Today in Russian Business – May 9, 2012

Reuters reports that bankers expect a strong pick-up in subordinated bond deals from Russian banks, following two recent benchmark transactions, as the country’s lenders seek to increase their capital levels.  Danish brewer Carlsberg has posted disappointing results from the Russian market, upon which it heavily depends, as the result of increases in beer tax.  The Pentagon has defended its decision to continue purchasing helicopters needed by Afghanistan’s air force from Russia, despite the fact that Moscow also supplies weapons to Syria.