it is very difficult to compete with USA in the area of computer technologies. America has a long tradition in the area. It is like competing with Japanese or Germans in car-making.

Agreed. Infrastructure is one of those things that the article kind of glazes over, but still thought it was interesting. Given Russia's socio-political nature, however, it just might work.

The main problem with SV these days is that it's not a cost-effective place for startups any more:

Average monthly rent (2006): $2,162 (two bedroom, two bath)

Average monthly rent (2005): $2,111 (two bedroom, two bath)

Average monthly rent (2006): $1,754 (one bedroom, one bath) Average monthly rent (2005): $1,613 (one bedroom, one bath) Median monthly rent in 1990: $825 Median monthly rent in 1960: $162

Source: http://www.paloaltoonline.com/com_info/by_the_numbers.php

Doubling in 15 years? Rent is one of those things that essentially amounts to a sunk cost, in the long-term. I think Silicon Valley has seen its glory days, and the greedy insanity of the property managers/landlords/etc. will ultimately do the place in.

Yeah, that is true. Nonetheless, USA still have plenty high-tech spots, and many of them are rather cheap (Boulder?). BTW rent in Russia is also expensive.