Ruble weakens on global markets downturn

MOSCOW. Aug 25 (Interfax) - The dollar grew 15-20 kopecks to 31.495-31.55 rubles/$1 in the first few minutes of trading on the MICEX exchange.

This is 5 kopecks below today's official rate.

The euro rose 10 kopecks to 45.05 rubles/EUR1, which is 10 kopecks below the official rate.

The dual currency basket ($0.55 and EUR 0.45) rose 15 kopecks to 37.62 rubles.

The ruble is weakening as the sentiment in the global markets deteriorated, the Interfax Center for Economic Analysis said.