In 2002 Massimiliano Magrini launched Google in the Italian market becoming its country head Italy. Until 2009, when he founded Annapurna Ventures, a venture incubator for the launch of technology start-ups.
In light of the recent legal disputes between Apple and Samsung, how do you think the shares of these two companies will do?
They are both well positioned in the fastest growing consumer technology market, smartphones and tablets. Regardless of the legal issues, if they do not slow down the rate of innovation of their products they are destined to maintain a leadership role. It will be interesting to evaluate the launch of Microsoft's Windows 8 which represents an opportunity for Bill Gates' group to play the game in this market segment.
How will Google's stock stack up in all of this, especially after it has surpassed Microsoft's by capitalization?
Google has a solid core business, search & advertising, in which it is the leader, and a well-diversified product portfolio both in the consumer web and in operating systems for smartphones and tablets. With Android it plays the role that Microsoft played in the PC world, being the operating system used by smartphone manufacturers.
As a venture capitalist, where is it and where would it look for the new Apple?
Innovation is mostly a method and can come from anywhere. Before the launch of the iMac or iPod, no one thought that Apple would once again be the best in innovation. Very interesting are those start-ups that are bringing the logic of the consumer internet to the BtoB, mobile and big data fields.
One year after Steve Jobs' death, how do you see the future of Apple?
It will be necessary to see what will happen once the pipeline of new products that came out of Steve Jobs' head runs out, for now an "evolutionary maintenance" is enough but in a couple of years it will be necessary to create real product innovation again.
Where would it aim if it had to choose a hi-tech stock on the world stock exchanges?
I would create a balance between blue-chip tech and newly listed companies, in particular on companies that bring consumer internet innovations into the business environment.
