Russia news 2026: central bank holds rates as ruble and inflation stabilise

The Bank of Russia left its key interest rate unchanged at its June 2026 meeting, citing progress on core inflation while warning that services and imported component costs could still pressure household budgets in Moscow and regional capitals. Officials said ruble stability in recent weeks reflected balanced energy receipts and tighter fiscal discipline.

Retail chains in Saint Petersburg and Yekaterinburg reported steady demand for domestically assembled electronics and appliances as import substitution policies matured. Small businesses asked regulators for clearer credit lines tied to local supplier certification programmes.

Analysts noted that capital controls and settlement mechanisms with Asian trade partners continued to shield FX markets from abrupt swings. Independent economists urged transparent publication of quarterly external-sector data to improve investor readability.

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