Morning Brief: July 22

• Russia risks losing $19 billion due to the new ceiling on oil prices. The European Union has introduced a floating price ceiling, which could make Russian oil 15% cheaper than the average market price. According to estimates by Freedom Finance Global, this will lead to a decrease in Russian budget revenues by 1.5 trillion rubles annually. Analysts fear that such a measure will put serious pressure on the country's economy.  

• Slovakia will increase purchases of Russian gas. Slovakia's largest oil and gas company said that Russian gas remains the most profitable option for imports. Thanks to benefits from the EU, the country plans to cover 100% of its gas needs from Russia next year.  

• The US budget deficit could grow by $3.4 trillion. According to the US Congress, the new law on government spending, signed by Donald Trump, could lead to a sharp increase in the budget deficit and leave about 10 million people without health insurance by 2034. Despite the estimated savings of $1 trillion, the costs will significantly exceed this amount.  

• France is preparing the 19th package of sanctions against Russia. Paris is working on a new package of sanctions, which, according to Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barraud, will become «even tougher.» The restrictions are being developed jointly with the United States and are aimed at increasing pressure on Moscow. If Russia does not agree to a cease-fire, sanctions are planned to be introduced in the near future.