Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has suggested that banks may once again be called upon to contribute to the upcoming 2026 budget law, echoing last year’s move that saw the financial sector play a role in stabilizing public finances.
Speaking on the popular talk show Porta a Porta on Rai1, Meloni stressed that this would not be a punitive measure, but a “gesture of shared responsibility”.
“They benefited from a better scenario”
“We already did it last year,” Meloni noted. “I have no intention of punishing the banking system — it remains a national asset. But banks have benefited from a better scenario, partly thanks to the policies we’ve implemented. Meanwhile, there are still Italians who need to be protected. I think we can ask for help again this year, just as we did before.”
Financial responsibility meets social equity
The prime minister’s remarks come as the government finalizes its 2026 budget bill, balancing economic growth, fiscal discipline, and social protection. The idea of a renewed “solidarity contribution” from banks reflects Meloni’s approach to sharing the economic burden while maintaining political stability.
Her comments also signal an effort to reassure both markets and voters: Italy won’t compromise on fiscal prudence — but it won’t abandon citizens facing financial strain either.
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