Russians were told about a possible reduction of the key rate of the Central Bank of Russia in 2026

The Central Bank (CBR) is likely to keep the key rate at 21% at the upcoming meeting. In the medium term, the rate reduction will not start until mid-2025. By the end of next year, it may drop to 18-19%, but only if inflation targets are achieved and the economy stabilizes, Ruslan Pichugin, an independent private equity expert, told Izvestia on February 13.

"Lending volumes continue to decline. This trend is primarily caused by supply constraints: tighter regulation and stricter requirements for borrowers. In my opinion, this is due to the need to reduce credit risks for banks, which are facing the growth of problem assets and an increase in the number of defaults," the expert explained.

According to him, there is still a risk of deterioration in the financial situation of households, which will lead to an increase in overdue debt.

"Policy easing will only become possible with a steady improvement in key economic indicators, including lower inflation and stabilization of financial markets," Pichugin concluded.

Payment is difficult: overdue consumer loans jumped by one and a half times

Why it is increasingly difficult for Russians to pay their debts on time and what the Central Bank can do about it

The Bank of Russia kept the key rate at 21% per annum in December 2024. The next rate meeting is scheduled for February 14. Most experts polled by Izvestia believe that the Central Bank will keep the rate at the same level.