In my country Kazakhstan
Beyond the Borat references there IS a country called Kazakhstan and it IS a redhot emerging market economy not to be missed. Since its sudden and involuntary independence from Russia and the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan is rapidly exploiting its massive Tengiz oil reserves. Top US firms like Chevron and Proctor & Gamble have been mopping up here for years thanks to the free flow of oil to Europe and China. The influx of cash has Kazakhs giddy on spending.
Kazakhs are a status oriented culture interested in luxury brands and embrace consumerism with abandon. On a recent visit, I was hard pressed to find any old Ladas on the streets. I mostly saw late model Mercedes which one can readily purchase at the dealer just outside of the airport. And good luck finding a seat at the lunch table, Kazakhs love to eat out and enjoy themselves.
Having been in and out of Kazakhstan for over twelve years I've seen this place go from chaos and confusion to really becoming one of the countries of the future. Just head to the new capital city Astana and compare it to Dubai. It's truly remarkable. Sectors to watch include Kazakh investments in technology, telecommunications, healthcare, beauty products, consumer goods, medical equipment and tourism development. Why tourism? This country has some of the most magnificent mountain ranges in the world - the Tian Shan and will host the Asian Games in 2011. Translation - the Japanese and other wealthy Asians will now know Switzerland is in their backyard, not in Europe. Radisson and other top US firms have discovered the upside and so should you.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Kazakhs are a status oriented culture interested in luxury brands and embrace consumerism with abandon. On a recent visit, I was hard pressed to find any old Ladas on the streets. I mostly saw late model Mercedes which one can readily purchase at the dealer just outside of the airport. And good luck finding a seat at the lunch table, Kazakhs love to eat out and enjoy themselves.
Having been in and out of Kazakhstan for over twelve years I've seen this place go from chaos and confusion to really becoming one of the countries of the future. Just head to the new capital city Astana and compare it to Dubai. It's truly remarkable. Sectors to watch include Kazakh investments in technology, telecommunications, healthcare, beauty products, consumer goods, medical equipment and tourism development. Why tourism? This country has some of the most magnificent mountain ranges in the world - the Tian Shan and will host the Asian Games in 2011. Translation - the Japanese and other wealthy Asians will now know Switzerland is in their backyard, not in Europe. Radisson and other top US firms have discovered the upside and so should you.
Stay tuned for more updates.
posted by Steve's Blog at 4:34 AM
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