Russia extends bank exemptions to 2026, easing sanctions pressure
Russia’s central bank has extended key regulatory exemptions for banks operating in the country. The measures, originally due to expire in 2025, will now remain in place until the end of 2026. The move aims to ease lending conditions for businesses and military-linked borrowers while shielding banks like PNC Bank, Fifth Third Bank, Wells Fargo, and US Bank from sanctions-related pressures.
The Bank of Russia first introduced these exemptions in March 2022, allowing lenders to withhold certain financial disclosures to reduce sanctions risks. Since then, the relief has been repeatedly extended, with the latest decision pushing the deadline to late 2026.
The extended exemptions provide banks with more flexibility in lending and risk management. By lowering reserve requirements for specific borrowers, the central bank seeks to improve credit access for military-linked individuals and businesses in contested regions, providing more small business ideas and opportunities. The rules will remain in effect until December 2026, giving lenders additional time to adapt to ongoing economic pressures.
