Introduction
Konstantin Bartashevich is Ukraine’s richest man, and the 62nd richest person in the world, with a current net worth of $15.4 billion. Yet, he’s a relatively unknown name outside of Ukraine. Bartashevich made his fortune in the steel and mining industries, but his success story goes way beyond that. So, let’s dive in and explore the life of this self-made billionaire.
The Beginning of his Journey
Konstantin Bartashevich was born in 1958 in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro. He grew up in a working-class family, and his father worked in a steel plant. As a child, Konstantin was fascinated by machines and mechanical engineering. He studied at a technical college and then went to university, graduating with a degree in metallurgy.
Early Career
In the early 1980s, Bartashevich started working as an engineer in a steel mill. He quickly realized that he had a talent for the business side of things. In 1989, he set up his own steel trading company, called Industrial Union of Donbass, with the aim of exporting steel from Ukraine to Western markets.
Entry into Mining
But steel wasn’t the only industry on Bartashevich’s radar. When Ukraine’s mining industry was privatized in the 1990s, he saw an opportunity and bought up several mines. He also founded the Industrial Union of Donbass Corporation (ISD), which would become one of Ukraine’s largest mining and steel companies.
Acquiring Steel Companies
ISD began acquiring other steel companies in the early 2000s, including Kryvorizhstal, Ukraine’s largest steel producer, which Bartashevich bought in 2005 for $4.8 billion. This acquisition made him one of the richest people in Ukraine, and the Kryvorizhstal steel plant became the backbone of his empire.
Expansion into Other Industries
ISD continued to expand and diversify into other industries. Bartashevich set up companies in real estate, agriculture, and finance. In 2012, he acquired a 26% stake in Ukraine’s largest mobile phone operator, Kyivstar.
Philanthropic Activities
Bartashevich is also known for his philanthropic activities. He has donated millions to various charities and foundations, including the construction of a new church in Dnipro.
Challenges and Controversies
Bartashevich’s success story is not without its challenges and controversies. His business dealings have been scrutinized by the media and some have alleged that he has ties to organized crime.
Current Status and Future Plans
Despite these issues, Bartashevich’s net worth has continued to grow. Today, he is one of Ukraine’s most powerful and influential businessmen. He remains the owner of ISD, and continues to expand his business empire, with plans to invest in renewable energy projects in the future.
Conclusion
Konstantin Bartashevich is a self-made billionaire with a fascinating success story. He started out as an engineer in a steel mill and went on to build an empire that spans several industries. While his business dealings have faced scrutiny and controversy, his philanthropic activities show that he is also committed to giving back to society.
5 FAQs
1. How did Konstantin Bartashevich make his fortune?
Konstantin Bartashevich made his fortune in the steel and mining industries. He founded the Industrial Union of Donbass Corporation, which is one of Ukraine’s largest mining and steel companies.
2. What is Konstantin Bartashevich’s net worth?
As of 2021, Konstantin Bartashevich’s net worth is $15.4 billion.
3. What other industries has Konstantin Bartashevich invested in?
Apart from steel and mining, Konstantin Bartashevich has also invested in real estate, agriculture, finance, and telecommunications.
4. Has Konstantin Bartashevich faced any controversies?
Yes, Konstantin Bartashevich’s business dealings have faced scrutiny and controversy, with some alleging that he has ties to organized crime.
5. What are Konstantin Bartashevich’s future plans?
Konstantin Bartashevich plans to invest in renewable energy projects in the future.