The FWA delegation began its meetings in St. Petersburg, where Russia’s historical and cultural background were explored in visits to such venues as the Hermitage, Peterhof, and the Imperial Porcelain Factory. Receptions at the American Consul’s residence and a St. Petersburg art gallery provided an opportunity to meet with a cross-section of the business community.  The American Chamber of Commerce in both St. Petersburg and Moscow provided background briefings on their role in facilitating American business opportunities, and arranged for presentations by business leaders.  Polina Guseva, head of the St. Petersburg investment firm Adetka also presented information on investment possibilities. 

Flying to Moscow after four days in St. Petersburg, the group was able to tour MICEX, a Russian stock exchange, hear from the Deputy Chief of Mission of the American Embassy, and enjoy a half day of presentations by leading Russian business women who are members of the Committee of Twenty, the Russian TIAW group.  An informal encounter with the outgoing American Ambassador’s wife produced a special and unexpected opportunity to visit Spaso House, the Ambassador’s magnificent official residence.  Da Vinci Capital sponsored a session on the private equity market and the RTS exchange and a reception in an art gallery. 

More information on the current business climate came in meetings with the editor in chief of Forbes Russia, the head of the Carnegie Moscow Center, and UBS.  Deloitte’s energy market team, Lukoil and Rosneft presented a fascinating view of the booming Russian energy industry.  KPMG and one of its clients briefed the delegation on real estate development in today’s Russia in a session held in the new office complex Moscow City, where Citi is also based.  Citi hosted a panel on consumer banking, where BMW, HP and Magram also participated.  Ending our four days in Moscow, HSBC, Goldman Sachs and UBS hosted a  closing reception at Red Square, a spectacular restaurant in the Historical Museum.
 
Delegates who may intend to be part of future investment opportunities in Russia returned with a wealth of information.  Even those who will not find themselves investing are now walking away as uniquely informed individuals of an exceptional country and will bring back these experiences and perspectives to our fellow members and supporters in New York.

Highlights

St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow



Visit to MICEX, a Russian Stock Exchange


Russian International Business Conference Delegation