Russian central bank hikes key interest rate to 8.5% amid rising inflation
- Central bank raised its key interest rate by 100 basis points, exceeding analyst expectations
- The rate hike aims to combat intensifying inflationary pressures and risks
- Further rate hikes this year are possible as inflation is forecast to exceed target range
- Rouble has weakened following the rate decision due to falling exports and rising imports
- The currency has also been impacted by capital outflows stemming from the Ukraine conflict