Investment myths, market legends, and the power of community: HSE GSB continuing education programs at Smart Lab 2025
The team of instructors from the Continuing Education Programs of the HSE Graduate School of Business (GSB) hosted a thematic session titled “Investment Myths and Realities: From the Classroom to Market Legends.” The session featured Alexey Bacherov, Academic Supervisor of the Professional Retraining Program “Financial and Stock Markets,” Associate Professor at HSE GSB, and founder of Family Office ABTRUST; Yaroslav Kabakov, PhD in Economics, Strategy Director at Finam Investment Company and Head of the Advanced Training Program “Investor Relations Director: Building Dialogue with Investors”; Oleg Abelev, PhD in Economics, Head of the Analytical Department at RIKOM-TRUST and GSB lecturer; Ilya Gadaskin, Head of the Advanced Training Program “Artificial Intelligence and Algorithmic Strategies in the Securities Market,” professional trader; and Andrey Paranych, GSB lecturer and President of NASFP.
The session was held in the format of a roundtable discussion. Faculty members shared stories of iconic figures in the investment world — from Warren Buffett to John Bogle — exploring not only their investment strategies, but also the lesser-known aspects of their biographies, such as their education, professional networks, and the teams that contributed to their success.
Interest in the discussion was so high that many attendees remained standing — the room was filled to capacity. The session was moderated by Alexey Bacherov. Oleg Abelev spoke about Warren Buffett as one of the most renowned investors known for using fundamental analysis; Ilya Gadaskin presented mathematician and Renaissance Technologies founder James Simons; Yaroslav Kabakov dedicated his talk to Stephen Schwarzman, and Andrey Paranych discussed John Bogle, the creator of index funds.
Commenting on the concept and outcomes of the session, Alexey Bacherov emphasized that the idea stemmed from a desire to show that behind the big names in the investment world are not just money and success, but above all, systematic work and a solid foundation.
Alexey Bacherov
Academic supervisor of the professional retraining program “Financial and Stock Markets,” Associate Professor at HSE GSB, founder of Family Office ABTRUST
“We deliberately moved away from traditional lectures and decided to talk about personalities admired by thousands of investors. But at the same time, we wanted to highlight the part of their journey that is rarely discussed — where and how they studied, which communities shaped their perspectives, and what teams helped bring their ideas to life. I am convinced that three factors significantly increase the chances of success in investing: a high-quality education that provides a strong foundation, a professional community where you can discuss ideas, grow, and receive support, and, of course, a strong team that knows how to implement those ideas. For me, a conference is not just a stage, but also an opportunity to connect with colleagues, exchange views, see alumni and current participants of the program in the audience, and feel part of a living professional community.”
In addition to the main session, GSB’s continuing education instructors also organized investor meetings with representatives of listed companies: Oleg Abelev with Goldex, known for its gold ATMs; Yaroslav Kabakov with MMC Norilsk Nickel; and Alexey Bacherov moderated the session with Artgen Biotech.
During the informal part of the conference — at the pre-party and afterparty — the GSB team continued active engagement with participants, discussing educational and investment initiatives. It was especially valuable to reconnect with alumni and current students of GSB’s continuing education programs, exchanging updates and professional plans.
The HSE Graduate School of Business’s participation in Smart Lab 2025 reaffirmed the relevance of a comprehensive, thoughtful approach to investing and highlighted the importance of lifelong learning in building a resilient professional community.
