Russians may reduce purchases of American dollars and euros if their price climbs beyond the 90–100 ruble range. In a recent interview about currency trends, an associate professor from the Department of World Financial Markets and Financial Technologies at the Russian University of Economics. GV Plekhanov, Denis Perepelitsa, weighed in on the topic, explaining how psychological thresholds can shape consumer behavior and market activity. The simple idea is this: when the ruble weakens and the cost of foreign currencies rises, individuals and businesses often pull back from conversion operations. The effect is not just about the numbers on a screen; it reflects a broader sentiment about stability, risk, and future price expectations. The result is a natural pause in demand that can influence the trajectory of exchange rates in both the short and medium term.
The expert emphasized that almost any movement in the exchange rate can encounter resistance. This resistance depends on a blend of factors: the current economic climate, geopolitical developments, shifts in global financial trends, commodity prices, and monetary policy signals. In practical terms, when the dollar trades above 100 rubles or the euro above 90 rubles, a psychological barrier forms. Traders, retailers, and ordinary savers may hesitate, reassess holdings, or delay conversions, which in turn can reinforce the observed price level. In other words, market participants internalize these levels as critical benchmarks that influence decision-making at multiple levels—from household budgeting to corporate hedging strategies.
The expert also noted that the current structure of over-the-counter exchange rate formation often yields a wider spread between buying and selling rates than in earlier periods. A larger spread can amplify the perception of risk and create opportunities for traders who actively manage currency exposure. This dynamic underscores how the mechanics of price discovery—including liquidity, order flow, and market depth—play a decisive role in shaping real-world outcomes during times of volatility. Consequently, businesses and individuals must stay alert to the rhythm of price movements and the practical implications for imports, exports, and cross-border payments.
In a broader policy context, the government of the Russian Federation has given priority to tightening oversight of foreign exchange-related activities. Earlier steps included approval of a project aimed at controlling gold purchase and sale transactions. Such measures reflect a strategic effort to monitor capital flows, safeguard financial stability, and support the ruble amid external pressures. While some market participants may view gold transactions as a hedge or a store of value, policymakers see the activity as a tool to influence liquidity and exchange dynamics during times of heightened risk. The balance between market freedom and regulatory safeguards remains a central theme in discussions about the currency ecosystem.
Looking at risk management and investment behavior in sanctions-era markets, the yuan has emerged as a popular alternative savings instrument for many investors and households. In practice, the yuan has gained traction as a relatively stable store of value compared with the euro in certain scenarios. This preference arises from considerations about diversification, geopolitical risk, and the evolving set of sanctions-related constraints that can affect the relative attractiveness of different reserve currencies. As market participants weigh their options, the question of which currencies to hold becomes a reflection of evolving risk assessments, liquidity needs, and long-term financial goals. The shifting popularity of the yuan underscores how investors adapt their strategies in response to changing macroeconomic conditions and policy signals. [citation attribution]