刚刚！降息50个基点

Core Viewpoint - The Central Bank of Russia has lowered the key interest rate by 50 basis points to 16.5%, marking the fourth consecutive rate cut but the smallest reduction in this cycle [1][3]. Economic Outlook - Inflation expectations remain high, which may hinder sustainable inflation reduction. The bank has revised its 2026 inflation forecast from 4% to a range of 4%-5% and lowered the GDP growth forecast for this year from 1%-2% to 0.5%-1% [3][4]. - Recent inflation spikes are attributed to seasonal factors and a weakening effect of the strengthening ruble, alongside fuel shortages exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical tensions [3][4]. Monetary Policy - The Central Bank emphasizes the need to consider the cumulative impact of temporary inflationary factors on the process of reducing inflation expectations. Current inflation expectations stand at 12.6% for October [4][6]. - To achieve its inflation target by the end of next year, the bank believes that seasonally adjusted monthly data must remain close to 4% for an extended period [4][6]. Fiscal Policy Implications - The bank warns that the "inflation slowdown effect" for the 2025 budget will be significantly less than previously expected, indicating that changes in fiscal policy may necessitate corresponding adjustments in monetary policy [6][7]. - Decision-makers now anticipate an average key rate of 13%-15% for 2026, up from the previous forecast of 12%-13% [7]. External Factors - New sanctions imposed by the U.S. on Russia's largest oil producer complicate the economic landscape, potentially reducing revenue from oil exports and increasing the risk of a hard landing for the economy [5][6].