. The CBR decided to keep key interest rate at 7, 75% annual, follows from a press release of the regulator. in 2018, the Central Bank twice reduced and has twice raised its key interest rate. In addition, the increase was documented for the first time in 2014. It was on the background of a sharp weakening of the ruble, increased inflation risks and sanctions pressure. The current decision was in line with analysts ' expectations. The vast majority of them believe that conservation rates may be due to a weak reaction of inflation on the VAT rise and stable situation on the currency market. The key rate is the minimum interest rate at which the Central Bank provides loans to commercial banks for a week. This is also the maximum rate at which the regulator is willing to accept from credit institutions deposits. Its size affects the rate of inflation. The CBR introduced a key rate as a tool monetary policy on 13 September 2013. This was done during a transition to inflation targeting regime in order to increase transparency. <span style="color:darkgray