Putin Approves Sale of Citibank’s Russian Operations to Renaissance Capital
Russian President Vladimir Putin has formally authorized the sale of Citibank's Russian unit to Renaissance Capital, marking Citigroup's complete withdrawal from local banking in Russia. The decree, published on a government website Wednesday, finalizes a process that began in 2022 as geopolitical tensions escalated following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Citigroup shares closed 0.72% lower at $100.76 ahead of the announcement, though the stock remains a standout performer with a 47.12% year-to-date return—nearly triple the S&P 500's gains. The transaction represents the final stage of Citi's strategic wind-down of consumer and commercial banking activities in the country.