In 2023, the city-state's operating deficit amounted to 83 million euros, which is 5 million more than in the previous year, the newspaper reports, citing a financial report.
The newspaper cites a decrease in donations from Catholic churches around the world, as well as from the population, as the main reason for the deficit. This is due to the fact that, firstly, many Catholics are disappointed with the reforms of Pope Francis. Another reason is the low level of visitors to the Vatican compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Donations are one of the three main sources of income for the Vatican. They also include money received from the sale of real estate and tickets to museums.
Currently, the negative balance of the Vatican's pension fund is estimated at 631 million euros, the newspaper notes.