Financial news: March 18, 2026. JSC "SME Corporation" will hold a deposit auction.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

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Parameters:

The deposit auction date is March 18, 2026. Placement currency is RUB. The maximum amount of funds placed (in the placement currency) is 2,260,000,000. Placement period, days – 41. Date of depositing funds is March 18, 2026. Date of return of funds is April 28, 2026. Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum is 14.5. Terms of the conclusion, urgent or special (Urgent). The minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in the placement currency) is 2,260,000,000. The maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1. Auction form, open or closed (Open).

The basis of the Agreement is the General Agreement. Schedule (Moscow time). Preliminary bids from 10:30 to 10:40. Competitive bids from 10:40 to 10:50. The cutoff percentage or the auction's invalidity may be determined by 11:30. Additional terms

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Bonds instead of deposits – in 2025, Russians replenished their brokerage accounts at a record level.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Mainfin Bank –

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Image: mainfin.ru

What is the reason for the growing popularity of brokerage accounts?

Brokerage accounts are becoming increasingly attractive to Russian investors who want their savings to work and generate a stable income. The main reasons for this growing popularity include:

reduction of interest rates deposits against the backdrop of the easing of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation's policy, the average maximum yield will be reached in May 2025 deposits The annual interest rate exceeded 19.5%, falling below 14.5% in February 2026. The possibility of receiving tax deductions when opening and adding funds to an individual investment account (IIS), which increases the profitability of such investments. Increased interest in long-term savings – interest rates on long-term deposits are extremely unfavorable, forcing conservative investors to seek alternatives. The ease of opening brokerage accounts – many banks offer this service, including online, and the effort is comparable to opening a traditional deposit.

While investment accounts were previously aimed at experienced market participants, the product is now suitable for beginners as well. The Central Bank of the Russian Federation is implementing a public literacy project called "Financial Navigator," and the Moscow Exchange and a number of banks also offer similar investment courses.

How has the Russian investment market changed in 2025?

Last year, money steadily flowed from deposits to brokerage accounts. Analysts estimate that by the end of 2025:

The net inflow of funds from individuals into brokerage accounts exceeded ₽2.5 trillion; the total volume of funds held by Russians in such accounts increased by 16% over the year, reaching ₽12.3 trillion; more than 70% of the capital was contributed by qualified investors, i.e., market participants with large assets or a relevant education; investment portfolios worth between 1 and 100 million rubles increased by 20%; in the small portfolio segment (from 10,000 to 1 million rubles), the annual growth was 12%; the average account balance remained unchanged at 2.2 million rubles.

"OFZs account for about 40% of portfolios. At the beginning of the year, investors were also interested in stocks, but given the complex geopolitical situation, such investments would have been considered excessively risky," the expert stated.

Investment accounts will remain popular in 2026, especially if the key rate continues to decline. Bonds remain the focus, but the trend could shift: funds will begin to flow into stocks if there are prospects for improved international conditions, sanctions easing, and the end of the IMF.

15:25 03/17/2026

Source:

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Financial news: 03/17/2026, 11:57 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range for assessing market risks for the USD, USDF, USDW, UD1, UD3, UD2, UD4/RUB currency pair were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the foreign exchange market and the precious metals market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by the National Clearing Center (JSC) on March 17, 2026, 11:57 AM (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to RUB 89.7775 in the TOD settlement mode) and the market risk assessment range (up to RUB 95.2183, equivalent to an 18.3% rate) for the USD, USDF, USDW, UD1, UD3, UD2, UD4/RUB currency pair were changed. New values are available. Here.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Financial News: On Calculating Change Values for Indexes and iNAV.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

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From March 23, 2026, Moscow Exchange will unify the calculation of the “Change to Close” indicator and the filling of the “Previous Close” field for all indices and iNAV.

The "Change to Close" indicator for iNAV will be calculated as a percentage change relative to the indicator's value at the close of the previous primary session, and the "Previous Close" field will contain the close of the previous primary session, excluding any additional sessions. A similar approach is already in place for stock market indices. This change will ensure data consistency and transparency for all market participants.

In the Moscow Exchange Information and Statistical Server (ISS), the specified indicators are available in the following fields:

Name Description
LASTVALUE The last index value of the previous main session
LASTCHANGE Change the current value to the value of the previous main session, points
LASTCHANGEPRC Change in the current value to the value of the previous main session, %
LASTCHANGEBP Change in current value to the value of the previous main session, basis points

Contact information for media: 7 (495) 363-3232PR@moex.com

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Financial News: Change in the calculation schedule for stock indices and iNAV from March 23, 2026

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

From March 23, 2026, the Moscow Exchange will adjust the schedule for calculating stock indices and iNAV in connection with extension of the main trading session on the Stock Market and postponing the time of the closing auction.

