Romania's Citizens' Wealth Stagnates Over Long-Term, According to UBS Report
In the latest UBS Global Wealth Report 2025, several European countries have shown impressive growth in median wealth per adult. While some economies, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, have recorded more modest increases, others have experienced significant growth.
South Korea, Australia, Canada, and Japan recorded substantial growth in 2024, with increases of 13.9%, 10.7%, 9.6%, and 8.6% respectively. The US saw an increase of 2.3%, while the UK had the lowest increase, at 5.3%.
Among the five largest economies in Europe, Italy had the highest real increase in wealth per adult, at 15%. France, Germany, and Spain followed closely, with increases of 10.3%, 9.5%, and 9% respectively.
The report highlights Hungary as the European country with the highest increase in median wealth per adult between 2023 and 2024, with a staggering 18.6% increase. Lithuania and Sweden also experienced significant wealth increases, by 16.9% and 15.3% respectively.
However, not all European countries have seen positive growth. Among EU member states, candidate countries, members of the European Free Trade Association, and the United Kingdom, only Turkey and Belgium recorded a decrease in median wealth per adult. Turkey experienced a sharp 20.9% drop, and Belgium a 5.6% decrease.
When considering long-term average wealth trends, several countries have experienced declines. Austria had the most significant decline in average wealth per adult (-11.3%), followed by Estonia (-10.6%), Italy (-9.4%), and Ireland (-7.8%). Romania recorded a decline of 4.7%, and Hungary had a decrease of 0.3%.
Cyprus had the highest increase in wealth per adult in Europe's long-term average, with a significant increase of 43.9%. This is followed by Denmark, Latvia, and Lithuania, all with increases over 30%. Romania had an increase of 4.8%, and Hungary of 13.2%.
The report attributes the decline in real average wealth per adult during the period to high inflation. Several other European countries, including Italy and Latvia, saw wealth increases exceeding 15%.
In conclusion, while some European countries have experienced declines in wealth per adult, many have shown impressive growth. Hungary, Lithuania, and Sweden top the list of countries with the highest increases in median wealth per adult, making them the standout performers in Europe's economic landscape.
In the realm of personal finance, Hungary, Lithuania, and Sweden have been standout performers, recording the highest increases in median wealth per adult, making them a beacon for individuals seeking growth in their financial portfolios. Conversely, Italy and Austria have witnessed significant declines in average wealth per adult, highlighting the need for careful financial management and prudent investment strategies.
