MOSCOW, February 12. /TASS/. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said that the national economy will face higher costs in the economy and the risk of investment slowdown.
"Amid the tightening of the monetary policy, the pace of consumer and corporate lending is gradually slowing down. According to current data, the loan portfolio decreased in December-January, and the decrease is greater than the usual seasonal one. This creates preconditions for lowering prices, which can lead to a controlled slowdown in the economy. It is important to stop inflation and ensure long-term economic growth. We believe that there are risks of investment slowdown. Companies are shifting investment programs. In 2025, we expect an increase in costs in the economy," he said during a speech at government hour in the Federation Council.
Earlier, Novak said that the Cabinet expects a reduction in investment growth rates this year - this indicator could be around 2% compared to the 2024 level.