Russian RTS Index Falls Below 1000 Points for First Time Since November

Russia's RTS Index, one of the country's primary stock market indicators, fell below the 1000-point threshold on Monday for the first time since November 2025, driven by intensified selling pressure that triggered stop-loss orders on investor long positions. By 15:36 Moscow time, the RTS Index declined to 999.92 points, representing a 3.7% drop, while the Moscow Exchange Index fell to 2331.05 points, also down 3.7% and marking its lowest level since March 2023. Liquid stocks experienced declines ranging from 3% to 15%.

Multiple factors contributed to the market downturn. The Russian Central Bank's moderate reduction in its key interest rate weighed on investor sentiment, while ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict continued to create market uncertainty. Additionally, declining crude oil prices—with Brent futures falling below $78.50 per barrel—pressured the energy sector and broader market performance.

Gazprom shares were among the hardest hit, declining 4% to approximately 100 rubles per share, a level not seen since November 2008. The broader selloff reflected market participants' continued reaction to monetary policy adjustments and external pressures. Notably, successful completion of the first round of negotiations between the United States and Iran added to the complex backdrop of global economic and geopolitical developments influencing Russian equity markets.