This should not be overplayed. There is little danger of any generalised conflict between the Italian and Russian syndicates, and much scope for co-operation in money laundering, and the trafficking of drugs, firearms, illegal immigrants and counterfeit goods. This is evident in the BNY case, as Italian investigators believe that funds from protection rackets and illegal import-export businesses in Rimini also disappeared through the bank. Perhaps more complex and volatile are the 'criminal geopolitics' of Asia, where there is evidence of co-operation with Russia. Gangs in Vladivostok work with the Triads to manage the flow of smuggled goods and 'shuttle traders' across the border.
Russian gangs swap their drugs for cars stolen by the yakuza.
The yakuza have also used Russian money launderers, contract killers and even computer hackers. There are also forces driving the mafiya into conflict with its Asian counterparts. This way they acquire contacts, allies and influence even in countries where they have little direct penetration, such as the UK, Australia and France. This may become the basis for more direct penetration. Even if it does not, it provides indigenous gangs with access to criminal goods and services of a far higher order than would normally be the case.