🚨 Russian banks are closing branches like never before
In a shocking turn, Russian banks have closed a record number of branches over the past four years. Approximately 1,700 offices have been liquidated, which is 3.6 times the number from the previous year. This makes it one of the fastest branch closures since 2019 and a record since 2021.
The impact is significant. By early 2026, the total number of bank branches is expected to drop to 22,300, down from 30,000 just seven years ago. This means a loss of nearly 7,700 branches, leaving fewer options for ordinary customers and shaking local economies that depend on access to actual banking services.
Experts say this trend reflects Russia's push towards digital banking, economic pressures, and regulatory changes, but the pace is shocking. Communities that were previously served by nearby banks now face reduced access to loans, deposits, and essential banking services.
These are not just numbers - they are a restructuring of the financial landscape in Russia. The wave of closures shows how quickly economies can shift when banks merge or retreat, sending ripples through both businesses and ordinary citizens alike. 💥🏦
