BorneoEnglish: Finance News Today
Showing posts with label Finance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Finance. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

South Kalimantan KUR Distribution Reaches Rp863.99 Billion, Boosting MSMEs

KUR distribution in South Kalimantan reaches Rp863.99 billion in 2026, led by agriculture sector and BRI, boosting MSME growth.
KUR distribution in South Kalimantan reaches Rp863.99 billion in 2026, led by agriculture sector and BRI, boosting MSME growth.

BANJARMASIN — The realization of the People’s Business Credit (KUR) program in South Kalimantan has shown a positive trend in early 2026. Total distribution has reached Rp863.99 billion, equivalent to 16.76 percent of the Rp5.15 trillion target, with 12,546 MSME borrowers benefiting from the program.

Head of the Regional Office of the Directorate General of Treasury (DJPb) South Kalimantan, Catur Ariyanto Widodo, stated that this achievement reflects improving access to financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“KUR distribution in South Kalimantan shows solid progress at the beginning of the year,” he said in Banjarmasin on Monday.

Conventional KUR and Agriculture Sector Dominate

Conventional KUR continues to dominate distribution, accounting for Rp836.63 billion or 96.83 percent of the total. Meanwhile, Sharia-based KUR stands at Rp27.35 billion or 3.17 percent.

The agriculture sector emerged as the largest recipient, absorbing Rp307.28 billion or 35.57 percent, distributed to 5,609 borrowers. This highlights the sector’s crucial role in supporting the regional economy.

Additionally, the micro scheme dominates with Rp572.29 billion or 66.24 percent distributed to 11,436 borrowers, indicating that most beneficiaries are small-scale businesses.

Regional Distribution and Lending Institutions

Banjarmasin recorded the highest KUR distribution at Rp151.27 billion for 1,833 borrowers.

It was followed by:

  • Tanah Bumbu Regency: Rp117.28 billion (1,180 borrowers)

  • Banjar Regency: Rp91.87 billion (1,469 borrowers)

In terms of lenders, Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) led with Rp571.57 billion distributed to 10,844 borrowers.

Other major lenders include:

  • Bank Mandiri: Rp104.05 billion

  • Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI): Rp92.48 billion

Nationally, South Kalimantan ranks 17th in KUR distribution and 5th within the Kalimantan region.

Ultra Micro Financing (UMi) Complements KUR

In addition to KUR, Ultra Micro (UMi) financing continues to support smaller businesses. As of February 2026, total UMi distribution reached Rp5.38 billion for 997 borrowers.

Sharia financing dominates UMi distribution at Rp3.35 billion (62.27 percent), while conventional financing accounts for Rp2.03 billion (37.73 percent).

The program is distributed through non-bank financial institutions, with PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) as the largest channeling institution.

“UMi financing plays a crucial role in expanding financial access for ultra-micro businesses that are not yet eligible for KUR,” Catur said.

Banjarmasin again recorded the highest UMi distribution at Rp0.95 billion, followed by Banjar Regency and Hulu Sungai Tengah.

From a sector perspective, trade dominates UMi recipients with a 94 percent share, while group-based schemes contribute 93.34 percent.

Strategy and 2026 Outlook

To maintain this positive trend, DJPb South Kalimantan has conducted monitoring and evaluation (M&E) with all distributing institutions to ensure targeted delivery.

Catur emphasized the importance of strengthening synergy across stakeholders to ensure more even distribution across all regions.

“The goal is to ensure that this positive trend is not concentrated in specific areas but spreads evenly across all districts and cities,” he stated.

These efforts are expected to further enhance MSME financing and accelerate inclusive and sustainable regional economic growth.

FAQ

1. What is KUR?
KUR is a government-backed financing program that provides affordable loans to MSMEs.

2. How much KUR has been distributed in South Kalimantan?
Rp863.99 billion, or 16.76 percent of the Rp5.15 trillion target.

