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Digitalization Accelerates Branch Closures and Leads to a Historic Wave of Layoffs, Changing the Employment Profile in the Largest Banks in the Country.
The historic wave of layoffs hit the Brazilian banking sector hard in 2025. In the first half alone, Bradesco cut 1,875 jobs, Santander 1,728, and Itaú more than 1,000, in a movement that has already resulted in over 4,600 positions being closed among the largest banks in the country.
According to certified financial planner Rogério Barreto, CFP®, this phenomenon reflects the gradual replacement of physical branches with digital operations. The structural transformation seeks efficiency but raises questions about the social and labor impacts in one of the most traditional sectors of the Brazilian economy.
Who Else Laid Off in the Historic Wave of Layoffs?
Bradesco led the cuts, with 1,875 layoffs just in the first half, including 1,219 between April and June.
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In 12 months, there have already been more than 2,500 layoffs.
At the same time, the bank hired around 2,500 technology and data analysis professionals, reinforcing its priority in digital transformation.
Santander follows closely, with 1,728 cuts during the period.
The justification is similar: reduction of physical branches and a boost in technology.
The official statement points to “optimization of the branch network,” signaling that the focus is on digital channels and new service models.
How Much Did Each Bank Reduce in 2025?
According to data analyzed by Rogério Barreto, CFP®, Banco do Brasil made a smaller adjustment, with 615 layoffs, mainly due to retirements and natural departures.
Still, it hired new commercial agents and technology specialists, maintaining 85,900 employees at the end of June — the largest workforce in the sector.
Itaú recorded 505 layoffs in the half, with 453 in Brazil.
But it drew attention for laying off about 1,000 workers in a single week, citing low productivity in the home office.
The case led to legal disputes, as unions accused the bank of conducting mass layoffs without prior notice.
Where Are These Changes Happening?
The cuts are concentrated in physical branches scattered throughout Brazil, especially in urban areas where digital services already dominate.
The movement accompanies the reduction of in-person service, increasingly replaced by mobile apps and internet banking.
For Rogério Barreto, CFP®, this scenario “shows the transition from traditional jobs to technical roles focused on data analysis, digital security, and innovation.”
In other words, fewer tellers and more technology specialists.
Why Does the Historic Wave of Layoffs Worry Workers?
Although banks advocate a modernization discourse, unions and economists warn about the social risks.
The loss of thousands of jobs in a short time pressures families, increases informality, and exacerbates regional inequality.
Moreover, the reduction of branches may harm elderly clients, residents of rural areas, and small business owners, who still rely on in-person service.
The central question is whether the gains in efficiency truly translate into a better experience for all clients or merely greater profitability for shareholders.
Is It Worth Investing in Careers in the Banking Sector?
Despite the historic wave of layoffs, experts like Rogério Barreto, CFP® highlight that the banking sector remains relevant.
The difference lies in the profile of the vacancies: opportunities are shifting towards technology, risk analysis, cybersecurity, and digital products.
In other words, for those looking to pursue a career, adaptation is essential.
The future of the sector may not be in face-to-face service but in specialization in areas that support the digital growth of institutions.
The historic wave of layoffs reveals a deep reconfiguration in the Brazilian banking system.
Fewer branches, fewer tellers, and more technology: this is the reality that is unfolding.
The challenge is to balance efficiency and inclusion, ensuring that clients and workers are not left behind in this transition.
And you? Have you felt the effects of branch closures or know someone who lost a job in the banking sector? Do you think this transformation benefits clients or just shareholders? Share your opinion in the comments — we want to hear from those living this reality up close.
Os bancos digitais como Nubank, Mercado Pago entre outros não existe agência física, não tem como ir contra a tecnologia, a tendência é acabar com as agências.
E exatamente isso as agências então acabado aos poucos e a ia só dormindo tudo as pessoas não tao vendo mais o futuro da IA e bem próximo