Banks & Finance

CERR: Uzbek Businesses Go Cashless, Call for Better Credit Services

Researchers have analysed banking services for entrepreneurs
mobile phone
Only 12.3% of companies place deposits in the banks they serve. Photo: Jonas Leupe / Unsplash

85.8% of corporate clients in Uzbekistan are satisfied with the services of local banks, according to a new analysis by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR). The study highlights that businesses are increasingly shifting to cashless and mixed payment methods while also expecting improvements in credit services.

When choosing a bank, business owners prioritise recommendations, quality of service, and the institution’s reputation. Overall satisfaction with banking services remains high; however, entrepreneurs cite a need for improved support in credit issuance and fund transfers.

Credit and Deposits: Still Underused

A significant 68% of surveyed entrepreneurs said they do not use bank loans at all. Additionally, only 12.3% of corporate clients place deposits in the banks where they are served. For saving purposes, businesses tend to choose banks offering better interest rates and convenient digital tools for capital management.

Branches vs. Digital Services

Despite the rise of digital banking, a portion of clients still prefer in-branch transactions.

  • 87% of businesses reported being satisfied with the professionalism of bank staff, citing their courtesy and the quality of advice.
  • 86.3% of corporate clients found mobile banking apps convenient, though 6.9% expressed dissatisfaction with their performance.

The CEIR researchers noted steady progress in digitalisation and banks’ adaptation to business needs but emphasised that loan products, deposit usage and digital service quality still require further development.

Kursiv Uzbekistan reports on public satisfaction with commercial banks nationwide.