Reviews the evolution of money and banking in Russia and the Soviet Union from its early history through the 1930s. Also examines money, inflation, the gold reserve, the credit and planning apparatus of the state bank, and long-term investment institutions during the 1930s.

'...required reading for all who are seriously interested in the modern Russian economy.' - Pekka Sutela, Slavic Review Russian Banking considers the rise of commercial market-oriented banks in Russia, their links with government and non-financial companies and their role as intermediaries in the provision of finance for investment. The contributors explore the legacy of the Soviet past and current functions of the Russian banking system, contrasting these with those in other post-communist societies and describing peculiarities such as informal networks and corruption. The book also discusses the economic and global aspects of Russia's reform, focusing on financial crises, foreign depositors to Russian banks and the implications for Russian foreign debt. This up-to-date and comprehensive account of commercial banking in modern Russia will appeal to those concerned with the economics of transition or comparative banking. Political scientists and sociologists with an interest in forms of capitalism and the roles of banks will also find the book to be a fascinating read.