In Spain, Alejandra Kindelán, the new head of the Spanish Banking Association (AEB), outlined an action plan this Thursday aimed at expanding access to financial services in rural areas. The outline, presented in collaboration with bank employers, seeks to bring essential banking options closer to residents in smaller municipalities. The initiative reflects a shared priority among bankers from MINT (the former savings banks) and UNACC (credit unions) to ensure that hundreds of thousands of people can access cash and basic financial services in their own communities, a resource many have lacked until now.
Speaking at a conference organized by the Association of Economic Information Journalists (APIE) and Menéndez Pelayo University, the former Santander director emphasized the importance of a preliminary step: mapping the scope of financial exclusion across Spain. A commissioned study led by Professor Joaquin Maudos is expected to reveal two preliminary findings: 3.3% of the population lives in towns without a bank branch, even though other physical channels like ATMs or mobile banking exist; and 1.4% of residents have no access to cash in their municipality. These figures underscore the uneven distribution of financial services and the need for targeted solutions.
Kindelán noted that the group hopes to publish more precise data in the coming days and to unveil the plan alongside sectoral measures before August, ideally in mid-July. He described ongoing collaboration with many players and a strong working relationship with the Ministry of Economy. The broader issue of bank access is framed as a regional challenge rather than a problem tied solely to banks; it affects community services and the vitality of rural areas. Banks commit to tackling the problem without leaving customers behind, irrespective of where they live or their digital capabilities.
During congressional discussions, a proposal supported by many parties would require the installation of ATMs in municipalities at risk of financial exclusion. Kindelán, however, cautioned that simply adding cash machines is not a complete solution. He explained that some towns may not find such investments feasible or worthwhile, and that many customers still prefer to speak with a real person. The question being asked nationwide is whether physical presence can be replicated through mobile banking options like office buses, which bring banking intermediaries to communities on a regular schedule. These services are seen as supplements to traditional branches, not outright replacements.
Kindelán also discussed the government’s draft Financial Client Defense Authority, which could be presented to Parliament in the autumn. He criticized the idea of creating a continental European body with binding powers over institutions, arguing that it would raise costs, add complexity, and create legal uncertainty. He urged a careful approach to any new authority to avoid overreach while ensuring consumer protection remains strong.
On potential mergers, Kindelán acknowledged ongoing discussions about a possible consolidation involving MINT, a topic that has circulated within the industry for years. The Bank of Spain has expressed support for a measured path, contingent on the will of the major banks. For now, he stressed that the priority is intense and constructive cooperation: the aim is not to force unification but to foster coordination and collective action. The core objective is to work together, not to isolate anyone, and to coordinate efforts across institutions for the common good.
Kindelán’s first public remarks as the head of the AEB were delivered with a relaxed and approachable tone. He underscored the social value of banking and the sector’s role in supporting the economy and society. Banks, he stated, are more committed than ever to addressing the issues that concern the public, reinforcing their responsibility to serve communities across the country.