The Bank of Russia unexpectedly maintained its key interest rate at a record-high 21% , defying analysts’ expectations of another significant hike as inflation remains stubbornly elevated. The decision marks a shift toward a more measured approach in balancing economic growth and price stability. Key Details Inflation Concerns: Annual inflation climbed to 8.9% in November, well above the central bank’s 4% target , with inflation expectations reaching 13.9% in December. Policy Rationale: The central bank cited the significant tightening of monetary conditions after October’s 200-basis point hike as sufficient to resume disinflationary processes. Governor Elvira Nabiullina emphasized avoiding both economic overheating and severe slowdowns. Economic Overheating: Elevated government spending on the war in Ukraine and social programs, coupled with labor shortages and rising wages, have fueled strong domestic demand, exacerbating price pressures...
While watching World Cup and with the pay day coming in within a week, I'm thinking maybe I should do some write up on how the PCB or STD (Scheduled Tax Deduction) is calculated monthly as this has been a question mark for me whenever I am planning the budget for the subsequent month. Most people will have doubt on how the PCB or STD is calculated especially during the bonus month. In fact, most of us will be anxiously to know the tax deduction to have proper view how much we can spend during that month. So, it is always best for us to know how the PCB are calculated so that we can plan ahead. Here is how our STD or PCB are calculated. Assuming person E is single and is drawing monthly salary of RM3,000 and contributing 11% from his monthly salary to EPF. Salary = RM3,000 EPF deduction = RM330 (Note: The maximum total EPF deduction allowed for PCB or STD calculation is RM500 (RM6,000 / 12 = RM500)) Salary for PCB calculation = Gross salary - EPF deduction = RM3,000 - RM330 = RM...