MOSCOW, June 25 (RIA Novosti) - The ruble's real effective rate could strengthen 2.6% against world currencies in the first six months of this year, a first deputy head of Russia's Central Bank said Monday.
"It will evidently be around 2.6% in the first half of the year," Alexei Ulyukayev said.
A presidential aide said earlier this month that ruble appreciation against the dollar/euro basket would not exceed 5% in 2007, in line with the Central Bank's expectations for the year, and would contribute to growth in productivity in the Russian economy and to more efficient use of resources.
A senior World Bank official earlier predicted further economic growth and a stronger national currency for Russia in 2007.
John Litwack, chief economist for the bank's Russia Office, said further appreciation of the ruble was likely, and that the average monthly wage could reach $500, up from last year's $395.
