As the man at the top of Russia’s biggest bank, Sberbank president and chief executive Herman Gref, presides over an institution with ambitious long-term fintech plans. He talks to Stefanie Linhardt about the challenges to its overseas operations and dealing with the fallout from the rouble’s collapse.

As the Russian economy recovers, the new equilibrium brings fresh challenges to the financial sector. Stefanie Linhardt finds out how the management at many of the country's leading banks are adapting to this environment at the International Financial Congress in St Petersburg.

As Russia contemplates a restructuring of its creaking pensions system, investors expect a positive effect on the securities market with the introduction of private individual pension capital accounts. However, the market is still immature and many decisions on reform are still to be made. Stefanie Linhardt reports from the International Financial Congress (IFC) in St Petersburg. 

Jiri Smejc, chief executive of Czech lender Home Credit, tells Stefanie Linhardt why China represents a vital step outside its central European comfort zone.

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.

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. 

After a contraction in investment levels since 2014, Russia’s first renminbi-denominated bond could signal the beginning of a new age of Chinese interest in the country’s financial potential. Stefanie Linhardt reports.

A sluggish economy, high interest rates and greater scrutiny are hitting Russia's banks, especially smaller institutions, with some opting for consolidation as a way to survive, as Stefanie Linhardt reports.

As Russia continues to grapple with low oil prices and Western sanctions, the government's structural reforms and privatisation plans are designed to kick-start growth and balance the budget deficit. But is the time right to sell state assets? Stefanie Linhardt investigates.