Umbria signs protocol to combat banking desertification

The Umbria Region, Anci Umbria, and several banking trade unions—including Fabi, First-Cisl, Fisac-Cgil, Uilca, and Unisin—have signed a four-year memorandum of understanding to combat banking desertification. The agreement aims to protect credit access for families and businesses, maintain service quality, and safeguard employment stability within the sector.

Data presented during the signing indicates a significant decline in local banking presence. Approximately 53,000 residents in Umbria currently live in municipalities without any bank branches, a figure that increased by 10% over the last year. Additionally, about 3,400 businesses no longer have a local branch, also marking a 10% increase. Currently, one-third of Umbrian municipalities lack any banking services, and 24 municipalities have only one remaining branch. Regional President Stefania Proietti noted that the loss of these branches deeply impacts daily life, particularly in small towns and internal areas where they serve as vital points of proximity.