Changes to the schedule for calculating stock indices and iNAV during the main trading session:

Until March 23, 2026 From March 23, 2026
Stock indices (price) Regular settlement: 09:50:00-18:40:00 Settlement at the official closing price: 18:50:00 Regular settlement: 09:50:00-18:55:00 Settlement at the official closing price: 19:00:00
Stock indices (total return) Settlement at the official closing price: 18:50:00 Settlement at the official closing price: 19:00:00
iNAV shares Regular settlement: 09:50:00-18:45:00 Settlement at the official closing price: 18:50:00 Regular settlement: 9:50:00 – 18:59:45 Settlement at the official closing price: 19:00:00

The calculation schedule for other types of indices and indicators will not change.

Contact information for media: 7 (495) 363-3232PR@moex.com

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Financial news: 03/17/2026, 11:33 (Moscow time) the values of the lower boundary of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JQAM6 (DOM.RF15ob) were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

March 17, 2026

11:33

In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by the National Credit Center (JSC) on March 17, 2026, 11:33 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 99.01) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 932.01 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 13.75%) of the security RU000A0JQAM6 (DOM.RF15ob) were changed.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Financial news: On March 17, 2026, JSC KAVKAZ.RF will hold a deposit auction.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Parameters:

The deposit auction date is March 17, 2026. The placement currency is RUB. The maximum amount of funds placed (in the placement currency) is 200,000,000. The placement period is 100 days. The date of deposit is March 17, 2026. The date of return of funds is June 25, 2026. The minimum placement interest rate, % per annum is 15.1. The terms of the conclusion are fixed-term or special (fixed-term).

The minimum amount of funds placed per application (in the placement currency) is 200,000,000. The maximum number of applications from one Participant is 1. Auction format: open or closed (Open). The basis of the Agreement is the General Agreement. Schedule (Moscow time). Applications in preliminary mode from 12:30 to 12:40. Applications in competitive mode from 12:40 to 12:45. Setting the cutoff rate or declaring the auction void before 13:00. Additional terms.

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Dmitry Chernyshenko: Over the past five years, Russian schoolchildren have won 210 medals at major international Olympiads.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

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Russian national teams consistently demonstrate high results in major international Olympiads in general education subjects. Over the past five years, schoolchildren have won 210 medals. The students' training and participation in intellectual competitions are organized as part of the national project "Youth and Children" with the support of the Ministry of Education.

Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov provided detailed information.

"Over the past five years, Russian schoolchildren have won 210 medals at major international Olympiads: 161 gold, 45 silver, and 4 bronze. Last year was a record-breaking number of awards for our students. I congratulate everyone on their outstanding achievements! As President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin emphasized, we have created an entire system for selecting and working with talented students. The national project 'Youth and Children' makes a significant contribution to this through infrastructure improvements, Olympiads, and the development of supplementary education. I thank each medalist for giving the entire country these reasons for joy and pride, and I thank the parents, teachers, and mentors for their support, professionalism, and dedication," noted Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

Students traditionally represent the country with dignity in competitions in mathematics, chemistry, physics, biology, computer science, geography, astronomy, and the Junior Science Olympiad.

"Our students' success at prestigious international Olympiads is a natural result of their hard work and the professional support of their teachers. I am confident that our teams' achievements not only enhance the prestige of Russian education globally but also inspire a new generation of students to pursue a more in-depth study of various subjects. These students have an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience and deep knowledge from their mentors. After all, our country boasts many talented teachers who impart modern and essential knowledge to children, inspire their interest in science, and shape a generation capable of building a successful future for our country," commented Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov.

The students received the greatest number of awards at major intellectual competitions in 2025. For example, they returned from the XXII International Junior Science Olympiad with nine medals.

Last year, schoolchildren won six medals each at the 66th International Mathematical Olympiad, the 4th Open International Astronomy Olympiad, and the Open International Geography Olympiad, and were also awarded five medals at the 55th International Physics Olympiad.

In addition, the students brought home 4 medals each from the 36th International Biology Olympiad, the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad, and the 37th International Olympiad in Informatics.

It's worth noting that the schoolchildren consistently demonstrate strong results in the astronomy competition. Over the past four years, the young people have returned from the Olympiad with six gold medals.

The Russian national teams are coached and mentored by professors from leading Russian universities. Along with their training, the athletes hone their skills, compete in various mid-term Olympiads, and attend training camps and orientation sessions.

The composition of the national teams and coaching staff is approved by the Russian Ministry of Education. It traditionally includes the best participants in the All-Russian School Olympiad.

Winners of international school Olympiads receive cash prizes, grants, university admissions benefits, and state recognition. Russia has established federal awards (up to 1 million rubles) and additional regional payments (for example, up to 1.5 million rubles in Moscow), as well as guaranteed admission to universities without exams in the Olympiad's subject area.

Teams of Russian schoolchildren continue to prepare for participation in major international Olympiads in general education subjects, the first of which will be held in June in Moscow – the Open International Geography Olympiad.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Tatyana Golikova: The XII St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures will take place on September 24–26, 2026.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

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In September 2026, the Northern Capital will once again host participants and guests of the St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures. The event will be organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Russian Government, the Russian Ministry of Culture, and the St. Petersburg Administration.

