Russian Philanthropists Increase in Number and Generosity

Interest in charitable giving is growing among the richest Russians, reports Bloomberg.

According to data collected by Bloomberg from 15 of the wealthiest Russians and from corporate annual reports and charitable foundations, a total of $1.64-billion was donated to philanthropic projects from 2010 through 2012. On average, respondents said they gave away 40 percent more in 2012 than in 2010.

Russian billionaire and nickel magnate Vladimir Potanin is leading his country’s newfound philanthropic calling as the first Russian to sign the Giving Pledge, promising to donate at least half of his wealth to charity.