Internet Bubble!
Dotcom Burst!
Technology exuberance!
Name calling was in every news media - from Prime time TV new to even your cousin's neighborhood city news!
A decade later - with every one carrying a device - from cellphones to ipads to mobile whatever - computing and attaching to some form of computer seems to be a given!
The darlings of the dot com - the likes of Cisco & Sun Microsystems - scaled walls never scaled by any company before and then...
Thud!
Fell from the Sky - one after the other!
Thud, Thud, Thud and Thud!
Intel, Microsoft,Oracle,Applied Materials, Dell,....not to mention the real darlings of Dotcom like CMGI,Inktomi,Lykos & WebVan who folded and just vaporised!
Then there were new business model companies like eBay,Google,Amazon...who flourished!
And the big daddies like Lucent, MCI Worldcom & the likes got coal in their faces!
Thos who survived after a decade are still down 50-80% if not more!
Yes the Old Dogs from technology Intel,Microsoft,Cisco,Dell,Oracle,Applied Materials, Micron Technology,Yahoo,Seagate...are down 40,50,60 plus percent from their bubble era days!
They have been on a tear the last 12 months or so from the March 2009 Bottom!
The are all cash rich - 10,20,30 and some more Billions is CASH!
Revenues double and tripled since the dot com bottom!
some even throw pennies as divs!
It Appears they are becoming the staples of the Technology lifestyle which is here to stay!
And The Old Dogs - Intel, Microsoft,Dell, Oracle,Applied Materials,Yahoo,Micron Technology look fundamentally cheap and are waking up!
Like the Phoenix from the ashes!
The Old Dogs of Seven - will double in the next 24 months
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Real Time Government Intervention or intrusion?
This is an Internet age where we live and strive for near zero latency for almost everything.
Living with Twitter and Facebook for communication enables us to spread information and rumours very effectively with no delay in delivery!
Actions and Responses are what we strive to learn, teach and achieve from elementary school to high flying Harvard Business!
From Tea Party to Policy promotions we use the new media very efficienty!
To have a Government which got swept into power using these tools will act no less than in internet speed - no matter whether it is prudent or not.
The latest, which might show how delicate and precarious this new medium can play , in the Washington Drama is the Bill that will passed to Ban Airlines from charging for Carry Or bags- in response to a no name, low cost carrier trying to get media attention Airline trying to charge for Carry on bags!
When Washington and the Politicians have been nothing but dormant the past few decades - wake up and come with a Bill for such a trivial act by a almost non-existent airline.....its a Shame!
Living with Twitter and Facebook for communication enables us to spread information and rumours very effectively with no delay in delivery!
Actions and Responses are what we strive to learn, teach and achieve from elementary school to high flying Harvard Business!
From Tea Party to Policy promotions we use the new media very efficienty!
To have a Government which got swept into power using these tools will act no less than in internet speed - no matter whether it is prudent or not.
The latest, which might show how delicate and precarious this new medium can play , in the Washington Drama is the Bill that will passed to Ban Airlines from charging for Carry Or bags- in response to a no name, low cost carrier trying to get media attention Airline trying to charge for Carry on bags!
When Washington and the Politicians have been nothing but dormant the past few decades - wake up and come with a Bill for such a trivial act by a almost non-existent airline.....its a Shame!
Phoenix Rising from Wall Street to Main Street?
An extended period of near zero lending to Wall Street and Main Street celebrates eventually!
As the earning season starts to hit the start line - the usual lagger didnt urprise anyone by missing and whining- Alcoa!
But Mr Dimon - who off-late has been on a not so popular road to Washington & Syracuse, seems to have hit the right cord with with a Mountain of Cash!
So did Intel!
And ofcourse not so surprising number from CSX, given the fact one has to haul things around!
Retail Marching to a steady drumbeat from teh consumers - showing the resiliance of the American consumer!
And ofcourse - no iPad to You - message to the Rest of the World from Apple, due to exces domestic demand- shows an increased appetite for high end electronics & high tech gears from around the world.
All those printing & dropping around by a Chopper seems to be finally showing up from Wall Street to Main Street!
Dow 14500 appears to be destined, finally!
As the earning season starts to hit the start line - the usual lagger didnt urprise anyone by missing and whining- Alcoa!
But Mr Dimon - who off-late has been on a not so popular road to Washington & Syracuse, seems to have hit the right cord with with a Mountain of Cash!
So did Intel!
And ofcourse not so surprising number from CSX, given the fact one has to haul things around!
Retail Marching to a steady drumbeat from teh consumers - showing the resiliance of the American consumer!
And ofcourse - no iPad to You - message to the Rest of the World from Apple, due to exces domestic demand- shows an increased appetite for high end electronics & high tech gears from around the world.
All those printing & dropping around by a Chopper seems to be finally showing up from Wall Street to Main Street!
Dow 14500 appears to be destined, finally!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Technology Bubble 2.0!
With Mr Quattrone escaping with the gauntlet and the guillotine - is back to doing what he is good at!
IPO spinning and building the Technology hotbed!
After a decent IPO Mr Quattrone is working with Goldman - the other controversial Wall Street firm , to say the least , in repackaging Palm!
With Ms Whitman buying her way into the Governor's Mansion- Maybe, and Harvard and CNBC going live on Building a 140 character - Business plan for Twitter & Mr Jobs going back to his original Avatar Apple 1.0 from the Newton Era....And the WhiteHouse corridors going beyond Mr O's Blackberry is littered with billionaires from Google, Oracle,Microsoft and the likes...
Well what else is new ....
Tech Bubble 2.0?
Bubble is never too bad until it is busted..This might be the beginning given how large technology market is!
Now that India and China have opened up their consumers and their billion plus population to consumable type electronics - it will be a while before we burst this bubble!
Only a couple of years back we heard the pundits call the Mobile market saturated and dead - Wrong!
This year they will sell 1.2 Billion handsets! And it is growing double digits!
From Industrial Applications to Household Applications re being reinvented!
If the economy hold - this bubble might have ways to go!
May not the Twitters and Facebooks that will stand the wind - but there are a boat load of companies and technologies that will grow and yes they will grow big!
IPO spinning and building the Technology hotbed!
After a decent IPO Mr Quattrone is working with Goldman - the other controversial Wall Street firm , to say the least , in repackaging Palm!
With Ms Whitman buying her way into the Governor's Mansion- Maybe, and Harvard and CNBC going live on Building a 140 character - Business plan for Twitter & Mr Jobs going back to his original Avatar Apple 1.0 from the Newton Era....And the WhiteHouse corridors going beyond Mr O's Blackberry is littered with billionaires from Google, Oracle,Microsoft and the likes...
Well what else is new ....
Tech Bubble 2.0?
Bubble is never too bad until it is busted..This might be the beginning given how large technology market is!
Now that India and China have opened up their consumers and their billion plus population to consumable type electronics - it will be a while before we burst this bubble!
Only a couple of years back we heard the pundits call the Mobile market saturated and dead - Wrong!
This year they will sell 1.2 Billion handsets! And it is growing double digits!
From Industrial Applications to Household Applications re being reinvented!
If the economy hold - this bubble might have ways to go!
May not the Twitters and Facebooks that will stand the wind - but there are a boat load of companies and technologies that will grow and yes they will grow big!
From Toyota to Lexus!
Consumer Reports warning customers not to buy Lexus SUV!
Who will be next - J D Powers?
Now that will be the icing on the cake!
Sleeping at the wheels all these years & finally waking up when its off the freeway?
Had the opportunity to walk into a traditional Sushi bar the other day in Japan Town in San Jose- bay area recently hit hard by the pull out of Toyota - is still amazed at why they closed the plant when most of the Californians drive Japanese cars and it is this state that made Japan and their manufacturers the fame and power when they needed the most after their initial quality disasters in the 70s and 80s.
Over hearing some people talking about the recent Toyota's recall and how people in Japan perceived the episode was appalling! The common story line revolved around how Toyota overtook GM and that is the reason why Americans are upset!
Is this patriotism or just a case of Denial and arrogance?
Who will be next - J D Powers?
Now that will be the icing on the cake!
Sleeping at the wheels all these years & finally waking up when its off the freeway?
Had the opportunity to walk into a traditional Sushi bar the other day in Japan Town in San Jose- bay area recently hit hard by the pull out of Toyota - is still amazed at why they closed the plant when most of the Californians drive Japanese cars and it is this state that made Japan and their manufacturers the fame and power when they needed the most after their initial quality disasters in the 70s and 80s.
Over hearing some people talking about the recent Toyota's recall and how people in Japan perceived the episode was appalling! The common story line revolved around how Toyota overtook GM and that is the reason why Americans are upset!
Is this patriotism or just a case of Denial and arrogance?
Back in the U.S.S.R!!
World 2.0
Cold War 2.0
Move over China and Iran!
Russia is back and now with an Economic Vengeance on its back pocket to rebuild and scoop up all those bricks scattered everywhere during the Reagan era.
From Georgia - may be with Vodka! As the world was mesmerised with the Chinese Opening ceremony Mr Putin's Vintage Army rolled into Georgia!
A slow arm twisting around the neighboring nations followed with the world watching with ignorance when the Financial Whatever flooded everywhere!
Russian backed Kyrgyztans and their bloody coup!
Polish Accident in Russia and Mr Putin himself heading the investigation!
