International Currency Association

Digital payments make it easy for people to spend without thinking. No wonder some high street chains are forcing cashless payments. When you hand over real money, you see exactly what you’re spending. Once it's gone, it’s gone - no hidden fees, no debt traps. As quoted in the article: Kate Osborne, the Labour MP for Jarrow and Gateshead East said: “It is a fundamental right that people should be able to use cash as a legal tender. When you are trying to budget, particularly if you are on a low income, cash is a simple way of doing it. I understand that many people are not using cash much of the time, but there should be choice for all." Cash keeps power where it belongs: in people’s hands. https://lnkd.in/dvPPKTfR #CashMatters #ConsumerChoice #FinancialControl

Back to cash: Sweden’s cashless experiment isn’t the utopia many expected. The country that once led the way toward a cashless society is now warning of the risks—both for individuals and national security. As the article states, "Now, electronic banking is seen as a potential threat to national security." This is a crucial reminder that cash must remain a strong, viable choice to safeguard resilience and inclusivity in our societies. https://lnkd.in/dYKJspJ2?

As I leave Milano and the brilliantly organised Intergraf Currency+Identity conference by Beatrice Klose and her team, I reflect on the dynamic and vibrant banknote industry, where innovation, research, and development are thriving. It was inspiring to listen to: Kathleen Young from the Federal Reserve System sharing their recent U.S. Diary of Consumer Payment Choice study, showing that post-COVID cash use has stabilized and 83% of Americans regularly use cash. A significant driver against cash is the lack of acceptance by retailers and a significant drop in ATMs. @Stefan Hardt from the Deutsche Bundesbank stressed that central banks have a responsibility to act as cash protects the resilience of the economy. Central banks also have a key role in maintaining the freedom of choice, protecting vulnerable groups, and ensuring cash supply in crisis situations. Cash availability affects welfare and wellbeing of our societies. Neutrality is not passivity. Sarah John from the Bank of England gave us a brilliant insight into the bank's engagement with social media influencers in promoting the new King Charles banknote. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with nearly all ICA members, immersing myself in the rich history and vibrant energy of this centuries-old industry. Witnessing the latest innovations, cutting-edge technologies, and exciting new products was truly inspiring. What struck me most, however, was the warm camaraderie among companies that seamlessly transition between partnership and competition, yet consistently maintain a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect. Wonderful to see and meet: Etienne Couelle, Annette Holdermann, Dieter Merkle, Marilou Robinson Arends, Barna Barabas, Martin Bergsmann, Fergus Graham, Roberto Salgari, Heath Thomas, Wolfram Seidemann, Clemens Berger, Eric Boissonnas, Sauter Dieter, @Ramona Fazeli, Michael Grau, Anupama Barjatia, Angelo Antonio Kok, @Arnaud Laurans, Spencer Mandy, Malcolm McDowell, Peter Muehlfelder, Richard Perera, Astrid Mitchell, Meri Torniainen, Tritschler Thorsten, Gerben van Wijk, Ulrich Walter, Andreas von Loeper, Alexandra Peppmeier, Michaela Reichert, Sven Büsselberg, Natali Garic, Jens Seidl and many others... Looking forward to seeing you all soon and of course at the next Global Currency Forum!

Inspiring start to the Intergraf Currency+Identity 2025 Conference in Milano, where I am meeting with industry leaders in the currency sector. Inspiring kickoff with an insightful talk on driving change, navigating uncertainty, and identifying where threats and innovation emerge and how businesses can adapt. And, to top it off, a great fashion show inspired by currency designs and materials!

The International Currency Association (ICA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Frane Maroevic as its new General Director, effective January 2, 2025.   Maroević brings a wealth of experience to the ICA, having held prominent leadership roles in international and intergovernmental organisations. During his distinguished career spanning three decades, he has overseen strategic initiatives to strengthen human rights, enhance communication strategies, and support independent media. His expertise in fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and managing complex global projects positions him uniquely to lead the ICA during this transformative time for the currency industry.   In his new role, Maroević will lead the ICA’s mission to support the currency industry and champion the continued use and development of cash, ensuring it remains integral to inclusive and balanced payment systems that provide equitable access for all. He aims to address critical issues such as financial inclusion, security, sustainability, privacy and consumer choice – ensuring cash remains an essential pillar of global financial ecosystems.   'We are thrilled to welcome Frane as the new General Director of the ICA," said Etienne Couelle, Chair of the ICA Board. "His leadership, communication skills, and deep understanding of global political challenges make him exceptionally qualified to guide the ICA in promoting cash as a vital component of equitable and resilient payment systems."   Commenting on his appointment, Maroević said: "I am deeply honoured to join the ICA in this pivotal period. In an increasingly digital world, it is crucial to ensure continued free and unrestricted access to cash, which remains essential for financial stability, security, privacy and inclusivity worldwide. I look forward to collaborating with the ICA’s members and partners to champion its importance and address the evolving needs of the currency industry."   About the ICA   The International Currency Association (ICA) is a global organisation representing the currency industry and promoting the vital role of cash in society. Through advocacy, research, and collaboration, the ICA supports sustainable and secure payment solutions that enhance financial inclusion and consumer choice.   For more information about the ICA and its initiatives, please visit https://lnkd.in/dtU-DzcE](https://lnkd.in/dQdrDx6h

The ICA Board of Directors met in Nice, France earlier this month, for a one day workshop alongside the outgoing Board members. The main focus of the workshop was to discuss strategy for the next 2 years, and identify key initiatives and priorities. Thank you to Etienne Couëlle and Oberthur Fiduciaire for your hospitality!

The ICA Sustainability Committee held a hybrid meeting last week to discuss and plan their work programme for 2025. Thank you to our host Jérôme Sauser and SICPA for your hospitality. This was followed by a visit to Koenig & Bauer Banknote Solutions. Thank you to Nathalie Serra for the organisation and an informative afternoon.

Welcome to our new ICA Board! The ICA members at their Annual General Meeting elected the following leaders to head the ICA over the next two years: Etienne COUËLLE – Oberthur – Chair Annette HOLDERMANN – Giesecke + Devrient – Vice-Chair Dieter MERKLE – Schuler – Treasurer Marilou ARENDS – Canadian BankNote Company Barna BARABAS – Jura Martin BERGSMANN – Hueck Folien Fergus GRAHAM – SICPA Roberto SALGARI – Parvis Heath THOMAS – De La Rue Please join us in wishing them lots of success and thanking our outgoing Board members for their leadership over the past years! #leadership #currencyassociation #icaboardofdirectors

The ICA Board met in Milan, Italy. - great thanks to our hosts at PARVIS systems and services s.p.a. and in particular our Board member Roberto Salgari for welcoming and sharing the Milan experience with us. This meeting marks the last meeting of the current ICA Board before the elections in October in Oman - see you there at the Global Currency Forum 2024 ! #currencyassociation hashtag #cash hashtag #globalcurrencyforum

The ICA Board met in Lausanne, Switzerland. Thank you to our host Eric Boissonnas and Koenig & Bauer Banknote Solutions for your hospitality! The Board members look forward to discussing key issues with the full membership very soon and is fully prepared for our Annual General Meeting in October in Muscat, Oman - scheduled to take place just after the closing of our Global Currency Forum 2024 conference. ICA members, looking forward to seeing you all there! #currencyassociation #cash #globalcurrencyforum