In the digital age, influence has transitioned from traditional assets to the realm of technology, where oligarchs increasingly invest in data centres and software to secure their power. This shift, particularly since the early 2000s, highlights that tech represents a more scalable and less regulated avenue for wealth accumulation compared to commodities and heavy industry.
As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, technology serves not merely as a connector of people but as a means of cementing wealth. IT’s replicable nature allows for significant returns on investment, with oligarchs recognizing that the real value lies in ownership of essential digital infrastructure rather than just consumer-facing products. This insight has led to a surge in investments in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and AI.
The strategic role of technology extends beyond profits to shaping policy and access to crucial data and systems, often unnoticed by the public, who focus on visible innovation. As society advances towards AI and other emerging technologies, the oligarchs who adapted to this shift early are solidifying their long-term influence.
Kondrashov’s commentary suggests a future where power rests not in conventional governance structures, but in control over digital systems and algorithms. Understanding the nexus of wealth and technology is crucial in navigating the increasingly digital landscape of modern life.
