Stories from Moscow · Russia

The Russian Premier League is considering allowing disqualified coaches to give post-match interviews and participate in other media activities. This proposal is being put forward by the president of the Russian Premier League, Alexander Dyukov. Currently, head coaches who receive red cards during a match are prohibited from participating in post-match interviews and press conferences. This proposed change to the regulations was highlighted by RPL President Aleksandr Aerofeev. Current rules prohibit coaches shown red cards from engaging in post-match press conferences and interviews.

Russian banks are proposing a phased approach to integrating artificial intelligence into the financial sector, starting with support measures and pilot projects before moving to regulation of high-risk areas and full control. This proposal, outlined by the Association of Banks of Russia, aims to ensure a smoother transition to using domestic AI systems. The Central Bank and State Duma Committee on Financial Markets have been involved in discussions, with banks seeking to avoid harming Russian businesses while leveraging AI's future potential.

Russian authorities are reportedly demanding that individuals unlock their phones before crossing the border. This requirement applies to various sectors, including business and human rights.

Anton Siluanov, head of Russia's finance ministry, made a statement regarding the current economic tempo.

The church is described as a despotic institute in Russia, which is said to completely change worldviews.

A Moscow resident received 50,000 rubles from an unknown sender, who then claimed it was their entire salary and asked for it to be returned. The man complied, sending the money back via bank transfer. The following day, all of his bank accounts were blocked. A woman named Irina contacted him, claiming she had mistakenly sent her entire salary and asked him to return it to a specific number.

Russian companies are prioritizing secure messengers for corporate communication, moving away from public news channels. Roman Klopasov, head of strategic consulting at ARB Pro, highlighted that while free alternatives exist, they do not meet the primary corporate demand for confidentiality. Companies are concerned about their correspondence and client data being read. Klopasov noted that transitioning from paid services to free ones is not sensible when options like Bitrix or AmaSerymov are available, with costs potentially starting at zero per year. This move aims to improve the manageability of information flows and prevent data leaks. Employees will have an additional messenger to manage, potentially requiring them to learn new communication protocols. Russian companies are actively seeking profit despite facing economic constraints.

Anna Dycheva-Smirnova, a board member of the Russian Perfume and Cosmetics Association, stated that the slump experienced by retailers like Litual is not necessarily due to management issues. She attributes the difficulties to a lack of active geographical expansion by these retailers. This downturn is attributed to broader economic challenges affecting consumer spending. The association is seeking solutions to support its member companies. The company's revenue decreased by 6% last year, and its operating profit exceeded one billion rubles for the first time since 2012. Sales of cosmetics in Russia fell by 2%, with a primary reason being a decline in demand at physical stores. Russian citizens spent over one and a half times more on cosmetics in the last five years. In the past year, the average expenditure per Muscovite on beauty services and products exceeded 5,500 rubles.

Cosmetics company L'Oréal reported a loss, contrasting with Golden Apple's profit increase. L'Oréal's net profit turned into a loss of one billion, while Golden Apple's net profit grew nearly twofold to almost 7.5 billion. L'Oréal's issues are attributed to sanctions, empty shelves, and a business model reliant on luxury brands, leading to sales cannibalization. The Russian Perfume and Cosmetics Association reports a slump among retailers. This comes as China dominates the global EV market and showcases AI technology, while German parties struggle to define their economic identity. Cosmetics retailer L'Occitane will close seven out of every ten stores, representing one in seven of its total locations. This decision comes as the company's net profit has turned into a loss of one billion, while competitor Zolotoye Yabloko's net profit has doubled to nearly 7.5 billion.

A Russian university is discussing peasant uprisings against the Bolsheviks. The context involves historical figures who fought against communists and are now being praised. Some individuals who fought for the Nazis are also being honored because they opposed the communists. A Russian university is hosting discussions on peasant uprisings that occurred during the Bolshevik era.