Apple halts online sales in Russia as ruble tumbles

YEREVAN, December 17. /ARKA/. Apple Inc. has reportedly halted online sales in Russia, citing “extreme” ruble fluctuations, according to reports, MarketWatch says.

The Cupertino, Calif.-based iPhone maker said it temporarily took down the online store in Russia as it reviews pricing, according to Bloomberg and Reuters. The ruble dived to about 79 to the dollar, but was last trading at around 68 after a surprise interest-rate increase failed to stem losses.

Apple did not immediately respond to MarketWatch for a comment, but a visit to its store in Russia prompts a “we’ll be back” message, which flashes in several different languages.

The note simply offers: “we’re busy updating the Apple Store for you and will be back soon.”

Shares of Apple were up 0.1% to $108.32 in recent choppy trade. –0--