Russia's New Middle Class

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The middle class is the biggest driver of economic growth.  Promoting this class is the most surefire way of lifting vast groups of people from poverty.  Emerging markets (as well as many developing nations) are starting to experience economic expansion driven largely by the middle class.  

The Economist recently published the above graphic to show Russia's re-entrance onto the world stage (while at the same time arguing contrarily against Putin's power).  I imagine other BRIC countries have similar stats to those listed above.

Russia's New Middle Class