Cisco Systems Inc. [CSCO] tries not to let its global ambitions get in the way of sound business judgment. When it expands into developing markets, it does so systematically, typically investing in local VC funds before moving to acquire companies outright.
Continue reading below
The company's latest move in Russia suggests both that it is eager to get in on the promise of that emerging economy, but still has a preference for a collaborative, cautious approach. The company on Wednesday said it will provide the anchor investment in the $60 million Almaz Capital Russia Fund I, which will focus on investments in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States.
The Almaz investment follows Cisco's direct investment last year into Ozon.ru, a popular online retailer commonly described as the Amazon.com of Russia. So far, Cisco has not acquired any Russian businesses outright. Cisco currently has about $2 billion it has invested in venture capital in the U.S. as well as China, India, Russia, Israel and other developing regions. - Andrea Orr
See July 2 announcement from Cisco on investment in Almaz Capital Russia Fund
See June 2007 story on Cisco's investment in Ozon.ru from TheDeal.com
