Banks are gradually eliminating cash from society, leveraging the pretext of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) concerns to push for central bank digital currencies. While governments claim that cash will persist, the move towards a “cashless society” is evident as banks shut branches and remove ATMs. This strategy aligns with the ESG narrative, enabling governments and corporations to promote their ideals by curtailing dissenting elements.
Banks argue that cash transactions emit carbon due to travel, while ignoring the carbon emissions that would occur regardless of the transaction’s location. Additionally, they highlight the electricity consumption of ATMs and the manpower needed for in-branch transactions as sources of carbon emissions.
The recent example of NatWest, a prominent UK bank, establishing limits on customer deposits and withdrawals, exemplifies the trend. The daily limit, speculated to be around £250, will take effect soon.
Amid a global banking crisis, including bank collapses and takeovers, governments seem willing to support banks in preventing fund movement. This compels citizens to maintain bank accounts despite banks failing to adequately address issues like inflation, purchasing power erosion, and potential bail-ins.
As banks tighten their control over customers and the fiat monetary system, there is growing interest in alternatives like Bitcoin, which operates independently from this increasingly controlling environment. Exploring such options could be wise for citizens seeking financial autonomy.