The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) has once again adjusted the official exchange rates of major currencies, returning them to growth after a brief decline. On Friday, July 10, the US dollar increased in value, while the euro showed a more significant rise.

Currency Market: Dollar and Euro Rise Again

According to official data from the regulator, the US dollar rate was set at 44.51 hryvnias. This is 4 kopecks higher than the previous day's figure. The euro demonstrated more active dynamics, gaining 18 kopecks to reach 50.87 hryvnias.

Thus, after several days of decline, both key currencies have returned to increasing in value. Experts note that volatility in the currency market remains a factor influencing economic decisions for both businesses and individuals.

Bank Forecasts: Installment Market in the Second Half of the Year

Despite current economic challenges, the Ukrainian consumer lending and installment market is expected to develop in the second half of the year. This was stated by Vladimir Solodky, Head of the Digital Business Department and Board Member of Globus Bank, in a comment to RBC-Ukraine.

In the expert's opinion, the main driver of growth will be the expansion of partnership programs between banks and retail chains. Bankers predict that demand will be shaped by several key factors:

  • Currency rates and inflation: Rising prices and exchange rate fluctuations may encourage Ukrainians to purchase goods on installment to lock in current costs.
  • Security situation: The state of the power grid remains an important factor. In the event of increased risks to infrastructure, demand for generators, charging stations, and autonomous power equipment may rise.
  • Seasonality: Traditionally determines the popularity of certain product categories, particularly climate control equipment.

"The installment market has already adapted to external challenges. In the second half of the year, key factors will be bank flexibility, the development of partnership programs, and the ability to quickly respond to changes in demand," noted Vladimir Solodky.

Credit Discipline of Ukrainians

Globus Bank has also noted a change in borrower behavior. According to the expert, Ukrainians have become more responsible regarding credit discipline. Currently, the level of overdue payments remains within the predicted norm, and no significant deterioration in the quality of the loan portfolio has been observed yet.