Germany & Ms Merkel warming upto Russia and Mr Medvedev while slapping the Olympians and the likes in Eurozone!
Throw in all the chaos and unrest in other alphabet soup nations in and around Russia and you have a good story-line!
While MR Obama and his able administration is focusing domestically both to keep the economic boat afloat and keep the Wall street Pirates at bay- Mr Putin's focus seems to be well served in rebuilding Russia and might be close to achieving his dreams of reclaiming the lost bricks which turned nightmare during the Gorbachev era!
Cold War 2.0
Move over China and Iran!
Russia is back and now with an Economic Vengeance on its back pocket to rebuild and scoop up all those bricks scattered everywhere during the Reagan era.
From Georgia - may be with Vodka! As the world was mesmerised with the Chinese Opening ceremony Mr Putin's Vintage Army rolled into Georgia!
A slow arm twisting around the neighboring nations followed with the world watching with ignorance when the Financial Whatever flooded everywhere!
Russian backed Kyrgyztans and their bloody coup!
Polish Accident in Russia and Mr Putin himself heading the investigation!
Germany & Ms Merkel warming upto Russia and Mr Medvedev while slapping the Olympians and the likes in Eurozone!
Throw in all the chaos and unrest in other alphabet soup nations in and around Russia and you have a good story-line!
While MR Obama and his able administration is focusing domestically both to keep the economic boat afloat and keep the Wall street Pirates at bay- Mr Putin's focus seems to be well served in rebuilding Russia and might be close to achieving his dreams of reclaiming the lost bricks which turned nightmare during the Gorbachev era!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Is Tiger an Endangered Species?
Looking at the return of Tiger Woods one has to Wonder!
And the ferocity of Nike and the likes to flood the gates with Feel good ad money certainly does not look that way!
And the ferocity of Nike and the likes to flood the gates with Feel good ad money certainly does not look that way!
From the mouth of the Prince!
Citi Was not Too big to Manage....says His Highness Mr Prince..
But it was- to Manage it Right?
But it was- to Manage it Right?
More and more wear less and less!
As the old Wall street adage goes...As the Hem lines on those skirts rise so goes the market!
Now there is a ticker to make money with...As the market has been climbing up Limited (LTD) , no pun intended, has been raking in money selling more and more of those items that cover less and less of their patrons from their Victoria's Secret collections!
Now there is a ticker to make money with...As the market has been climbing up Limited (LTD) , no pun intended, has been raking in money selling more and more of those items that cover less and less of their patrons from their Victoria's Secret collections!
From Prince to Maestro takes Blame...Now What?
Another day fades into oblivion and another High place & Highly compensated individual admits having missed the boat!
A wise man once said "Victory has a Thousand Father and Defeat is stuck being an orphan"!
One would have thought that we would still be hunting for that evasive father for theis Financial Whatever.....However here we are half-way into the investigation and we have a boat load of Fathers- from Mr Greenspan admitting being Wrong 30% of the time on the one hand and the likes of Mr Rubin, Mr Prince etc admitting they missed the whole enchilada and are Sorry!
It was more than funny to see Mr Greenspan accusing the elites & politicians in Washington to take the otherside by claiming Amnesia after having danced to the same tune all thse years during the buildup!
Is this a Forgive & Forget moment or Pay the Penalty ....Admissions of mistakes is no more accepted as pardonable & excusable?
The Moral High ground on this might still be evasive & far from Heaven but the road to hell should be littered with those responsible for the destruction of hard earned wealth of the common!
A wise man once said "Victory has a Thousand Father and Defeat is stuck being an orphan"!
One would have thought that we would still be hunting for that evasive father for theis Financial Whatever.....However here we are half-way into the investigation and we have a boat load of Fathers- from Mr Greenspan admitting being Wrong 30% of the time on the one hand and the likes of Mr Rubin, Mr Prince etc admitting they missed the whole enchilada and are Sorry!
It was more than funny to see Mr Greenspan accusing the elites & politicians in Washington to take the otherside by claiming Amnesia after having danced to the same tune all thse years during the buildup!
Is this a Forgive & Forget moment or Pay the Penalty ....Admissions of mistakes is no more accepted as pardonable & excusable?
The Moral High ground on this might still be evasive & far from Heaven but the road to hell should be littered with those responsible for the destruction of hard earned wealth of the common!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
A trip to India to persuade China?
Mr Geithner cut short his trip to India and makes a quick stop over in China!
Even as Mr Geithner gets warmed upto the Indian hospitality - Beijing loosens its stand on Yuan!
Is this a big spender negotiating with the suppliers?
From Japan to China to India!
Would India learn from Japan and China and keep its market open and lets its domestic market grow? If it does - it will give the much needed partner that can persuade other developed economies to start opening up or lose in the global market.
Even as Mr Geithner gets warmed upto the Indian hospitality - Beijing loosens its stand on Yuan!
Is this a big spender negotiating with the suppliers?
From Japan to China to India!
Would India learn from Japan and China and keep its market open and lets its domestic market grow? If it does - it will give the much needed partner that can persuade other developed economies to start opening up or lose in the global market.
Irony of Borrowing...!
Market is worried that the American consumer is borrowing less!
Banks & Financial Institutions are seeing less demand for loans!
The Economy could go into a double dip....Now that is a real irony given what lead the economy into a tail spin!
Banks & Financial Institutions are seeing less demand for loans!
The Economy could go into a double dip....Now that is a real irony given what lead the economy into a tail spin!
What is better? 70% right or 30% wrong?
What will it take to leave Dr Greenspan alone?
Would 30% of the time being wrong, a lot of time being wrong? Made a lot of mistakes?
When the Maestro was at his best - he was speaking the Greenspan Speak - which no one understood and the world made money!
From Wall street to Athens!
Everyone loved him!
When he speaks normal language Everyone unerstands but nobody likes his message or him!
A person in beyond retirement age & who refuses retire - has admitted that out of 21 years of at the chair he has been right only 70% of the time - that is being wrong more than 6 years ..... it is not whether he had been wrong for so many time that is relevant - what is more important is how stale the current investigation into the Financial Whatever has come to- A person of such credibility and calibre is being humiliated by a group of politicians and opportunists who have failed to live upto their responsibilities of their elected position & ho time and again have lived upto the high ethical and moral standards that they claimed during their effort to win the election....
Would 30% of the time being wrong, a lot of time being wrong? Made a lot of mistakes?
When the Maestro was at his best - he was speaking the Greenspan Speak - which no one understood and the world made money!
From Wall street to Athens!
Everyone loved him!
When he speaks normal language Everyone unerstands but nobody likes his message or him!
A person in beyond retirement age & who refuses retire - has admitted that out of 21 years of at the chair he has been right only 70% of the time - that is being wrong more than 6 years ..... it is not whether he had been wrong for so many time that is relevant - what is more important is how stale the current investigation into the Financial Whatever has come to- A person of such credibility and calibre is being humiliated by a group of politicians and opportunists who have failed to live upto their responsibilities of their elected position & ho time and again have lived upto the high ethical and moral standards that they claimed during their effort to win the election....
As Greenspan & Goldman Denies...!
Another day inches away from the Financial Whatever and we are still trying to pin those Donkeys with the flag!
As Dr Greenspan climbs the hill of blame in Washington - Goldman denies it was responsible for the undoing!
The strong arm tactics of the Obama administration is irking even the very core of Progressives who brought about the sweeping election win for Mr Obama!
It is a telling evidence of the cracks that are showing in the Administration's support reading the recent article in WSJ about the frustration felt by hard core supporters like JP Morgan's Mr Dimon.
Listening at the early redericks and anger shown at Dr Greenspan it makes it hard not to wonder if the Washington efficacy is at stake? Is America headed in the same direction as the rest of the world where the focus revolves around blaming and penalising the past and less focus on solving today's & tomorrow's issues?
As Dr Greenspan articulates his inability to monitor let alone control financial markets and cost of funding at a macro level with their policies - while the world was and is mesmerised ever other week trying to gyrate with the every single letter and word that is spelled...and with more and more transparency brought accidentally through the availability of Internet and the every promising user created content - it leads to near zero latency in spreading emotions....and it is setting up nicely for a new order along with a new norm of financial underpinnings for a medium of transaction that is different from the one brought to us by Her Majesty!
As Dr Greenspan climbs the hill of blame in Washington - Goldman denies it was responsible for the undoing!
The strong arm tactics of the Obama administration is irking even the very core of Progressives who brought about the sweeping election win for Mr Obama!
It is a telling evidence of the cracks that are showing in the Administration's support reading the recent article in WSJ about the frustration felt by hard core supporters like JP Morgan's Mr Dimon.
Listening at the early redericks and anger shown at Dr Greenspan it makes it hard not to wonder if the Washington efficacy is at stake? Is America headed in the same direction as the rest of the world where the focus revolves around blaming and penalising the past and less focus on solving today's & tomorrow's issues?
As Dr Greenspan articulates his inability to monitor let alone control financial markets and cost of funding at a macro level with their policies - while the world was and is mesmerised ever other week trying to gyrate with the every single letter and word that is spelled...and with more and more transparency brought accidentally through the availability of Internet and the every promising user created content - it leads to near zero latency in spreading emotions....and it is setting up nicely for a new order along with a new norm of financial underpinnings for a medium of transaction that is different from the one brought to us by Her Majesty!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Escape velocity...Summers One step ahead?
