By Yuri Chernyakevich
Experts believe the trend will continue: in the national and foreign currencies. Alexander Mukha, a financial analyst with Business Forecast Research Group, explains, “The inflow of deposits into our banking system depends on Belarusian Rouble rate dynamics and inflation. If the domestic currency market remains stable and inflation moderate, we can say that Belarusians should continue saving with our banks.” He feels certain that many individuals are now attempting to make money from the high rates being paid on Rouble deposits. “In future, banks will stop offering such rates (40 percent and above). People understand this and are, hence, trying to take advantage of this ‘last chance’. As a result, Belarusian Rouble bank deposits are growing, while demand for foreign currency is falling,” Mr. Mukha adds.
National Bank data shows that Belarusians sold almost $100m more than they bought in January. “This is the best result since last May. From January-April 2013, individuals mostly sold foreign currency but, in May, the situation changed: Belarusians began selling more Dollars than buying. In January 2014, this negative trend broke — partly due to the National Bank’s tough monetary policy,” stresses Mr. Mukha.