"The St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures is, without exaggeration, a unique discussion platform that brings together representatives of different countries, nationalities, and professions. In 2026, the forum will be held from September 24 to 26. I am confident that this joint effort will allow delegates to exchange experiences and discuss development trends in the contemporary cultural environment. The forum will result in new international and interdisciplinary projects that address the challenges of our time and strengthen a unified cultural space," noted Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova.

Guests and participants of the forum will include cultural and artistic figures, government officials, business representatives, experts, and journalists. The event will discuss the formation of culture, the role of historical heritage, the relationship between culture and business, the impact of artificial intelligence on various social aspects, and its role in contemporary culture and the preservation of cultural heritage.

"In the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia, the 12th St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures will provide an opportunity to present high-level plans for programs aimed at preserving cultural diversity and traditions, exchange experiences with representatives of friendly countries on ways to preserve the uniqueness of cultures, traditions, and worldviews, and discuss measures to counter the threat of extinction of minority cultures and promote the principles of justice and equality in relations between peoples. Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly emphasized in his speeches that national culture can develop and be enriched only through interaction with other cultures. Our country was initially shaped as a multinational nation, and it is this invaluable gift that has defined its unique cultural palette and its status as a truly great power in its art, science, and literature," emphasized Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia.

In 2025, the forum included official delegations from 50 countries and senior officials from six international organizations. Cultural figures and government officials participated in discussions on all major artistic fields: museums, theater, cinema, music, and media.

"We are truly delighted that this year, our flagship project, the St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures, will once again take place on the banks of the Neva River for the 12th time. Traditionally, in an open dialogue format, representatives of the professional community, government agencies, and businesses will exchange experiences and discuss current issues of cultural and humanitarian cooperation. We invite everyone to join one of the most global cultural events," noted Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova.

The St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures has been held since 2012. It has established itself as a platform for collaboration in culture and art, as well as for open and meaningful discussion of issues arising as the contemporary cultural environment develops.

Official website of the Roscongress Foundation: roscongress.org.

Official forum website: http://unitedsultures.ru/.

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Vitaly Saveliev: The first International Transport and Logistics Forum will open in St. Petersburg on April 1.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

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The business program for the International Transport and Logistics Forum, which will take place April 1–3, 2026, at the ExpoForum Convention and Exhibition Centre in St. Petersburg, has been published on the website. The event, held in Russia for the first time, will provide a new platform for global dialogue on the development of the global transport system in an era of geopolitical change. The MTLF's national agenda focuses on Russia's active participation and the promotion of its technological potential within existing large-scale logistics projects.

"Russia, with its unique geographic location, has historically been a key link in the global transportation system. We are consistently developing this potential and implementing projects that could shape global transportation patterns for decades to come. This includes developing international transport corridors passing through Russia, expanding the use of the Northern Sea Route, and our trunk infrastructure as a whole. I am confident that open professional dialogue, the exchange of best practices, and the development of coordinated solutions will be an important step toward strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation among the countries participating in the forum," emphasized Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Savelyev.

The business program includes over 40 discussions across three areas: "Logistics and Transport Industries," "Global Connectivity and Transport Corridors," and "Digitalization and the Future of Transport." The forum's central event will be a plenary session focusing on transport connectivity as the foundation of a new world order and its development within the framework of global competition and global security.

"Ensuring the global competitiveness of transport corridors is today one of the priority national goals set by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The old world order is becoming a thing of the past, and in its place, a new architecture of equal and indivisible security is emerging in Eurasia. In this coordinate system, transport is becoming a key element of this new space, and logistics is the primary tool for realizing national interests and integrating into the global markets of the future. I am confident that the forum will become a center for developing practical solutions and initiatives to ensure the seamlessness and security of transport routes, designed to lay the foundation for the long-term prosperity of the Eurasian continent," said Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia and Executive Secretary of the MTLF Organizing Committee.

The main events of the business program will include a plenary session, plenary sessions on key issues on the international transport agenda, expert discussions, roundtables, and meetings of relevant international organizations. Experts will focus on the development of transport, logistics, transport corridors, and digitalization. Participants will discuss the future of transport and its role in shaping the global economy and ensuring sustainable connections between regions and countries.

"Our country is becoming a platform for discussing global logistics development, offering global partners alternative transport corridors that are safer, more technologically advanced, and faster than traditional routes. Thanks to our accumulated experience, we are ready to become a key logistics bridge between East and West, North and South, offering reliable routes for cargo delivery. In this regard, the forum's program opens a series of relevant discussions on the joint development of international transport corridors through the integration of national infrastructures, the digitalization of multimodal transportation, and increased resilience of supply chains. The agreements reached as a result of this work will serve as the basis for subsequent agreements between states and decisions at the level of international organizations," noted Transport Minister Andrei Nikitin.

The forum is being held in accordance with the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation to ensure the global competitiveness of Russia's transport corridors, including the implementation of decrees within the framework of national goals up to 2030 and for the future up to 2036.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.