Along the Adriatic coast, especially in tourist centers, there is an increasing number of ATMs not owned by well-known banks but by independent operators like Euronet, charging high fees for cash withdrawals, often up to 20%. Tourists, especially first-time visitors to Croatia, are often unaware of these practices and fall victim to high costs. The problem is further complicated by the dynamic currency conversion (DCC) service, which often offers unfavorable exchange rates and hidden additional fees. The Croatian National Bank does not have the authority to directly control the level of these fees, and consumers are often insufficiently informed about the actual costs. European consumer protection organizations have called for stricter regulation of this practice. Similar problems exist in other European countries, but in Croatia, this issue is particularly pronounced due to the large number of non-bank ATMs in tourist areas.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning reports emphasize consumer protection, highlighting the exploitation of tourists by independent ATM operators charging exorbitant fees. They call for stronger regulatory intervention by authorities to protect consumers and criticize the lack of oversight by the Croatian National Bank. The narrative focuses on the negative impact on ordinary people and the need for transparency and fairness in financial services.
Center: Center-leaning coverage presents a balanced view, acknowledging the problem of high ATM fees and the role of independent operators while also explaining the market dynamics and the limitations of regulatory bodies like the Croatian National Bank. It highlights the economic context, the presence of similar issues in other European countries, and the calls from European consumer organizations for better regulation. The focus is on informing consumers and encouraging caution when using ATMs.
Right: Right-leaning narratives tend to emphasize market freedom and the role of competition, suggesting that fees are determined by market principles and that consumers should be more vigilant and responsible for their choices. They may downplay the need for heavy regulation, stressing that the Croatian National Bank cannot and should not interfere excessively in market operations. The narrative may also highlight the benefits of independent ATM operators in expanding access to cash.
