Early Life
Oleg Viktorovich Boyko was born in Moscow, Russia, on September 28, 1964. Growing up in a family of academics, he developed a strong interest in finance and technology from a young age. Boyko studied radio electronics at the Moscow Aviation Institute before earning an MBA from the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration.
Rise to Success
Boyko's entrepreneurial journey began in the late 1980s with the import and sale of used computers and accessories in the Soviet Union. In the 1990s, he introduced credit card readers to Moscow, marking a pivotal moment in Russia's fintech sector. In 1996, he founded Finstar Financial Group, his primary investment vehicle. Under his leadership, Finstar expanded globally, with a focus on fintech, banking and financial services, real estate development, FMCG retail, and entertainment. Boyko co-founded EvrazHolding in 1999, one of the world's largest steel producers, and sold his stake in 2004. He also invested in and developed Rive Gauche into Russia's second-largest cosmetics chain before selling his controlling share.
Key Business Strategies
Boyko has focused on identifying and investing in promising ventures, with a keen interest in the fintech sector. His approach has been to execute established ventures better than competitors. Finstar's strategy includes launching new projects, restructuring companies, forming partnerships, and executing mergers and acquisitions.
Philanthropy
Boyko is a significant supporter of the Paralympic movement. In 2006, he founded the Parasport Foundation, which provides training, healthcare, and competition opportunities for athletes with disabilities. He has also served on the Development Committee of the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS).