Mr Summers , the Economic Adviser to Mr Obama Adimistration has been quick to draw in the past several months to defend the Economic reforms and Policy changes when criticised by Germany's PIMCO and their able team of Mr El Erian , Mr Gross and Mr Greenspan.
From New Norm to Excess Printing the German company's team has been getting the right buzz word to disrupt the stock recover and trying to twist the hands of Mr Obama's administration like their successful period during the Bush era and teh Financial Whatever time span.
Th is time around under the watch of the new Sherriff - Mr Summers and their Economic Team have been loosing no time in defending their policies and fighting the campaigns of PIMCO.
This time around - with the Jobs number looming and the stock market recovery under tremendous pressure from the fixed income market - Mr Summers from London talks about Job Recovery & how we are close to Escape Velocity....Not knowing this after a not so surprising Jobs Number - Mr El Elrian talking in a TV panel in CNBC being skeptical of the number talks about we are far from Escape Velocity...!!!
Is the clock changing?
Is this the initial step in a long journey to economic recovery?
Finally the Administration thinking and looking ahead to be a step ahead of the competition?
From New Norm to Excess Printing the German company's team has been getting the right buzz word to disrupt the stock recover and trying to twist the hands of Mr Obama's administration like their successful period during the Bush era and teh Financial Whatever time span.
Th is time around under the watch of the new Sherriff - Mr Summers and their Economic Team have been loosing no time in defending their policies and fighting the campaigns of PIMCO.
This time around - with the Jobs number looming and the stock market recovery under tremendous pressure from the fixed income market - Mr Summers from London talks about Job Recovery & how we are close to Escape Velocity....Not knowing this after a not so surprising Jobs Number - Mr El Elrian talking in a TV panel in CNBC being skeptical of the number talks about we are far from Escape Velocity...!!!
Is the clock changing?
Is this the initial step in a long journey to economic recovery?
Finally the Administration thinking and looking ahead to be a step ahead of the competition?
From Newton's Apple to Apple's Newton II..!
Simplicity in approach!
Elegance in Delivery!
We have come a long way in creating appetite for intellectual quest- from one Newton to another - of a different kind to a different era!
Call me old Geek or just a Geezer - may be difficult to comprehend but given how the young and hungry are swarming the offering from Mr Jobs and Apple - it is evident that the new millenium is embracing change and innovation at a faster clip than a similar period during the Industrial revolution and this time around the Internet revolution is at the consumer consumption and empowerment level which will create wildfire in bringing more innovation and products enhancing the lifestyle of people!
Elegance in Delivery!
We have come a long way in creating appetite for intellectual quest- from one Newton to another - of a different kind to a different era!
Call me old Geek or just a Geezer - may be difficult to comprehend but given how the young and hungry are swarming the offering from Mr Jobs and Apple - it is evident that the new millenium is embracing change and innovation at a faster clip than a similar period during the Industrial revolution and this time around the Internet revolution is at the consumer consumption and empowerment level which will create wildfire in bringing more innovation and products enhancing the lifestyle of people!
Friday, April 2, 2010
oooff! Now that's behind us!
Yes, The Jobs Creation report!
162k and the past couple of months revised favorably!
Germany's PIMCO and its new found Hero / spokesperson - Mr El Erian & his NEW NORM theory were seeing themselves on the defense on CNBC - for the first time in a long long time!
With the Equity market closed & the bond market open, in anticipation?, the reaction wasn't dramatic!
What is Good is Good or Bad?
Eitherway we are headded in the right direction given where corporate heads are focusing these days - new products and new market which will lead to normalised growth and expansion, if not forever atleast for quite a while!
162k and the past couple of months revised favorably!
Germany's PIMCO and its new found Hero / spokesperson - Mr El Erian & his NEW NORM theory were seeing themselves on the defense on CNBC - for the first time in a long long time!
With the Equity market closed & the bond market open, in anticipation?, the reaction wasn't dramatic!
What is Good is Good or Bad?
Eitherway we are headded in the right direction given where corporate heads are focusing these days - new products and new market which will lead to normalised growth and expansion, if not forever atleast for quite a while!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Looks like the First 100 Days..May be till November?
First One Hundred days of Mr Obama's administration was like a bullet train running through Washington with no destination in sight.
From Policy changes to Political maneuvering it was very carefully orchestrated to balance Wall Street sentiments and Main Street Populist needs.
From Bail outs of Financial Institution to expanding entitlements to the common - no stopping the political punishments waiting from the administration to those who stood in the way of reforms - as some veterans leave politics for good while others jump back on the wall to see the fever before punging back again!
Then the Healthcare stalemate and the 100 day burn out was trending towards the usual Washington redericks and politicking!
Till now!
Now that the Healthcare reform is muscled through with minimal political damage and still a long stretch before November- it looks like the Obama Administration is off to another healthy clip!
From Financial reforms to Educational changes are appearing with much more vigor!
Not to juggle just a couple - as the new Drilling and exploration in the home front after 20 plus years of going dry!
It certainly looks like "Vintage" Obama working the changes while the campaign trail for November is just beginning!
From Policy changes to Political maneuvering it was very carefully orchestrated to balance Wall Street sentiments and Main Street Populist needs.
From Bail outs of Financial Institution to expanding entitlements to the common - no stopping the political punishments waiting from the administration to those who stood in the way of reforms - as some veterans leave politics for good while others jump back on the wall to see the fever before punging back again!
Then the Healthcare stalemate and the 100 day burn out was trending towards the usual Washington redericks and politicking!
Till now!
Now that the Healthcare reform is muscled through with minimal political damage and still a long stretch before November- it looks like the Obama Administration is off to another healthy clip!
From Financial reforms to Educational changes are appearing with much more vigor!
Not to juggle just a couple - as the new Drilling and exploration in the home front after 20 plus years of going dry!
It certainly looks like "Vintage" Obama working the changes while the campaign trail for November is just beginning!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Mr Gasparino and his following!
A couple of years ago - this story would have taken the money managers and news reporters drooling for replay - like the Apple story!
When Mr Gasparino was with CNBC he WAS the go to man for anything inside stroy on Wall Street!
Financial Whatever CNBC rating maching relied solely on Mr Gasparino!
In his new assignment with FOX - his news - though as NewsWorthy as they were before - are finding itself in the trash bin like every other WSJ embraced Fox Business News!
Now that could be an opportunity!
Today the story was the usual culprit - Goldman Sachs and their money making capability and their about to conclude quarter!
According to Mr Gasparino - Goldman hit it out of the Park! Now this is not an easy one to digest for Mr Gasparino - who is normaly critical of Goldman and their covetted alumni- including Mr Paulson - who refuese to talk to Mr Gasparino!
But Goldman reversed its early morning advance and dropped over 3 dors from the high!
May be it was Mr Volcker's meeting with the White House & their staff was weighing in every one's mind - but still -
With the Weekend coverage and a positive mention in Barrons - this apears to be a very good opportunity - Once again to load up on Goldman Sachs!
It
When Mr Gasparino was with CNBC he WAS the go to man for anything inside stroy on Wall Street!
Financial Whatever CNBC rating maching relied solely on Mr Gasparino!
In his new assignment with FOX - his news - though as NewsWorthy as they were before - are finding itself in the trash bin like every other WSJ embraced Fox Business News!
Now that could be an opportunity!
Today the story was the usual culprit - Goldman Sachs and their money making capability and their about to conclude quarter!
According to Mr Gasparino - Goldman hit it out of the Park! Now this is not an easy one to digest for Mr Gasparino - who is normaly critical of Goldman and their covetted alumni- including Mr Paulson - who refuese to talk to Mr Gasparino!
But Goldman reversed its early morning advance and dropped over 3 dors from the high!
May be it was Mr Volcker's meeting with the White House & their staff was weighing in every one's mind - but still -
With the Weekend coverage and a positive mention in Barrons - this apears to be a very good opportunity - Once again to load up on Goldman Sachs!
It
Is China hiding its holding?
China has been in the story from every directions!
Economic recovery to Selling Nukes!
Currency manipulations to dumping US Treasury!
Labor abuse to censorship!
While they seem to be new 800 pound Gorilla in the export driven economy with a ton of American papers- they seem to be silently diversifying their reserves - As the street speaks!
Or is it possible that they are hiding their holdings - by moving the exposure to Chinese owned and managed funds from outside China?
Looking at the relationship between Washington & Beijing - reading between the lines after scarping all the noise - it certainly appears that way!
Both policy makers and politicians alike from both the countries understand why they are wedded to their hips and don't want this to break- atleast till that point in time when the global economy is a real corporate Mecca and not a political gambling!
Economic recovery to Selling Nukes!
Currency manipulations to dumping US Treasury!
Labor abuse to censorship!
While they seem to be new 800 pound Gorilla in the export driven economy with a ton of American papers- they seem to be silently diversifying their reserves - As the street speaks!
Or is it possible that they are hiding their holdings - by moving the exposure to Chinese owned and managed funds from outside China?
Looking at the relationship between Washington & Beijing - reading between the lines after scarping all the noise - it certainly appears that way!
Both policy makers and politicians alike from both the countries understand why they are wedded to their hips and don't want this to break- atleast till that point in time when the global economy is a real corporate Mecca and not a political gambling!
Is it Newsworthy? The CNBC Standard??
Monday Wall Street Journal speculates on What has been the hottest company in Technology - Apple!
