Finance
News on banks, loans, the state budget, financial institutions, tax policy, and capital markets.
The 2026 Budget Project: Analysis of Changes and Proposals in the Budget and Finance Committee
The Budget and Finance Committee reviewed the 2026 Budget project at its second reading. The main highlights include the deficit, tax and social security contribution increases, as well as key proposals for changes related to gambling, public debt, administration, and religious denominations.
EBRD and UniCredit Bulbank Provide €100 Million for Green Investments in Bulgaria
The EBRD and UniCredit Bulbank have signed an agreement for a portfolio guarantee of €50 million under the InvestEU programme. This will enable the disbursement of €100 million for green projects, supporting the transition to a sustainable economy in Bulgaria.
New Year's holidays without POS terminals: payments only in cash due to the transition to the euro
On the night of December 31st to January 1st, POS terminals and ATMs in Bulgaria will stop for several hours due to technical preparation of the banking systems for the introduction of the euro, which will force traders and customers to rely only on cash payments
No problem with the supply of euros: Petkova reassured about banks and Bulgarian Post
Minister Petkova assured that there are no problems with the supply of euros for banks, Bulgarian Post, and merchants. The deadlines for the sale of starter kits are written down, and the preparation is coordinated by a special council.
BNB Releases Gold Coin "St. Patriarch Euthymius of Tarnovo"
The Bulgarian National Bank is putting into circulation a gold commemorative coin on the theme "St. Patriarch Euthymius of Tarnovo" from the "Bulgarian Iconography" series on November 24, BNB announced. The price is 2590 leva.
Draft Budget 2026: Discussion in the Budget and Finance Committee
The Budget and Finance Committee will consider the draft budget for 2026, including the budgets of the Social Security Fund and the National Health Insurance Fund. The budget is important for the country's financial health and includes revenue measures.
BNB to Issue 2 Euro Coin for the Bulgarian Alphabet
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) will issue a commemorative 2 euro coin in 2026, dedicated to the Bulgarian Alphabet. Other collector coins, reflecting the history and culture of Bulgaria, are also planned.
Bill on Cryptocurrency Exchange Passes Committee
A bill on the automatic exchange of information on crypto assets and financial accounts has gained support in parliament. The aim is to increase transparency and improve administrative cooperation.
Increase in the Minimum Wage from January 1, 2026
The minimum wage in Bulgaria will increase to 1213 leva from January 1, 2026. The decision affects nearly 600,000 people and will increase purchasing power.
1 Billion Leva from the EU: Second Payment under the Recovery Plan
Bulgaria has received nearly 1 billion leva from the EU, the second payment under the Recovery and Resilience Plan, announced Prof. Angelov. The funds have been approved by the European Commission and are key to the country's development.
ATMs to start dispensing euros on January 1st
On January 1st, ATMs in Bulgaria will be loaded with euro banknotes. CEO Nikola Bakalov urges free deposit of levs before the conversion to euros, which will happen automatically.
Business in Bulgaria and Pension Contributions: Concerns for 2026.
The increase in pension contributions in the draft budget for 2026 raises concerns. The Bulgarian-Romanian Chamber of Commerce warns of risks to business and investment. The doubling of the tax on dividends is also worrying.
Denitsa Sacheva: The budget for next year will be discussed
Denitsa Sacheva announced that a meeting of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation will be held next week to discuss the budget. Employers show understanding of the situation, but have objections to the draft.
BNB Unveils the Design of Bulgarian Euro Coins
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) presented the design of the euro coins with the Bulgarian national side. The sale of starter kits begins on December 1, 2025, for individuals.
Bulgaria Towards the Eurozone: A Historical Necessity, Says Radev
Bulgaria's accession to the Eurozone is a historical necessity, according to the Governor of the Bulgarian National Bank, Dimitar Radev. He emphasizes European identity and the strategic significance of this process, viewing it as the beginning of a new path.