18.12.2025 19:24
Private banks are preparing to categorize ATMs as 'in-branch' and 'out-of-branch' starting from January 1, 2026. With the new model, it is planned that the commission-free cash withdrawal limits at 'in-branch' ATMs will exceed 50,000 TL, while increases at 'out-of-branch' ATMs located in places like streets and shopping malls are expected to be limited. It is noted that the regulation is related to the increasing demand for cash, rising operational costs, and the Central Bank's banknote policy.
A new model is expected to be implemented in the banking sector starting in 2026, which will directly affect ATM usage. It is reported that private banks are preparing to categorize ATMs based on their locations due to the increasing cash demand and rising operational costs.
ATMs WILL BE DIVIDED INTO TWO CATEGORIES
Under the new regulation, ATMs will be divided into two separate categories based on their locations. Devices located inside or right next to bank branches will be defined as "in-branch ATMs," while devices in streets, shopping malls, metro stations, and similar areas will be referred to as "out-of-branch ATMs." This distinction will not be limited to naming; it will also directly affect the amounts of money users can withdraw.
LIMITS ON IN-BRANCH ATMs WILL INCREASE
According to the planned model, banks aim to significantly increase the commission-free withdrawal limits applied to in-branch ATMs. There are discussions about raising daily withdrawal amounts above 50,000 TL. The reasoning behind this preference is that in-branch ATMs are much easier to refill, secure, and monitor. These points, where branch staff can intervene immediately, are considered more suitable for high-value transactions.
CAUTIOUS STEPS FOR OUT-OF-BRANCH ATMs
For out-of-branch ATMs located in streets, shopping malls, and transportation points, it is planned to keep limit increases more limited. The cash transportation and refilling processes for these ATMs are both costly and risky, leading banks to act more cautiously. According to industry sources, small increases will be made for these devices, but they will not reach the levels of in-branch ATMs.
CENTRAL BANK FACTOR
Another significant factor in this transformation is the banknote policy. The Central Bank's reluctance to print new high-denomination banknotes has raised the question of how to manage the increasing cash demand with the existing banknotes. The decrease in the purchasing power of the largest denomination in circulation has led to more frequent refilling of ATMs and increased costs.
SOME BANKS HAVE ALREADY STARTED
In fact, this practice is not entirely new for the sector. Some private banks have already implemented significant increases in daily commission-free withdrawal limits at in-branch ATMs in recent months, effectively putting the system into operation. This approach is expected to become widespread across the sector by 2026.