Russian Gasoline Prices Now Exceed U.S. LevelsA liter of gasoline in Russia is now more expensive than in the United States for the first time in years, with taxes and refinery security cited as key factors by experts.
Gen Z's no-buy lists signal a shift in global consumer behaviorA viral trend encouraging people to create lists of items they will not buy is reshaping spending habits. Experts examine the potential economic and social impacts of this conscious consumption movement.
Russians Complain of Soaring Food Prices After New YearFollowing the New Year, Russians have taken to social media to share videos expressing dismay at rising supermarket prices, amid an increase in the value-added tax (VAT).
Russians' December spending jumps 10.8% year-on-yearIn December 2025, Russians spent 8.4 trillion rubles ($84 billion at current rates), a 10.8% increase from the previous year, with significant growth even after adjusting for inflation.
New Central Bank Powers Threaten Visa and Mastercard BlockingA new bill granting the Bank of Russia authority to limit bank card validity could lead to the blocking of millions of Visa and Mastercard cards and increased costs, sparking a dispute with banks.
Russia to simplify utility bill reductions for service disruptionsThe Russian government is preparing to introduce automatic recalculation of utility bills for poor-quality services or excessive interruptions. The change would move to a no-application system based on meter readings.
Why Microloan Borrowing Halved in Kurgan OblastThe Bank of Russia reported that microloan issuance in Kurgan Oblast dropped by half from January to September 2025, attributed to new credit restrictions aimed at reducing over-indebtedness.
Russia to raise unemployment benefits from February 2026The maximum monthly unemployment payout will increase to 15,886 rubles (about $177) starting February 1, 2026, as announced by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
