Skopje, 30 June 2026
“Measuring financial literacy means to assess the ability of efficient management of personal finances, which among other things, implies knowledge and skill for budget planning, rational spending, as well as understanding the basic financial concepts for saving and investing”, said the Chief Economist of the National Bank, Aneta Krstevska, in the interview for “Sloboden pecat”, emphasizing that financial literacy in the country is gradually improving, however the rapid development of digital financial services requires continuous upgrade of knowledge.
Krstevska said that the National Bank takes activities for improving the financial literacy of the population of all age groups, with a special emphasis on young people who are still in education. In general, young people show greater interest in digital financial services and are more inclined to engage in modern digital flows. "Consequently, in a contemporary environment, when there is wide access to information via the Internet, due attention should be paid to the appropriate education of young people, providing them with right guidance towards use of financial services," the Chief Economist emphasized.
Referring to consumer protection, she emphasized that the National Bank, in addition to regulatory activities, also provides practical tools for comparing loans, deposits, as well as payment service fees, with the new regulation strengthening further bank transparency.
The interview also accentuated the need of including financial education in the formal education system, with mandatory systemic coverage of young people. "This step will shape future generations who will know how to manage their finances, avoid excessive debt, protect themselves from financial risks and make sustainable financial decisions. This requires a joint effort by both financial regulators and educational institutions," Chief Economist Krstevska said.
The full interview can be accessed at the following link: https://www.slobodenpecat.mk/intervju-vo-uchilishte-treba-da-ima-poseben-predmet-za-finansiska-edukacija-rizicite-se-golemi-veli-aneta-krstevska-glavna-ekonomistka-vo-narodnata-banka/