- Bulgaria has adopted the euro, becoming the 21st member of the eurozone.
- The currency switch from the Bulgarian lev will occur throughout January 2026.
- Officials expect the euro to improve Bulgaria's economy and attract more tourists.

A: Hey! Did you hear anything interesting lately?

B: Not really! What’s up?

A: Bulgaria started using the euro! Can you believe it?

B: Wow, seriously? That's big news! When did that happen?

A: New Year's Day! January 2026. They're the 21st country to use it.

B: That’s amazing! Do you remember when it first started? Like, with Germany and France?

A: Yeah! It began way back in 1999, with lots of countries. Croatia joined recently, in 2023, right?

B: Right! So Bulgaria’s the newest one. Is it going to be a big change for them?

A: Apparently, they’re changing all the money in January. It's a whole process!

B: I heard their economy isn't the strongest in the EU. Hopefully, the euro will help!

A: Exactly! They’re hoping for more business and tourists. It's a good thing for them.

B: Ursula von der Leyen, you know, the EU president, she’s happy about it too.

A: She said it makes Europe stronger and more competitive. Pretty cool, huh?

B: Definitely! But some countries, like Sweden, don’t want to use the euro.

A: True! They voted against it. Everyone has different choices, I guess.