Latest News

The Russian rouble is at a one-month high versus the US dollar

On Thursday, the Russian rouble reached its highest level since September's beginning.

By 0900 GMT, the rouble had risen by about 2% against the dollar to reach 80.85. This is the highest level since September 4. The rouble also rose 0.5% against the Chinese yuan to 11.31.

Analysts say the rouble is supported by expectations that the central bank will slow down the pace at which it cuts interest rates in the months to come, following the announcement of a tax increase in 2026 and the acceleration of sales of Russian crude oil.

Sources say that Russia increased oil exports through its western ports in September by 25% compared to August. This was due to refinery outages caused as a result of Ukrainian drone attacks, which reduced processing capacity.

Maxim Timoshenko, from Russian Standard Bank, said that the expectation of a slower easing in monetary policy is on the side for the national currency.

He added, "Also, there's demand for Russian crude oil. Its maritime exports increased in September to their highest level in 16 months."

So far, the rouble is not reacting to reports that the U.S. will provide intelligence to Kyiv on Russian energy targets. (Reporting and editing by Gareth Jones.)

(source: Reuters)