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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
World
Jill Treanor and Shane Hickey

Ten things people in Greece can't do as economic confusion strengthens grip

Shoppers stand in empty aisle
Shoppers stand in an aisle with empty shelves in a supermarket in Athens. Photograph: Aris Messinis/AFP/Getty

Cash

Greeks cannot withdraw more than €60 – about £43 – a day from cash machines. Cash is running out, with shortages of €5, €10 and €20 notes and €1 coins reported.

Credit cards

Technically cards are still accepted, but many retailers now only take cash, and apparently some offer discounts for cash payments. Greeks travelling abroad have reported problems using Greek bank payment cards, especially for large transactions such as hotel bills and rental cars.

Money transfers

Transfers of money outside the country are banned unless specifically approved by a special committee. That restricts imports and hits payments to exporters.

iPhone apps

Greeks with iPhones report being blocked from downloading apps. Others who have subscription accounts to pay for iCloud storage received error messages when monthly direct debit fees were due. The messages said accounts may be downgraded to ones with less storage if the fee was not paid.

PayPal

Greeks can receive PayPal payments, but cannot spend. The company said capital controls meant funding of PayPal wallet from Greek bank accounts are currently not available.

Buy online

Shopping on websites that are not based in in Greece is now limited.

Buy or sell shares

The Athens stock exchange has been closed for seven days. Currently scheduled to reopen Thursday, but that is unlikely unless the banks are also able to resume business.

Pay the rent/regular bills

Restrictions on cash are making rent payments difficult for many tenants. There are reports that direct debit payments to cover bills are slowing and the e-banking is creaking.

Shortages looming

Greek shoppers have been stocking up on key items such as coffee, pulses, rice, batteries and soap. Eggs and meat are also becoming more difficult to obtain, according to reports.

Pharmaceuticals

Almost all Greek drug supplies are imported, and there are reports that some essential drugs are now running short. Greece already owes international drug companies more than €1.1bn in unpaid bills, according to European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations.

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