Virgin invests in Russian environmental vehicle

As reported by Reuters (31 October 2012), Richard Branson’s Virgin Group has formed a USD 200 million investment fund together with Russia’s state-controlled nano-technology corporation Rusnano. The VGF Emerging Market Growth fund will invest in mid-cap companies operating i the resource efficiency, consumer sustainability and renewable energy sectors.

Branson also says that Virgin Group may end up investing about USD 1 billion in Russia and stresses the company’s aspirations to establish a mobile phone company in Russia.

 

VTB Capital to invest in agriculture

Jason Silm, head of agriculture fund management at VTB Capital, has publicised plans by the state-controlled bank to establish an agricultural fund with up to USD 1 billion, which will acquire controlling interests in small companies in the grain and oilseed sector.

An article in Kommersant dated 2 February 2012 compares the size of the agribusiness sector in various countries from the perspective of prices per hectare of agricultural land and wheat crops.

Vnesheconombank to set up EUR 1 billion fund with Germany

Vnesheconombank chairman Vladimir Dmitriyev informs President Dmitry Medvedev at a meeting on 12 January 2012 that the state-owned bank will set up a EUR 1 billion investment fund with Germany. The fund will focus on financing small and medium-sized businesses in Russia.