We are preparing the systems for exchange and payments in euros

At UniCredit Bulbank, as in other banks in Bulgaria, we are actively working and preparing for the country's accession to the Eurozone, as soon as there is a political decision for this. In general, our activity is structured in three directions.

The first direction is to be ready to provide citizens with a double price labeling in euros and levs. This requires serious coordination, because the channels through which banks communicate with customers have significantly increased in recent years – via account statements, websites, mobile banking, etc.

Our second priority is to have information systems in place to ensure smooth payments and exchange of funds.

The third priority is the exchange of cash money and organizing it in a way that is most convenient for the citizens. We recommend that customers take advantage of the possibility of automatic currency conversion by depositing their funds in the banks.

The area in which we still need to work actively is a communication campaign about the benefits that the adoption of the euro will bring to our society. This is a long-awaited process that will positively affect the Bulgarian economy and will be an engine for accelerating reforms, increasing well-being and reaching European standards of living. It will also bring a number of benefits to citizens and businesses, such as reducing transaction costs, improving the investment environment and activating local and foreign investments with the expected effect on employment.

In this regard, we are also preparing a unified communication campaign at the banking association level. I am sure that each bank will also find the most correct channels and approach to give the necessary clarity to all its customers.