From the statistical data, we can conclude that there is a clear trend towards a cashless and e-payment based society among all EU15 countries. However, progress is quite slow and the use of cash currently seems to be decreasing at only 2-3% a year.
If this trend does not accelerate, the use of cash will remain dominant for many years, especially in the central and southern parts of Europe. Technology developments Still, it would appear that we are approaching a turning point in payment practices. Mobile terminals, mobile phones are fast becoming everybody's personal electronic device, and can perform an increasing range of services.