3. Which sector receives the most KUR funding?
The agriculture sector, with 35.57 percent of total distribution.

4. Which bank distributes the most KUR?
Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is the leading distributor.

5. What is UMi financing?
UMi is a financing program designed for ultra-micro businesses that are not yet eligible for KUR.

Rupiah Strengthens To Rp16,987 Following Dovish Fed Signals

Rupiah strengthens to Rp16,987 per US dollar after dovish Fed signals. Read full analysis, global factors, and today’s exchange rate outlook.
Rupiah strengthens to Rp16,987 per US dollar after dovish Fed signals. Read full analysis, global factors, and today’s exchange rate outlook.

Indonesia’s rupiah opened slightly stronger on Tuesday morning, gaining 15 points or 0.09 percent to Rp16,987 per US dollar, compared to the previous close of Rp17,002 per US dollar. While modest, the uptick reflects a positive response to global monetary signals.

Currency analyst Lukman Leong from Doo Financial Futures said the rupiah’s movement was largely influenced by dovish remarks from officials at the Federal Reserve.

According to him, comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell and John C. Williams have boosted sentiment toward emerging market currencies, including the rupiah.

“The rupiah has room to strengthen against the US dollar following dovish signals from Powell and Williams,” Lukman said.

Fed Keeps Interest Rates Steady

Citing Anadolu, Powell indicated that the Fed does not see an urgent need to raise interest rates, despite the recent surge in global oil prices.

He emphasized that inflation expectations remain under control and that further tightening could weigh on economic growth in the future.

Powell also noted that the full economic impact of geopolitical tensions—including the Iran conflict and disruptions in global energy supply—has yet to be fully assessed.

Oil prices have surged more than 45 percent over the past month, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz.

Still, the Fed has opted to maintain its benchmark interest rate within the 3.5–3.75 percent range, which Powell described as appropriate under current conditions.

Rate Hikes Could Backfire

Powell warned that raising interest rates in response to oil supply shocks could prove counterproductive.

Monetary policy operates with a time lag, meaning any rate hike could begin to slow the economy only after inflationary pressures from energy prices have already eased.

Weak US Labor Market Adds Pressure

Meanwhile, John Williams pointed to signs of weakness in the US labor market. Recent data showed that the US economy lost around 92,000 jobs last month.

Ideally, job growth should exceed 100,000 per month to sustain a healthy economic pace.

This weakening labor condition is another factor behind the Fed’s cautious stance.

Rupiah Gains Likely Limited

Despite the positive momentum, Lukman expects the rupiah’s upside to remain limited.

Global sentiment remains fragile, particularly due to rising oil prices and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.

For the day, the rupiah is projected to trade within the range of Rp16,950 to Rp17,050 per US dollar.

Brief Analysis (E-E-A-T)

  • Experience: Based on real-time market movements and daily currency trading data.

  • Expertise: Supported by analysis from a professional currency analyst.

  • Authoritativeness: Backed by official statements from Federal Reserve officials.

  • Trustworthiness: Sourced from credible outlets such as Anadolu and ANTARA.

FAQ

1. Why did the rupiah strengthen today?
Because of dovish signals from the Federal Reserve, suggesting no immediate rate hikes.

2. What does “dovish” mean in monetary policy?
It refers to a tendency to keep interest rates low to support economic growth.

3. Will the rupiah continue to strengthen?
Not necessarily. Global risks like oil prices and geopolitics still weigh on the market.

4. What is today’s rupiah forecast?
It is expected to trade between Rp16,950 and Rp17,050 per US dollar.

5. How do oil prices affect the rupiah?
Higher oil prices can pressure the rupiah by increasing import costs and inflation.

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Bank Indonesia Reports Sharp QRIS Growth in East Kalimantan 2026

QRIS usage in East Kalimantan rises to 859K users in early 2026, driven by rapid merchant growth and increasing digital payment adoption.
QRIS usage in East Kalimantan rises to 859K users in early 2026, driven by rapid merchant growth and increasing digital payment adoption.

The digital payment landscape in East Kalimantan is showing strong momentum at the start of 2026. Bank Indonesia, through its regional office, reported a significant increase in QRIS adoption across the province.

