Millions of Russians whose salaries are barely enough to survive, in the event of unforeseen expenses – be it illness, accident or mobilization – have no choice but to take a loan. But when poor people go for a loan, they most often turn not to a bank, but to a microfinance organization, where loans are issued without any nitpicking about borrowers’ financial situation, sometimes at 325% per annum. It is not surprising that this high-performing business has long been populated by people with connections.