Hi Merry - VC wannabes are all over the place these days. Even XRX is starting a VC division [one has to wonder what this world could have been if it had paid attn to what the boyz and grrls were doing at PARC 20 - 30 yrs ago!] The problem is that many of the wannabes don't really know what on earth they are doing. I mean, there can be a good find now and then, like LDP [no position,] but IMHO, VC/incubator trend is passe.
Incidentally, IMHO, while CDOV is likely a success, b/c of CDO long track record, CDO has a very profitable core operations. And the special situation in PRISM, whereby values will be unlocked, one way or another, is the kicker.
Interestingly, both CMGI and SFE, are trying to spin in some of their respective "babies" While it is just my guess, they are likely trying to overhaul their business models toward sustained profitability one.
Btw, you may be right about C, but, if I am not mistaken, nearly every investment banking and capital management firm have a *capital market* division. For instance, Fidelity Investments has hit a home run with Colt Telecom. That said, incubators, VC and Capital Market are not the same thing. I would be concerned about the wannabes though [like that fish oil company :)] Just my personal opinion though.
best, Bosco |
