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Russian billionaire to give $2 billion to charity

Businessweek reports that Russian billionaire Vladimir Potanin plans to leave almost all of his $2.1 billion fortune to charity within the next decade. The billionaire says he won’t deprive his three children of material support and will appropriate money for their plans, as well as for unforeseen circumstances. An article in The Financial Times says […]

Feb 09, 2010 | By Anakin

Businessweek reports that Russian billionaire Vladimir Potanin plans to leave almost all of his $2.1 billion fortune to charity within the next decade.

The billionaire says he won’t deprive his three children of material support and will appropriate money for their plans, as well as for unforeseen circumstances.

An article in The Financial Times says that Potanin was inspired by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett and has a long history of philanthropy.

He believes his children have to earn their money themselves and his business, which should exist for the benefit of Russia, may demotivate the young people.

According to Potanin’s elder daughter Anastasiya, her father’s intention is not news for her and she completely supports it.

And if anyone appeals against his decision in the future, they will be disappointed.

Potanin, 49, controls assets including 25 percent of OAO GMK Norilsk Nickel, Russia’s biggest mining company, 30 percent of lender OAO Rosbank, and the $1.5 billion Rosa Khutor Olympic ski development in the south of the country.


 
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