CNBC picks up the wire and runs with the Story!
The normally loud Fast Company gang which is very Apple friendly - this is a REAL HOT story!
Go through the WSJ story - the usual speculation with no credible backing from any of Apple spokes person- the usual storyline from folks at Infinite Loop in Cupertino!
The tape loves the replay on CNBC - And that's good enough for CNBC folks to identify a news worthy piece when it airs it!
Every 10 minutes - their Silicon Valley chief Mr Goldman - is all over it - I mean all over the WSJ article!
From Analysts to Chief executives : The same story!
Every company that is remotely associated with this story has changed directions on this over play by Mr Goldman and his able team at CNBC!
Apple inches closer to Microsoft!
Verizon inches closer to Apple!
RIM scratching its PALM!
While AT&T thinking of their over paying customers ditching?
And the folks at FOX scratching their head - as CNBC runs through their (WSJ - a new member in the NEWS Corp fold) tabloid like story over and over and over and....and keeping the loyal Apple viewers and analysts alike to their reporters!
CNBC picks up the wire and runs with the Story!
The normally loud Fast Company gang which is very Apple friendly - this is a REAL HOT story!
Go through the WSJ story - the usual speculation with no credible backing from any of Apple spokes person- the usual storyline from folks at Infinite Loop in Cupertino!
The tape loves the replay on CNBC - And that's good enough for CNBC folks to identify a news worthy piece when it airs it!
Every 10 minutes - their Silicon Valley chief Mr Goldman - is all over it - I mean all over the WSJ article!
From Analysts to Chief executives : The same story!
Every company that is remotely associated with this story has changed directions on this over play by Mr Goldman and his able team at CNBC!
Apple inches closer to Microsoft!
Verizon inches closer to Apple!
RIM scratching its PALM!
While AT&T thinking of their over paying customers ditching?
And the folks at FOX scratching their head - as CNBC runs through their (WSJ - a new member in the NEWS Corp fold) tabloid like story over and over and over and....and keeping the loyal Apple viewers and analysts alike to their reporters!
From Mr Gross to Mr Greenspan!
Started by Mr El Erian a few months back...joined voicefully by Mr Gross and finally their buddy & colleague Mr Greenspan explained it all on Bloomberg!
Yes the German company's PIMCO is at it again bad mouthing and jaw boning the treasury market to gain power and money!
They have succeeded in the past! More than once and rather consistently!
And ofcourse they do not have a stellar performance during the Obama time and the Chicago team! They got slapped a few times and the Economic team of Mr Obamahas been quick in the past shut them up!
And then there was the Greasy experience when even Mr Gross underestimated the Euro impications of a structurally weak union and currency!
Can they succeed this time around?
Given the short experience we have about the Obama administration and the agressive and vidicaative Mr Summers with the matured Mr Geithner- it should pass as spring gives way to Summer and the economic overhang from the higher interest rate should fade and give way to better employment number going into the holiday season towards the end of the year!
Yes the German company's PIMCO is at it again bad mouthing and jaw boning the treasury market to gain power and money!
They have succeeded in the past! More than once and rather consistently!
And ofcourse they do not have a stellar performance during the Obama time and the Chicago team! They got slapped a few times and the Economic team of Mr Obamahas been quick in the past shut them up!
And then there was the Greasy experience when even Mr Gross underestimated the Euro impications of a structurally weak union and currency!
Can they succeed this time around?
Given the short experience we have about the Obama administration and the agressive and vidicaative Mr Summers with the matured Mr Geithner- it should pass as spring gives way to Summer and the economic overhang from the higher interest rate should fade and give way to better employment number going into the holiday season towards the end of the year!
Breaking the Rimm, Finally?
Rumours about Apple, Again!
And this time around it is rattling the entire smartphone market!
From Chipmakers to Wireless providers!
And Mr Gates.....looking behind at Mr Jobs!
Simplicity & Elegance- trailing in volume but made up in quality!
What else can be made - well right from a mass market voice phone to all the way to ...much much more than its current version.
Very Well then - how far? well for starters - just a quick sprint past Microsoft's capitalisation- not a big feat given they are only $60 dollars from where Apple is - given the events between iPad and iPhone refresh to iPhone may be Verizon - well it might quickly surpass everyone above and might be crowned the most valuable company in the country by Thankgiving!
And this time around it is rattling the entire smartphone market!
From Chipmakers to Wireless providers!
And Mr Gates.....looking behind at Mr Jobs!
Simplicity & Elegance- trailing in volume but made up in quality!
What else can be made - well right from a mass market voice phone to all the way to ...much much more than its current version.
Very Well then - how far? well for starters - just a quick sprint past Microsoft's capitalisation- not a big feat given they are only $60 dollars from where Apple is - given the events between iPad and iPhone refresh to iPhone may be Verizon - well it might quickly surpass everyone above and might be crowned the most valuable company in the country by Thankgiving!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Google - An infrastructure play?
Google in the recent few months has been in the headlines acting as a proxy to the Obama administration trying to break the Great Wall of China!
Berlin Wall is history! Can Google and the likes are a new form of Reaganism trying to break the barriers between nations and politicians in bringing prosperity to humanity globally?
From innovation to productivity generations after generations have come to accept some form of rule and authority - from Authoritarian to democratically elected politicians - and every other form in between.
For the first time - might be a change of guard , if not a final but appears like a beginning , a Corporate giant in the making is standing for freedom and the cause of the common.
At the outset it appears like one of those politically motivated and ill timed war. Looking deeper into the implications and what this could mean historically given what is happening in the Medium of transaction and the financial industry - one couldn't ignore the fact that we are squarely looking at a new form of revolution that could lead to a new order and governance- if not in the Now but sure is an indication of what to come in the decades ahead.
In the meanwhile - this could be an opportunity for Investors to capitalize on Google shares and its potential to more than double in the next few years.
Rationalities for Google are several fold-
a commoditized advertisement spending making it easier for every budget from under a dollar to sky high limits to participate
a cash participation without the overhead of distribution making it easier for any skill level and resource to participate in the cash
Bing or no bing - one major element that people forget is the infrastructure that Google is building that could dwarf anyone's comprehension.
It is not just the technology that makes Google what they are today- it is the cost of entry and the barrier has been raised multiple fold by building the most complicated and scalable infrastructure. Which will take a real visionary to keep expanding the processing , storing and streaming capabilities...in addition to having the bandwidth to serve globally to any corner of the world irrespective of the volume of data with almost zero latency.
With every possible application that can be used using cloud - is being converted into an affordable application available for free to end user.
Looking at the past financial disaster - Google is one of the few that managed to retain its revenue base- showing how compelling their value proposition to their customer base.
Also looking at the last couple of quarters - the transition of Advertisement dollar from traditional media to net based campaigns is accelerating even amongst the traditional industries. From Automobiles to pharmaceuticals companies are increasing their budget to the net. In the next couple of years - it is clear that the exodus to net is a given and that will dramatically increase the size of the Google pie.
Given its current revenue base and market capitalisation - it is clear that it can peak out at $700B - which appears like a ridiculous target looking at its current base. Barring any economic melt down - Google is on its way to achieve it and it will be very evident in its upcoming Q1 numbers - which will be the first real quarter after the Financial Whatever!
Berlin Wall is history! Can Google and the likes are a new form of Reaganism trying to break the barriers between nations and politicians in bringing prosperity to humanity globally?
From innovation to productivity generations after generations have come to accept some form of rule and authority - from Authoritarian to democratically elected politicians - and every other form in between.
For the first time - might be a change of guard , if not a final but appears like a beginning , a Corporate giant in the making is standing for freedom and the cause of the common.
At the outset it appears like one of those politically motivated and ill timed war. Looking deeper into the implications and what this could mean historically given what is happening in the Medium of transaction and the financial industry - one couldn't ignore the fact that we are squarely looking at a new form of revolution that could lead to a new order and governance- if not in the Now but sure is an indication of what to come in the decades ahead.
In the meanwhile - this could be an opportunity for Investors to capitalize on Google shares and its potential to more than double in the next few years.
Rationalities for Google are several fold-
a commoditized advertisement spending making it easier for every budget from under a dollar to sky high limits to participate
a cash participation without the overhead of distribution making it easier for any skill level and resource to participate in the cash
Bing or no bing - one major element that people forget is the infrastructure that Google is building that could dwarf anyone's comprehension.
It is not just the technology that makes Google what they are today- it is the cost of entry and the barrier has been raised multiple fold by building the most complicated and scalable infrastructure. Which will take a real visionary to keep expanding the processing , storing and streaming capabilities...in addition to having the bandwidth to serve globally to any corner of the world irrespective of the volume of data with almost zero latency.
With every possible application that can be used using cloud - is being converted into an affordable application available for free to end user.
Looking at the past financial disaster - Google is one of the few that managed to retain its revenue base- showing how compelling their value proposition to their customer base.
Also looking at the last couple of quarters - the transition of Advertisement dollar from traditional media to net based campaigns is accelerating even amongst the traditional industries. From Automobiles to pharmaceuticals companies are increasing their budget to the net. In the next couple of years - it is clear that the exodus to net is a given and that will dramatically increase the size of the Google pie.
Given its current revenue base and market capitalisation - it is clear that it can peak out at $700B - which appears like a ridiculous target looking at its current base. Barring any economic melt down - Google is on its way to achieve it and it will be very evident in its upcoming Q1 numbers - which will be the first real quarter after the Financial Whatever!
