Tag: Economy

On July 20, the Finance Ministry announced it was suspending OFZ bond auctions "to help stabilize the market situation." Behind this dry formulation lies a rare occurrence: a government that needs to borrow more than 5 trillion rubles from the market in a year has voluntarily withdrawn from that very market. We examine why the government debt market has shut down and what this means for the budget, the ruble, and the population.

The day after tomorrow, on July 19, Spain will face Argentina in the final of the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Donald Trump in attendance. Over 39 days, the tournament has drawn 6.5 million spectators, and FIFA has promised the host countries a $40.9 billion boost to global GDP. That's the official figure. The question is: who will actually pocket what from this money?

The Ministry of Industry and Trade has backed the introduction of a 22% VAT on foreign online orders starting January 1, 2027—with no phase-in period. Officially, the measure aims to create a "level playing field" for Russian and foreign sellers. In reality, it amounts to hidden protectionism.

The microfinance market generated a record 67 billion rubles in profit, yet half of all MFOs are operating at a loss. An analysis of market polarization, the surge in online lending through marketplaces, and regulatory risks looming in 2026.

In 2025, the Central Bank recorded a loss of 184.8 billion rubles, compared to record profits of 199.5 billion rubles the previous year. We examine the reasons behind this reversal.

Why 29% of Russian companies slipped into negative territory: an analysis of corporate losses surging to 7.5 trillion rubles, driven by high Central Bank rates, falling oil prices, and shrinking business margins in 2025.

Analysis of the microfinance market: MFO portfolios have shrunk 5%, biometric verification and 'cooling-off periods' introduced, up to 40% of companies may exit the market. Central Bank data and forecasts through 2026.

How IBL and TIL work for regions: preferential terms at 3% per annum, financing volumes up to 1 trillion rubles, issues with deadlines and rising project costs according to the Accounts Chamber. Analysis of economic effects and risks of growing regional debt.

How social payments will change in 2026: state pensions rose 7.6%, maternity capital reached 737,000 rubles, disability benefits increased 6.8%. Complete information on indexation.

What's going up from January 1, 2026: VAT to 22%, utility tariffs by 1.7%, recycling fees by 10-25%. Economists and the Central Bank estimate the contribution to inflation at 1.2 to 2.5 percentage points. A breakdown of the impact on consumer prices.

Analysis of Russia's jewelry market in 2025: cross-border trade surges fourfold amid slowing offline sales, impact of high credit rates, and a 6% decline in store numbers. Trends and forecasts.

Analysis of Budget 2026 amendments: preserving tax breaks for the IT sector, phased reduction of the VAT threshold for small businesses, and striking a balance between the state's fiscal objectives and entrepreneurial interests.

Highlights from the conference on Russia's socio-economic development on November 24, 2025: debates on the Central Bank's monetary policy, GDP growth slowing to 1%, regional development, and the role of major corporations under new conditions.

Natural disasters cause $2.3 trillion in annual damage. How catastrophe bonds and green bonds work, why their market is expanding, and what's happening with these instruments in Russia—a deep dive into emerging climate finance mechanisms.

Payment defaults have become the primary challenge for 39% of Russian companies in Q3 2025. We examine the causes behind rising debt levels, the role of budget financing, and business survival strategies amid a liquidity crisis.

Why banks have returned to raising deposit rates after their rate-cutting strategy failed. How the new law insuring deposits up to 2.8 million rubles will reshape the market. Where Russians are moving their money in search of better terms.

Analysis of the 2026 budget draft: how reducing the deficit from 2.6% to 1.6% of GDP and stabilizing borrowing creates conditions for lowering the key rate and economic growth while maintaining low public debt.

Why Russia's economy has grown by just 37% over 34 years while China has increased its GDP thirteenfold. Academician Aganbeyan analyzes the innovation gap, investment challenges, and prescribes remedies for an economic breakthrough.

How global markets are responding to the upcoming Alaska summit. Expert forecasts on oil and gas prices, prospects for sanctions relief, and what it means for U.S.-Russia energy relations.