Romania maintains S&P ‘BBB-’ rating amid fiscal progress and literacy gaps

S&P Global Ratings has reaffirmed Romania’s sovereign credit rating at ‘BBB-’ with a negative outlook. The agency noted progress in fiscal adjustment and the absorption of European funds, which have supported economic activity through high levels of public investment. However, the negative outlook remains due to risks regarding fiscal consolidation implementation for 2027-2028, political instability, a high current account deficit, and external financing needs. Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare stated that maintaining investment grade status is a significant result, but emphasized the need to meet 2026 deficit targets and build a credible 2027 budget to potentially stabilize the outlook.

Separately, a study by Cult Research for BCR highlights a gap in financial literacy among young Romanians. While 56% of those aged 18 to 34 rate their financial knowledge as good or very good, only 10% scored at least 10 out of 12 questions correctly on a literacy test. In contrast, the 50 to 64 age group achieved higher average scores despite lower self-reported confidence. The study also noted that younger Romanians are more optimistic about their retirement finances and show higher confidence in using digital banking services.