Poland has emerged as a new powerhouse in the global cryptocurrency ATM landscape, overtaking El Salvador to claim the fifth spot worldwide. The country recently installed 10 additional Bitcoin ATMs, bringing its total count to 219 active machines as of January 27. This milestone places Poland behind only the US, Canada, Australia, and Spain in terms of crypto ATM presence.

This achievement is part of Poland’s sustained effort over the past four months, which has seen 24 new machines installed since October 2024. Meanwhile, other leading nations like Canada, Spain, and Australia continue to expand their networks steadily, according to data from Bitcoin ATM Radar.

El Salvador, once a prominent player in the crypto ATM race, has been slow to expand its infrastructure. Despite being an early adopter with 215 machines installed by October 2022 to support its Bitcoin initiatives, the country has not added to its network since. This stagnation contrasts sharply with Poland’s rapid expansion, which added 12 new ATMs in January alone.

While Bitcoin ATMs are not the sole drivers of cryptocurrency adoption, they play a crucial role in providing grassroots accessibility. These machines are particularly beneficial for unbanked populations, offering a tangible entry point into the digital economy. However, concerns about misuse for money laundering and terrorism financing remain a challenge for regulators.

Globally, over 38,100 crypto ATMs are now operational across 65 countries, powered by 356 operators. Australia, a consistent leader in ATM growth, joined the exclusive 1,000+ ATM club in April 2024, alongside the US and Canada. Poland’s rise signals growing momentum for crypto accessibility in Europe and beyond.