[QUOTE=CDSmith]No, I don't think I'll be putting the entire blame or explanation for this on "history", I think that like banks the government looks for ways of nickel-and-diming the country more and more, banks with service charges, ......QUOTE]
Here you hit on one that pops into mind for me.
Not sure how old the rest of you are, but I CLEARLY remember the first ATMs. People were scared to death of using them, and preferred to go into the banks, which had 4-8 clerks AT ALL TIMES, to transact business.
Enter the marketers.....
Now you couldn't walk past the marketing person standing at the ATM... "Here sir, have some Coffee and donuts while we explain the benefits of the machine, 24 hour service, instant money, FREE!!!!! Banks will be able to LOWER FEES, etc, etc," (Yes they REALLY SAID THAT) and that's when I knew they were lying.....
And yes, after the initial fear of technology for the people, they start using the technology.
Fast forward 10 years.....
Banks are NO LONGER BUILT with more than 2-3 windows, which are usually staffed by only 1-2 people even at peak times.....
Every ATM transaction has a ridiculous fee attached to it...usually at BOTH ends.....
Bank hours are shorter.
Almost every bank transaction has a fee.
Pisses me off to no end....
Ok, I'm better now...I took my medicine.....