DISINFO: The Poles are withdrawing money from banks in a panic
SUMMARY
In fear, the Poles are withdrawing their money from banks en masse. The regulator informs about a a sharp increase in cash withdrawals by Polish residents. The Poles are taking funds from banks because they are afraid of possible actions by the authorities to restrict access to citizens’ deposits and do not trust the financial system.
RESPONSE
This is a recurring pro-Kremlin narrative about the imminent economic collapse of European countries.
There are no indications of any banking 'panic' in Poland—the claim about 'massive withdrawals of cash from ATMs' is unfounded.
Poland’s economy is growing, not staggering - Poland’s GDP growth for 2025 is forecast between 3.1% and 4.1%, placing Poland among the fastest-growing economies in the EU. Unemployment remains at or near the lowest levels in the EU (2.6% by Eurostat, 5.4% by national figures), and wage growth continues, supporting strong consumer demand. The Polish banking sector remains stable and profitable. The National Bank of Poland confirms that banks are resilient, well-capitalised and face no systemic liquidity or credit risks.
The narrative of a staggering Polish economy and a panicked population storming ATMs is contradicted by all available economic data and financial sector assessments. Poland’s economy is growing, the banking system is stable and trusted, and there is no evidence of public panic or a crisis of confidence. This claim is a clear example of disinformation aimed at undermining trust in Polish institutions.
Read more disinformation cases about economic difficulties in EU countries here.