Ning vs. Xing?

[Torsten]

Hi, it occurred to me that there are two so called 'Web 2.0' companies that have almost the same name. One is called 'Ning' and it was founded by the founder of Netscape. The other is called 'Xing' and it was founded by a German entrepreneur. Ning offers a software platform for social networks on the Internet and Xing is a social network for business people and entrepreneurs similar to LinkIN.

My question is do you think it was wise to use those names if they are so similar to each other? Or maybe this creates some type of synergy? Then again it might not have any impact?

So what's your take on the Ning/Xing question?
Thanks,
Torsten

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