South Africans are showing significant appetite for mobile money solutions, this is  according to the latest data from FNB eWallet Solutions, which shows that 4.2 million new eWallets were created over the last 12 months, a rate of about 350 000 new eWallets per month.

The bank says it is also seeing a steady upsurge in total eWallet cash withdrawals, an indication that users are increasingly using the service as a means for remittance.

FNB’s observation is consistent with the findings of the 2015 FinScope research which showed that more people are choosing to remit via a bank.

“Over the years, we have seen eWallet become part of the South African vocabulary as many citizens see it as a convenient and cost effective way to send or receive money. This is one of the reasons we continue to grow the number of withdrawal points to enable broader financial inclusion through easy access,” says Sandi Madikiza, CEO of FNB eWallet Solutions.

In addition to traditional FNB ATMs, eWallet users can also withdraw via 1 200 Slimlines across the country. FNB Slimlines are located in community retailers where eWallet users can print their withdrawal slip and get cash from the store teller or buy goods and services in store. In the past year, there has been about 47% growth in the volume of cash withdrawals at Slimlines.

Madikiza says withdrawals through Slimlines in community outlets could contribute to boosting foot-traffic into community outlets.

“Instead of taking a taxi or driving to the nearest ATM, which may be in a shopping mall or the nearest City, users can now walk to, and withdraw at their community retailer which has a Slimline.

“While this makes it convenient for eWallet users, it could equally boost business for the retailer.  In addition to this, we are also in the process of adding at least 600 new withdrawal points through partnerships with major retail chains across the country,” he concludes.