Friday, March 26, 2010
A peek at the parking lots in Silicon Valley!
It was a week day- early afternoon!
A little after a typical late lunch Silicon Valley style in Palo Alto- Driving into the Stanford Shopping center was a little neck to neck traffic!
Drive around the mall looking for a spot - not so easy!
This is not a strange day - seems to be the symptoms these days in Silicon Valley!
Malls , Restaurants and strip malls- all the same story! After a couple of years of so so traffic in the malls and shopping centers- as the stock market climbs and the fortunes of high tech employees closely tied to the stock options - it appear we are seeing the second coming of Silicon Valley companies.
Unlike the dot com bubble when the market and cities were littered with worthless option papers and shut down companies- this time around the fortunes are more evident in looking at the war chest of cash in the tech companies - revenue seems to be leap frogging from a much higher level- companies racing past 10-20 Billion in revenue at a healthy 20-30 percent organic growth seems not so much of a head turner.
Unlike the IPO boom of the Frank Quattron era - we are seeing more and more companies staying put and far from Wall Street!
As the world relies more and more on technological break throughs for a daily embracement in everyday lifestyles- it is clear that Silicon Valley, as it integrates itself globally - is booming once again. And unlike the past era boom - this time around cash rich and cautiously optimistic!
A little after a typical late lunch Silicon Valley style in Palo Alto- Driving into the Stanford Shopping center was a little neck to neck traffic!
Drive around the mall looking for a spot - not so easy!
This is not a strange day - seems to be the symptoms these days in Silicon Valley!
Malls , Restaurants and strip malls- all the same story! After a couple of years of so so traffic in the malls and shopping centers- as the stock market climbs and the fortunes of high tech employees closely tied to the stock options - it appear we are seeing the second coming of Silicon Valley companies.
Unlike the dot com bubble when the market and cities were littered with worthless option papers and shut down companies- this time around the fortunes are more evident in looking at the war chest of cash in the tech companies - revenue seems to be leap frogging from a much higher level- companies racing past 10-20 Billion in revenue at a healthy 20-30 percent organic growth seems not so much of a head turner.
Unlike the IPO boom of the Frank Quattron era - we are seeing more and more companies staying put and far from Wall Street!
As the world relies more and more on technological break throughs for a daily embracement in everyday lifestyles- it is clear that Silicon Valley, as it integrates itself globally - is booming once again. And unlike the past era boom - this time around cash rich and cautiously optimistic!
A break for Goldman?
In the middle of another Wall street scandal and shenanigans! This time it is in the Muni Bonds...
Every institute that is who is who is named..And guess what Goldman is missing!
After two years of being on the not to envy list on every single occasion from Capital Hill to cross roads in Athens- Goldman finally misses a list which at the initial check appears to include everyone from Lehman to Citi and even the blue touch J P Morgan!
Every institute that is who is who is named..And guess what Goldman is missing!
After two years of being on the not to envy list on every single occasion from Capital Hill to cross roads in Athens- Goldman finally misses a list which at the initial check appears to include everyone from Lehman to Citi and even the blue touch J P Morgan!
Lets Listen to Mr G!
Mr Greenspan may be a little rusty to the Press and in popularity taking a major blame for the recent Financial Whatever- which happened a full couple of years after he handed over the torch!
However he DID warn a full 6 months ahead of the then pending Recession...the language not so subtle like during his Fed days but in black and white and simple language!
From Irrational Exuberance to Statistical Illusions - Mr Greenspan has always been right on the look ahead!
His latest view in an interview on Bloomberg calls for a new term optimism and a long term bleak outlook given the debt situation.
The opportunistic bet is to be Bullish in the market near term and try to have protection on the long term. Unless ofcourse we believe in topline growth to the US Economic expansion by manufacturing export driven by utility and technology disruptions to existing process and IPs- which is a real possibility given where we are in available product sets and innovation in the pipeline.
However he DID warn a full 6 months ahead of the then pending Recession...the language not so subtle like during his Fed days but in black and white and simple language!
From Irrational Exuberance to Statistical Illusions - Mr Greenspan has always been right on the look ahead!
His latest view in an interview on Bloomberg calls for a new term optimism and a long term bleak outlook given the debt situation.
The opportunistic bet is to be Bullish in the market near term and try to have protection on the long term. Unless ofcourse we believe in topline growth to the US Economic expansion by manufacturing export driven by utility and technology disruptions to existing process and IPs- which is a real possibility given where we are in available product sets and innovation in the pipeline.
Another Greasy deal in Europe!
Growing up is not so easy especially when the grown ups are intimidating!
Final score is less stellar than the grinning face of Mr Pappa on closing a deal with IMF and EU. Is it a new trend in the market influenced in the borderline of blackmailing and moral hazard?
From Bond Vigilantes to Sovereign manipulations and blackmailing...it is a new order emerging which paves a rocky road but a certain path to an eventual change in the medium of transaction.
It is not if ...it is what , how and when!
Final score is less stellar than the grinning face of Mr Pappa on closing a deal with IMF and EU. Is it a new trend in the market influenced in the borderline of blackmailing and moral hazard?
From Bond Vigilantes to Sovereign manipulations and blackmailing...it is a new order emerging which paves a rocky road but a certain path to an eventual change in the medium of transaction.
It is not if ...it is what , how and when!
From Caterpillar to ATT...Joining the Tea Party?
Healthcare and Obamacare is still in its infancy and the ink is yet to find its dry spell!
Obamanomics and Obamacare seems to be squarely on the cross-wires of Mr Owens , Caterpillar's Chief!
While the graveyard was being littered with economic casualties, Mr Owens slapped Mr Obama during his ambitious visit to Caterpillar on the heel of Mr Owens laying off 10,000 of its workers. As a shareholder, yes it was a feel good moment and might even give a bounty full of gold coins to Mr Owens for the layoffs...and not his immediate slamming of Obamacare on the eve of passing the Healthcare reform.
Soon to follow Mr Owens is our Dear fellow from John Deere and ATT.
Is this a mere coincidence or a political gambit on the heals of Tea party folks stirring anger all over the country on the Obamacare?
It is good to see Caterpillar more than double from this blogs earlier assessment of Caterpillars opportunity in the middle of Financial Whatever...and we still fell it is the most opportune company and is the best investment for any economic expansion- from its products and cost structure..however it will be prudent for Mr Owens to focus internally and leave the politicising to the Tea Party and those FOXy folks!
Obamanomics and Obamacare seems to be squarely on the cross-wires of Mr Owens , Caterpillar's Chief!
While the graveyard was being littered with economic casualties, Mr Owens slapped Mr Obama during his ambitious visit to Caterpillar on the heel of Mr Owens laying off 10,000 of its workers. As a shareholder, yes it was a feel good moment and might even give a bounty full of gold coins to Mr Owens for the layoffs...and not his immediate slamming of Obamacare on the eve of passing the Healthcare reform.
Soon to follow Mr Owens is our Dear fellow from John Deere and ATT.
Is this a mere coincidence or a political gambit on the heals of Tea party folks stirring anger all over the country on the Obamacare?
It is good to see Caterpillar more than double from this blogs earlier assessment of Caterpillars opportunity in the middle of Financial Whatever...and we still fell it is the most opportune company and is the best investment for any economic expansion- from its products and cost structure..however it will be prudent for Mr Owens to focus internally and leave the politicising to the Tea Party and those FOXy folks!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Not So Soon...Says Mr Trichet!
Pass the Buck-et Said Ms Merkel to IMF!
USA, Dollar & those Damn Yanks! May be short sighted?
Mr Sarkozy whining for a while and hiding behind the Walls of Ms Merkel looking across the ocean from that Lady of Liberty to light some fire?
Euro is ambitious- yet written with the wrong agenda!
Dollar - To Replace or Not To?
Torching those Olympians might not be the answer when you have to look abroad for the bucket to be filled with Dollars! A weak Euro is still good for the strong and leaving the weak wondering about solidarity!
Mr Trichet is right to insist on staying away from IMF - a Dollar and a proxy for those Yankees! If Euro is to be!
Is Duetche Mark and Francs are far from reality? Is Ms Merkel right in dragging Mr Sarkozy to rattle the ECB who have become very powerful under Mr Trichet who has become larger than life who failed to make the final run for the Gold during the recent Financial Whatever- which could have brought Europe to its knees along with Euro while letting the Dollar and the Yanks be crowned for now and letting the D-day wait for awhile! As the power centers of Europe moved away from Germany & France and circled around Brussels- it is time to rethink!
May be re-ink the deal- while Mr Trichet would like to leave a legacy behind and might be right in his IMF aversion - but given Dr Merkel's Intellectual interpretation of the recent Financial Whatever- it might be a disaster not to IMF!
For the time being the market obviously not too happy with some kind of Bail-out for Greece - thus acting as a EU backstop like the Mr Bernenke Put for those Wall Street Gamblers - this game is not over before the fat lady sings!
And as Mr Trichet joins Mr Greenspan after a glorious time only to be smeared at the goal post- Dollar will enjoy its second coming!
USA, Dollar & those Damn Yanks! May be short sighted?
Mr Sarkozy whining for a while and hiding behind the Walls of Ms Merkel looking across the ocean from that Lady of Liberty to light some fire?
