Bulgaria finalizes the transition to the euro earlier than expected.

Bulgaria is preparing to finalize the transition from leva to euro earlier than initially anticipated, with over 90% of the cash in leva already withdrawn from circulation.

The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) announced that, until March 27, 2026, the process is progressing according to the established plans, with 91% of cash collected, leaving only 2.9 billion leva in circulation. The circulation of euro has increased significantly, and from February 1, 2026, the euro will be the only legal means of payment. However, the BNB warns about inflation risks, estimating an increase to 3.7% in 2026, influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Alternative scenarios suggest possible additional increases in inflation, and the BNB emphasizes that these simulations do not include fiscal or monetary responses.