Cosmin Marinescu: România are cea mai scăzută intermediere financiară din UE, dar firmele sunt printre cele mai îndatorate

Romania has the lowest financial intermediation level in the EU, with high corporate debt, according to BNR's Cosmin Marinescu. He emphasizes the need for improved financing channels to enhance economic potential. The analysis highlights that financial system development is crucial but not sufficient for economic growth. The country's financial intermediation is significantly below the EU average, with a low percentage of bank loans to firms. Many companies prefer alternative financing sources, leading to liquidity risks. Despite a dynamic credit market post-pandemic, structural vulnerabilities hinder credit access. The state's borrowing pressures the private sector, increasing interest rates and reducing investment. Banks favor government securities over corporate loans, impacting overall financing availability.