Market volatility surrounds Putin and Trump calls as Mosbirzhi dips
An unidentified investor’s actions were cited as influencing the Mosbirzhi index during a period of direct dialogue between Moscow and Washington. RBC reported that experts were examining the incident and evaluating market impact.
On the evening of March 18, the Mosbirzhi index fell more than 1 percent twice within a minute and later recovered sharply. The first drop occurred in Moscow at 18:17, bringing the index to 3227.47 points and erasing the daytime gains tied to expectations about the Russian-American negotiations. The second fall happened at 19:45, immediately after the end of Putin and Trump’s remarks, pulling the index to 3234.57.
Analysts noted that selling was significant in the main liquid issues, and shares of large and small companies declined by six to ten percent. Trading volume in certain securities ran roughly ten times above normal levels.
Experts suggested the decline could reflect moves by a major private investor or fund with access to nonpublic information, triggering the unusual price shifts.
The March 18 events included a second officially documented call between the two leaders. The discussions covered a broad range of topics from Ukraine to economic cooperation and sports. According to the Kremlin press service, energy infrastructure matters were discussed within a framework of thirty days.
Earlier that day, the Mosbirzhi index had fallen in response to remarks attributed to Trump, contributing to overall market nervousness.
The episode highlights how geopolitical signals can translate into rapid market adjustments, underscoring the role of market surveillance and risk management during international events. For investors in Canada and the United States, the incident emphasizes the importance of diversification, hedging, and keeping a close eye on global developments that can move regional equities.
Market observers continue to review activity to safeguard market integrity during geopolitical episodes, while traders consider how such events may shape sector leadership and liquidity in the days ahead.
Even with the complexities involved, the episode serves as a reminder that foreign market exposure requires careful planning, especially when major political figures speak publicly on topics that influence energy policy, economic ties, and cross-border cooperation.