Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 10
Putin Signals Rate Cut From 14.5% Next Week as Russian Inflation Slips Above 5%
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 10

Putin Signals Rate Cut From 14.5% Next Week as Russian Inflation Slips Above 5%

3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 10

Summary

  • June 19 is now the focal point after Putin said Russia has grounds to cut its key rate again, signaling support for easier policy at the central bank’s next meeting.
  • Inflation has fallen to just above 5%, Putin said, arguing the bank’s earlier tightening delivered results even after businesses attacked last year’s jump to 21%.
  • Elvira Nabiullina missed Wednesday’s meeting and two recent public appearances, including the St Petersburg forum, with the central bank saying she is on sick leave.
  • Russia’s economy contracted 0.2% in the first quarter, and officials blame high borrowing costs, sanctions and a strong rouble as the government searches for ways to revive growth.
  • The central bank has already cut rates to 14.5%, while the economy is expected to grow only 0.4% this year after slowing sharply from 4.9% in 2023 to 1% in 2025.

Insights

With its war machine booming, can Russia's civilian economy escape a long and slow decline?
Is Russia's economic stability a reality, or an illusion fueled by temporary high oil prices?