VTB forecasts modest growth and stable inflation for Russia in 2026
VTB has shared its economic forecasts for 2026 at its annual Investor Day. Andrei Yatskov, who leads the bank’s brokerage division, outlined expectations for inflation, interest rates, and currency trends. The bank also highlighted investment opportunities in stocks and bonds for the coming year. The bank expects Russia’s economy to grow modestly in 2026, with a projected increase of up to 0.5%. Inflation is forecast to reach 5.3% by the end of the year. VTB also anticipates the central bank’s key interest rate will settle at 12%.
For investors, Yatskov pointed to government bonds as a strong option, noting they are entering a growth phase. The ruble is predicted to average 81 against the US dollar over the year.
VTB analysts also recommended stocks, particularly in the IT and financial sectors. High-dividend shares were singled out as especially attractive for buyers in the current market. VTB’s projections suggest a cautious but stable economic outlook for 2026. The bank’s advice focuses on bonds and select stocks, with expectations of steady inflation and interest rates. Investors will likely watch these trends closely in the months ahead.
