Ruben Vardanyan & family

$1.25 B

Ranked #2918 in World

About Ruben Vardanyan & family

Ruben Vardanyan, a distinguished Armenian-born businessman and philanthropist, has led a remarkable career since his early education at Yerevan School No. 35 and Moscow State University. He co-founded Troika Dialog in 1991, later selling it to Sberbank in a lucrative deal. Vardanyan's ventures post-Troika include significant investments in various sectors and launching philanthropic initiatives like the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. In 2021, he took Armenian citizenship, moving to Artsakh and briefly serving as State Minister. However, in September 2023, Azerbaijani authorities arrested him on serious charges, marking a controversial twist in his legacy. Despite controversies, Vardanyan's impact on finance, philanthropy, and politics remains notable, recognized by numerous international awards.

Born

May 25, 1968 in Yerevan, Armenian SSR, Soviet Union

Age

57 years

Source Of Wealth

Investment Banking

Industries

Finance & Investments

Citizenship

Armenia

Residence

Erevan

Education

Master of Science, Moscow State University

Spouse

Veronika Zonabend

Children

Ruben Vardanyan was born on May 25, 1968, in Yerevan, Armenian SSR. He excelled academically and graduated with honors from Yerevan School No. 35 in 1985. Driven by his passion for economics, he enrolled in Moscow State University's Faculty of Economics the same year. His educational journey was interrupted by mandatory military service in Soviet Azerbaijan and Armenia. Despite these challenges, he persevered and completed his studies with honors in 1992.

Vardanyan's thirst for knowledge led him to pursue further training at Cassa di Risparmio di Torino Italian savings bank in Turin. He also attended a course on developing markets at Merrill Lynch in New York in 1992. His commitment to continuous learning extended to short-term courses at prestigious institutions such as INSEAD, Harvard Business School, Yale University, and Stanford GSB.

Ruben Vardanyan & family: Family

Ruben Vardanyan is married to Veronika Zonabend, a prominent figure in education and co-founder of UWC Dilijan College. Together, they have built a strong partnership and share a passion for philanthropy and social entrepreneurship. Vardanyan also has a sister named Marine Ales, a talented composer and songwriter.

Ruben Vardanyan & family: Career Highlights

Vardanyan's career is marked by remarkable achievements and leadership positions. He co-founded Troika Dialog, a leading investment bank in Russia, in 1991. Throughout his tenure at Troika Dialog, he held various positions, including expert, head of IPO department, executive director, president, CEO, and chairman of the board of directors. His expertise and strategic vision played a pivotal role in the company's growth and success.

In 2011, Troika Dialog was sold to Sberbank for $1 billion, a testament to Vardanyan's exceptional leadership. He subsequently became co-head of Sberbank CIB and held advisory and board positions at Sberbank, further solidifying his influence in the financial industry.

Vardanyan's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Vardanyan, Broitman and Co, an investment company, in 2013.

He also acquired shares in Ameriabank, UFS Transport operator, and several venture projects. His investment portfolio reflects his diverse interests and commitment to driving economic growth.

Vardanyan's executive posts extend beyond the financial sector. He served as CEO of Rosgosstrakh in 2004 and held numerous board and advisory positions in various companies and organizations. His expertise and leadership have been recognized across industries, making him a sought-after advisor and strategist.

Ruben Vardanyan & family: Companies

Ruben Vardanyan has been associated with several prominent companies throughout his career. He co-founded Troika Dialog, an investment bank that achieved significant success under his leadership. After Troika Dialog was sold to Sberbank, he became co-head of Sberbank CIB and held advisory and board positions at Sberbank.

Vardanyan's entrepreneurial ventures include Vardanyan, Broitman and Co, an investment company, and Avica Management Company, where he acquired a 50% share. He also launched Global Blue Russia, a tax-refunding company, in partnership with Global Blue.

