Time to Get Real

The Future of Cash conference was one of those rare opportunities to step back and think. A series of experts presented data, research and conclusions from the real world about cash and its role in the payment hierarchy.

Some reflections about the conference make slightly uncomfortable reading. Perhaps they are wrong. On the other hand, a debate about them, and what to do about them if agreed with, would be healthy. Readers of Cash & Payment News™ are very welcome to write in with their thoughts!

Observations

The cash challenges. The two big issues for cash are the gap between people saying they value cash and the fact that they use it less and less, and the lack of data on what payments really cost society, banks and, most importantly, merchants (who pass it on to customers).