Mikhail Prokhorov

Mikhail Prokhorov is a renowned Russian businessman, politician, and investor, known for his successful ventures in the fields of finance, mining, and sports. Born in Moscow, Soviet Union, Prokhorov has been associated with prominent figures such as Vladimir Potanin and Vladimir Putin. His business career has been marked by significant investments in companies like Norilsk Nickel and Polyus Gold. Prokhorov's interests also extend to politics, where he has been involved with parties like the Right Cause and has run for public office, including the Russian presidential election, 2012.

● Early Life and Education

Mikhail Prokhorov was born in Moscow, Soviet Union, to a family of Soviet intellectuals, with his father working at the Ministry of Foreign Trade. Prokhorov's early life was influenced by his family's connections to the Soviet Academy of Sciences and the Moscow State University. He graduated from the Moscow Finance Institute, where he studied international economic relations alongside future business partners like Vladimir Potanin. Prokhorov's education also involved training at the London School of Economics and the University of St. Gallen, exposing him to Western economic principles and practices. His academic background has been compared to that of other successful Russian oligarchs, such as Roman Abramovich and Oleg Deripaska.

● Business Career

Prokhorov's business career began in the late 1980s, during the Perestroika era, when he worked at the International Bank for Economic Cooperation. He later co-founded the Onexim Bank with Vladimir Potanin, which became a key player in Russian finance. Prokhorov's investments have included significant stakes in companies like Norilsk Nickel, Polyus Gold, and Rusal, often in partnership with other prominent Russian businessmen, such as Oleg Deripaska and Vladimir Potanin. His business dealings have also involved interactions with international corporations, including Vale and Glencore. Prokhorov has been recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements, including being named one of the most influential people in the world by Time Magazine and receiving the Order of Friendship from the Russian government.

● Political Career

Prokhorov's entry into politics was marked by his leadership of the Right Cause party, which he joined in 2011. He has been critical of the United Russia party and its leader, Vladimir Putin, advocating for liberal reforms and greater transparency in Russian politics. Prokhorov's political ambitions have included running for the Russian presidency in the 2012 Russian presidential election, where he finished third behind Vladimir Putin and Gennady Zyuganov. His political views have been compared to those of other Russian opposition figures, such as Boris Nemtsov and Alexei Navalny. Prokhorov has also been involved in various Russian and international organizations, including the World Economic Forum and the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.

● Philanthropy and Personal Life

Prokhorov is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of education and culture. He has supported institutions like the Russian Museum and the Moscow State University, and has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including the Prokhorov Foundation. Prokhorov's personal life has been the subject of media attention, with his interests including yachting and collecting art. He has been linked to various high-profile events, such as the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Yacht Show. Prokhorov's social circle includes prominent figures like Roman Abramovich, Elton John, and Naomi Campbell.

● Sports Ownership and Investments

Prokhorov's interests in sports have led to significant investments in teams like the Brooklyn Nets and the CSKA Moscow basketball team. He has been recognized for his contributions to the development of Russian sports, including his support for the Russian Olympic Committee and the FIBA. Prokhorov's ownership of the Brooklyn Nets has involved partnerships with other prominent sports investors, such as Jay-Z and Shawn Carter. His investments in sports have also included sponsorship deals with companies like Nike, Inc. and Adidas. Prokhorov has been compared to other successful sports owners, such as Stan Kroenke and Mikhail Khodorkovsky.