A week ago David Wheeler published an opinion piece in the Globe and Mail in which he argues that it is illogical and even arrogant to call for divestment of Sudan, as have done many activists and scholars, notably Eric Reeves  and Peter Kinder. 

Wi-Fi phones are taking off! According to a report by Infonetics Research, the global market for Wi-Fi phones rose 76 percent in 2005 to $102.5 million, and will reach $1.9 billion in 2009. The number of units shipped rose 112 percent last year, and will increase by 158 percent this year. These figures represent demand primarily from developed markets. But it is emerging markets that may in fact become the driving force behind the technology’s development.

Wireless networks have become the technology of choice for increasing access to phone and Internet services in developing countries. As we detail in our new report, A New Model for Rural Connectivity, they are not only cheaper, easier and faster to deploy than traditional landline alternatives, but also make possible business and service delivery models better adapted to rural, low income communities.

As Wi-Fi and WiMAX technologies enable the rapid expansion of telecommunications into rural developing areas, the market for Wi-Fi equipment will grow significantly. The resulting volumes will drive prices even lower, enabling many customers at the ‘base of the pyramid’ to enjoy the benefits of mobile services for the first time.

A number of Wi-Fi phones are planned or already available to take advantage of this emerging opportunity:

1. UTstarcom F1000 Wi-Fi VoIP Phone

The F1000 residential Wi-Fi handset expands the reach of VoIP communications. It provides consumers a new cost effective way to communicate, and includes features such as 3-way Calling, Call Waiting, Call Transfer and many popular features. The phone is being sold under a number of different names (e.g. Vonage & BroadVoice), and costs about $130.

Just a quick note for those of you who are interested in venture capital / private equity in emerging economies: IFC and EMPEA hosted the 8th Annual Global Private Equity Conference in Washington, DC last week. Three power points are available on EMPEA's website that have some great quantitative info on sector trends. Take a close look at David Rubenstein's presentation (Carlyle Group) on countries to watch (Argentina & Nigeria, anyone?). In addition, Rubenstein calls for an updated vernacular. I would be interested to know if you agree.

Also, the opinion polls that were highlighted by Michael Klein (IFC) present a window into public opinion of the role of the private sector in development. Complementing this, Sarah Alexander (EMPEA) notes the opinions of investors regarding the success (or failure) of their previous investments in emerging economies that clearly outlines the risk perception (and therefore the challenge) for new investments in emerging economies.