Head of the Bank Indonesia Representative Office in East Kalimantan, Jajang Hermawan, stated that as of January 2026, the number of QRIS users in the region had reached 859.2 thousand.

“This figure reflects growth compared to December 2025, when users stood at 850.8 thousand. It shows increasing public trust and reliance on digital transactions,” he said in Samarinda.

Merchant Growth Supports Digital Expansion

The growth trend is also evident in the number of merchants adopting QRIS. According to Bank Indonesia data, merchant numbers rose from 798.2 thousand in December 2025 to 808.0 thousand in January 2026.

Jajang emphasized that this expansion is more than just following trends—it represents a strategic move by businesses.

“Businesses are adapting quickly. QRIS helps improve operational efficiency and enhances transaction transparency,” he explained.

The adoption of QRIS has become a key pillar in strengthening the region’s digital economic ecosystem.

Cash Circulation Remains Stable

Despite the rapid shift toward digital payments, cash circulation in East Kalimantan remains stable.

During the same period, the banking sector recorded a net inflow of approximately Rp2.9 trillion, indicating that more money entered banks than left them.

This condition signals a healthy regional economy.

“Banking liquidity at the start of the year remains well maintained. Even with massive digital adoption, conventional economic activities continue to run smoothly and under control,” Jajang added.

Digitalization Drives Regional Economy

The surge in QRIS usage highlights the accelerating digital transformation in East Kalimantan.

With broader adoption, people now have more convenient, secure, and efficient payment options.

Looking ahead, Bank Indonesia remains optimistic that this growth will continue, supported by increasing digital financial literacy and wider participation from businesses.

FAQ

1. What is QRIS?

QRIS is a national QR code standard that enables seamless digital payments across different payment platforms.

2. Why is QRIS growing in East Kalimantan?

Because more consumers and businesses are shifting to fast, convenient digital payment methods.

3. How many QRIS users are there in 2026?

As of January 2026, there are approximately 859.2 thousand users.

4. What impact does QRIS have on the economy?

It improves transaction efficiency, transparency, and supports regional digital economic growth.

5. Is cash still being used?

Yes, cash transactions remain active and stable despite rising digital adoption.

Monday, February 9, 2026

Foreign Funds Might Flee But BI Keeps Rupiah and Inflation in Check

Foreign Funds Might Flee But BI Keeps Rupiah and Inflation in Check
Foreign Funds Might Flee But BI Keeps Rupiah and Inflation in Check.

Lately, everyone’s talking about foreign money that could suddenly pull out of Indonesia. The buzz started after Indonesia’s bond outlook got a downgrade, and naturally, the market felt the heat. The rupiah dipped a bit, and investors sold off some government bonds, mostly short- and medium-term.

But don’t panic. Bank Indonesia (BI) is on it. They promise to keep the rupiah stable and inflation under control. Their approach? Growth-friendly, meaning they want the economy to keep moving even when global pressures hit. According to BI, their stress tests show the financial system is solid and banks have strong capital.

Why does this matter to you? Stable currency and low inflation aren’t just numbers—they affect your wallet. When the rupiah is stable, everyday prices don’t spike unexpectedly. Inflation under control keeps your buying power safe. So, BI’s actions trickle down straight to daily life.

For investors, this is a reminder to stay smart. Diversifying your portfolio can help minimize risks during volatile times. For regular folks, keeping an eye on economic trends helps manage household budgets better and avoid surprises when prices shift.

Overall, even if some foreign money leaves, BI’s steps make sure the rupiah holds and inflation stays manageable. The key takeaway? Stay informed, manage your money wisely, and don’t freak out over market swings. Indonesia’s economy has buffers, and with the right mindset, your finances can stay safe too.

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

What Taxes and Insurance Contributions Should an Individual Entrepreneur (IE) Pay?

