Alisher Usmanov

Alisher Usmanov, born on September 9, 1953, is a prominent Russian-Uzbek billionaire known for his extensive investments and entrepreneurial ventures. With a net worth estimated at twelve billion six hundred million dollars, he ranks as the 149th richest person globally according to Forbes. His wealth primarily stems from his stake in USM Holdings, alongside significant investments in various sectors, including technology and mining.

Usmanov's entrepreneurial journey began in the Soviet Union during the 1980s, where he initially found success. However, it was after the collapse of the Soviet Union that he amassed substantial wealth through strategic investments in metal and mining operations, as well as early stakes in technology giants like Facebook, Twitter, VK, and Alibaba Group. His diverse portfolio also includes ownership of the Kommersant publishing house and co-ownership of MegaFon, a leading mobile operator, and the Udokan mine, which is home to one of the largest copper deposits worldwide.

In addition to his business endeavors, Usmanov has made significant contributions to the sport of fencing, serving as the president of the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime since 2008. However, his tenure faced challenges amid international sanctions, leading him to temporarily suspend his duties in 2022 and 2024 following his re-election.

Usmanov's past includes a controversial chapter where he spent six years in a Soviet prison on charges of fraud and embezzlement, a conviction that was later overturned. In 2000, he received political rehabilitation from the Supreme Court of Uzbekistan, which deemed the case against him as unfounded. Despite his success, Usmanov has faced scrutiny due to alleged ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which he denies, resulting in sanctions imposed by the US, EU, UK, and Ukrainian governments following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.