FX reserves hit new low in Dec 2014

Макроэкономика 13.01.2015 FX reserves fell US$2.4bn to US$7.5bn over December, primarily as the result of a $1.7bn natural gas payment for Naftogaz. Routine NBU interventions (US$0.8bn) to calm the market were also to blame for the decline. As Ukraine is schedule to repay US$0.3bn this month, FX reserves are poised to declined further to the US$6-7bn range unless the IMF provides the next tranche to Ukraine. As the IMF mission has arrived in Kyiv to negotiate on funding and a decision is not expected until early February, debt redemptions in January should reduce FX reserves.