Vardanyan's executive roles extend to companies such as Rosgosstrakh, Kamaz, Ameriabank, and Global Blue Russia Holdings B.V. His expertise and leadership have been sought after by various organizations, leading to his involvement in advisory board positions and investment committees.

Ruben Vardanyan & family: Major Achievements

Ruben Vardanyan's accomplishments are numerous and span various fields. He co-founded Troika Dialog, which became a leading investment bank in Russia. His leadership and strategic vision played a crucial role in the company's growth and eventual sale to Sberbank for $1 billion.

Vardanyan's contributions to philanthropy and social entrepreneurship are equally significant. He co-founded Moscow School of Management SKOLKOVO and served as its president, shaping the future of business education in Russia. His involvement in the establishment of UWC Dilijan College and the Armenia 2020 project demonstrates his commitment to education and social progress.

Vardanyan's expertise has been recognized through numerous awards and honors. He was named Businessman of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia and recognized as "best business manager on Russia's capital market" by Career magazine.

His achievements have also been acknowledged by Ernst & Young, the National Association of Stock Market Participants, and Russian GQ.

Ruben Vardanyan & family: Awards & Achievements

Ruben Vardanyan's exceptional contributions have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards and achievements. He was honored as Businessman of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia in 1999 and named "best business manager on Russia's capital market" by Career magazine.

Vardanyan's entrepreneurial success was further acknowledged when he was named Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year in 2004. The National Association of Stock Market Participants declared him "investment banker of the year" the same year. His influence and leadership were recognized by Russian GQ, which nominated him as "Man of the Year" in 2010.

Vardanyan's global impact was recognized when Fortune magazine included him in its list of "25 Rising Stars of the New Generation" in 2001. He was also listed among the "100 Global Leaders of Tomorrow" at the World Economic Forum in the same year. These accolades underscore his exceptional achievements and influence on a global scale.

In addition to these recognitions, Vardanyan has been bestowed with several prestigious orders, including the Order of St. Mesrop Mashtots, Order of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, and Order of Friendship. He has also received the Academy of International Business Presidential Award and the Search for Common Ground prize, further solidifying his status as a respected and influential figure.

Ruben Vardanyan & family: Personal Life & Legacy

Ruben Vardanyan's personal life is marked by his strong family ties and commitment to philanthropy. He is married to Veronika Zonabend, his partner in both life and their shared passion for education and social entrepreneurship. Together, they have built a legacy of giving back to society.

Vardanyan's philanthropic endeavors are extensive and impactful. He has been involved with the Pushkin Museum council, Russian National Orchestra, and The American Russian Youth Orchestra.

His contributions to education include co-founding Moscow School of Management SKOLKOVO and establishing UWC Dilijan College. His support for restoration initiatives and the establishment of the Foundation for Armenian Science and Technology further demonstrate his commitment to cultural preservation and scientific advancement.

Vardanyan's legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and social responsibility. He has consistently demonstrated a passion for driving positive change and making a lasting impact on society. His contributions to the business world, philanthropy, and education have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence and make a difference.

Ruben Vardanyan & family: Trivia

Ruben Vardanyan's diverse interests and accomplishments extend beyond his professional achievements. He is known for his passion for classical music and has served on the board of the Russian National Orchestra. His love for the arts also includes a fascination with ancient Armenian manuscripts, which he collects and studies.

Vardanyan's commitment to social causes is evident in his support for various charitable initiatives. He has been involved in projects aimed at improving healthcare, education, and social welfare in Armenia and beyond. His philanthropic efforts reflect his belief in the power of collective action to create positive change.

Vardanyan's influence and expertise have made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader. He has participated in numerous conferences, forums, and panel discussions, sharing his insights on topics ranging from economics and finance to philanthropy and social entrepreneurship. His ability to inspire and engage audiences further cements his status as a respected and influential figure.

Wealth History

Timeline

May 25, 1968

Ruben Vardanyan is born in Yerevan, Armenian SSR.

