Russians’ demand for cash and paper maps has risen amid shutdowns

Against the backdrop of shutdowns, Russians’ demand for cash and paper maps has increased

The Bank of Russia recorded that in March-April, Russians’ demand for cash increased, according to a summary of the key rate discussion. Among other things, the agency linked this trend to “temporary internet disruptions.”

At the same time, the press service of the AST Nonfiction publishing house said that “against the backdrop of news about internet restrictions,” demand for books in the “Atlases and Road Maps” category rose by 55% in monetary terms year over year. The statement does not make clear what period this refers to.

The Russian authorities regularly shut down mobile internet in the regions, explaining it as a response to the threat of Ukrainian drone strikes. New shutdowns are expected ahead of May 9.

@meduzalive