Some Russian banks report that certain ATMs do not accept the newly issued 5000 ruble notes. News outlets have described these events as ongoing developments in cash handling.
Industry observers say banks acknowledge the problem. After markets reopened in Russia, it became clear that ATM software and templates from manufacturers may not yet recognize the new notes. The Central Bank reported only a small number of complaints about machines handling the 5000 rubles. Officials believe most ATMs can process the notes, while a minority encounter difficulties.
An MVA-Professor affiliated with the Russian Banks Association and Ranepa noted that roughly 15 percent of ATMs cannot yet accept the new notes, with some estimates up to 25 percent due to differences among equipment from various manufacturers.
On October 16, 2023 the Central Bank announced updates to the 1000 and 5000 ruble notes produced on the 1997 design. In many banks, the reverse side features regional symbols such as cultural or natural monuments while the front shows imagery linked to the capital city. A separate issue concerning the 1000 ruble notes drew public attention as the transition continued.
Gazeta.ru previously asked what customers should do if a bank refuses to accept old notes, including how to verify acceptability and where to exchange them at official desks.