The Central Bank of Russia published market findings showing increased use of pawnshop loans in 2025 H1, with pawnshops issuing loans worth RUB 190 billion. Borrower numbers rose by 12% over the first six months, and repeat usage also increased, with the number of outstanding loans per borrower rising from 1.8 to 2 agreements over the period. Following the expiry of the moratorium on the use of the effective interest rate (EIR) for a consumer loan (microloan), interest rates on pawnshop loans declined in 2025 Q2. The EIR on about 75% of new microloans did not exceed 100% per annum; one-third of these loans were repaid early, a quarter were repaid when due, and 15% were settled through the sale of collateral. The update also notes that pawnshops continue to screen customer bases and collateral portfolios, refusing loans where they suspect the customer does not own the collateral, have doubts about authenticity, or where required documents are missing.
Central Bank of Russia 2025-09-29
Central Bank of Russia reports pawnshops issued RUB 190 billion in loans in 2025 H1 and effective interest rates declined in Q2
The Central Bank of Russia reported a rise in pawnshop loans in the first half of 2025, totaling RUB 190 billion, with borrower numbers increasing by 12%. Following the end of the moratorium on the effective interest rate for microloans, pawnshop loan interest rates fell in Q2 2025, with 75% of new microloans having an EIR below 100% per annum. Pawnshops continue to screen customers and collateral, rejecting loans with ownership doubts or missing documents.