Russian Oligarchs Have Transferred Tens of Billions of Dollars Abroad

Over the past year, Russian oligarchs, including close associates of President Vladimir Putin, have transferred billions of dollars abroad. The main reasons for the capital outflow are concerns about economic stability, budget deficits, and the threat of asset confiscation. Experts estimate that informal capital outflows since the beginning of 2026 have reached tens of billions of dollars, significantly exceeding last year's figures. Since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, approximately $250 billion has been taken out of Russia. The Kremlin is seeking new sources to fill the budget amid colossal military expenditures. After a closed meeting of oligarchs with Putin in March, where voluntary contributions to the state budget were discussed, pressure on businesses has intensified. The Russian prosecutor's office has conducted a campaign for deprivatization, reclaiming assets worth over 4 trillion rubles. In response, entrepreneurs have begun transferring funds to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and other countries. Shadow routes are being used for fund transfers, with Dubai becoming a key hub. Popular transit zones include Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. In the first half of 2025, the A7A5 stablecoin-based transfer system conducted transactions worth 7.5 trillion rubles. There is also a noted threat of a banking crisis in Russia.