The Russian ruble continues to lose ground.

On December 30, 2024, the Russian ruble continues to lose ground: the dollar exchange rate on the international Forex market reached 111.7566 rubles per dollar at the start of trading. This is evidenced by data from the Investing.com portal.

Currently, the dollar is trading at around 105.4 rubles, confirming the persistent weakening of the Russian currency.

Main reasons for the ruble's decline:

• Sanctions. The introduction of new restrictions, including the addition of Gazprombank and other banks to the SDN sanctions list on November 21, has complicated currency transactions for Russian businesses and export revenues.
• Increased demand for currency by importers. Companies are actively purchasing foreign currency due to fears of shortages caused by new U.S. sanctions.
• Geopolitical instability. The escalation of geopolitical risks is putting additional pressure on the ruble.

• Decline in oil prices. Decreased revenue from oil sales negatively impacts the economy.
• Rising import costs. Logistical issues have increased the cost of imported goods.
• Easing of currency control. Lower requirements for exporters to repatriate foreign currency earnings exacerbate the currency deficit.

The situation in the currency market remains tense, and experts predict further fluctuations in the ruble's exchange rate depending on the developments of geopolitical and economic factors.