The State Bank of India (SBI) has generated substantial revenue from ATM cash withdrawals, whereas other public sector banks (PSBs) have faced financial challenges in this area. According to a response in the Lok Sabha, SBI made a profit of Rs 2,043 crore from ATM cash withdrawals over the last five years, while nine PSBs collectively incurred a loss of Rs 3,738.78 crore. Only Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Canara Bank, besides SBI, have recorded profits of Rs 90.33 crore and Rs 31.42 crore, respectively.
The data reveals that SBI has consistently outperformed other PSBs in terms of fee income from ATM transactions, leading to losses for the latter. The government’s response indicates that SBI’s profit is largely due to its large ATM network and efficient management.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved an increase in ATM interchange fees, which will affect customers’ ATM withdrawal charges. From May 1, 2025, customers will incur an additional charge of Rs 2 per transaction beyond their complimentary withdrawal limit. The non-transaction fee has also been raised by Rs 1. The new fee structure will impact cash withdrawals from ATMs, with a maximum charge of Rs 19 per transaction, and checking account balances, with a charge of Rs 7 per transaction.
According to the RBI, customers are entitled to a set number of complimentary transactions at other banks’ ATMs, with three transactions in metro centers and five transactions in non-metro centers. Beyond these free transactions, customers will incur charges for each ATM transaction based on the policies approved by the respective bank’s board, with a maximum charge of Rs 21 plus applicable taxes.