Alexander Razuvaev, an economist and member of the supervisory board of the Union of Financial Analysts and Risk Managers, links the rise in financial pyramids in Russia to a broad desire among residents to accumulate wealth quickly. In an interview conducted for NSN, he emphasized the importance of gaining a solid understanding of the financial landscape before making investments and using the Moscow Exchange as a reference point when considering stock purchases.
Razuvaev observes that as long as the internet exists, financial pyramids will persist. They are not a phenomenon that will disappear on its own, he notes. The only scenario in which they might vanish would be a planned economy, an outcome he hopes remains in the realm of possibility only in hypothetical terms. His stance reflects a cautious outlook on financial schemes that promise fast gains without the substance of real value creation.
To help investors steer clear of scams, the expert advised turning to reliable information channels. He suggested following popular Telegram channels that explain financial concepts in accessible terms and warned about the risks inherent in cryptocurrency investments. His guidance centers on understanding where value comes from and not chasing speculative price swings driven by demand alone.
According to him, money should work for the Russian economy, but the intended use of that money matters. He argued that traditional assets such as stocks, bonds, and real estate generate observable cash flows and can be analyzed with reasonable predictions. By contrast, he views crypto as a market driven primarily by demand, with price movements that can be abrupt and difficult to forecast. This perspective reflects a preference for assets with clearer fundamental drivers and measurable performance.
The economist also encouraged Russians who wish to invest to explore deposit options available through their bank apps, highlighting that securities listed for trading on the Moscow Stock Exchange are generally of high quality. His recommendation is to ensure due diligence before taking a position in any security, and to verify whether a stock is included in the Moscow Stock Exchange index as a key risk indicator. If a security is not part of the index, he suggests it may represent a startup or an asset with higher uncertainty and risk levels.
Recent data from the Central Bank shows a significant uptick in financial pyramids within Russia, with numbers rising to 2,176 this year, a 47 percent increase reported by the regulator. Officials also indicated that the State Duma plans to consider a bill aimed at banning the activities of financial pyramids. This regulatory development underscores the ongoing concern about the spread of non-viable schemes and highlights the need for investors to rely on verified financial instruments recognized by established markets. The broader context includes assessments by market experts about the appropriateness of various investment strategies for residents who seek balanced growth and capital preservation. In light of these dynamics, the question remains: should Russians invest in gold? This topic has been a recurring point of discussion among financial analysts and policymakers alike [Regulatory Update].