Bulgaria Expects Boost in Winter Tourism with Increased Foreign Visitors
Bulgaria is expecting a boost in winter tourism this year, with about 3.1 million foreign visitors projected between December and March
Bulgaria's Ministry of Finance is optimistic that the final requirement for joining the Eurozone will be met by December, according to acting Deputy Prime Minister and Minister Lyudmila Petkova. This criterion pertains to inflation, and Bulgaria plans to request a new assessment within two weeks following its fulfillment.
During a presentation on the financial framework's dynamics, Petkova noted that expenditures are currently outpacing revenues. In response to a question from BNR about the worst-case scenario, she stated, "I would like to argue that both the worst and best-case scenarios always have a solution. The key question is whether it is the optimal solution."
Petkova also mentioned that the topic of defense spending reaching 2.5% of Gross Domestic Product was discussed during the National Security Advisory Council meeting. While the 2025 budget is still being formulated, she refrained from commenting on specific operational parameters, urging against speculation.
The finance minister expressed confidence that political parties are willing to engage in dialogue regarding the budget and expressed hope that they will act responsibly.
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) has voiced strong opposition to a proposed 10% tax on banks' excess profits, citing concerns that it would destabilize the financial sector
Economist Rumen Galabinov has stated that Bulgaria's potential future membership in the Eurozone could significantly benefit the country's economy
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for Bulgaria in the third quarter of 2024 grew by 2.4% compared to the same period in 2023
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has projected that Bulgaria will join the eurozone in 2026
Bulgarians allocate a significant portion of their savings to deposits, with 73% of their assets held in this form
Bulgaria's Acting Finance Minister Lyudmila Petkova stated that discussions are ongoing regarding the payment of a 100 leva (50 euros) Christmas supplement to pensioners
Bulgaria Ranks Second in the Balkans at Paris 2024 Olympics, 26th Overall
Bulgaria Leads Europe in Heat-Related Deaths in Record-Breaking 2023