Early Life
Oleg Viktorovich Boyko was born on September 28, 1964, in Moscow, Russia. He was raised in a family of academics, which instilled in him a strong value for education and a curious mindset. He studied radio electronics at the Moscow Aviation Institute and later obtained an MBA from the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration. During his studies, Boyko showed an early interest in business, establishing a karate training outfit and venturing into importing and selling computer hardware and software.
Rise to Success
Boyko's entrepreneurial journey began in the late 1980s with importing and selling computers and accessories in the Soviet Union. He is credited with introducing the first stores with credit card readers in Moscow in the 1990s. In 1990, he co-founded National Credit Bank. However, his primary investment vehicle became Finstar Financial Group, established in 1996. Under his leadership, Finstar evolved into a global investment company with a diversified portfolio spanning financial services, fintech, retail, and entertainment. Boyko has demonstrated success in various industries, including a stake in EvrazHolding, which became one of the world's largest steel producers. He also founded Ritzio Entertainment Group, which became the largest entertainment network in Eastern Europe. He further expanded into retail by acquiring Rive Gauche, which grew into Russia’s second-largest cosmetics chain.
Key Business Strategies
Boyko's success stems from his ability to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities, primarily in the fintech sector, and digital consumer lending through Finstar Financial Group. He has shown a knack for adapting to changing consumer behaviors and technological advancements. His strategy includes investing in innovative fintech solutions to drive global financial inclusion, with a strong emphasis on technology-driven, data-centric financial services. He focuses on financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems.
Philanthropy
Oleg Boyko is a dedicated philanthropist. In 2006, he founded the Parasport Foundation to support Paralympic athletes through training, competition, and healthcare initiatives. The Foundation has since expanded its efforts to offer both financial and emotional support to para-athletes worldwide. Boyko has also been involved in the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS). He was invited to the Forbes 400 Summit on Philanthropy in 2020.