The flows of cash

This page describes the flow of cash in society from the moment it is produced, is in circulation and until it is destroyed. The Riksbank does not decide on how much cash is used in society, instead this is determined by demand from the public. In 2023, the average value of banknotes and coins in circulation was SEK 58 billion.

The Riksbank distributes cash to banks, bank-owned companies and cash-in-transit (CIT) companies via our three cash handling offices in Märsta north of Stockholm, Jönköping and Umeå. A backup office was also opened in Falun in 2023. If the Märsta office cannot be used for some reason, the Falun office, as well as the other two offices in Jönköping and Umeå, can be used instead of distributing banknotes.

Acting together, the five largest banks have formed Bankomat AB to provide cash to society. When cash is needed in society, Bankomat or the CIT-company Loomis AB collects it from the Riksbank. With the help of CIT companies, cash is distributed from Bankomat out into society. Bankomat currently (2023) has four cash depots in operation. Via ATMs, bank accounts and retailers, the public then have access to cash.

When the cash is worn out, it is returned to the Riksbank via Bankomat and Loomis for destruction. 

The Riksbank formed the Cash Handling Advisory Board in 2006. The Cash Handling Advisory Board is a forum for the discussion of issues in the field of cash handling in society. 

The flow of cash in society begins and ends with the Riksbank

The flow of cash in society begins and ends with the Riksbank, which issues banknotes and coins and destroys them when they are worn out. Cash-in-transit companies ensure that cash is transported to banks, ATMs and retailers, where the general public obtains access to cash.

The flow of cash in society begins and ends with the Riksbank, which issues banknotes and coins and destroys them when they are worn out. Cash-in-transit companies ensure that cash is transported to banks, ATMs and retailers, where the general public obtains access to cash.

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Updated 07/03/2024