Biometrics technology at cash machines is widespread in Japan but has previously been used in conjunction with cards or bank books.

From September, Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank customers will be able to register to use the system by associating their biometric palm details at a machine with their PINs and birth-dates.

They will then be allowed to withdraw money, check balances and make deposits at ATMs in 10 branches, as well as mobile sites and drive-throughs, by placing their hand on readers.

Explaining its decision to roll out the technology, Ogaki Kyoritsu cites the devastating earthquake that hit Japan last year, suggesting that during future disasters, people who lose their cards would still be able to access their money.