Economic geography

Foreign investment in Bulgaria has drastically fallen by 65% in 2024, according to the latest data from the Bulgarian National Bank, which was reported at the end of October. This decline is attributed to several factors, including weakening demand from traditional markets in Europe and around the world, as well as ongoing political uncertainty within the country.

In 2024, 92.1% of households in Bulgaria have internet access, according to the National Statistical Institute (NSI). This marks an increase of 3.6 percentage points compared to the previous year. Urban households have a higher internet penetration rate of 94.7%, while in rural areas, it stands at 84.3%.

Bulgaria's 17-year membership in the European Union has not lived up to the expectations of many Bulgarians, according to Senior Assistant Professor Dr. Tsvetomir Tsvetkov from Sofia University.

A visual group exhibition explores the evolving concept of "home" in the modern era, transformed by new media technology, the rise of nomadism and globalization. Featuring works from 11 artists, the exhibition is hosted at Misc (20 Tousa Botsari) and runs until December 7. Admission is free.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bulgaria recorded a net positive flow of 1.24 billion euros for the first nine months of 2024, equating to 1.2% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), according to data from the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB). Despite the positive figure, this represents a significant decline of 63.3% compared to the same period in 2023.

Türkiye's wholesale and retail trade claimed 16 percent of equity capital inflows or $46 million in August, according to data released by the Turkish International Investors Association (YASED).

The share of food, beverages, and tobacco manufacturing accounted for another 16 percent, performing above its past cumulative performance.

More than half of foreign direct investment in Greece was channeled into real estate in the first half of the current year, according to data from the country's central bank. 

The real estate market and capital inflows from abroad for the acquisition of mainly houses have this year provided a lifeline to the foreign direct investments made in Greece.

Interest in Türkiye is growing, Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek has said on social media platform X, after holding talks in Germany during a one-day visit.

He had productive meetings with executives of large companies and investors in Germany, the minister said.

"We are intensifying our efforts to increase international direct investments, which is our main goal," Şimşek added.

Most foreign direct investments (FDI) into Türkiye in July 2024 came from European Union (EU-27) countries, the International Investors' Association (YASED) has said in a report, based on the latest balance of payments data.

The EU accounted for 70 percent of FDI inflows, followed by the Americas at 12 percent.