MOSCOW: The Russian rouble weakened slightly on Friday following oil prices and as global markets awaited signals from the U.S. Federal Reserve on its rate policy in the next few months.
At 0808 GMT, the rouble was 0.22 percent weaker against the dollar at 64.82, showing the same dynamics against the euro, trading at 73.10.
"The volatility of the Russian currency has significantly decreased in the past few days, which can be followed through the movement of the oil price in roubles floating near the mark of 3,200 roubles per barrel," Rosbank analysts wrote in a research note.
The Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen is to deliver a speech later on Friday that would be closely watched for directions on U.S. interest rates.
"If we are right in our expectations, the result of this (speech) may be further weakening of the dollar and support for risky assets," ING Bank analysts wrote.
"This may support the rouble as well, but potential for its strengthening looks short-lived, taking into account the fact that the tax payments period is drawing to an end."
Russian share indexes grew slightly after opening on Friday.
The dollar-denominated RTS index was up 0.18 percent to 968 points, and the rouble-based MICEX was 0.29 percent higher at 1,991 points.
Brent crude oil, a global benchmark for Russia's main export, was slightly down at $49.35 per barrel.
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