16 Feb 2012 11:44

Russian GDP could grow 3.5% in FY2012, slowdown expected in H2 - S&P

MOSCOW. Feb 16 (Interfax) - Russian GDP growth could slow to 3.5% in 2012 from 4.3% in 2011, Standard & Poor's analysts said.

Growth will remain dynamic in the first half of the year, the agency said.

Wage increases for servicemen and pension increases will support the consumer sector.

The Central Bank will likely act to restrain growth in lending in the second half of the year, the analysts said.