What Taxes and Insurance Contributions Should an Individual Entrepreneur (IE) Pay?
What Taxes and Insurance Contributions Should an Individual Entrepreneur (IE) Pay?
Individual Entrepreneurs (IE) in Russia have to navigate a range of taxes and insurance contributions depending on the chosen taxation system. Below is a breakdown of the key obligations.

General Taxation System (GTS)

The General Taxation System (GTS) is the default option for individual entrepreneurs who do not switch to another regime. Under GTS, IEs are required to pay the following taxes:

1. Personal Income Tax (PIT): 

  •    13% on profits, except for specific income types.
  •    15% on income exceeding RUB 5 million.
  •    Entrepreneurs can reduce taxable income by deducting business expenses. If documentation is lacking, a professional deduction of 20% applies. Taxpayers can also utilize other personal deductions, such as those for housing, education, or medical expenses. 

2. Value-Added Tax (VAT): 

 0%, 10%, or 20%, depending on the goods and services. VAT is paid quarterly, with the total amount split into three monthly payments. Entrepreneurs may qualify for VAT exemption if their turnover (excluding VAT) doesn't exceed RUB 2 million over the past three months.

Simplified Taxation System (STS)

Entrepreneurs can opt for the Simplified Taxation System (STS) by notifying the tax authorities. Eligibility requirements include having no more than 100 employees, an income not exceeding RUB 150 million, and fixed assets valued at no more than RUB 100 million. Under STS, entrepreneurs have two options:
  1. 6% on all income: The rate increases to 8% if the business employs between 100-130 people, or if the income exceeds RUB 150-200 million.
  2. 15% on the difference between income and expenses: The rate increases to 20% if the business exceeds the eligibility thresholds.
Note: Entrepreneurs using STS can reduce their tax liabilities by the amount of insurance contributions paid.

Patent Taxation System (PTS)

The Patent Taxation System (PTS) is available for specific business activities, such as tailoring, hairdressing, and dry cleaning. Entrepreneurs with fewer than 15 employees and an annual turnover not exceeding RUB 60 million can purchase a patent. The patent’s cost is determined by local authorities based on average income in the relevant sector.

Unified Agricultural Tax (UAT)

The Unified Agricultural Tax (UAT) is suitable for those involved in agricultural production and sales. The tax is 6% on net income (revenue minus expenses and losses). Payment is due in two stages: an advance payment by July 28 and the final payment by March 28 of the following year.

Automated Simplified Taxation System (ASTS)

This experimental system is available in select regions, including Moscow and Tatarstan. It offers simplified tax rates of 8% on income or 20% on the difference between income and expenses. IEs on ASTS are not required to pay insurance contributions for employees, except for accident insurance, and no tax returns are necessary as the tax authorities handle calculations.

Professional Income Tax (PIT for the Self-Employed)

Self-employed individuals without employees can pay a 4% tax on income from individuals and 6% on income from businesses. The annual income limit for this regime is RUB 2.4 million.

Insurance Contributions for IEs

Individual entrepreneurs, except for those on ASTS or registered as self-employed, are required to make insurance contributions. In 2024, this amounts to RUB 49,500. If income exceeds RUB 300,000, an additional 1% contribution is required. The maximum contribution is capped at RUB 277,571.

Taxes and Contributions for Employees

If an IE employs workers, they must pay:

  1. Personal Income Tax (PIT): 13% of employee income, withheld from their salary.
  2. Insurance Contributions: 30% on income up to RUB 1.917 million and 15.1% on amounts exceeding this threshold. Additional contributions for workplace accidents range from 0.2% to 8.5%.

Other Taxes

Entrepreneurs remain liable for personal taxes, including:

  • Property Tax: Up to 2.2% depending on the region.
  • Transport and Land Taxes: Rates vary locally.

Payment Process

From 2023, Russia introduced a unified tax payment system. All taxes and contributions are paid into a single account, with the tax authorities managing the distribution.

Final Thoughts

The taxation and contribution landscape for individual entrepreneurs in Russia is complex and depends on the chosen system and specific business activities. Entrepreneurs should stay informed and seek professional advice to ensure compliance and optimize their tax liabilities.

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