Ireland’s latest Banking Survey reveals a clear divide in household finances: saving is widespread, while investing remains uncommon. Published by the Department of Finance on gov.ie, the 2026 Consumer Sentiment Banking Survey examines how people manage money, use financial providers and respond to digital banking trends.
Based on face-to-face interviews with more than 1,500 adults, the survey offers an important snapshot of consumer behaviour ahead of the planned introduction of a new Investment Account next year.
Banking Survey highlights Ireland’s savings-investment gap
The strongest finding is the difference between savings and investment participation. Some 77% of respondents have a savings account, compared with only 3% who report having an investment account.
The proposed Investment Account is expected to launch from July next year. According to the Department of Finance, it will have no minimum contribution and a tax-free threshold of €50,000, with the aim of making investing more accessible. The Government has stressed that consumers will still need clear information about investment risks.
Traditional banks remain dominant
Established retail banks continue to anchor Ireland’s banking market. AIB, Bank of Ireland or PTSB is the main provider for 86% of consumers, while 98% hold a current account and 25% have a mortgage account.
Overall satisfaction remains high, although it has edged down from 89% in 2025 to 87% in 2026. Only 4% of respondents say they are dissatisfied with their main financial provider.
Revolut and digital banking gain ground
The Banking Survey also records the growing role of fintech services. Almost half of consumers, 48%, hold a Revolut account, up from 43% in 2025. However, the service is still mainly used for money transfers. Six per cent identify Revolut as their main financial account, compared with 3% the previous year.
Weekly online banking usage remains at 70%. Usage is highest among younger adults, while 42% of people aged 65 and over use online banking weekly. Branches remain important too: cash lodgements and withdrawals account for 68% of branch visits.
Payment preferences are changing. Contactless smartphone payments are preferred by 35% of respondents, up from 27% in 2025, while cash remains the preferred in-store option for 21%.
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Artificial intelligence enters financial decisions
One in five respondents, or 21%, say they have used artificial intelligence to obtain information or advice about financial products and services. The survey identifies significant generational differences in both AI use and trust.
These findings will help inform consumer protection policy as financial services become increasingly digital. Bodies such as the Central Bank and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission remain important sources of regulatory and consumer guidance.
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What the Banking Survey means for consumers
The survey suggests that Irish consumers value established providers while adopting fintech, mobile payments and online banking at different speeds. It also shows that investment remains less familiar than saving, making simplicity, transparency and risk awareness central to the success of the planned Investment Account.
Key takeaway: the 2026 Banking Survey points to a financial system in transition—still centred on traditional banks, but increasingly shaped by digital services, AI and changing consumer expectations.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie