This document provides an introduction and overview of the BRICS alliance between Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It discusses the formation of BRICS in 2001 and the inclusion of South Africa in 2010. The objectives of BRICS are to promote regional development, act as a bridge between developed and developing countries, and influence international trade and climate change negotiations. Key details are provided on each BRICS country's economy and future challenges. Major BRICS summits and their discussions on financial institutions, currency cooperation, and development banks are summarized. BRICS aims to establish these financial mechanisms to balance influence of the World Bank and IMF.