The Bank of Russia has lowered the key rate to 15%.

      Today, March 20, the Board of Directors of the Bank of Russia decided to lower the key rate by 50 basis points to 15% per annum. The next rate meeting will take place on April 24. Further decisions will depend on inflation, inflation expectations, and assessments of internal and external risks.

      The regulator noted that price growth, after a temporary acceleration in January, slowed down in February. At the same time, uncertainty regarding external conditions has significantly increased. As for the country's economy as a whole, it is striving for balanced growth.

      The Bank of Russia expects annual inflation to decrease to 4.5-5.5% in 2026 and to 4% in 2027. However, it is worth reminding that the inflation forecast has changed multiple times, so it may change again.