OREANDA-NEWS. March 17, 2009. In early 2009, in accordance with the instructions from the Russian Government, VTB Group continued to increase the volume of resources channeled into the Russian economy. In February, the Russian banks of VTB Group provided over RUB 109 billion in loans to corporate customers and households, reported the press-centre of VTB Bank.
  
Vast resources were granted to companies operating in construction and construction materials industry  - over RUB 9 billion, power industry – over RUB 6 billion, chemical industry – over 2.8 billion, metallurgy – over 2 billion, and nuclear industry – over 2 billion.  Federal and municipal authorities enjoyed active financial support, raising almost RUB 8 billion while defense and space industries received over RUB 4 billion, and agribusiness received over RUB 2 billion. Small- and medium-sized customers were provided with new loans for approximately RUB 7 billion.
   
VTB Group also continued its socially oriented activity to finance households. In February 2009, individuals raised loans totaling over RUB 15 billion, with mortgage accounting for over RUB 1 billion.