Over the past twelve months, the bank deposits of the population in Romania grew more rapidly in foreign currency than those held in the local currency. As highlighted by the Romanian news outlet HotNews based on data released by the Central Bank, the nominal increase in savings in lei was almost completely neutralized by the inflation recorded in the country.

The comparison between savings instruments highlights marked differences in the yields offered by credit institutions. Twelve-month deposits denominated in lei guarantee on average between 5% and 6.5% annually, while those in euros stand between 0.5% and 2.10%. Both sides are subject to a 10% withholding tax at source.

Relative profitability depends on the depreciation of the national currency against the single European currency. After a period of stability that lasted several years, the exchange rate went from 5.2489 lei per euro on August 5, 2026, to 5.3470 lei on October 8, recording a loss of value close to 2% within just two months.

In the background, a challenging inflationary context remains: in May, inflation had reached 10.85%. The central bank of issue kept the reference rate unchanged at 6.50% in both July and October, signaling the possibility of further consumer price increases before the end of the current year.