Russia's Central Bank Cuts Key Rate to 14.5%

The Central Bank of Russia reduced its key interest rate by 0.5 percentage points to 14.5% on Friday, marking its eighth consecutive cut. This decision comes as the Russian economy showed signs of slowing in early 2026, with subdued consumer demand and investment activity. Despite the cut, the central bank maintained its 2026 GDP growth forecast at a modest 0.5-1.5% and warned that "proinflationary risks still prevail," leaving the door open for potential tightening later in the year.