Oligarchs are wealthy individuals who hold significant power and influence in a country, often through their control of major businesses or industries. They typically operate in political systems where a small group of elites dominate decision-making processes, which can lead to a concentration of wealth and resources among a few. In many cases, oligarchs may have close ties to government officials, allowing them to shape policies that benefit their interests. This phenomenon is often observed in countries like Russia, where a small number of oligarchs emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union, gaining substantial economic and political clout.