Russian central bank took a dramatic step on Tuesday by raising its key interest rate by a substantial 350 basis points to 12%. This sudden move was made in an emergency effort to counteract the sharp decline of the rouble, which had slipped below the critical threshold of 100 against the US dollar just the day before. The rouble’s downturn has been attributed to the compounding impact of Western sanctions on Russia’s trade balance and a surge in military expenditures.
The decision for this extraordinary interest rate meeting was prompted by a public call from the Kremlin itself, signaling a sense of urgency in addressing the currency’s depreciation. The rouble, having experienced a tumultuous drop below 100 against the dollar, showed signs of stabilizing after the rate announcement. Despite this reprieve, it remained 0.3% weaker at 98.00 by 0948 GMT. Nevertheless, this value is considerably higher than the lows of approximately 102 recorded on Monday. These levels had not been witnessed since the early aftermath of Russia’s incursion into Ukraine.
Maxim Oreshkin, an economic adviser to President Vladimir Putin, publicly criticized the central bank’s monetary policy on Monday, blaming it for the rouble’s weakening. Following Oreshkin’s comments, the central bank swiftly responded by convening an emergency meeting, aiming to halt the rouble’s downward spiral and provide a lifeline for the currency.
The economic situation in Russia has been notably strained by a combination of external factors. The impact of Western sanctions has taken a toll on the nation’s balance of trade, undermining its economic stability. Moreover, the surge in military spending, presumably in response to geopolitical tensions, has further strained Russia’s financial landscape.
The central bank’s substantial increase in the key interest rate is seen as a bold and unconventional move to stabilize the currency. The decision underscores the severity of the situation and the government’s commitment to curbing the rouble’s slide. The geopolitical landscape remains complex, and the rouble’s resilience will continue to be closely watched by global markets.
