Banks have accelerated the reduction of physical branches: from January to August 2026, credit organizations closed about 1,370 additional offices, according to Central Bank data reviewed by "Izvestia". If the current pace continues, the network could shrink by another approximately 2,100 points by the end of the year.
On average, 196 offices were closed per month, which is twice as many as last year. About 40% of the reductions are accounted for by Sber: since the beginning of the year, the bank has liquidated almost 540 branches.
The reason is the shift of clients to mobile applications and other remote channels. Most daily operations can be performed through digital services and the SBP, and cash can be withdrawn through ATMs. For banks, network reduction means lower costs for rent, personnel, and infrastructure maintenance.
However, the digital model faces a limitation: without stable internet, it performs worse. Disruptions in mobile communication increase the demand for cash and physical service points. In addition, certain operations, including resolving some issues with account blocks, may require a personal visit.
Banks will not be able to completely abandon branches. Offline points will remain primarily where there is stable demand, as well as for complex financial services and consultations. At the same time, over the next five years, the banking network, according to experts, could shrink by 2–2.5 times — to approximately 12,000 offices.
Read more on the topic:
- The Internet Can Fail: Sber Issued Instructions in Case of Disruptions
- ATMs and terminals to get a backup channel: Ministry of Digital Development and operators found a way to bypass mobile internet shutdown
- Clients are in no hurry to change browsers: problems with bank websites have spurred demand for aggregators