Headings of the journal
"Economics and Management"

Annotation: The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state and prospects for the development of trade financing in Zambia, as well as an exploration of the opportunities for deepening Russian-Zambian cooperation. Special attention is paid to the access of small and medium-sized enterprises to financial instruments, institutional and infrastructure barriers, and the existing gap between supply and demand in the trade financing market. The role of digital technologies is considered, including the introduction of blockchain platforms and mobile ap- plications, as well as the impact of regulatory reforms aimed at reducing security requirements and simplifying procedures. The second part of the article focuses on the historical basis of trade and economic relations between Russia and Zambia and identifies key areas for their further development, including agriculture, energy, min- ing, and education. It is noted that the strategic partnership can contribute to the diversification of the Zambian economy, reduce dependence on copper exports and create new growth points. Additionally, the importance of educational and personnel initiatives that provide training for joint projects is emphasized. It is concluded that there is a need for institutional strengthening, the development of modern trade support mechanisms and the implementation of strategic joint projects.

Annotation: The article is devoted to the study of corporate volunteering in Russia as a significant element of corporate social responsibility. The author analyzes the practical experience of leading Russian companies such as Sberbank, Gazprom and Yandex, highlighting the key areas of their volunteer activities: environmental initiatives, support for social projects, educational programs and assistance in emergency situations. Particular attention is paid to regional practices demonstrating the transformation of social infrastructure due to corporate participation. Modern trends, including the digitalization of volunteering, flexible forms of participation and the growth of environmental responsibility are considered in the work. Based on the analysis, recommendations are proposed for the development of corporate volunteering, such as the introduction of non-material motivation mechanisms, educational programs for volunteers, ensuring transparency of reporting and taking into account local needs. The study is based on sociological surveys, company cases and analysis of the regulatory framework. The results are valuable for HR specialists, business leaders, representatives of NPOs and government agencies interested in the development of social partnership and sustainable business development.

Annotation: This article examines Russia’s role in BRICS economic cooperation through institutional and real-sector channels during 2015–2025. Using content analysis of strategic documents alongside statistical examination of financial and trade indicators, the study evaluates Russia’s engagement with the New Development Bank and Contingent Reserve Arrangement, as well as bilateral trade dynamics with BRICS partners. Russia holds 20 % NDB equity with USD 4,7–5 billion in approved projects, though operations were suspended in 2022. Within the CRA, Rus- sia contributes USD 18 billion but the mechanism remains unused. Comparative analysis of BRICS strategic documents (2016–2024) and Russian policy frameworks confirms alignment on multipolar financial architecture, infrastructure development, digital economy integration, and alternative settlement systems. However, structural asymmetries particularly Russia’s growing dependence on China for trade and logistics constrain deeper integra- tion. The study concludes that Russia’s strategic priorities center on expanding NDB project pipelines, develop- ing interoperable payment infrastructure for local currency settlements, and targeting high-multiplier sectoral projects in transport, energy technology, and industrial cooperation. These findings contribute empirical evidence on Russia’s evolving position within BRICS amid geopolitical restructuring and Western sanctions pressure.

Annotation: The article analyzes the market of services for maintenance and repair of motor vehicles, describes the features of the activities of enterprises related to the nature of the services provided, requirements for the organization of work and interaction with the client base. Due to the high competition in the industry and the technological complexity of the operation of modern cars, the study presents an analysis of promising areas of activity in the market for maintenance and repair of motor vehicles. The level of demand for maintenance and repair of motor vehicles depends on both internal and external factors. Individual factors affecting demand are interdependent values, which has an increasing effect on the dynamics of demand. Since an enterprise for its normal functioning needs not implementation of well thought out and competently built marketing policy only in the area of online promotion and advertising, but also creation of a positive reputation based on positive customer reviews, the article presents an analysis of trends in the market of maintenance and repair of motor vehicles.

Annotation: The article is devoted to the study of the features and prospects of the transformation of marketing activities in the context of the forming of the seventh technological paradigm, the key element of which will be the widespread use of artificial intelligence (AI) and self-learning systems. The article presents a systematic view of the key stages of the development of marketing technologies, and examines the impact of future innovative developments on the organization of business processes and the forming of comprehensive marketing strategies. Special attention is paid to the factors that contribute to the development of effective AI-based tools and methods that can increase the competitiveness of enterprises in rapidly changing market conditions. The main drivers of growth and areas of improvement in marketing activities that are necessary for the successful adoption of new technologies are highlighted in the article. The study was based on the methods of abstract-logical and system analysis, modeling, and comparison, as well as the problem-targeted and structural-functional approaches to studying the issues of improving the effectiveness of marketing activities in the context of new technological challenges and pat- terns. The findings will provide an understanding of current trends and strategic directions for the development of marketing in the context of the large-scale technological shift that is expected in the next decade, and will determine the scientific and practical significance of this research.