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...
As we all read it from the news everywhere that the household debt in Malaysia is on the rise and the household debt has been going from 66.7% in 2009 to 74.6% end of 2010. What this is actually telling us is that for every RM1,000 that we earn, RM746 is used to serve loan ( source ). While I have been thinking of promoting debt or loan in this blog, but finally kill the idea of doing that as I know there are many people who cannot control once they stepped into the world of debt - even a financial pro. Below is the story of How a Financial Pro Lost His House . I find that this article can serve as a reminder to us that excessive leveraging has its danger as well. ONE night a few years ago, when the value of our home had collapsed, our debt was out of control and my financial planning business was shaky, I went to take out the trash. There was this enormous window that looked right in on the kitchen table, and through it I could see my wife, Cori, and our four children eating dinner. I...