Recent findings from a joint study by Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh show a notable shift in the Russian entrepreneurial landscape. Over the past two years, 16% of respondents report that starting and running a business has become easier. The study surveyed 1,560 people aged 18 to 65 across all federal districts, providing a broad view of trends in small and medium enterprise activity. Of those polled, 13% currently describe themselves as entrepreneurs, 16% have previously owned and closed a business, and the remaining respondents have no prior experience of business ownership. This mix illustrates a diverse set of experiences and outlooks within the population toward entrepreneurship. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)
Regional differences emerge from the data. Residents of the Central Federal District show the strongest optimism, with 21% believing that doing business has become easier. In contrast, the Saint Petersburg and Leningrad region reports the lowest level of optimism, at 11%. Such geographic variation suggests that local policies, market conditions, and infrastructure may influence perceptions of ease of doing business across Russia. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)
The survey highlights several factors that respondents identify as facilitating entrepreneurship. Primary among them are tangible government support for small and medium-sized enterprises, the emergence of freelance niches following the withdrawal of Western companies, and the presence of a sizable domestic market. These elements combine to create an environment where independent ventures can start and grow, even in times of wider economic uncertainty. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)
On the flip side, respondents point to persistent obstacles that can hinder startup activity. The most cited challenges include fluctuations in the economy, insufficient startup capital, administrative barriers, and a tax regime perceived as burdensome. These barriers shape the risk landscape for would-be entrepreneurs and influence decisions about whether to launch, grow, or pivot existing ventures. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)
When considering access to financing, only a minority, 16%, identify a lack of credit as a barrier to entrepreneurship. Conversely, 20% view affordable credit as a meaningful enabler, underscoring the crucial role that favorable financing terms play in supporting business creation and expansion. A fraction, 8%, indicate that there are no barriers to doing business at all. The balance of responses points to a nuanced financing picture, where costs and availability vary by region and financial conditions. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)
Analysts from Otkritie Bank interpret the results as evidence of a resilient small-business sector that remains active and capable of thriving despite economic headwinds. The data suggest that, even amid instability, many entrepreneurs are pursuing growth, seeking efficiencies, and adapting to new market realities. The overall stance reflects a willingness to innovate and persist in challenging conditions. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)
In a related political note, recent statements from national leadership call for a reorientation of assets and resources within Russia to strengthen domestic economic activity and ownership. While such policy shifts can influence the business climate, the study’s findings emphasize the day-to-day realities faced by business owners and the ongoing importance of practical supports, access to capital, and stable operating conditions for small enterprises. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)
Looking at behavior trends among the populace, the data indicate a gradual movement away from traditional self-employment toward more formal entrepreneurial arrangements in some segments. This shift highlights the need for policies and programs that ease compliance, reduce start-up friction, and provide enduring capital access. The overall message from this study is clear: a sizable share of Russians remains committed to entrepreneurship and expects to navigate the path ahead with adaptability and resourcefulness. (Source: Otkritie Bank and IC Rosgosstrakh study)