Indonesian Banks Boost Cash Reserves for Christmas and New Year

Increased Cash Preparation for Holiday Season

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) has announced plans to prepare Rp 42.1 trillion in cash for the 2025 Christmas and New Year period, representing a increase from the Rp 41.2 trillion allocated during the same period last year ¹

. This preparation reflects the banking sector's anticipation of heightened cash demand during the holiday season.

Cultural and Economic Factors Driving Cash Demand

Despite the growing trend of digital payment systems, cash demand remains robust during major holidays. According to Moch Amin Nurdin, Advisor at Banking & Finance Development Center, cultural factors and societal mobility patterns continue to drive the need for physical currency ²

. The circulation of cash during the last Nataru period reached Rp 130 trillion, fueled by travel, gift-giving traditions, and other cultural practices ²

Source 2

https://keuangan.kontan.co.id/news/meski-digitalisasi-meningkat-kebutuhan-uang-tunai-masih-tinggi-saat-nataru

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Banking Sector's Proactive Measures

BCA's President Director, Hendra Lembong, emphasized the bank's commitment to ensuring smooth banking services during the holiday period through comprehensive preparations including cash supply, various banking products, and enhanced services ¹

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Source 3

https://keuangan.kontan.co.id/news/sambut-nataru-perbankan-memproyeksikan-kebutuhan-uang-tunai-meningkat

. The bank aims to maintain transaction security and convenience for its customers during the extended holiday.

Regional Economic Impact

The increased cash circulation is expected to have a positive impact on regional economies, particularly in tourism areas and local businesses that benefit from the holiday-related activities ²

. The preparation by major banks like BCA is crucial in supporting these economic activities and ensuring financial stability during the peak season.