An early Apple II computer, gifted by Steve Jobs to his first employer Allan Alcorn instead of stock, was displayed at SPIEF 2026. The gallery Stargift acquired the machine at a US auction for 34.5 million rubles.
A drink from the Chelyabinsk region, presented at SPIEF 2026 and previously noted by Vladimir Putin, became a highlight of the event. The lemonade, available in 14 flavors and featuring regional landmarks on its cans, is produced in the city of Asha.
The 2026 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) will host approximately 20,000 participants from over 100 countries between June 3-6. Saudi Arabia is the guest country, and the forum's theme is 'Pragmatic Dialogue: the Path to a Stable Future.'
According to Anton Kobyakov, the program brings together over 150 sessions grouped by thematic areas
Russia-US Business Dialogue and Russia-US: Culture Dialogue sessions will be held at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in June 2026, with AmCham Russia as initiator. The sessions will focus on business interactions, humanitarian ties, and practical experience exchange. Anton Kobyakov noted many companies sought ways to stay in Russia, while AmCham head Robert Agee said American businesses value professional interaction channels.
Robert Agee, president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia, says more US companies will participate in the 2026 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum than three years ago, though participation remains lower than five years ago. Agee noted businesses are still cautious and said a commercial dialogue between Russia and America will take place, along with discussions on rebuilding cultural ties.
