Abstract:
The growing trend of information technology investment especially Automated Teller Machine
(ATM) in Ethiopia banking industry is below customers demand (Ayana, 2012). The availability
and deployment of ATM in Ethiopia is low level compared to the fast growing urban population.
Thus, the main objective of this study is to examine the determinants of ATM deployment in
commercial banks of Ethiopia. In order to achieve the objective, secondary sources of data were
gathered from thirteen commercial banks of Ethiopia in the sample period covering from 2012 to
2016. The collected data is analyzed using descriptive statistics and panel data econometric
regression analysis. The random effect model is employed as an appropriate model for this study
and interpretations of estimates were made based on this model. The result of the descriptive
analysis indicated that the trend of ATM deployment in commercial banks of Ethiopia is up-ward
sloping over the sample time period. The results of random effect regression analysis revealed
that bank size, bank profitability and deposit ratio were statistically significant and has positive
impact on ATM deployment in commercial banks of Ethiopia. Mean while, cost efficiency and
number of branches have statistically insignificant relationship with ATM deployment. Based on
the finding investigated, it is recommended that the commercial banks of Ethiopia or concerned
bodies need to take account the most important determinants of ATM deployment.