OREANDA-NEWS  The systemically important Russian bank Sovcombank has presented its own version of the "shocking forecasts" for 2024, RBC writes with reference to the presentation of Mikhail Autukhov, deputy Chairman of the board, head of the bank's corporate investment unit, at the XXI Russian CBonds Bond Congress. Similar "crazy predictions" are published annually by the Danish Saxo Bank. Economists at a foreign bank warn that they do not strive for the accuracy of predictions and are only trying to imagine what the world might look like in the future.

According to Sovcombank forecasts, the Bank of Russia will not reduce the key rate next year. In 2024, it may reach 25 percent per annum, while inflation will accelerate to 15 percent. At the same time, the dollar exchange rate will rise to 200 rubles. The continuing geopolitical risks, as well as possible easing of the requirements for the sale of foreign exchange earnings by exporters after the elections in 2024, will exert strong pressure on the national currency.

The list of "shocking forecasts" from the Russian bank also includes a drop in oil prices to $ 40 per barrel in the event of the collapse of OPEC+. In addition, economists do not rule out that there will be no international bonds next year — in 2023, the segment experienced serious pressure amid high rates and limited demand.