I'm not sure why cash is still so prevalent. I usually carry a couple of £5 notes for unusual contingencies, but they are very seldom required. In the UK, I can do just about any transaction I want either electronically or by card. Even with a private sale, I can do an online transfer between my bank account and the other party's bank account using my laptop or phone. Cash is needed only for trivial transactions and children's pocket money. And of course when no record of the transaction is desired.
I was always disappointed that the Mondex system didn't gain appeal. It seemed to me to be a perfect substitute for cash, having all the advantages and less disadvantages as physical notes & coins.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
