Money, the great taboo for Romanians: why are we ashamed to talk about debt, salaries, and investments?

Money remains a sensitive and often taboo subject for many Romanians, shrouded in shame, fear of judgment, and social silence. A recent survey reveals that discussions about income, debt, or investments are frequently avoided, both within families and in daily life, significantly influencing the population's financial habits, from saving to investment decisions.

The relationship many Romanians have with money is largely built on discretion and avoidance. Nearly half of survey respondents reported that money was only discussed in their families when absolutely necessary. A small fraction recalled open discussions, while for many, money was considered a sensitive or even taboo topic from childhood. This implicit education, where finances are associated more with crisis than planning, shapes adult financial behaviors.

This culture of silence persists into adulthood, with debt being the most difficult topic to discuss, followed by income levels and borrowing from family or friends. Young adults, in particular, feel this pressure, with over 40% in the 18-24 age group considering debt the most delicate subject. "In Romania, money is still treated, in many contexts, as a subject that must be managed in silence," explains Irina Cristescu, General Manager of XTB Romania. "If in childhood we only hear about money when a problem arises, we come to associate financial conversations with stress, shame, or failure, not with planning, responsibility, and independence. This cultural legacy can contribute to poor financial decisions, avoidance of saving or investment, and, over time, financial vulnerability."

The study also highlights a divided social perception of those who openly discuss finances. While some view them as realistic or appreciate their openness, others believe financial problems should remain private or associate such discussions with poor decisions. This ambivalence suggests that conversations about money are conditionally accepted, depending on the context, interlocutor, and level of exposure. Faced with financial difficulties, most Romanians opt for individual solutions, discussing only with close acquaintances, while very few seek professional financial advice. This lack of professional consultation can amplify poor decisions and perpetuate financial vulnerability.

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In Romania, money is still treated, in many contexts, as a subject that must be managed in silence. If in childhood we only hear about money when a problem arises, we come to associate financial conversations with stress, shame, or failure, not with planning, responsibility, and independence. This cultural legacy can contribute to poor financial decisions, avoidance of saving or investment, and, over time, financial vulnerability.