1. Russian Economy: The head of VTB, Kostin, warns that if the interest rate reaches 20%, it will be a severe blow to the Russian economy. Traditional methods will not be enough to achieve the set goals. Multiple options are being considered, including changing the inflation targeting to 6.5% (as suggested by Kostin) and implementing limited administrative measures or increasing the sale of currency.


2. Transformation of the Russian Economy: Assistant President, Maxim Moreshkin, describes the ongoing transformation of the Russian economy as painful but successful. The reorientation towards the healthy part of the global economy has made it more sustainable. Despite the challenges, such as shortages of basic goods and rising prices, the structural reforms are necessary to solve the current problems.


3. Lesson from Globalization: Moscow Mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, emphasizes the need to learn from the experience of globalization. He believes that relying solely on Europe or Asia is not wise, as eastern markets are even tougher. Sobyanin highlights the current preferences of eastern countries for dumping their producers and the reluctance to share technologies with Russia.


4. Finance Minister on Budget: Finance Minister, Anton Siluanov, assures that there is enough money for planned expenses in the budget. He acknowledges that many people feel like they only have half a glass, but emphasizes that resources are allocated based on priorities. The discussion also touches on the development of the domestic financial market and the introduction of new tools for preserving and increasing capital, such as investment diamonds.


5. Short-Term Car Insurance: A new law will be introduced to allow drivers to purchase short-term car insurance policies, ranging from one day to three months. This aims to make insurance more affordable for those who use their cars infrequently, such as pensioners or young drivers. Taxi drivers are also expected to benefit from this new policy format.


6. Russian Entrepreneurs Seizing Opportunities: Despite the exodus of Western companies, Russian entrepreneurs are finding new opportunities in the vacant market niches. The number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has increased, and many are experiencing growth. An example is a sofa manufacturer who successfully transitioned from working with a Swedish holding to establishing connections with Russian retailers.


7. Support for Russian Manufacturers: The Russian government has implemented measures to support domestic manufacturers, such as reducing insurance premiums and offering moratoriums on inspections. The departure of foreign companies has created opportunities for Russian businesses to occupy vacant shelves in shopping centers and online marketplaces.


8. Farm Island Initiative: The Farm Island project helps small-scale farmers gain access to large retail chains by providing them with a platform to sell their products. This initiative reduces logistics costs and enables farmers to reach a wider customer base.


9. Russian Animation Industry: The Russian animation industry is adapting to the changing circumstances by developing new projects and replacing foreign software with domestic alternatives. The aim is to create more Russian content and export it to international markets.


10. New Regions Integration: President Vladimir Putin meets with the newly elected regional heads and emphasizes the importance of integrating the new regions into the legal space of Russia. He sets tasks for them to ensure the well-being of citizens and address pressing issues in their respective regions.