The Russian ruble has been a focal point in recent economic developments, with significant fluctuations and strategic decisions impacting its trade. Here are the key news items that shed light on the current state of the Russian ruble trade:
- USD Exchange Rate Set at 86.0923 RUB: On April 10, 2025, the Bank of Russia set the official USD exchange rate at 86.0923 RUB, marking a 0.63 RUB increase from the previous rate. The EUR exchange rate also saw an increase, rising by 1.32 RUB to 95.091 RUB, while the CNY exchange rate rose by 0.07 RUB to 11.6352 RUB.
- USD Exchange Rate Set at 84.8707 RUB: Earlier, on April 2, 2025, the Bank of Russia had set the official USD exchange rate at 84.8707 RUB, which was a 0.63 RUB decrease from the previous rate. The EUR exchange rate was lowered by 0.46 RUB to 91.9643 RUB, and the CNY exchange rate decreased by 0.11 RUB to 11.6029 RUB.
- Ruble Strengthens Against USD: On April 21, 2025, the over-the-counter (OTC) USD/RUB exchange rate fell below 80 RUB for the first time since June 19, 2024. The rate decreased by 39 kopecks to 80.21 RUB, with the lowest point reaching 79.94 RUB. This strengthening of the ruble is significant given the suspension of dollar trading on the Moscow Exchange last summer.
- MOEX Index Performance: The Moscow Exchange Index (MOEX) fell below 3100 points for the first time in six weeks, losing almost 2% in two days. This decline was influenced by the arrest of Rusagro’s head, Vadim Moshkovich, and geopolitical uncertainties. The strong ruble exchange rate negatively impacted export-oriented companies, which constitute a significant portion of the MOEX index.
Summary
The Russian ruble has experienced notable fluctuations in its exchange rates against major currencies such as the USD, EUR, and CNY. The Bank of Russia’s adjustments to these rates reflect ongoing economic strategies and responses to market conditions. Additionally, the ruble’s strengthening against the USD and the performance of the MOEX index highlight the broader economic context and the impact of geopolitical events on the ruble trade. These developments are crucial for understanding the current economic landscape in Russia and the implications for future trade and financial stability.