RUR in the spotlight: latest news

Russia's 2026 budget indicates that in order to sustain the ongoing war efforts, consumers will have to endure higher costs for reduced services and products.

Barclays anticipates that the Russian ruble will continue to weaken over the duration of its forecast period, as stated in a currency outlook published on Monday.

The Kremlin is considering raising the value-added tax to 22%, contradicting previous commitments to avoid tax increases. A bill regarding this change has already been submitted to the State Duma for consideration.

Oil prices have declined, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) trading at $62.68 and Brent crude at $66.68. Former President Trump has pledged to lower crude prices in an effort to undermine Russia's war funding, as Moscow's oil revenues have fallen by 23%.

Experts predict a potential 2% cut in the key interest rate today, signaling a move towards 'unfreezing' Russia's economy.

The Russian market for cryptocurrency investment products is projected to reach approximately $24 billion next year, according to forecasts from a prominent member of Russia's financial community.

The USD/RUB exchange rate has risen above 85.00 due to escalating geopolitical tensions following reports of Russian drones being spotted over Poland. The resistance level is identified at 85.50, while the target is set near 86.30.

The BRICS nations are exploring the creation of a new currency aimed at competing with the US dollar and have recently unveiled plans for a blockchain-based payment system.

Herman Gref stated that a decrease in Russia's key interest rate to 14% by year-end will not be adequate, as the economy could begin to recover at a rate of 12%.

A systemic crisis in the Russian grain industry has escalated over the past three years, leading to a significant number of farmers abandoning their crops.

Russia anticipates a consolidated budget deficit of 5.1% of GDP for the years 2025 to 2027, which is expected to amount to $150 billion. This forecast comes from analysts who were surveyed by The Moscow Times.

Russia's economy showed no growth in the second quarter of 2025, indicating a period of technical stagnation, according to the chief of Sberbank.

In August, Russia's federal budget saw a decline of approximately 35% in oil and gas revenues compared to the same month last year, according to recent data from the Russian government.

In August, Russia's oil and gas revenues decreased by 36%, resulting in 282 billion rubles less in budget income for the Kremlin compared to July.

SovEcon, a prominent agricultural consultancy, has increased its forecast for Russian wheat exports for the 2025-26 marketing season. However, initial shipment levels are expected to be low.

The Bank of Russia outlines its monetary policy goals and implementation strategies in its Monetary Policy Guidelines for 2026–2028, detailing the framework for annual economic management.

In the update for August 26, it was reported that between July 29 and August 26, Russian forces captured 180 square miles of Ukrainian territory. This represents a 24% decrease compared to the previous period, during which they gained 237 square miles.

The UAE is intensifying its cryptocurrency strategies aimed at reducing reliance on the dollar by collaborating with BRICS+ nations.