Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Official website of the State –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Today, Russia celebrates banking and financial professionals—a professional holiday for those who ensure the stability and transparency of our country's financial system every day.
From Elizabeth Petrovna to the present day
The holiday was established in 2004 at the initiative of the Association of Russian Banks. The date was chosen for a reason: it was on December 2, 1990, that two key laws were adopted: "On the Central Bank of the Russian Federation" and "On Banks and Banking Activities." These documents laid the foundation for Russia's modern banking system.
The history of banking in the country is much older—over 250 years old. The first financial institutions emerged during the reign of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna. In 1754, the Merchant and Noble Loan Banks were established, followed by the Copper Bank, where one could not only take out loans but also make deposits. Later, all functions were consolidated into the Unified State Loan Bank.
In the 19th century, the commercial sector in Russia was actively developing: banks began to finance industry, trade, and individuals. After the 1917 Revolution, the system was nationalized, and during the New Economic Policy (NEP), it was partially revived, but under strict state control. The modern era began in the 1990s, when the country transitioned to a market economy. Today, more than 300 credit institutions operate in Russia, and their activities are monitored by the Bank of Russia, the guarantor of the stability of the ruble and the financial security of its citizens.
Banking at the State University of Management
"Modern challenges—threats of international terrorism, decentralized autonomous applications (including cryptocurrencies), public and private blockchain services, cybercrime, and virtual banks—require prompt and flexible solutions. Therefore, the primary task of universities in this regard is to develop qualified personnel, develop educational programs, and produce technologies in relevant fields," noted Vladimir Stroyev, Rector of the First Management University.
At the State University of Management, the training of future banking specialists and entrepreneurs is closely linked to the real sector. The Department of Banking and Entrepreneurship at the Institute of Economics and Finance (IEF GUU) collaborates with leading financial and commercial organizations across the country. Partners include Sberbank, VTB Bank, Alfa-Bank, Expobank, Ingosstrakh, and Alt-Invest. Support for the development of entrepreneurial initiatives is also provided by the SME Corporation, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation, the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs, the State Budgetary Institution Small Business of Moscow, and Novard Corporation. This integration of education and industry provides graduates not only with in-depth theoretical knowledge but also with work readiness from day one. Students gain not only in-depth knowledge but also practical skills through master classes, case competitions, and internships with leading employers, ensuring graduates receive not just a diploma but genuine readiness to work in a dynamic financial environment from day one.
Work for the benefit of man
It's worth noting that a Russian banker is more than just a numbers specialist. They advise clients, help open accounts or apply for loans, handle payments and foreign exchange transactions, analyze financial risks, and advise on wise investment and capital protection. This profession requires precision, listening skills, and a willingness to explain complex matters in simple terms. On December 2, the best in this field are awarded the National Banking Award, established in 2005. Winners receive a statuette of a winged lion—a symbol inspired by the griffins on the Bank Bridge in St. Petersburg. Many banks host seminars and lectures, where employees discuss new technologies, legislative changes, and the experiences of their colleagues.
However, Bank Worker's Day isn't just an occasion to present awards; it's also a reminder: behind every transfer, every deposit, every consultation, there's a human being. And their work makes the country's financial life honest, reliable, and focused on the real, everyday problems and challenges of our citizens.
On behalf of our entire university community, we congratulate our colleagues and students who have chosen the art of finding optimal financial solutions, helping people achieve their goals, and contributing to the stability and reliability of the Russian banking system as the foundation of their professional activities!
Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: December 2, 2025.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.