Wednesday, February 20, 2008

MIND THE GAP

"When Forbes magazine began compiling a Russian rich list in 2004, it stated that there were 36 billionaires. Last year there were 53, worth a total of $282 billion; and in this year's the editor believes there will be "at least 80" - only the US has more. The 100 richest citizens are reckoned to be worth almost 25 per cent of the nation's GDP, while 20 per cent of the country lives below the poverty line, according to the most conservative estimates."
(Observer Magazine, 17 February) RD

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