The flotation of Russian toy retailer Detsky Mir on Moscow’s stock exchange was a significant moment for the country’s capital markets, which have been quiet in recent years. Joanne Hart reports.

Having tackled the country's tax system in 2016, Czech Republic finance minister Andrej Babiš is turning his energies to the task of promoting growth while reducing the deficit. He talks to Stefanie Linhardt.

Armenian prime minister Karen Karapetyan wants his government to create an environment that welcomes creative and entrepreneurial minds. But, as he tells Courtney Fingar, he is also determined to ensure that the country’s population is on board with whatever changes lie ahead.

Latvian finance minister Dana Reizniece-Ozola outlines to Stefanie Linhardt the government’s plans to tackle the shadow economy and devise a fair and sustainable mid-term tax strategy.

Since 2014, Armenia has had to contend with currency depreciation, tumbling remittances and the impact of tensions between Russia and Europe. Finance minister Vardan Aramyan tells Courtney Fingar that now the country has achieved macro stability, it is planning micro-level reforms.

Risk-averse institutional investors have historically shied away from large-scale infrastructure investments in emerging markets, but new collaborations with multilateral institutions are now tempting public and private institutions into such projects. Stefania Palma reports.

The Russian government is committed to creating a strong fintech community to rival other global innovation hubs, and domestic banks are playing their role in providing start-ups with know-how and backing, writes Heather McKenzie. 

Creamfinance is carving itself a niche in consumer lending, with fast decision-making and clear fees. The company’s co-founder and chief executive explains its philosophy to Silvia Pavoni.