1985

Graduates with honors from Yerevan School No. 35 and enrolls in Moscow State University's Faculty of Economics.

1991

Co-founds Troika Dialog with Peter Derby on March 18.

1992

Completes military service in Soviet Azerbaijan and Armenia and graduates with honors from the Faculty of Economics.

2004

Serves as CEO of Rosgosstrakh.

2011

Sells Troika Dialog to Sberbank for $1 billion and becomes co-head of Sberbank CIB.

2013

Starts Vardanyan, Broitman and Co, an investment company, with Mikhail Broitman and acquires a 50% share in Avica Management Company.

2015

Founds "Phoenix Advisors," a company focused on family welfare protection and succession planning, and co-founds the Primakov Center for International Cooperation.

2018

Launches Global Blue Russia, a tax-refunding company, with Global Blue.

June 2021

Acquires Armenian citizenship and expresses intention to start a political career in Armenia.

September 2022

Moves to the unrecognized Republic of Artsakh and renounces Russian citizenship.

November 2022

Appointed State Minister of Artsakh.

February 2023

Dismissed from the position of State Minister of Artsakh.

September 2023

Arrested by Azerbaijani authorities while attempting to cross into Armenia and charged with "financing terrorism, creating illegal armed formations, and illegally crossing a state border."

Ruben Vardanyan & family : FAQs

What is Ruben Vardanyan's current net worth?

Ruben Vardanyan's current net worth is $1.25 billion.

What is Ruben Vardanyan's current global rank among billionaires?

Ruben Vardanyan holds the 2918th position globally among billionaires.

What is Ruben Vardanyan's current ranking within the Armenia?

Ruben Vardanyan holds the 1st position in Armenia.

What was the change in Ruben Vardanyan's net worth compared to the previous year?

Ruben Vardanyan's net worth increased by 95.17 million dollars compared to the previous year 2025, when his net worth was 1.16 billion dollars.

What are Ruben Vardanyan's main sources of wealth?

Ruben Vardanyan's main source of income comes from Investment Banking.

In which industry does Ruben Vardanyan primarily operate?

Ruben Vardanyan is primarily involved in the Finance & Investments industry.

What is Ruben Vardanyan educational background?

Ruben Vardanyan holds a Master of Science from Moscow State University.

How old is Ruben Vardanyan?

Ruben Vardanyan is 57 years old.

How many children does Ruben Vardanyan have?

Ruben Vardanyan has 4 children.

What are Ruben Vardanyan's key achievements in his early education and training?

Ruben Vardanyan graduated with honors from Yerevan School No. 35 and Moscow State University's Faculty of Economics, completed a course on developing markets at Merrill Lynch in New York, and attended short-term courses at INSEAD, Harvard Business School, Yale University, and Stanford GSB.

How did Ruben Vardanyan contribute to the financial sector through his work with Troika Dialog?

Ruben Vardanyan co-founded Troika Dialog, significantly contributing to its growth as he held roles from expert to CEO, before selling the company to Sberbank for $1 billion in 2011.

What philanthropic efforts has Ruben Vardanyan been involved in?

Vardanyan has engaged in philanthropy through the Pushkin Museum council, co-founded the Moscow School of Management SKOLKOVO, and supported restoration initiatives like the Tatev Monastery, also co-founding the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity.

What led to Ruben Vardanyan's move to Armenia and subsequent political career in Artsakh?

Ruben Vardanyan acquired Armenian citizenship in June 2021, moved to Artsakh in September 2022 seeking a political career, and was appointed State Minister of Artsakh, a position he held until February 2023.

What controversies has Ruben Vardanyan faced throughout his career?

Vardanyan faced sanctions from Ukraine due to his role in Volga Dnepr, allegations in the Troika Laundromat scandal for facilitating illicit financial flows, and accusations of complicity with the Kremlin in Nagorno-Karabakh.