Cashless - At what cost? | Natalie Yiu | TEDxSt Swithuns School

From Stanley Cups and skincare trends to late-night TikTok purchases, this talk examines how consumer culture is being reshaped by the rise of digital payments and life without cash. Questioning what society stands to lose in a cashless future, the speaker explores the hidden value of cash as a tool for privacy, independence and financial inclusion. Through examples ranging from online algorithms and targeted advertising to data breaches and consumer surveillance, Natalie reveals how digital transactions can influence spending habits and generate vast amounts of personal data. She also highlights the challenges a fully cashless society could create for vulnerable groups including older people, those living in poverty, and individuals seeking financial privacy. The talk invites audiences to look beyond convenience and consider a bigger question: as technology transforms the way we spend, how much privacy, freedom and control are we willing to trade away? ‘Cashless - At What Cost?’.
Natalie has a keen interest in economic policy and the legal frameworks that constrain it. Alongside her studies, which include economics A level, she has developed her public speaking skills through competitions and debating. Natalie is especially interested in debates surrounding financial systems and governance. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx