The Bulgarian National Bank has lowered the base interest rate for the second consecutive month. As of August 1, it stands at 3.53%, down from 3.63% in July. Since the end of 2023, the base interest rate has been gradually falling. From February 2016 to September 2022, the base interest rate was 0.00%. On October 1, 2022, the rate went up to 0.49%.
As of June 30, the net profit of the banking system for 2024 was EUR 0.9 billion, representing a 7.1% increase compared to the first six months of 2023, according to BNB statistics. Over a quarter of the income comes from fees and commissions. Banks earned EUR 1.6 billion from interest on loans in the first half of the year and paid out EUR 290 million in interest on deposits. Bank assets increased by over EUR 1 billion or 1.2% in the first half of 2024. Losses have risen by EUR 46 million to EUR 139 million, representing a 50.1% increase compared to the first six months of 2023.
The two largest trade unions in Bulgaria - the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria and the Confederation of Trade Unions "Podkrepa" - are organizing a warning protest in front of the Council of Ministers building. It is planned for..
In view of the country's declining population, the Fiscal Council recommends that the government take savings measures in the 2026 state budget. The measures include: reducing the municipal administration by merging municipalities;..
No disruptions or price increases are expected on Bulgaria’s fuel market following the US sanctions imposed on Russian oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil, Bulgarian Petroleum and Gas Association Chairman Svetoslav Benchev told BTA. "For now, I..
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