Pillar 2 pensions have exceeded 100 billion RON in net gains for participants

The mandatory private pension system, Pillar 2, has for the first time surpassed the threshold of 100 billion RON in net gains for contributors. At the end of July 2026, the cumulative net return of the funds reached 108.6 billion RON, equivalent to approximately 20.7 billion euros, according to data published by the Association for Privately Administered Pensions in Romania (APAPR).

Assets of nearly 247 billion RON

According to calculations by APAPR, published on the pilonul2.ro platform, the total value of net assets managed by the mandatory private funds stands at 246.7 billion RON, equivalent to approximately 47 billion euros. These sums are managed on behalf of 8.5 million Romanians enrolled in the system.

To date, the funds have made payments totalling 7.9 billion RON (approximately 1.5 billion euros) to more than 350,000 participants and beneficiaries. According to association representatives, these figures demonstrate that the system functions not only during the period when funds are accumulating, but also at the stage when they are actually paid out.

APAPR President Cristian Pascu stated: "Behind these figures are millions of Romanians saving for their future. Surpassing the threshold of 100 billion RON in net gains achieved for participants is the clearest proof that Pillar 2 is fulfilling the mission for which it was created: transforming Romanians' monthly contributions into solid savings for the future."

He also noted that the number of people who have already received payments from the private funds shows that the mechanism delivers "concrete and measurable results beyond the accumulation period as well."

Over 4.6 million active contributors

Of the 8.5 million Pillar 2 participants, more than 4.6 million contribute on a monthly basis. The share allocated to private funds is 4.75% of gross income and forms part of the total social insurance contribution of 25%.

According to APAPR, Pillar 2 has become the second most valuable financial asset held by the population, immediately after bank deposits, and is one of the principal forms of long-term saving, particularly for people on lower incomes.

Nearly all investments remain in Romania

The association notes that approximately 95% of private pension fund assets are invested in the domestic market. Roughly two thirds of the funds are placed in government securities, whilst over a quarter of assets are held in shares of companies listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange.

According to APAPR, these investments carry a prudent risk profile and contribute to financing the state and Romanian companies, whilst also supporting the development of the national economy.

Those interested can check which private pension fund they contribute to via the pilonul2.ro portal. They can subsequently create an online account directly on the fund administrator's website, where they can view the amount accumulated, their contribution history, and other information about their individual account.