STRATEGY

External Markets

US macro data published yesterday proved to be quite strong. That potentially may be reflected in today’s FOMC statement, i.e. the chances of the Fed rate being increased at the next meeting in March. Oil prices remain volatile; another strong build-up of oil inventories in the US would add to the pressure on prices. Trading got off to weak start yesterday, but losses were quickly recouped as oil prices surged. In the corporate segment we recommend convertible bonds of Yandex.

Domestic Markets

The finance ministry decided to cool down Ruonia floaters with a large placement. In the corporate segment, we draw the attention of investors to short-term bonds of VTB.

MONEY MARKET

The CBR raised the limit for the weekly ruble repo, but we still treat its monetary policy as quite austere.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Russian Helicopters undertook one hour of book-building yesterday for the RUB10 bln CP-01 issue. The bond matures in ten years and has no put attached. The first coupon was set at 11.9%. The paper is scheduled to be placed on the exchange tomorrow. Source: Company