Today in Russian Business – Feb 18, 2010

The Kremlin is hosting a week of meetings focused on ‘innovation‘, with guests from Hollywood, the White House, and ‘internet powerhouses‘ Twitter and eBay, all gathering to discuss social media and civic issues.  Dmitry Medvedev wants Russian companies to unify their pay packages and bonuses with global practices, although his proposals are likely too late to catch this year’s payouts.  ‘Buying Rostar, the Russian beverage canning company, for $297 million in 2008 also looks like a mistake, in hindsight, because Russia has caused Rexam more problems than anywhere else.‘  Hong Kong’s exchange expects 5-10 listings of Russian companies in the next two years, despite the 29% plunge of Rusal’s shares following its January IPO.  In a case study on French retailer Carrefour’s exit from Russia last year, analysts suggest that acquisition is the only realistic route for foreign entrants into Russian business.  ‘Rags to riches‘ Len Blavatnik is suing JPMorgan Chase for, he says, going against investment guidelines and losing a tenth of the $1 billion he allocated it for management.