Euro is ambitious- yet written with the wrong agenda!
Dollar - To Replace or Not To?
Torching those Olympians might not be the answer when you have to look abroad for the bucket to be filled with Dollars! A weak Euro is still good for the strong and leaving the weak wondering about solidarity!
Mr Trichet is right to insist on staying away from IMF - a Dollar and a proxy for those Yankees! If Euro is to be!
Is Duetche Mark and Francs are far from reality? Is Ms Merkel right in dragging Mr Sarkozy to rattle the ECB who have become very powerful under Mr Trichet who has become larger than life who failed to make the final run for the Gold during the recent Financial Whatever- which could have brought Europe to its knees along with Euro while letting the Dollar and the Yanks be crowned for now and letting the D-day wait for awhile! As the power centers of Europe moved away from Germany & France and circled around Brussels- it is time to rethink!
May be re-ink the deal- while Mr Trichet would like to leave a legacy behind and might be right in his IMF aversion - but given Dr Merkel's Intellectual interpretation of the recent Financial Whatever- it might be a disaster not to IMF!
For the time being the market obviously not too happy with some kind of Bail-out for Greece - thus acting as a EU backstop like the Mr Bernenke Put for those Wall Street Gamblers - this game is not over before the fat lady sings!
And as Mr Trichet joins Mr Greenspan after a glorious time only to be smeared at the goal post- Dollar will enjoy its second coming!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Loadup German and Euro companies!
Economy around the globe is getting on a stable footing even as the Euro Zone politicians manage to keep the spotlight on their less stellar behaviour on solidarity!
As the weaker currency and a solid backing behind Dollar is giving a good opportunity to start cherry picking some of the European companies which rely heavily on export. With India and China hitting on all cylinders, Japan seems to have escaped the Toyota disaster.
With US economy looking at a brighter future- the export oriented multi-nationals from Europe will start showing stelar growth to their bottom line and their stock performance will be better than most markets.
As the weaker currency and a solid backing behind Dollar is giving a good opportunity to start cherry picking some of the European companies which rely heavily on export. With India and China hitting on all cylinders, Japan seems to have escaped the Toyota disaster.
With US economy looking at a brighter future- the export oriented multi-nationals from Europe will start showing stelar growth to their bottom line and their stock performance will be better than most markets.
American Corporate Borrowing cheaper!
A year old rally and the fading memory from the Financial Whatever!
As Europe falters in soul searching US Dollar and American Policy Makers - both political and otherwise are capitalising and cherishing the moment!
American corporations are seeing their credibility increasing as the debt market softens its hold on liquidity.
As the first quarter ends we are seeing the corporate borrowing cheaper than US Government!
Now that is very solid for old age companies - the Industrial complex- will see their incentive to expand with low cost capital is a boon for the Economy.
With Technology booming and Financials holding up well and looking at a brighter future- and the Industrial joining the party- thats more than half of the economy it is clear that American Economy is fully functional and ready for a sustained growth.
As Europe falters in soul searching US Dollar and American Policy Makers - both political and otherwise are capitalising and cherishing the moment!
American corporations are seeing their credibility increasing as the debt market softens its hold on liquidity.
As the first quarter ends we are seeing the corporate borrowing cheaper than US Government!
Now that is very solid for old age companies - the Industrial complex- will see their incentive to expand with low cost capital is a boon for the Economy.
With Technology booming and Financials holding up well and looking at a brighter future- and the Industrial joining the party- thats more than half of the economy it is clear that American Economy is fully functional and ready for a sustained growth.
Blackberry to Silicon Valley!
American Politics and Policies have seen influences from Industrial pioneers to Wall Street mavericks!
From New York to Detroit!
From JP Morgans to Rockefellers!
From Standard Oil to General Motors!
From Domestic policies to Foreigh relations!
When Mr Obama stormed into Whitehouse with a broad smile on one side and a blackberry on the other....it was more that an symbolic indication of where Technlogy is headed.
Move over Detroit and New York!
A kid is in town- Silicon Valley!
From Chuck Phillips to Eric Schmidt- we are seeing more and more Silicon Valley executives circling Washington.
From Carly Fiorina to Meg Whitman are climbing the political ladders which used to be littered by Wall Street moghuls and Industrial pioneers!
Technology and Internet has been ubiquitous and omni present these days and seen in every corners of our life....and Finally Washington and Main street will be feeling the power and force of the people from Technology - from policies to politics!
From New York to Detroit!
From JP Morgans to Rockefellers!
From Standard Oil to General Motors!
From Domestic policies to Foreigh relations!
When Mr Obama stormed into Whitehouse with a broad smile on one side and a blackberry on the other....it was more that an symbolic indication of where Technlogy is headed.
Move over Detroit and New York!
A kid is in town- Silicon Valley!
From Chuck Phillips to Eric Schmidt- we are seeing more and more Silicon Valley executives circling Washington.
From Carly Fiorina to Meg Whitman are climbing the political ladders which used to be littered by Wall Street moghuls and Industrial pioneers!
Technology and Internet has been ubiquitous and omni present these days and seen in every corners of our life....and Finally Washington and Main street will be feeling the power and force of the people from Technology - from policies to politics!
Walking with a White cord dangling...!
Yes ....iPod, iTouch, iPhone...and the white cord revolution!
Pin stripe , Starched White with Power ties! And the white cord around the neck!
From Wall street to Main street the love grows and Yet....
Tried the i-generations of products and have read and written eagerly about every move by Apple and Steve Jobs!
Still have always resisted the temptations of Apple and disciplined to use products with suitable applicability for my usage!
However it hasn't stopped me from walking into an Apple shop or their presence in places in retails shops from Frys to BestBuy!
As Apple slowly expands its presence in more and more main stream retail as it starts to embrace the mass market...albeit slowly...I drifted into an Apple setup in a Best Buy shop recently!
From its Air to all-in-ones...it is mesmerising and captivating....practicality might be one thing ...but usability and elegance its unbelievable!
Imitation might be the ultimate compliment...but capability to duplicate and offer with Apple's finesse seeps to be a totally different story.
Touch screens from competition seems to be blotchy and sticky at best!
May be not this time...but it was very clear eventually I will fall for it too!
Yes Every one is just a bite away from Apple!
Pin stripe , Starched White with Power ties! And the white cord around the neck!
From Wall street to Main street the love grows and Yet....
Tried the i-generations of products and have read and written eagerly about every move by Apple and Steve Jobs!
Still have always resisted the temptations of Apple and disciplined to use products with suitable applicability for my usage!
However it hasn't stopped me from walking into an Apple shop or their presence in places in retails shops from Frys to BestBuy!
As Apple slowly expands its presence in more and more main stream retail as it starts to embrace the mass market...albeit slowly...I drifted into an Apple setup in a Best Buy shop recently!
From its Air to all-in-ones...it is mesmerising and captivating....practicality might be one thing ...but usability and elegance its unbelievable!
Imitation might be the ultimate compliment...but capability to duplicate and offer with Apple's finesse seeps to be a totally different story.
Touch screens from competition seems to be blotchy and sticky at best!
May be not this time...but it was very clear eventually I will fall for it too!
Yes Every one is just a bite away from Apple!
Healthcare and the Obama train!
Finally its here!
The Obamacare and the Political Juggernaut.
It is the socially responsible thing to do! It is a good starter...can it use this as a platform to reaally offer affordale healthcare with no quality compromise.
It is very clear that law of the land is scent marking Washington and policy makers based on the size of the economic contribution to the GDP. From Energy to Healthcare to Wall Street- a dollar spent is a dollar earned!
The political will of the Obama administration is going where no administration in the past have gone!
Public participation visibly is missing contradicting polls and pundits.
There is no anger!
There is no jubiliation!
Outside Washington and the party players and power houses!
Hopefully the Policy makers will do the right thing after having found a way to pass a platform from which real change can be made to bring innovation and cost control to the masses!
The Obamacare and the Political Juggernaut.
It is the socially responsible thing to do! It is a good starter...can it use this as a platform to reaally offer affordale healthcare with no quality compromise.
It is very clear that law of the land is scent marking Washington and policy makers based on the size of the economic contribution to the GDP. From Energy to Healthcare to Wall Street- a dollar spent is a dollar earned!
The political will of the Obama administration is going where no administration in the past have gone!
Public participation visibly is missing contradicting polls and pundits.
There is no anger!
There is no jubiliation!
Outside Washington and the party players and power houses!
Hopefully the Policy makers will do the right thing after having found a way to pass a platform from which real change can be made to bring innovation and cost control to the masses!
Dividends and IPOs!
IPO maret is slowly warming up!
Dividends are going up! Even Starbucks changing its hearts on its dividend policy!
Looks like the corporate world is gaining confidence. With over a Trillion dollar in cash - American Economy could sustain its recent traction and continue to establish a steady growth with employment market expanding in the next few months..And Santa might have lot of work come Christmas
Dividends are going up! Even Starbucks changing its hearts on its dividend policy!
Looks like the corporate world is gaining confidence. With over a Trillion dollar in cash - American Economy could sustain its recent traction and continue to establish a steady growth with employment market expanding in the next few months..And Santa might have lot of work come Christmas
Who would have Thunk? Who-ro??
Not too long ago across the ocean seven seas and seven mountains there was a budding Prince...oh Well who are we kidding?
