The strengthening ruble has led to a decrease in prices for household appliances and foreign travel, offering a favorable moment for purchases. The ruble’s appreciation, driven by factors like the tax period, currency controls, and high oil prices, has created a temporary window of opportunity for consumers.

Over the past few months, electronics prices have dropped by 10–20% due to the stronger ruble and warehouse stock clearances. Specific brands like Kraft, Biryusa, and Beko have seen notable price reductions.

Foreign tours have also become significantly cheaper, with Turkey anticipating a record number of Russian tourists this year.

Financial analysts suggest that this favorable exchange rate may not last, predicting a potential rise in the dollar towards the end of the year due to seasonal import growth, possible export revenue decreases, and geopolitical uncertainty.

Experts anticipate exchange rate fluctuations in the near term, with potential ranges of 77.5 to 84 rubles per dollar and 88 to 94 rubles per euro.

The Central Bank’s key rate is expected to decrease from its current level, further influencing the ruble’s value. This could lead to a turning point for the ruble in June.

A stable ruble, coupled with declining inflation and stabilized consumer expectations, will likely drive a reduction in the key rate. Bank rates are expected to gradually decrease, and the Bank of Russia will soon decide on the extent of the rate cut.

While a significant decrease to 18% is possible, the risks of ruble depreciation and import growth may temper the pace of these cuts.