Plenary Meeting between Banca d'Italia and Consumer Associations

11 September 2026

Banca d'Italia is meeting with consumer associations. This meeting is an important opportunity to discuss key consumer protection issues, with a particular focus on insights emerging from the activities of the Banking and Financial Ombudsman (ABF) and from the handling of complaints. The agenda also includes electronic payment fraud and possible initiatives aimed at strengthening consumer awareness and protection.

One dedicated session will focus on the basic bank account and on Banca d'Italia's recent communication regarding its availability, how to access it and the protection of vulnerable customers. The meeting is also an opportunity to explore issues relating to financial inclusion and to promote greater awareness of this instrument, with the aim of facilitating access to essential payment services for individuals who are particularly exposed to situations of economic and social vulnerability.

The meeting will also be an opportunity to review progress on the digital euro project and to discuss possible public information initiatives.

The future involvement of consumer associations in the process of revising the provisions governing the functioning of the Banking and Financial Ombudsman (ABF) is also highlighted, with the aim of enhancing its effectiveness and ensuring stronger customer protection. Their involvement will also extend to the related procedures, in light of the recent approval of the Regulation governing the processing of personal data by Banca d'Italia as part of its support activities.