Externalities of the sanction pressure policy and its consequences for the Russian small and medium business development

Objective: to analyze the impact of the externalities of the sanctions pressure policy on small and medium-sized enterprises and to develop specific proposals that allow them to adapt to the conditions of uncertainty. Methods: general scientific methods of systemic, structural and comparative analysis, as well as specific scientific methods (static and graphical analysis, expert assessments). Results: the analysis was carried out of the externalities of the sanctions pressure policy, which significantly affected the activities of the Russian small and medium-sized enterprises. Among the key factors studied are the disruption of logistics chains, reduction of the customer base, restrictions on monetary transactions, blocking of digital platforms, etc. The special role of this sector in eliminating the imbalances of the country’s economy in a difficult geopolitical situation and economic instability is outlined. It is proposed to investigate ways of adapting small businesses to new economic conditions, taking into account the systematic classification of enterprises in the SME sector. The forecast trends in the development of small and medium-sized firms for the near future are formulated. Based on the analysis of externalities, the author suggests measures to increase the adaptability of enterprises in the studied segment of the economy, which can be used by both representatives of the business community and government agencies. Scientific novelty: the division of firms into three categories (“kids”, “genetic dwarfs”, “transformers”) and three subgroups (“travelers”, “reorganizers”, “imago”) is proposed; their key functions and ways of adaptation characteristic of each category of enterprises are identified, which made it possible to develop recommendations on improving the adaptability of small and medium-sized enterprises, taking into account their characteristics. Practical significance: the main provisions and conclusions of the article can be used in the educational process of educational institutions; in scientifi activities for the development of academic competencies on the functioning of small and medium-sized enterprises; in the work of organizations that make up the infrastructure for the development and support of SMEs; they also contribute to the study of ways and strategies for the entrepreneurship adaptation under exogenous shocks.