A recent online survey conducted by the alternative lending platform Moneyman reveals that a small yet notable portion of Russians plans to take out a loan to celebrate the New Year. Specifically, about 7% of respondents indicated they would consider borrowing money for festive purchases or travel. This insight sheds light on the financial choices people contemplate when approaching a major holiday season, showing that even in times of celebration, borrowing remains on the table for some families.
On the other hand, the majority of participants would prefer to rely on their own funds rather than seek external credit. About 81% said they would not pursue a loan for New Year celebrations, choosing to fund their plans from savings or current income. A smaller share, around 12%, found it difficult to answer, suggesting some uncertainty about their financial readiness or the best approach to holiday budgeting.
When it comes to how much people expect to spend, the survey indicates a cautious but steady approach. Sixty-one percent anticipate keeping their New Year expenditures at roughly the same level as last year. Fifteen percent expect to cut back, and twenty percent intend to spend more. A remaining 4% were unsure or deferred their answer. These figures point to a prevailing sentiment of stability in holiday budgeting, with a willingness to adjust spending up or down depending on personal circumstances and perceived opportunities for enjoyment.
Participants were also asked to prioritize holiday spending by selecting a primary focus from several categories. Quality and engaging entertainment emerged as the top priority for 39% of respondents, underscoring a desire for memorable experiences during the holiday season. Gifts were the main priority for 31%, highlighting the appreciation of tangible tokens and celebrations shared with loved ones. About a quarter, 24%, considered overall holiday spending as the key emphasis, indicating a broad approach to the season that balances experiences, gifts, and expenses. The remaining 6% could not decide or chose another focus, reflecting the variety of priorities that influence how people allocate their resources during the New Year period.
In the context of Russian New Year traditions, this holiday stands as one of the central annual festivities. Many families prepare well in advance, often factoring financial considerations into their plans. Loans are frequently associated with larger purchases such as premium gifts or travel to extend the celebration beyond the home. At the same time, loans may be repaid relatively quickly thanks to additional cash inflows that occur at year’s end or the start of the new year, including bonuses and 13th salaries that employers sometimes provide to employees as part of the annual compensation package. This pattern reflects how people balance aspiration with practical budgeting during a peak season for spending and celebration.
The survey captured responses from 1,500 adults aged 18 and over, covering a broad cross-section of regions within Russia. The data collection took place over November 23 to November 30, 2023, offering a snapshot of holiday budgeting attitudes as the year closes. The results help illuminate how households think about debt, savings, and discretionary spending when preparing for the festive period. In that context, it becomes clear that while many prefer to rely on their own funds, a meaningful segment remains open to leveraging credit to enhance their New Year celebrations. And for families prioritizing leisure and shared experiences, the emphasis on quality entertainment suggests a lasting emphasis on creating lasting memories during the holiday season.
In summary, the New Year in Russia continues to be a time of cheerful anticipation and careful financial planning. People evaluate whether to borrow, how to allocate resources, and which aspects of the celebration matter most to them. The blend of stable budgeting pressures with a willingness to spend more for meaningful experiences illustrates a nuanced landscape where personal finance meets festive tradition. This dynamic offers a lens into how households navigate debt, savings, and the desire for memorable celebrations as the year ends.