Most Romanians abandoned personal projects in recent years because of financial constraints, but are willing to spend again to keep up their living standards, according to a recent study by Cetelem. Almost 90 percent of Romanians see themselves spending again, while 25 percent are willing to put money aside, up from just 14 percent last year.

“Romanians' perception of their wealth is close to the average for Eastern Europeans, with 39 percent of those questioned saying they are happy or very happy with their situation,” according to Cetelem Romania. Romanians and Poles and among the Europeans who plan to increase their personal spending this year.

Romanians are preoccupied with improving living standards for themselves – 71 percent of respondents, or ensure a better education for their children – also 71 percent.

Elsewhere in Europe, citizens look at the financial perspectives less optimistically, with consumer confidence having reached its historic low, of 3.8 points of out 10. Purchase intentions are at a similar level as last year, excepting mobile phone purchases, which lost appeal and was replaced by the intention to buy furniture.

Cetelem's study, created in partnership with BIPE, is based on a research between November and December 2011 by the research institute TNS Sofres in several European countries.

editor@romania-insider.com