Russian IT-Mogul Matsotsky arrested in absence for bribes

Russian IT-Mogul Matsotsky arrested in absence for bribes

Moskau, Russland - Today, on July 18, 2025, the Russian IT industry is shaken by a scandal that makes the business world excited in Moscow. Sergei Matsotsky, co-founder of the renowned IT-Holdings IBS, was charged with the absence of the Basmanny District Court in Moscow for large-scale bribery. This indictment, which was previously published without precise details, has been announced by the Presse by Moscow Jurisdiction. Matsotky had left Russia before the judgment was announced and is now a central figure in a truly explosive case.

MatsotSky is not just any name in the industry. He played a crucial role in building the Russian IT industry and was recognized by Tadviser in August 2022 as one of the country's leading IT entrepreneurs. His career was preceded by a number of impondering projects, including the foundation of GS-Invest, a holding company that focuses on software development and system integration. His close cooperation with state-related companies, such as a negotiation with Gazprombank to establish a joint venture in the IT area, shows that he had a good knack for strategic alliances.

The developments in the IT industry

But the situation for the entire industry is tense. Since the Ukraine War 2022, the Russian technology sector has been faced with a massive shortage of labor and strict western sanctions. As the Merkur , many Russian tech companies have to dismiss the situation. The lack of local alternatives has meant that only 30-40% of foreign software in Russia can be replaced by local products. For the most part, the remaining software solutions from third countries, mainly China, have to be imported.

Chinese companies have taken the opportunity to enter the Russian market. Over 50% of the apps on the Rustore platform are already from China, especially in the game area. This development is underpinned by the factual trade boom between Russia and China, which achieved a maximum of $ 245 billion in 2024. This partnership is actively promoted by Vladimir Putin, who strives for closer cooperations in the field of artificial intelligence.

The consequences for Matsotsky and the industry

The indictment against Matsotsky throws a light on the close integration of politics and business in Russia. His connections and projects, such as the joint project with Andrey Cheglakov in 2021 to found the Rusim company, show that he was an influential player. Matsotsky also had the majority of L2U, a company that developed IT products to support technical services. The L2U clients contain numerous institutions that are connected to Matsotsky and illustrate how deeply its influence is anchored in the IT area.

Overall, a look at the dynamic changes in the Russian Tech world and the role that figures such as Matsotsky play will be of enormous importance in the future.