The Central Bank of Russia reported that noncash transactions accounted for 88.4% of retail turnover at the end of the second quarter of 2026, down 0.5 percentage points from the first quarter as cash payments grew faster. Alternative methods continued to expand, reaching 15.1% of the total value of noncash payments, up 0.2 percentage points. Consumers made 1.1 billion purchases worth RUB 1.7 trillion using QR codes and biometrics, quarterly increases of 18% by number and 13% by value. Bluetooth payments rose to 86 million transactions worth RUB 64 billion, while individuals and businesses made 32.1 billion payments totaling RUB 491.5 trillion across the banking system, up 9.9% and 12.8%, respectively, from the first quarter.
2026-09-04Central Bank of Russia
Central Bank of Russia reports retail noncash payment share dipped to 88.4% as alternative methods gained ground
The Central Bank of Russia reported that noncash transactions represented 88.4% of retail turnover in the second quarter of 2026, down 0.5 percentage points as cash use increased. Alternative methods gained share, led by growth in QR code, biometric and Bluetooth payments.