Money

Russia’s economy falters as ruble plummets after sanctions

### Russia’s Economy Faces Strain as Ruble Plummets Amid Sanctions; Putin Claims Situation is Under Control.

Published

1 year ago

November 30, 2024

ticker NEWS

The Russian economy is facing new challenges, showing signs of strain after more than two years of war and sanctions.

The Biden administration’s recent decision to impose stricter sanctions on Gazprombank and over 50 other financial institutions has triggered this downturn. Gazprombank was previously excluded from sanctions to facilitate energy payments, crucial for Russia’s export revenue.

This week, the ruble fell to its lowest value in 32 months, trading at approximately 108 rubles to the dollar. The Russian central bank intervened to stabilize the currency by halting foreign currency purchases, a move aimed at addressing the shortage of hard currency in the market.

President Putin assured the public that the economic situation was under control, although Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov acknowledged the need to adapt to the new sanctions.

Concerns about trade disruptions have arisen, and analysts note that Russia may face increasing difficulties as the conflict continues. The new sanctions are expected to impact trade routes further.

Inflation in Russia is high, running at over 9%, with consumer prices increasing significantly. The central bank’s response has included raising interest rates to combat inflation, which is anticipated to rise further next year.

Despite these challenges, experts believe Russia is not facing an immediate crisis. However, the prolonged war will likely strain economic resources, leading to critical trade-offs in government spending and social services. Public sentiment remains anxious as citizens closely monitor currency fluctuations.

Money

Australian Dollar surges: What $0.70 means for markets

Australian dollar surges 5% to $0.70, impacting importers, exporters, and big miners amid rising interest rates.

Published

2 days ago

February 18, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australian dollar surges 5% to $0.70, impacting importers, exporters, and big miners amid rising interest rates.

The Australian dollar has jumped more than 5 percent against the U.S. dollar this year, now trading around $0.70. This rapid rise has sparked mixed reactions for importers and exporters as Australia’s materials sector shows signs of bouncing back, despite concerns over rising interest rates.

Dale Gilham from Wealth Within breaks down the factors behind the AUD surge, the implications for commodities, and what it means for big miners like BHP. From profits to strategy, we explore how the market is reacting to this currency shift.

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#AustralianDollar #AUD #Forex #Investing #Commodities #BHP #Mining #Markets

Money

S&P 500 rises as financial stocks lead and tech slips

S&P 500 rises 0.4% thanks to financial stocks; software struggles amidst AI concerns. Subscribe for updates!

Published

2 days ago

February 18, 2026

Harvey Vargas

S&P 500 rises 0.4% thanks to financial stocks; software struggles amidst AI concerns. Subscribe for updates!

The S&P 500 climbed 0.4% on Tuesday, boosted by strong gains in financial stocks. Citigroup and JPMorgan led the rally, showing investors are rotating money into the sector as tech stocks faltered.

Meanwhile, software shares struggled, with ServiceNow, Autodesk, and Palo Alto Networks all seeing notable declines. Concerns around AI disruption continue to affect the software and financial sectors alike.

Market watchers are now turning their attention to upcoming inflation reports later this week, looking for signals that could shape the next moves in the market.

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Money

Australia’s GST debate heats up amid tax reform push

Australia debates GST expansion amid aging population pressures and personal income tax concerns; expert insights from Dr. Steven Enticott.

Published

3 days ago

February 17, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australia debates GST expansion amid aging population pressures and personal income tax concerns; expert insights from Dr. Steven Enticott.

Australia is facing a fierce debate over tax reform, with fresh calls to broaden the Goods and Services Tax as the government searches for more stable revenue streams. With an ageing population putting pressure on health, pensions and long-term spending, economists argue the current reliance on personal income tax may not be sustainable.

Dr Steven Enticott from CIA Tax joins Ticker to break down the real impact of expanding the GST, including how it could affect lower-income households, whether taxing unrealised gains would change investor behaviour, and what compensation mechanisms could soften the blow on essential goods. The political risks are high, but so are the fiscal stakes.

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