Market share of state-influenced banks in Russia

Abstract

In this paper we rely on empirical data to develop a classification of state-influenced banks. An estimate of such banks’ combined market share by July 1, 2009 is suggested. We identify 53 state-controlled banks in Russia, including state-owned banks and state-governed banks. Public sector in the banking industry is not limited to the property of federal-level executive authorities or the Central Bank of Russia. It also comprises banks effectively controlled by sub-federal (regional and municipal) authorities, by state-owned enterprises and banks and by “state corporations”. Altogether these banks account for 56% to 57% of all banking assets. Banks owned by public capital indirectly are the fastest-growing group among state-influenced institutions. Concentration grows within public sector of the banking industry, with top-5 state-controlled banking groups in possession of over 49% of national bank assets. We also contemplate a crowding out and erosion of domestic private capital whose market share shrinks from year to year. Effectively a return to a state-run credit system has been accomplished. Several largest state-owned banks now constitute a de facto intermediate third tier of the banking system. Russia’s transition path goes in a quite different direction from that of CEE countries.Russia; banks; state control; public sector; state-owned banks; state-controlled banks; state-influenced banks; transition