Lending Continues Growth in March - Central Bank

11:16; 17 April 2026 year

### Russian Banks Report Mixed Credit Growth in March 2026 In March 2026, the Central Bank of Russia (CBR) recorded continued growth in the credit sector, according to its monthly report "On the Development of the Russian Banking Sector." Bank lending to companies (including bonds) slowed down compared to the previous month, growing by 0.4% (after a 0.6% increase in February). The slowdown in the first months of the year is attributed to advance payments under state contracts, as their contractors had less need for borrowed funds. Mortgage debt among the population accelerated, increasing by 0.3% (after a 0.2% rise in February). Mortgages with state support accounted for 60% of total lending volume. The consumer credit portfolio returned to growth, rising by 0.4% (after a 0.7% decline in February). It is noted that the segment of cash loans continued to decline, while the segment of credit cards remained highly popular among the population. The volume of funds held by individuals in banks remained virtually unchanged in March, declining by 0.01% (after a 1.9% increase in February). The volume of corporate funds decreased by 3.3% (after a 2.7% increase in February). Overall, the banking sector earned 448 billion rubles in March (+14% month-on-month), but the profit growth was driven by non-core (volatile) income.

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