Digitalization Advances, Yet Physical Infrastructure Remains Crucial
Despite the progress in digitalizing financial services, the number of bank branches has remained relatively stable over the past four years. Meanwhile, the number of ATMs continues to increase in Mexico.
This trend indicates that, although there are more digital alternatives for financial transactions, physical infrastructure remains important to users. Cash usage remains the favorite method for payments in Mexico.
Stable Bank Branch Numbers
According to the Mexican National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV), the number of bank branches has hovered around 11,800 since 2021. The highest number of branches was recorded in December 2019, at 12,850. However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a reduction, with the lowest number of 9,721 in May 2020. Since then, the numbers have been increasing but averaging around 11,800.
Rising ATM Numbers
The number of ATMs continues to grow, with 65,235 reported in March 2025, according to the CNBV. This figure is an increase of over 8,000 compared to March 2020, when there were 57,166 ATMs at the start of the pandemic.
Leaders in Branches and ATMs
Based on CNBV data, Banco Azteca leads with the most physical branches, totaling 2,030 by March 2025. Known as a “bank-store,” Azteca utilizes Elektra’s store infrastructure for its banking offices.
- BBVA follows with 1,693 branches.
- BanCoppel, another bank-store, has 1,371 branches.
- Banamex holds 1,262 branches.
- Banorte has 1,200 branches.
In terms of ATMs, BBVA leads with 14,508, followed by Banorte (11,461), Santander (10,784), and Banamex (9,074).
Blending Physical and Digital Infrastructure
Although the trend leans towards digitalizing financial services, some Mexican banks continue to invest in physical infrastructure while emphasizing digital growth. For instance, Grupo Coppel recently announced significant investments over the next five years, including the opening of more retail and bank branches.
Digitalization Continues to Advance
BBVA Mexico exemplifies the ongoing digital transformation, with over 32 million customers, 25 million of whom are digital users. Each person interacts with the bank digitally on a daily basis, according to BBVA.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the current status of bank branches and ATMs in Mexico? A: The number of bank branches has remained stable around 11,800 since 2021, while ATMs continue to rise, reaching 65,235 in March 2025.
- Q: Why are physical infrastructures still important despite digital advancements? A: Cash remains the preferred payment method in Mexico, making physical infrastructure crucial for users.
- Q: Which banks have the most branches and ATMs in Mexico? A: Banco Azteca leads with the most branches (2,030), while BBVA has the highest number of ATMs (14,508).
- Q: How are Mexican banks balancing physical and digital infrastructure? A: Some banks, like Grupo Coppel, invest in both physical expansions and digital growth.
- Q: How is digitalization progressing in Mexican banking services? A: BBVA Mexico demonstrates the advancement, with 25 million of its 32 million customers being digital users.
