Some Russians hold that Mercury retrograde plays a role in the uptick of mortgage prices. This claim was reported by lenta.ru, citing a study conducted by Glavstroy Regions. The report suggests that astrological beliefs have entered the conversation around a topic that typically sits squarely in economics and policy discussions, highlighting how public perception can intersect with financial realities.
According to the survey, more than one thousand people participated, offering a snapshot of opinions on the mortgage market. Of those surveyed, all 17 respondents attributed the rise in rates to Mercury retrograde. In contrast, a larger portion, about 64 percent, linked higher mortgage costs to the Central Bank’s policy choices and the tightening of interest rates, underscoring a belief that macroeconomic decisions have a direct impact on household borrowing costs.
Further breakdown of the responses shows that 31 percent pointed to banks’ lending policies as a primary driver, while 28 percent attributed the change to the population’s overall solvency. Eleven percent attributed the shift to developers, reflecting a belief that market dynamics and supply decisions influence mortgage pricing. Interestingly, 45 percent of participants thought that an average Russian could secure a mortgage for an apartment, but that loan would impose a lifetime burden, signaling concerns about long-term affordability. Meanwhile, 22 percent indicated there are sufficient supply and support programs in the market to help buyers, suggesting a mixed view on government and market assistance.
Additionally, 43 percent stated that mortgage access had become more challenging since the start of 2023, a sentiment echoed by many observers who point to tightening lending standards and evolving regulatory requirements. At the same time, 23 percent expressed confidence that new rules will weed out borrowers who may struggle to keep up with payments, implying a cautious outlook on risk management within the lending sector.
Looking ahead, the report notes that government efforts to bolster preferential credit programs are anticipated to increase, a development that could influence borrowing conditions for certain groups of buyers. The broader context includes ongoing discussions about how policy, market regulation, and fiscal support interact to shape the affordability and accessibility of home ownership for families. The study also reflects the ongoing tension between macroeconomic policy and household finance, inviting readers to consider how national economic indicators translate into everyday decisions about housing and debt.