Reducing everyday expenses is the main adaptation strategy of Russians

Inflationary expectations of the population for the year ahead are declining, but remain in the range of elevated values ​​(11.6%). Consumer sentiment improved in January, showed a new study “infom”, carried out by order of the Central Bank. The survey data also show that the adaptation practices of the population as a whole have not changed. Buying cheaper goods remains the main strategy. Over the past two years, on average, every fourth respondent has resorted to it. In January 2023, they began to save 23% on products, and the peak values ​​were recorded in April-June last year (28-31% of respondents). In second place is a similar strategy – to buy less often or completely refuse some goods and services. Over the past two years, on average, every fifth person has done this, in January 2023 – 16% of respondents.

Only less than 10% try to solve their problems with the help of other people’s money, taken on credit from a bank or borrowed. Among the urban population, the proportion of respondents who are trying to adapt to a difficult economic situation by looking for a new job or additional income is higher (20% versus 14% among the population as a whole). Also, the willingness to take money on credit or loans is slightly higher (12% versus 9%) and there is less hope for personal plots (4% versus 6%).