The quality of life of modern society is largely determined by the level of economic well-being of its citizens. And citizens, in turn, are often worried about a decrease in the purchasing power of money, often earned with great difficulty. What is the inflation rate in today's Russia, and can we talk about the stabilization of the economy?
According to the analytical information department of the RBC media group, Rosstat has published data on the current inflation in Russia. In May 2012, it was 0.5%, and since the beginning of the year - 2.3%. For the previous year, these indicators were 0.5% and 4.8%, respectively. On an annualized basis, the inflation rate hovers around 3.6%. It should be noted that inflation targets for May 2012 were in the range of 0.4-0.5%.
According to RBC experts, inflation in the country has reached a certain minimum level and it is possible that it will soon begin to rise. Inflationary pressure in the near future may be intensified by a noticeable depreciation of the ruble relative to the bi-currency basket, as well as a trend towards higher prices for exports, which objectively increases consumer inflation.
In general, the statistical data on inflation so far coincide with the expectations and forecasts of specialists. They are most concerned about the emerging inflationary trend, the background for which was the weakening of the Russian currency. According to analysts' calculations, prices for basic foodstuffs will rise by the end of 2012.
The head of the Central Bank of Russia, Sergei Ignatiev, argues that the possible acceleration of inflation is most likely caused not so much by the weakening of the ruble as by the rise in prices for vegetables. Ignatiev made this statement at a press conference during the International Banking Congress. The central bank maintains its annual inflation forecast at 6%, seeing little cause for concern.
According to RIA Novosti, the head of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation also said that the outflow of private capital from the country in the first five months of 2012 amounted to more than $ 46 billion. It can be assumed that the withdrawal of funds abroad, for example, to Switzerland, may indicate significant fears of Russians associated with economic and political turmoil.
