Traders Comment On Situation On Russian Stock Market

No tendency was noticed at the beginning of trading on the Russian stock market today. In general, the situation remains favorable for a further growth. Traders say, no negative news come from the world market and oil prices stabilized at the 18-19 dollar level now. At the same time, the increase of Russia's rating and the adoption of the 2002 federal budget draft by the State Duma on the third reading make Russian operators feel optimistic. However, it is too early to talk about positive tendencies on the Russian market, unless foreign investors intensify their purchasing activities. There is still the possibility that Russian share prices won't experience any growth by the end of this year, as Russian investors are not likely to raise the RTS index to the 240-250-point level. If nothing happens, the market will go up after the holiday season.