In recent months, the North Korean won has faced increasing skepticism as citizens opt for foreign currencies like the U.S. dollar and Chinese yuan. Persistent rumors of a potential currency redenomination have fueled this shift, leading to a significant decline in the use of the domestic currency. According to sources from South Hamgyong province, more individuals are now avoiding holding onto the won due to lingering fears from past financial reforms. This growing preference for foreign money is reshaping economic transactions within the country, particularly in marketplaces and shops where the use of the won is becoming increasingly rare.
The current aversion to the North Korean won can be traced back to the traumatic events of 2009 when the government implemented a controversial currency reform. During this period, families were restricted in how much of their old currency could be exchanged for new bills, resulting in widespread financial ruin. The memory of this event continues to haunt many North Koreans, driving them to seek stability through foreign currencies. A seasoned vendor in Hamhung shared that while dollars have always been common, the prevalence of the Chinese yuan has surged, making it difficult for some vendors to provide change during transactions. This situation highlights the deep-seated mistrust in the domestic currency and the challenges faced by local businesses.
Moreover, the ongoing rumors of another redenomination have exacerbated public anxiety. Many residents express concerns about the unpredictability of future reforms, emphasizing that they are no longer willing to risk holding onto the won. This sentiment is particularly strong in areas like Hamhung, where people openly voice their distrust in the domestic currency. Despite government efforts to control private money changers, these measures have failed to ease public nerves. In fact, the demand for foreign currency has driven exchange rates to unprecedented levels, with few willing to sell regardless of the climbing rates. Foreign money is now seen as the only secure option in times of economic uncertainty.
The impact of these currency redenomination rumors extends beyond individual preferences, significantly undermining the legitimacy of the North Korean won. Sources indicate that the currency has lost its value, with some comparing it to scrap paper or even less. As the reliance on foreign currencies continues to grow, the once-fragile faith in the domestic monetary system is further eroding. This trend reflects a broader shift in the economic behavior of North Koreans, who are now prioritizing stability and security over trust in their own currency.
The British pound experienced a downturn on Friday morning, reflecting concerns over the UK's economic health. Following a disappointing retail sales report, traders are now anticipating potential interest rate cuts from the Bank of England to stimulate economic growth. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that retail sales volumes declined by 0.3% in December, contrary to expectations of a modest increase. This decline, particularly evident in supermarket sales, signals a slowdown in consumer spending, which could influence monetary policy decisions.
Financial markets responded swiftly to these developments. Sterling weakened not only against the US dollar but also against the euro, indicating broader economic uncertainties. Meanwhile, gold prices remained resilient, nearing a five-week high, as investors sought safe-haven assets amid ongoing macroeconomic challenges. Analysts suggest that gold's performance is closely tied to the weakening US dollar and the expectation of potential Federal Reserve rate cuts. These factors have bolstered investor confidence in precious metals as a hedge against economic volatility.
The global energy sector also saw significant movements, with oil prices rising for a fourth consecutive week. Supply disruptions caused by US sanctions on Russian energy trade have tightened market conditions, leading to higher spot prices and shipping rates. Additionally, expectations of increased demand due to colder weather in the US and potential interest rate cuts have further supported crude oil prices. Analysts predict that geopolitical tensions and supply risks will continue to underpin oil prices, emphasizing the importance of stable energy markets for global economic recovery.
Amidst these financial shifts, it is clear that coordinated efforts from central banks and governments are crucial to fostering economic resilience. The interplay between consumer behavior, monetary policies, and global trade dynamics underscores the need for proactive measures to address economic challenges. By promoting sustainable growth and stability, stakeholders can ensure a robust and vibrant economy capable of overcoming current adversities.
В России введены изменения в систему социальных выплат, направленные на повышение уровня жизни пенсионеров и лиц, осуществляющих уход за гражданами старше 80 лет. Светлана Бессараб, член комитета Госдумы по труду и социальной политике, сообщила о начале индексации компенсации для ухаживающих с 2025 года. Ранее эта сумма не индексировалась долгое время, составляя 1200 рублей. Теперь же она будет ежегодно увеличиваться, обеспечивая более стабильную финансовую поддержку.
Согласно новым правилам, начиная с января текущего года, компенсация по уходу за гражданами старше 80 лет больше не будет выдаваться как отдельная выплата. Вместо этого пенсии таких лиц будут увеличены на соответствующую сумму, что обеспечит регулярное повышение вместе с индексацией пенсий. Это изменение коснется всех видов пенсий: страховых, социальных и военных, а также ежемесячных денежных выплат.
Кроме того, прожиточный минимум был пересмотрен, что привело к изменению размера социальной доплаты к пенсии. Депутат отметила, что все виды пенсий и выплат теперь регулярно индексируются, что позволяет сохранить их покупательскую способность перед лицом инфляции. Изменения затронули также пособие по уходу за детьми-инвалидами, которое увеличится с февраля текущего года.
Особое внимание следует уделить индексации страховых пенсий в феврале 2025 года. Несмотря на то, что первоначально запланированное повышение составило 7,3%, его доведут до уровня инфляции — 9,52%. Это означает дополнительное увеличение на 2,22%. Кроме того, январские выплаты также будут скорректированы, что позволит пенсионерам получить компенсацию за первый месяц года уже в феврале.
Таким образом, введение новых мер поддержки пенсионеров и лиц, ухаживающих за пожилыми гражданами, демонстрирует стремление государства к обеспечению справедливого и своевременного повышения уровня жизни этой категории населения. Индексация различных видов выплат и пенсий создает более стабильные условия для финансового благополучия людей старшего возраста.