Opening an account, applying for a loan, or withdrawing cash from an ATM are commonplace operations for most people. However, these tasks can be a challenge for residents of small towns. In 2022, over 2,700 towns in Spain lacked access to banking services, according to the "Report on Financial Inclusion in Spain" by the Valencian Institute of Economic Research. This statistic highlights the financial exclusion in rural areas and the difficulties residents face in performing basic banking transactions. These municipalities also have a significant population of people over 65, many of whom struggle with new technologies or have mobility issue
The residents of rural Spain have increasingly voiced their need for improved banking services. Expanding branch networks, installing rural ATMs, and deploying mobile branches are essential steps to democratize banking services in these areas.
CaixaBank has been instrumental in providing banking services across Spain, including to vulnerable and rural populations. The bank serves 3,142 towns nationwide and operates nearly 4,000 branches, making it the largest banking network in Spain. This extensive network includes 1,835 branches in towns with populations under 10,000. Through its mobile branches, CaixaBank reached 798 towns between January and March 2024 that lacked any physical banking access.
Additionally, CaixaBank's ATMs provide financial services to about 340 small towns and villages. Among its rural branches, around 230 are in towns with fewer than 1,000 residents, and in 458 rural towns, CaixaBank is the sole banking provider.
CaixaBank’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence underscore its commitment to financial inclusion in Spain. The dedication of such banking institutions ensures that the democratization of financial services in rural areas is becoming a more attainable reality, helping to bridge the gap in financial accessibility for all residents.
