TITLE: Russia's Central Bank Reduces Maximum Overpayment on Loans and Borrowing
BODY:
On April 1, 2026, the Bank of Russia implements a reduction in the maximum overpayment permitted on loans and borrowing. The maximum overpayment cap decreases from 130 percent to 100 percent of the loan amount.
This regulatory change applies to new loans and borrowing with a term of no more than one year issued by banks, microfinance organisations (MFOs), pawnbrokers, and consumer credit cooperatives (KPK and SKPK). Under the new rules, the accrual of interest, penalties, and all other payments ceases once their combined total reaches 100 percent of the principal debt. For example, if a borrower takes out a loan of 10,000 rubles from an MFO, the total repayment obligation cannot exceed 20,000 rubles. The overpayment limitation must be displayed on the first page of the loan or borrowing agreement, preceding the table containing individual credit or borrowing terms.
The Bank of Russia actively participated in developing this legislation, which aims to protect borrower interests and reduce the level of household debt in Russia. The new cap represents a significant reduction in the maximum permissible cost of borrowing for short-term loans and borrowing products, particularly affecting consumers utilising microfinance services and other non-bank lending institutions.
**Reference:**
Bank of Russia official announcement: https://www.cbr.ru/press/news/?id=19563