In Russia, a new trend is rapidly gaining traction: the sale of debts. Both individuals and companies are increasingly turning to this method to offload financial obligations without the hassle of lengthy court proceedings. Over the past four months, online debt sales have surged by 1.5 times, with monthly search queries for "sell debt" reaching up to 38,000.
The primary driver behind this trend is the sharp increase in court fees, which have risen 10 to 15 times since 2024. For creditors, selling a debt at a discount often proves more economical than pursuing legal action. The price of a debt depends on factors such as the amount owed, the debtor's repayment timeline, and their overall financial situation. On average, debts are sold for just 3–5% of their nominal value.
Why Sell Debts?
- Cost Efficiency: Avoiding expensive court fees and legal expenses.
- Time Savings: Bypassing lengthy legal processes.
- Flexibility: Some debtors even buy back their obligations through intermediaries.
While debt collectors face strict regulations, private creditors have far fewer restrictions, allowing them to employ more aggressive tactics to recover funds. This has led to complaints from debtors about harassment, threats, and inflated penalties. Legal experts advise borrowers to negotiate with creditors to reduce payments, emphasizing that constructive dialogue can often lead to mutually acceptable solutions.
Despite the challenges, Russian law provides protections for debtors who act in good faith. Experts stress that understanding one's rights and obligations is key to navigating these situations effectively. As the debt-selling market continues to grow, it remains to be seen how this trend will shape the financial landscape in Russia.
