In Brief
Internet companies face increasing market pressure from both established players as well as small-scale start-ups. New channels like social networking, blogs and mobile are available today to further promote and sell products and offerings. Companies have started exploring new business models (e.g., freemium and pay per service) to maximize customer acquisition. Building communities and earning money from the solutions provided is key for the industry.
Our perspective
Since the inception of the internet is has been a challenge to internet based companies to generate cash. They have to find ways to let users pay for content without losing visitors. Still, various large and financially successful internet based service companies have emerged. Finding and investing in companies that initially operate in a niche market but whose services may appeal to a large public is hard, but potentially very rewarding.