Data from the latest ING Consumer Research study shows that Romanians are feeling the pressure of economic changes, but view financial education as a practical tool for making better decisions and leading a more balanced life.
The study shows that 8 out of 10 Romanians say financial education should be taught in school. At the same time, 71% say that their financial health significantly influences their overall well-being. The topic of financial education becomes all the more relevant as more and more Romanians say they need clear guidelines and practical tools to make better decisions in their daily lives.
The data shows that, for many Romanians, money is no longer just about calculations and expenses, but also about peace of mind, confidence, and the ability to see the future more clearly. In a context where 73% of Romanians expect food prices to rise faster over the next 12 months, and 68% believe the number of unemployed will increase during the same period, financial education is increasingly seen as a life skill.
“In an economic climate that’s making people more mindful of their money, financial education is no longer just useful information—it’s a necessity. Concrete support that gives you confidence, control, and the freedom to make your own decisions. We see a real need for simple explanations and easy-to-use solutions that help people take control of their money and feel more confident in their own financial choices, without fear of judgment from those around them,” says Diana Mihai, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Brand Experience, ING Bank Romania.
What does the data say about the current level of financial literacy?
According to the study, 86% of Romanians rate their financial knowledge as average or above average. At the same time, only 11% answered at least 4 out of 5 basic questions included in the study correctly. Furthermore, 53% of households have savings, indicating that, for a significant portion of the population, building a financial safety net remains a challenge.
Why is investing becoming an increasingly sensitive topic for Romanians?
In addition to cost pressures and economic uncertainty, the study shows that 62% of Romanians say the current environment makes them anxious when it comes to investing. This result suggests a need for clearer guidelines, accessible information, and financial conversations that are more in tune with everyday reality.
How does ING support financial education in Romania?
In this context, ING continues to support financial education through initiatives that address real needs in society. One example is Ora de Banometrie, a program run in partnership with the National Federation of ProEdu Parents and expanded nationwide in 2025. The first national edition reached 233 classrooms in 50 high schools across 20 cities, involving nearly 8,500 tenth-grade students and 85 volunteers from ING.
At the same time, Banometru, a free financial coaching program founded in partnership with the Education for Real Life Association and the Association for Community Relations, promotes the development of healthy financial habits. Since 2016, the program has helped over 250,000 people change their relationship with money.
