“Against the background of the increase in the cost of loan financing, problems with the sale of products and expectations of a reduction in sales, approximately a quarter of Russian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) allow the closure of their businesses.”, — write: epravda.com.ua
Against the background of the increase in the cost of loan financing, problems with the sale of products and expectations of a reduction in sales, approximately a quarter of Russian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) allow the closure of their businesses. “Kommersant” writes about it. According to the study, the share of loss-making representatives of small and medium-sized businesses increased from 5% in 2023 to 8% in 2024 (in 2022, they were 9%). The RSBI index in December fell to a minimum since 2023 – 52.7 points. Until the summer of 2024, business expectations were optimistic (58.1 points in May). But already in June, the RSBI index dropped to 57.6 points, in July – to 55, in August – to 54.7.Advertisement: This happened due to the deterioration of the financial capabilities of SMEs after the rise of the key rate, analysts say. The increase in the rate led to a drop in consumer activity of Russians and, accordingly, income, as well as an increase in the cost of loans. In addition, state support for business began to decrease. In December, all types of SMEs showed a slowdown in business activity. Sales indicators fell the most in the index, trade also showed a downward trend (due to a reduction in sales and plans for them), stability was observed in services, while only production showed barely noticeable growth. The survey also showed that 35% of SMEs expect a further decline in sales. This is 7% more than the November figure of 2024 – the maximum in two years.Advertisement: It is characteristic that, according to the study, the share of SME loan approvals by banks has decreased to a minimum since the summer of 2023 (62%). 15% of surveyed companies reported the availability of a valid loan, 12% received it in December. A record percentage of entrepreneurs (31%) is not ready to issue loans due to high interest rates. Read also: Everything is not good. What kind of economy is Russia entering 2025 with?