Romanians are becoming increasingly aware of the risks that could affect their financial and personal stability, yet few take concrete steps to protect themselves. Six out of ten Romanians say they do not feel prepared for an event that could significantly impact their personal finances this year, such as losing their job, facing a serious health issue, or being involved in an accident.

Despite these concerns, 52% postpone building an emergency fund, while 49% delay purchasing optional insurance products—including life, health, home, or travel insurance—even though they worry that a major financial emergency could occur at any time. These findings come from a recent study commissioned by Allianz-Țiriac and conducted by the Center for Urban and Regional Sociology (CURS) on a nationally representative sample of 1,218 respondents.

The rising cost of living remains the leading source of financial anxiety for 59% of respondents this year. It is followed by the lack of savings or inability to set money aside (48%) and health-related concerns (45%). Other major worries include a lack of personal financial security (38%) and the possibility of losing income or employment (36%).

Although people recognize these risks, 56% prioritize immediate needs and expenses over long-term financial planning and emergency preparedness. When managing their budgets, respondents place the highest priority on food, utility bills, and loan repayments (64%), followed by healthcare expenses (41%) and taxes and social contributions (38%). Furthermore, 48% admit that while they think about the future, they postpone decisions that could protect them, and only 22% take preventive measures.

“Financial protection is no longer a conversation about the future,” said Virgil Șoncutean, CEO of Allianz-Țiriac Asigurari. “We see that Romanians are aware of the risks, understand their vulnerabilities, and want to be protected, yet the gap between awareness and action remains significant. For younger generations, vulnerability stems from a lack of accumulated capital, while for older generations it comes from the growing pressure of rising expenses. In both groups, we observe a clear pattern: people act responsibly only when there is an obligation or immediate pressure, while long-term protection decisions are postponed. This gap between what we know is important and what we choose to do highlights the need to prioritize protection to prevent financial hardship when risks materialize.”

For most Romanians, a lack of financial resources remains the main reason for postponing decisions related to financial protection, followed by the perception that such decisions are not urgent. Specifically, 63% say they do not have sufficient financial resources to invest in measures that protect their future financial well-being, while 51% do not view these decisions as urgent. Another 46% prefer to deal with problems only when they arise, reinforcing a reactive rather than preventive approach.

The Allianz-Țiriac study was conducted nationwide in October 2025 using the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing) method. The survey included 1,218 respondents and is representative of Romania’s adult resident population, with a maximum margin of error of ±2.8% at a 95% confidence level.