How Technology Impacts Local Bank Branches
Banking is evolving as financial institutions reshape their branch networks. Recent research reveals that banks are closing branches more frequently in areas with higher technological adoption and where customers increasingly use digital banking services.
Branch Closures and Technology
- Banks tend to close branches in communities with higher incomes and greater access to mobile and online banking.
- Conversely, branches remain more operational in locations where customers rely on in-person services or have less digital access.
- The trend reflects a shift in banks’ strategies, balancing operational costs with changes in customer behavior driven by technology.
Implications for Communities
- Branch reductions can impact local customers who depend on face-to-face financial services, especially the elderly or those less comfortable with digital tools.
- Banks are exploring alternative service models, including enhanced digital platforms and smaller, more specialized branch formats.
“As technology changes how people bank, financial institutions are adapting their physical presence to both meet demand and improve efficiency.”
Author’s summary: Advances in technology are prompting banks to reduce branch locations mainly in digitally advanced areas, reshaping how communities access banking services with a focus on digital alternatives.
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Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond — 2025-11-28