I riflessi sul territorio della biodiversità bancaria

The article comments on the study “Presenza e importanza delle banche medio piccole (PMBI) a livello territoriale”, carried out by the three associations representing small and medium-sized banks (Acri, Associazione Nazionale Banche Popolari and Pri.Banks). The text examines the fundamental role of small and mediumsized banks in Italy, demonstrating that physical branches remain essential despite the rise of digital finance. Whilst large banking groups have consolidated and automated their services, smaller institutions maintain a crucial human connection that facilitates the provision of loans to local businesses and households. These banks are of particular importance in rural and inland areas, where they prevent economic decline by reinvesting local savings back into the community. The author suggests that this banking diversity is indispensable, as smaller banks are in a better position to assess the creditworthiness of small and medium-sized enterprises. In conclusion, the article highlights how maintaining a diverse financial landscape supports social cohesion and ensures that smaller economic actors are not marginalised by purely algorithmic banking models