Yukos: taking control of a crucial oil export route

Yukos, Russia's second largest oil company, will pay $74 million for 49% of the export pipeline operator. The deal will allow Yukos to export more oil to western Europe, boosting its position in Europe's oil market and helping it come out of the shade of its larger rival Lukoil.

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Yukos: Russia set to invade Europe

While there are many bidders for BP's surplus German oil businesses, Yukos is one of the frontrunners to purchase the 650 service stations and 45% share in a refinery. Yukos has earmarked $2 billion towards improving its position in western European refining and retailing. Alongside fellow Russian firm Lukoil, Yukos is definitely a company to watch.

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Wrigley: introducing itself to the chocolate market

The purchase of an 80% stake in premium chocolate company A. Korkunov will allow Wrigley, which already operates in Russia, to form effective synergies with the company, through leveraging existing distribution networks, and enable it to capitalize on the growing disposable income of the country's burgeoning middle class. The move will also allow it to branch out into chocolate confectionery.

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Wine: Russians moved by still wines

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Wimm Bill Dann: profits continue to flow

Wimm Bill Dann has recorded double digit earnings growth in its final quarter, driven by a recovery in its juice business and continued strong sales in the dairy market. The future prospects of the company are also promising given the buoyant Russian economy, and the fact that foreign dairy giants are clamoring to take a slice of the market share in this attractive market.

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What conclusions can be drawn from the net inflows at Credit Suisse Private Banking?

Credit Suisse has announced strong net inflows within its private wealth management unit. In Q1 2012, net inflows from wealth management clients reached CHF5.8bn, up 45.0% on Q4 2011. The origins of the new assets highlight a number of characteristics that define the global wealth management industry in 2012.

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Wal-Mart: new expansion strategy

After Wal-Mart's fiasco in Germany and Korea, a change in its expansion strategy is emerging. The retailer is understood to be planning a move into the fragmented and fast-growing Russian market via the joint venture route rather than using its considerable financial muscle for acquisitions. If it goes ahead, Russia could re-establish Wal-Mart's credentials as a truly international retailer.

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Vimpelcom: mobile boom moves east

The buzz in the Russian mobile market is reminiscent of the European heyday of 1999. However, operators such as Vimpelcom can learn from the western Europeans' mistakes. As the market matures and concentrates in the hands of the major players, investment in messaging is important. In the longer term, the industry's prospects look bright.

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Verta/SciClone: new drug could limit TB spread

According to preliminary results, Russian pharma company Verta's new immune system enhancing drug may have a significant impact on TB contagion. Although the treatment regime is arduous, involving five daily injections, there could be a significant market for SCV-07 in locations where Directly Observed Treatment can be implemented.

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Valentine's Day: say it with...chocolates

Valentine's is traditionally a day of love and romance, though cynics would call it a money-spinning dream for the producers of flowers and chocolates. Whatever the reasons, chocolate is big business. Datamonitor's Joanne Birtwistle looks at the global popularity of chocolate, for Valentine's and otherwise...<BR /><BR />

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