growing desire for European-based digital payment services. Among 1,004 respondents, 53 percent expressed a wish for more European alternatives to dominant non-European providers like PayPal and Apple Pay. Concerns regarding digital sovereignty are particularly high among individuals aged 65 and older, with 61 percent calling for European solutions. Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst emphasized that payment transactions constitute critical digital infrastructure essential for competition and sovereignty.

In parallel to the shift toward digital payments, experts highlight the necessity of maintaining physical cash for emergencies. While card transactions reached approximately 13 billion in Germany in 2024, reliance on digital systems poses risks during power outages or widespread network disruptions. While the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance does not mandate a specific amount, some regional guidelines suggest keeping approximately 500 euros in small notes and coins per household to cover essential costs like groceries or fuel during a crisis.