An Ambitious project, A skyhigh charter with Swiss cheese holes!en
For a while it all appeared too good to be true. And then there where skeptics..fading behind the Dollar bashing and a near melt down possibility of the currency.
Mr Trichet appeared invincible shoeing in casually and forcefully into the legendary Mr Greenspan's! Euro zone and their Monetary policy makers looked headed for the victory lap with Dollar and Yen dusted in the closet.
From the Political will of a few came the single currency monetary union- the near winning medal came through smoke and mirror Monetary independence.
And then Mr Trichet is not to be...the King Maker yet to be crowned!
In the middle of a close to being called a disaster...the Political will of a few from may be a couple- is arranging the funeral of Euro and the voice of MR Trichet echoing from his grave! The vultures circling with the crumbling walls of power in Brussels sprouting al over the ruins of Olympian village and spreading like wild fire!
Can Trichet?
Will Sarkozy?
Should Ms Merkel?
May be Browning the currency with some Tea break?
It is in every one's interest to have a strong balance of power in the capital market and the free market global economy. A vacuum that will be left behind , if Euro were to lose its footing, could and will be easily filled in by a more manipulated currencies - leaving the fragile economies to the hands of a few powerful and wreck less.
Yes it is tough to be black mailed by a runaway train wreck from Greece and Mr Pappa needs to shut his mouth for the sake of saving his country men! It is easy to blame Ms Merkel for all this mess..but Pappa seems to be demanding his rightful guarantee for being fiscally irresponsible?
Yes it is moment to slap the hand to prevent a repeat from others!
Yes Euro could be seen and manipulated for ever if Greece and the likes are allowed to get away.
But this is not the moment to demonstrate strength for punishment but this is the time to bow and step aside to take a breather and regroup- Yes the battle of Greek will be lost ...but the War for Euro and Euro zone solidarity could still be won with MS MErkel and Mr Trichet working hand in hand.
Maybe, Just Maybe....Ms Merkel will and Mr Trichet could!
An Ambitious project, A skyhigh charter with Swiss cheese holes!en
For a while it all appeared too good to be true. And then there where skeptics..fading behind the Dollar bashing and a near melt down possibility of the currency.
Mr Trichet appeared invincible shoeing in casually and forcefully into the legendary Mr Greenspan's! Euro zone and their Monetary policy makers looked headed for the victory lap with Dollar and Yen dusted in the closet.
From the Political will of a few came the single currency monetary union- the near winning medal came through smoke and mirror Monetary independence.
And then Mr Trichet is not to be...the King Maker yet to be crowned!
In the middle of a close to being called a disaster...the Political will of a few from may be a couple- is arranging the funeral of Euro and the voice of MR Trichet echoing from his grave! The vultures circling with the crumbling walls of power in Brussels sprouting al over the ruins of Olympian village and spreading like wild fire!
Can Trichet?
Will Sarkozy?
Should Ms Merkel?
May be Browning the currency with some Tea break?
It is in every one's interest to have a strong balance of power in the capital market and the free market global economy. A vacuum that will be left behind , if Euro were to lose its footing, could and will be easily filled in by a more manipulated currencies - leaving the fragile economies to the hands of a few powerful and wreck less.
Yes it is tough to be black mailed by a runaway train wreck from Greece and Mr Pappa needs to shut his mouth for the sake of saving his country men! It is easy to blame Ms Merkel for all this mess..but Pappa seems to be demanding his rightful guarantee for being fiscally irresponsible?
Yes it is moment to slap the hand to prevent a repeat from others!
Yes Euro could be seen and manipulated for ever if Greece and the likes are allowed to get away.
But this is not the moment to demonstrate strength for punishment but this is the time to bow and step aside to take a breather and regroup- Yes the battle of Greek will be lost ...but the War for Euro and Euro zone solidarity could still be won with MS MErkel and Mr Trichet working hand in hand.
Maybe, Just Maybe....Ms Merkel will and Mr Trichet could!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Is Microsoft Agressive and smart to buy MySpace!
Mr Balmer - here is an opportunity that is better than any Microsoft has looked at in the past in terms of opportunity!
Yes with a foot inside FaceBook it might look like a mute move - however this will give the unbeleivable platform that can be bundled with XbOx Live & other Microsoft Cloud offering which will leapfrog what a social platform can offer compared to whaat Facebook and Twitter can do in a decade.
This will make Microsoft the most compelling player in Technology ONC AGAIN- Is Mr Balmer capable of stepping into an area where they have had a tough time comprehending the landscape?
I Hope so - atleast for the sake of innovation and competition which is needed in this burgeoning space more than any other that we have seen in all areas of technology!
Yes with a foot inside FaceBook it might look like a mute move - however this will give the unbeleivable platform that can be bundled with XbOx Live & other Microsoft Cloud offering which will leapfrog what a social platform can offer compared to whaat Facebook and Twitter can do in a decade.
This will make Microsoft the most compelling player in Technology ONC AGAIN- Is Mr Balmer capable of stepping into an area where they have had a tough time comprehending the landscape?
I Hope so - atleast for the sake of innovation and competition which is needed in this burgeoning space more than any other that we have seen in all areas of technology!
Fedex and the state of Global Economy!
Headine numbers nad reports are impressive!
Whats even more interesting is Fedex re-intating its benefits and compensation tripped away during the Financil Whatever!
Looks like the early sign of growth in employment and economic expansion. One lesson that is gaining more and more traction is that the global integration of Financial market might provide an opportunity to force a Financial catastrophy but is very difficult to derail a expanding capitalistic prosperity when there are 6 billion people growing more and more towards a united cause of prosperity!
Whats even more interesting is Fedex re-intating its benefits and compensation tripped away during the Financil Whatever!
Looks like the early sign of growth in employment and economic expansion. One lesson that is gaining more and more traction is that the global integration of Financial market might provide an opportunity to force a Financial catastrophy but is very difficult to derail a expanding capitalistic prosperity when there are 6 billion people growing more and more towards a united cause of prosperity!
Ms Merkel 's dilemma - To Greece or not?
Talking aboout shifting priorities-
On the one hand Ms Merkel is pushing for Euro EXPEL & on the other hand back out of a Euro Bailout for Greece forcing an IMF bailout!
Can Euro be an exclusive club keeping them when they prosper and expelling the poor when they falter?
Moves like these might be difficult to maintain credibility of Euro zone solidarity and force a gradual deterioration of ECB and the council. REcently the policy shifts are red-eyed and bullyed by the politicians and not much from the policy makers.
When the chief of Greece toured global power houses of politics including WhiteHouse - it wasnt apparent that the Greeks and their politicians care for their fiscal mistakes and were squarely forcing their inadeuacies and lack of capabilities on the Financial shenanighans of Wall street.
With Ms Merkel pushing Greece to IMF and still contemplating an EU equivalent for IMF - it makes it a hard sell to support Euro other than to profit from the speculative powers of money - whether they outlaw Derivatives or not
On the one hand Ms Merkel is pushing for Euro EXPEL & on the other hand back out of a Euro Bailout for Greece forcing an IMF bailout!
Can Euro be an exclusive club keeping them when they prosper and expelling the poor when they falter?
Moves like these might be difficult to maintain credibility of Euro zone solidarity and force a gradual deterioration of ECB and the council. REcently the policy shifts are red-eyed and bullyed by the politicians and not much from the policy makers.
When the chief of Greece toured global power houses of politics including WhiteHouse - it wasnt apparent that the Greeks and their politicians care for their fiscal mistakes and were squarely forcing their inadeuacies and lack of capabilities on the Financial shenanighans of Wall street.
With Ms Merkel pushing Greece to IMF and still contemplating an EU equivalent for IMF - it makes it a hard sell to support Euro other than to profit from the speculative powers of money - whether they outlaw Derivatives or not
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Apple's Shelf Life is Finite!
iPad and the euphoria surrounding a new category ( or is it a category Killer?) is still warm and flowing!
Apple ended the week with a Strong & ambitious statement of limiting 2 iPads per order for an upcoming release which is a couple of weeks out.
The stock finished with week a with a strong push towards being the most valuable company in America - a shade behind Microsoft and Exxon!
Apple announced - for the first time - a headline grabbing Bonus for its Number 2 man - Mr Cook $22 Million for the most admired company on a winning streak is pittens compared to Silicon Valley & Wall Street bonuses by a mile of not more. What strikes as more alarming is the reason given - shoeing in for Jobs during his absence!!
Apple finished the previous quarter with a $50 Billion run rate and Mr Jobs was vocal in claiming the number one pot in Wireless category!
Apple keeps gaining leadership role and position in every category it enters- from mobile smart phone to digitized music.
With over $40 Billion in cash and piling ton of it from every category every month - may be only Goldman , Exxon and Microsoft ahead of it , Mr Jobs made a bold may be borderline arrogance style - no cash for shareholders now when asked bout buy back or dividends!
Every one of these are enviable and proud at the same time.
Looking at the past - historic behaviors of companies and leaders - one thing that is evident is - these are symptoms of hitting the top and Apple might have reached similar stage in its flashy and admirable life.
Not for its innovation and potential to growth - but for maintaining a ring around its head!
