Today in Russian Business – Jan 20, 2011

Arkady Dvorkovich, the Kremlin’s economic aide, says that the conviction of Mikhail Khodorkovsky will have a negative impact on Russia’s business reputation in foreign countries. ‘It will raise serious questions for the larger part of the international community and will heighten the risk outlook in the Russian Federation,‘ quotes Reuters.  Vladimir Ryzhkov suggested it would spark a wave of emigration; and overall, the news could contribute to young Russians’ general feeling of hopelessness, says the Moscow Times.  Police lieutenant general Alexander Bokov has been detained on suspicion of stealing $46 million from a businessman.  Norilsk Nickel may drop its end-of-year dividend payout. PriceWaterhouseCooper’s forecast for the Russian car industry is looking healthy, with 20-35% growth expected this year. EBRD, the focus of a scandal this week as four of its employees have had their diplomatic immunity lifted, has agreed to buy 15% of Russia’s SDM Bank.