Russia's cigarette king practices strategic giving

By Roman Anin

Dominant vendor sets standard for connections

Excerpts from this story referencing "Monolit":

"… ding tobacco distributor has donated at least $7 million to a charity, the Monolit fund, run by former officers of the nation’s powerful security services. …"

"… ervices also have taken positions in Kesaev companies.The gifts are legal. Monolit provides financial assistance and care and housing for retired security se …"

"… ed transparency activists’ suggestions that his company has given to the Monolit fund to ensure a business advantage.He said Mercury has advanced because o …"

"… ofessional management. “We don’t see a relationship between sponsoring Monolit and doing business. The real work and care of the fund is addressed to tho …"