Has the Ruble Finally Hit Bottom?

The transcript discusses the stabilization of the ruble amidst oil price declines, the potential for capital controls in Russia, and the impact of EU sanctions. It compares the current economic situation to the 1998 crisis, highlighting differences such as foreign reserves. The discussion also covers the potential for oil production cuts by OPEC and non-OPEC countries, and the economic implications for Europe, including the potential for recovery in the second half of 2015 due to lower oil prices.

What has been a significant factor in the recent pressure on the ruble?

• Increase in domestic production

• Decline in oil prices

• Rise in global demand

• Strengthening of the euro

What could potentially slow the capital outflow from Russia?

• Increased domestic spending

• Stronger ruble

• Backtracking on European sanctions

• Higher interest rates

How does the current situation differ from the 1998 financial crisis in Russia?

• Stronger global economy

• Lack of foreign exchange reserves

• Presence of a large war chest of foreign exchange reserves

• Higher inflation rates

What is a potential positive outcome for the Eurozone if current oil prices are factored into economic models?

• Decrease in GDP

• Increase in inflation

• Proper economic recovery

• Rise in unemployment

Why might the benefits of falling oil prices seem out of reach for oil-consuming countries?

• Concentrated losses in specific sectors

• Rapid increase in oil production

• Stable global markets

• Strong currency fluctuations