December 05, 2025, Sofia – The Association of Banks in Bulgaria (ABB) solemnly celebrated Banker’s Day on December 4, 2025, at Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia under the motto “Bulgaria in the Eurozone: A Time for Opportunities“. The focus of the event was the successful finalization of our country’s preparations for the adoption of the euro and the role of the banking sector in the smooth and secure transition to the single European currency. Among the official guests were the Vice President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Mrs. Iliyana Yotova, Mr. Dimitar Radev, Governor of BNB, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petar Chobanov, Deputy Governor of BNB, members of the BNB Governing Board, representatives of institutions, state administration, the banking sector, media and business partners.
The event was hosted by Mrs. Petia Dimitrova, Chairperson of the Board of ABB and CEO and Chairperson of the Board of Postbank, who gave an overview of the Association’s active role in the process of preparing for the adoption of the euro in Bulgaria. The official statements noted the opportunities that the eurozone opens for the Bulgarian economy, as well as the high degree of readiness of the banking system for the upcoming historical change.
“Today we can confidently say that we are entering the eurozone prepared, stable and competitive. The banking sector has invested over 200 million euros for technological, financial and regulatory adaptation to the introduction of the new currency. The assets of the banking system exceed 107 billion euros, the loan portfolio – 62 billion euros, and capital adequacy and liquidity remain among the highest in the EU. The fact that Bulgaria becomes part of the community that stands behind the second most significant currency on the global stage is recognition of the consistent efforts, reforms and will for development that we have all made over the years. This is a success that we share – the state, institutions, business, academic community and the entire society,” emphasized Mrs. Petia Dimitrova in her speech.
“2026 will be Bulgaria’s first year as a full member of the eurozone – a year in which we will begin to see the results of our long-term efforts. We expect an even higher credit rating for the country, better investment conditions, more international partnerships and more dynamic economic development,” she added.
In their welcoming speeches, the official guests emphasized the strategic step for Bulgaria and the importance of our country’s membership in the eurozone, as an engine for economic stability, investment confidence and closer integration ties with European markets.
“Bulgarian banks can safely state that they are ready for the adoption of the euro in the country. They spared no time and effort and, without much noise and spotlights, did their job wonderfully.
The convergence reports showed that the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) is the institution that is perfectly prepared for the introduction of the single currency in Bulgaria. With its serious authority, the BNB is one of the most reliable partners of the European Central Bank,” said the Vice President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Mrs. Iliyana Yotova, during her welcoming speech.
Mrs. Yotova pointed out that the euro is only a tool for achieving goals, a security zone that must be used in the best way possible for the development of the economy, for raising the standard of living of citizens, for Bulgaria as a full member to actively participate in the formation of the common financial and monetary policy and in the debates on reforms and development of the euro area.
The Governor of BNB, Mr. Dimitar Radev, emphasized: Bulgaria’s accession to the euro area is a historic act for our country, in which the banking sector plays a key role. This is a strategic asset with great potential for strengthening the macroeconomic environment, for higher investment activity and for increasing overall economic sustainability.
The country has demonstrated convincing results – economic growth is above the European average, inflation is gradually normalizing and will approach low and sustainable levels in the euro area, and employment remains close to a historical maximum. In this context, the banking sector is stable, with high liquidity, a strong capital position and sustainable profitability. This is a significant signal to both society and investors. In 2026, the banking sector will continue to support economic activity and consolidate its role as a source of stability and confidence in the euro area,” he added.
Among the special guests at the event was Mr. Martin Bijsterbosch, Deputy Director of the Euro Area External Sector and Euro Adoption Division at the Directorate General for Economics of the European Central Bank (ECB). He congratulated Bulgaria on this key step and emphasized the benefits for Bulgarian consumers, business owners, and investors from entering the euro area.
Mr. Beisterbosch presented the adoption of the euro in a historical perspective: “Bulgaria’s monetary history has long been closely intertwined with that of Europe. From the early pegging of the leva to the French franc in the 19th century to its fixation to the German mark in the 20th century. Bulgaria has consistently looked to Europe in its economic path. By adopting the euro, Bulgaria is not simply following tradition – it is building on it, guaranteeing itself a stronger and more integrated future in the very heart of Europe.”
“For years now, the European Commission has steadfastly supported Bulgaria on its path to the eurozone. When there is consistency and will, there is inevitably a good result. I express my gratitude to the banking sector for your dedicated efforts in preparing for the currency changeover. And for the partnership with the institutions. You manage finances, but also something more: you are part of the life of the ordinary person – when they trade, save, invest. The responsibility of the Bulgarian banking sector is enormous. So, I wish that your work will always be guided by integrity, foresight and care for the common good,” said Mrs. Yordanka Chobanova, Head of the European Commission Representation in Bulgaria, during her welcoming speech.
Chairperson of the Board of ABB and CEO and Chairperson of the Board of Postbank
Chairperson of the Board of ABB and CEO and Chairperson of the Board of Postbank
