Recent data released by the Statistical Federal Office (Destatis) indicates a record high adoption rate of online banking among individuals aged 16 to 74 in Germany. In 2024, approximately two-thirds (67 percent) of this demographic engaged in online banking, equating to 41.7 million people. This represents a significant increase from 2014, when roughly half (49 percent) of the same age group utilized this banking method.
Germany’s 67 percent usage rate mirrors the average across the European Union. Data from Eurostat highlights even higher adoption rates in countries such as Denmark (98 percent), the Netherlands (96 percent) and Finland (95 percent). Conversely, Romania (28 percent), Bulgaria (31 percent) and Greece (54 percent) reported lower digital banking penetration.
The 25-34 age group demonstrated the highest utilization of online banking in Germany during 2024, with 82 percent utilizing the service. Usage declined incrementally across older demographics; 79 percent of 35-44 year olds, 72 percent of 45-54 year olds and 59 percent of 55-64 year olds reported using online banking. Less than half (44 percent) of the 65-74 age group engaged with digital banking platforms. A substantial 64 percent of the youngest demographic, aged 16-24, also utilized online banking services.
The growth in online banking usage has been particularly pronounced among younger generations. The 16-24 age group experienced the most significant increase, with usage rising by approximately 29 percentage points between 2014 and 2024. Subsequent age cohorts also saw considerable growth, with increases of 22 percentage points among the 45-54 and 55-64 age groups and 21 percentage points among those aged 65-74. The 25-34 age group, already high users, saw the smallest increase at 6 percentage points over the ten-year period.
A new EU-wide regulation requiring banks and savings institutions to implement recipient verification processes for transfers is scheduled to take effect on October 2025.