To effectively counter inflation, relying solely on ruble bank deposits may no longer suffice.
Until recently, the answer to where to invest `spare` cash, if available, was quite straightforward: a ruble bank deposit. Thanks to the high key interest rate, such deposits could yield over 20% annually, nearly doubling the inflation rate. However, both the Central Bank`s key rate and, consequently, bank interest rates are now declining — quite sharply. Interest on deposits in leading banks has already fallen below 18%. Experts unanimously predict an even more significant decrease in deposit rates by the end of the year.
In these changing circumstances, a crucial question arises: where can one best allocate a hypothetical 100,000 rubles for maximum benefit? Should it be in foreign currency, gold, securities, or even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin? To find answers, we turned to financial analysts for their expert opinions.
Expert Opinions on Investment Strategies
«Even with a relatively small sum of 100,000 rubles, it`s possible to build a diversified portfolio that will not only preserve but also grow capital. The key is to select financial instruments with returns exceeding expected inflation and to prudently manage risks. In the current environment, a combination of bonds, reliable stocks, gold, and currency appears optimal. The best strategy for a private investor would be to allocate only 20-30% of investments to risky assets, placing the larger portion into low-risk instruments with fixed and guaranteed income. These primarily include bank deposits, Federal Loan Bonds (OFZ), and corporate bonds from companies with high credit ratings.
For instance, with the current key rate at 20% annually, bank deposits offer 13-18% per annum depending on the term, OFZ yield between 14% and 16% annually, and highly-rated corporate bonds can provide up to 17-18% returns.
Among risky instruments, consider high-dividend stocks, such as those from the oil and gas or telecom sectors, where dividend yields can reach 12-15% annually. Another option is investing in gold via exchange-traded funds or unallocated metal accounts, as geopolitical risks and demand for safe-haven assets keep gold prices stable. A small portion (10-15%) of `free` capital can be used to acquire US dollars or Chinese yuan, as a decrease in the key rate and increased sanctions pressure make ruble weakening, especially towards year-end, very likely.
It`s important to remember that a `profitable investment` is not just about preserving capital, but about an investment capable of generating returns above the inflation rate, thereby ensuring real growth in purchasing power. According to Rosstat data, annual inflation slowed to 9.4% in June. By year-end, the rate of price growth could further decrease to 7-8% annually. This implies that any investment yielding above 8% will ensure real capital preservation, and above 10% will provide a positive revaluation of savings.»
«I`ll start with what not to do to avoid losing money – don`t chase exorbitant profits. If someone offers returns significantly above the market average, you should think carefully. For example, if you`re offered 30% when the average deposit rate is around 18%, it`s quite possible that a fraudster is behind this `generous` offer.
Do not trust offers received via messengers and social networks that guarantee large earnings with virtually no effort. In 99% of cases, this is a scam. You should also not be tempted by options where you are first asked to pay something to ultimately receive a profit…
Be cautious with the stock market. It`s an absolutely legal way to earn money, but it comes with many nuances. Firstly, returns from this investment method are not guaranteed; everything depends on circumstances. Secondly, it can be a long-term commitment, and you might not be able to withdraw your money without losses when you need it. Thirdly, if you don`t understand investment matters, there`s a very high risk of incurring losses.
Therefore, if you are a beginner and unfamiliar with investments, the most sensible approach is to take your money to a bank and place it on deposit. Currently, thanks to the high key rate, banks are offering very favorable conditions.»
«The average interest rate on ruble deposits in mid-July is around 18% annually. Formally, this is sufficient to cover inflation, which was 9.4% year-on-year in June. However, given expectations of a key rate reduction, deposit yields may gradually decline. For those willing to take a small risk, other instruments should be considered.
For example, corporate bonds of Russian companies yield 16-19% annually, especially `floaters` (bonds with a floating rate). This offers an alternative to a deposit, with the potential to exit early and earn more.
There`s also the idea of a dividend stock portfolio. Many high-yielding stocks have already closed their registers for this season, but a dividend portfolio can be formed for the next year. By the end of 2025, yields on some individual stocks exceeded 14-16%. This suits those prepared to hold positions longer and monitor company news.
Or, for instance, precious metals. Silver is holding at 14-year highs. To protect against inflation and global risks, it can be purchased through exchange-traded instruments like futures. Risks are higher here, but so is the potential for profit.
In summary, placing funds in a bank deposit forms a good base. However, to outpace inflation, it is prudent to allocate a portion of funds to bonds and dividend-paying stocks, and a small share to precious metals. Such a balanced approach helps preserve and multiply savings even in volatile times.»
