Tochka Bank has announced plans to disburse roughly 8 billion rubles to customers whose funds were frozen, a figure referenced in the press release titled “Points.” The release indicated that these payments would benefit entrepreneurs whose losses were not covered by the DIA program. It also signaled that Tochka expected to initiate the first payments on March 5. A source close to the matter noted that accounts were opened for about 20,000 clients under QIWI Bank licenses, representing around 3% of Tochka’s total customer base. This arrangement followed QIWI’s 40% stake in Tochka up to late 2021. At the start of 2023, Tochka Bank received its own banking license, although some customers continued to be served via QIWI Bank. – release about Tochka and QIWI Bank.
On February 21, the Central Bank of Russia revoked QIWI Bank’s license due to serious violations, triggering an immediate suspension of the Contact payment system. A day later, February 22, the Bank of Russia removed QIWI Bank and the Contact system from the register of payment system operators. – Bank of Russia release.
In comments from an economist, guidance was offered to owners of QIWI wallets, outlining potential implications and next steps. – commentary.