ECB publishes first analysis after Euro adoption in Bulgaria

The ECB's analysis indicates Bulgaria's euro adoption is proceeding smoothly, with minimal price shocks and inflation increases. Public confidence in the euro has improved, reflecting experiences similar to other eurozone nations.

The European Central Bank (ECB) has released its first analysis following Bulgaria’s entry into the euro area. The report shows that the introduction of the euro is going smoothly, without major price shocks.

The study, titled “Adoption of the euro and price increases in Bulgaria: separating myths from facts”, reviews price trends and public attitudes in the first months of 2026. According to the ECB, fears of sharp price rises were common before the change, but the data show only a small and temporary impact. Inflation rose by about 0.3–0.4 percentage points in January, a level similar to other countries that adopted the euro.

Overall inflation in Bulgaria has continued to decline: from 3.5% in December 2025 to 2.3% in January and 2.1% in February 2026. The ECB notes that price changes were minimal, often just a few euro cents, and mostly limited to the services sector. Strong consumer protection measures, inspections, and monitoring helped prevent unjustified increases.

Public sentiment has also improved. Surveys by Alfa Research show that in February 2026, confidence in the euro reached 54%, the first time support exceeded half of respondents. The ECB concludes that Bulgaria’s experience mirrors that of other eurozone countries: limited price effects, stable inflation expectations, and growing trust in the new currency.