Survey:Cost of living, unexpected expenses dominate Romanians' fears for this year

More than two-thirds of Romanians (68%) say their main concern for the next year is the rising cost of living, prompting them to cut spending and look for ways to reduce risk and protect financial stability, according to a survey of 1,006 employees nationwide.Beyond inflation pressures, 42% fear a general economic downturn, and 40% worry about major unexpected expenses such as medical issues or urgent repairs, tbi bank said."We are seeing a clear shift in people's attitudes. Stability, utility and the ability to cope with unforeseen events weigh more heavily than in the past," said Ionut Sabadac, VP Merchant Solutions at tbi bank, noting that demand for financial-planning tools is likely to grow in a volatile economic climate.Over half of respondents (52.9%) are pessimistic about the economy over the next 12 months, while a third express resignation. A share of 47.4% believe Romania risks entering a severe economic crisis, and 22% consider such a crisis is already inevitable.Professionally, 52.7% expect no change in their job situation, 20% foresee deterioration, and 14% plan to look for a better job. On income expectations, 38% expect earnings to stay flat, while over 8% anticipate 5 - 10% declines and 7.5% fear drops of more than 20%.As a result, 37% expect to cut consumption, 31% say financial pressure may affect even essential spending, and only 3% foresee a significant improvement in financial flexibility. More than 54% plan to reduce expenses and existing debts, 30.6% aim to increase savings and lower risk exposure, and almost 28% say they are entering financial survival mode.About 34% regularly review spending and avoid long-term commitments, 22% focus on short-term goals and flexibility, and 18% postpone major financial decisions until conditions improve.Faced with uncertainty, respondents report growing caution: 28% cite lack of predictability, a similar share say they are ready to adjust plans as risks evolve, and 19% prioritize financial protection over growth. Nearly 45% adopt calculated prudence, while 25% say unpredictability affects their decisions and 14.5% feel constant financial anxiety.The survey on how Romanians manage their money in 2026 was conducted online in April among 1,006 internet users, of whom over 53% are men, 66% are employed in the private sector, and nearly 57% earn a net income above 4,000 RON.