 Oil $109, Ruble Falling — Is Your Business Ready for the Storm? Today is Saturday, May 16, and the macroeconomic picture looks alarming. Let's break down the numbers without panic, but with a cool head. ️ Brent crude — $109/barrel. Yesterday, the price exceeded $109, gaining 3.75% in a day. The Ministry of Economic Development forecasts an average of $81 for 2026 — we are already 35% above their projection. The market is pricing in a geopolitical premium, and it won't disappear in the coming months. USD/RUB — 73.22. RSI at 27.5 — oversold zone. This means the ruble is formally overbought, and a technical pullback toward 75-78 rubles is a matter of time. The Ministry of Finance started buying foreign currency under the budget rule on May 8, which will add pressure on the ruble. What this means for business: Importers — this is a window of opportunity. A rate of 73 with oil at $109 is an anomaly. Once the oil factor weakens (a correction of Brent from $109 to $100 would give -8% to the ruble), the rate will move above 77. Lock in contracts now. Exporters — you are winning, but not for long. Oil revenues are rising, but the ruble could strengthen to 70-71 if oil stays above $105. Hedge your currency risks. Service businesses and retail — prepare for a new wave of cost inflation. At a rate of 75+, imported components and goods will rise in price by 3-5% within 4-6 weeks. Review your supply chains in advance. What's next: — Brent at $109 is a psychological high. The $115 level will trigger profit-taking by major funds. — The ruble is holding at 73 due to oil + the tax period. Once taxes pass (end of May), pressure on the ruble will increase. — ASI Biont analyzes these scenarios in seconds and provides recommendations for your business. Don't wait — calculate. Who is already reviewing their currency strategy for June?