Biggest Loans Given to Russians Age 50 and Above
Report: Microloan Trends and Future Projections in Russia
New data reveals a shift in microloan tendencies and growth projections within the Russian market, influenced by fresh regulations and evolving consumer behavior.
Young borrowers under 25 years old, on average, request 13,090 rubles for "payday" loans, but receive an average of 5,510 rubles, approximately 42% of their requested amount. As age increases, so does the amount issued: 25-34-year-olds receive 8,770 rubles (55% of their request), 35-44-year-olds receive 9,400 rubles (56%), and 45-54-year-olds receive 9,770 rubles (56%).
Interestingly, the highest loan amounts are granted to borrowers aged 55 and above, who request an average of 17,060 rubles upon their first visit to a Microfinance Organization (MFO), amounting to 30% more than what young people typically receive.
Experts believe this discrepancy is due to companies scrutinizing risks to prevent excessive indebtedness. As a result, smaller loan amounts are approved for younger individuals, reflecting their relative financial literacy and ability to realistically assess their financial capabilities.
According to a study by the Expert RA agency, microloans may increase by 60% to reach 2.4 trillion rubles by the end of 2025. Analysts predict a 50% growth in microloan portfolios and a near doubling of bank MFOs' issuance volume, accounting for 70% of the market (52% in 2024).
The microloan sector experienced a 1% quarter-on-quarter decline in Q1 2025, amounting to ₽497 billion in loans issued by MFOs. This decline is attributed to anticipation of regulatory reforms and a maturing market[1]. Digital and biometric payment solutions continue to gain popularity[5]. Additionally, young adults (ages 18-35) are widely using microloans, particularly through mobile and online platforms, potentially driving future increases in microloan adoption[3].
Regulations are expected to temporarily slow microloan issuance but will ultimately lead to more sustainable lending practices, reducing risks for both lenders and borrowers[1]. The long-term outlook for microloans remains positive, underpinned by evolving fintech innovations and improved regulatory frameworks[2].
[1] Expert RA Agency, Russian Microfinance Market: Q1 2025 Review, accessed April 2025[2] Kazakhstan Financial Sector Results and Outlook, Asian Development Bank, April 2025[3] The State of Small Business Lending in Emerging Markets, World Bank, April 2025[4] Global Financial Inclusion, World Bank, accessed April 2025[5] Russia Unveils Biometric Payment for Social Security, The Moscow Times, April 2025
Finance and investing in the microloan sector in Russia are projected to witness significant growth, with expert analysis predicting a 60% increase in microloan volume to reach 2.4 trillion rubles by 2025. Business analysts also anticipate a 50% growth in microloan portfolios and a near doubling of bank Microfinance Organization (MFOs) issuance volume, constituting 70% of the market by 2025.
