[briandear]

In France they sure aren't free. Banks even charge a monthly fee for a debit card in addition to a monthly account maintenance fee. Of course banking in the France is stuck in the 1980s with many banking transactions requiring an actual visit to your specific bank branch and a consultation with your personal banker.

[ErrantX]

Interesting; my perspective (working in the finance industry) has been that European banks are ahead of the curve with technology and, importantly, technology for customers. It sounds like maybe not?