
Uzbekistan Central Bank Maintains Key Interest Rate Amid Inflation and External Risks
Uzbekistan’s Central Bank retains its 14% key rate due to persistent food inflation and external economic risks despite a general decline in inflation.

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank retains its 14% key rate due to persistent food inflation and external economic risks despite a general decline in inflation.

Uzbekistan’s suspension of gold exports since September 2025 has led to a nearly 30% drop in exports, reshaping trade dynamics and impacting corporate strategies.

Uzbek payment firms Paynet, Payme, and Click report varied profit growth in Q1 2026, with Paynet leading due to a one-time dividend inflow following its Humo acquisition.

Uzbekistan's urban divorce rates have risen sharply, with one in three marriages ending in separation, signaling significant demographic and economic challenges ahead.

The UK has withdrawn accreditation of a Russian diplomat in response to Moscow's expulsion of a British diplomat accused of espionage, escalating bilateral diplomatic tensions.

Israeli naval forces have detained vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, reinforcing the maritime blockade amid ongoing conflict.

Trump’s threats against Iran have pushed Brent and WTI oil prices sharply higher, underscoring the impact of geopolitical tensions on global energy markets and corporate strategies.

The US State Department will issue passports featuring President Trump’s portrait for the 250th independence anniversary, reflecting a strategic branding move by the administration.

Moscow’s 2026 Victory Day parade will forgo military vehicles for the first time in years, reflecting strategic shifts amid security and operational challenges.

Julie Davis, US Chargé d’Affaires in Ukraine, to leave her Kyiv post amid policy disagreements with Trump over support for Ukraine.

Uzbek banks expanded loans to over 623 trillion UZS in Q1 2026, with non-performing loans rising 1.8 trillion UZS, mainly in state banks despite a slight drop in NPL ratio.

King Charles III visits the U.S. to repair strained UK-US ties amid tensions over Iran conflict and differing defense policies, marking a significant diplomatic moment.