ZAGREB, 21 May (Hina) - Around 38% of Croatia citizens save regularly, 29% typically set aside about 200 euros, and 32% end the month or wait for their next salary with a negative bank balance, according to a survey by Alma Career Croatia based on more than 11,400 respondents.

One in four respondents saves around 100 euros per month, 22% manage to put aside about 500 euros, while 11% save 1,000 euros or more.

The most common saving method is contractual savings, used by 45% of savers, while 39% keep money “in cash”, outside banks, funds or financial markets.

Around one in five invest in funds, and 17% save through voluntary pension schemes. Less common are life insurance products (12%) and housing savings (5%).

Among savers, 68% set money aside for emergencies such as illness, car repairs or replacing expensive household appliances.

About 38% save for major expenses such as buying or renovating property or purchasing a car, while 24% save for retirement.

Some 27% save for travel, and the same share for discretionary purchases. A further 16% save without a specific goal, simply to maintain a financial cushion.

Financial pressure is somewhat higher among women, with 36% ending the month in overdraft compared with 24% of men. People in older age groups are also more likely to fall into overdraft than younger respondents.

When asked how long they could cover basic expenses such as food and utilities if their income suddenly stopped, 27% said up to six months, 17% around two months, and 22% about one month.

The survey highlights the extent of financial vulnerability among citizens. About 18% said they already do not earn enough to meet their needs, while 16% said they would be unable to afford basic expenses immediately if they lost their income.

Srđan Baković

Izvršni urednik 

Hrvatska izvještajna novinska agencija (HINA)