Symptoms of what could go against the grain:
Smart Phone and iPhone is still a growing segment - however a very very small portion of the mobile market. iPhone and American consumers are enjoying the benefits of Apple's innovation at the expense of ATT. The cost of using iPhone is 3 - 4 times more than an average mobile user and ever 10 times compared to a global mobile user. Sooner or later that will be normalised and the subsidy will vanish compressing the sky high margins for Apple.
iPad - headed in the same direction with adding expensive mobile access for an Internet access - which has a very limited user base as most of the user base will be existing Apple users - and it will add a huge burden to their already burgeoning iPhone bills- without the equipment subsidy - beyond the initial fancy demand coming from Mac-heads that are proud have white cords dangling from their neck while walking - it should find a place next to iTV! Unless ofcourse Apple finds another carrier to subsidize the device and hide the access under a different category - which it can and could extend its capability to make money!
iMusic - looking at the lack of innovation and new category or a meg star - the initial conversion of analogue to digital music market will reach a stable and mature state faster than the initial Numbers suggest bringing a thud to the growth.
Some of the leader's arrogant move from Mr Jobs and Apple in the last few quarter's also suggest that Apple might be fumbling into its origin - making the same mistakes which made Apple 1.0 not so successful and lost a decade before Jobs 2.0 and Apple 2.0 bulldozed the innovation machine beyond Imagination into reality and success.
Some mistakes which could turn out costly for Apple are -
1. Telling consumers what they NEED vs offering what they WANT
2. Relying more on third party subsidy for margins and growth
3. Bullying industries and shareholders alike.
Some symptoms and actions are:
Blatantly keeping Adobe and their products out of their popular offerings and making arrogant statements about them.
Forcing its leadership mach to bump the eBooks pricing by over 40% forcing a price increase to a rapidly growing eReadership
Forcing proprietary technology on third party developers at the same time marginalizing the software margins and taking the pricing power from the developers
Looking at the current capitalization - it appears quite reasonable at 3x Sales and even more attractive PE ratio compared to its growth rate. However f we remove the subsidy premium built into the revenue and profit - it looks alarmingly high and shocking.
It is obviously a mistake to count Mr Jobs and Apple out of anything and betting against them - however given where the company is and how far it can go - if they do not make changes to it business practices apple 3.0 might have to wait for Apple 4.0!
Apple ended the week with a Strong & ambitious statement of limiting 2 iPads per order for an upcoming release which is a couple of weeks out.
The stock finished with week a with a strong push towards being the most valuable company in America - a shade behind Microsoft and Exxon!
Apple announced - for the first time - a headline grabbing Bonus for its Number 2 man - Mr Cook $22 Million for the most admired company on a winning streak is pittens compared to Silicon Valley & Wall Street bonuses by a mile of not more. What strikes as more alarming is the reason given - shoeing in for Jobs during his absence!!
Apple finished the previous quarter with a $50 Billion run rate and Mr Jobs was vocal in claiming the number one pot in Wireless category!
Apple keeps gaining leadership role and position in every category it enters- from mobile smart phone to digitized music.
With over $40 Billion in cash and piling ton of it from every category every month - may be only Goldman , Exxon and Microsoft ahead of it , Mr Jobs made a bold may be borderline arrogance style - no cash for shareholders now when asked bout buy back or dividends!
Every one of these are enviable and proud at the same time.
Looking at the past - historic behaviors of companies and leaders - one thing that is evident is - these are symptoms of hitting the top and Apple might have reached similar stage in its flashy and admirable life.
Not for its innovation and potential to growth - but for maintaining a ring around its head!
Symptoms of what could go against the grain:
Smart Phone and iPhone is still a growing segment - however a very very small portion of the mobile market. iPhone and American consumers are enjoying the benefits of Apple's innovation at the expense of ATT. The cost of using iPhone is 3 - 4 times more than an average mobile user and ever 10 times compared to a global mobile user. Sooner or later that will be normalised and the subsidy will vanish compressing the sky high margins for Apple.
iPad - headed in the same direction with adding expensive mobile access for an Internet access - which has a very limited user base as most of the user base will be existing Apple users - and it will add a huge burden to their already burgeoning iPhone bills- without the equipment subsidy - beyond the initial fancy demand coming from Mac-heads that are proud have white cords dangling from their neck while walking - it should find a place next to iTV! Unless ofcourse Apple finds another carrier to subsidize the device and hide the access under a different category - which it can and could extend its capability to make money!
iMusic - looking at the lack of innovation and new category or a meg star - the initial conversion of analogue to digital music market will reach a stable and mature state faster than the initial Numbers suggest bringing a thud to the growth.
Some of the leader's arrogant move from Mr Jobs and Apple in the last few quarter's also suggest that Apple might be fumbling into its origin - making the same mistakes which made Apple 1.0 not so successful and lost a decade before Jobs 2.0 and Apple 2.0 bulldozed the innovation machine beyond Imagination into reality and success.
Some mistakes which could turn out costly for Apple are -
1. Telling consumers what they NEED vs offering what they WANT
2. Relying more on third party subsidy for margins and growth
3. Bullying industries and shareholders alike.
Some symptoms and actions are:
Blatantly keeping Adobe and their products out of their popular offerings and making arrogant statements about them.
Forcing its leadership mach to bump the eBooks pricing by over 40% forcing a price increase to a rapidly growing eReadership
Forcing proprietary technology on third party developers at the same time marginalizing the software margins and taking the pricing power from the developers
Looking at the current capitalization - it appears quite reasonable at 3x Sales and even more attractive PE ratio compared to its growth rate. However f we remove the subsidy premium built into the revenue and profit - it looks alarmingly high and shocking.
It is obviously a mistake to count Mr Jobs and Apple out of anything and betting against them - however given where the company is and how far it can go - if they do not make changes to it business practices apple 3.0 might have to wait for Apple 4.0!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Super Monday - From Policies to Politics!
After over two years of week-end huddles, during the Financial Whatever, trying to be ready for a surprise Monday for both bail outs and policy changes - From Wall Street to Washington is preparing for a Very Partisan and dramatic shift in American History.
The Financial Reforms and the Health Care Bills - Two major overhaul of how Americans conduct their business life and personal life is headed for the finish line.
If done right this could pave the way for the next Economic leadership for American Corporation!
Leaving Politicians and Policy makers to Washington and letting Main Street to Wall Street to focus on building innovation and products!
With so much riding on these two Policy shifts coming from Washington - the market might have a hard time to digest if the policies themselves are not presented gently and non-intrusively.
The Financial Reforms and the Health Care Bills - Two major overhaul of how Americans conduct their business life and personal life is headed for the finish line.
If done right this could pave the way for the next Economic leadership for American Corporation!
Leaving Politicians and Policy makers to Washington and letting Main Street to Wall Street to focus on building innovation and products!
With so much riding on these two Policy shifts coming from Washington - the market might have a hard time to digest if the policies themselves are not presented gently and non-intrusively.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
What can California learn from eBay?
California is facing a huge fiscal problem which the Terminator is struggling to cope with.
Not the same as Silver screen - Mr Schwartzenegger would say!
Unlike the last go around this time the election in California is flooded with Silicon Valley money. Campaigns tat are flooded with innovation and technology. The ones that stands out the most is the chase for the Republican nomination for the Governor post!
Ms Whitman - claims her eBay experience and her contribution to eBay and Technology will help in rebuilding debt ridden California!
TVs in California are flooded with her campaign messages with eBay all over it! And not to mention the money going after the negative campaigns!
But , But Ms Whitman like lot of Internet innovation rode the wave- Granted we need to give Madam Whitman for steering eBay after it got off to the races- for the most part it was on cruise control with no significant competition or economic problems!
However before she bailed out of eBay - Ms Whitman did not leave eBay in an envious position- Revenue was slumping , profits eroding & the user community was revolting at Ms Whitman's move to make the company grow from a saturated revenue base!
And ofcours ended up wasting a ton of money on a loser - SKYPE - that too after paying Billions of dollars - for a close to zero revenue generator eBay and Ms Whitman till gave total control to the Skype owners/founders- which after Ms Whitman bailed out of eBay - the people who inherited eBay Management had to do an expensive cleanup!
Ms Whitman does not have the experience to turn around and clean up messy organisations - however she has record to prove that she can leave behind a California State of fiscal and business chaos behind and eBay is a warm example of that.
Republicans have already made a major mistake in the Democratic state by allowing a liberal Ms Schwartzenegger steal a Republican seat...it will be difficult to win the election if they endorse Ms Whitman - whose experience is hard to convince the public that she wont repeat a eBay - And California cannot afford an eBay!
Not the same as Silver screen - Mr Schwartzenegger would say!
Unlike the last go around this time the election in California is flooded with Silicon Valley money. Campaigns tat are flooded with innovation and technology. The ones that stands out the most is the chase for the Republican nomination for the Governor post!
Ms Whitman - claims her eBay experience and her contribution to eBay and Technology will help in rebuilding debt ridden California!
TVs in California are flooded with her campaign messages with eBay all over it! And not to mention the money going after the negative campaigns!
But , But Ms Whitman like lot of Internet innovation rode the wave- Granted we need to give Madam Whitman for steering eBay after it got off to the races- for the most part it was on cruise control with no significant competition or economic problems!
However before she bailed out of eBay - Ms Whitman did not leave eBay in an envious position- Revenue was slumping , profits eroding & the user community was revolting at Ms Whitman's move to make the company grow from a saturated revenue base!
And ofcours ended up wasting a ton of money on a loser - SKYPE - that too after paying Billions of dollars - for a close to zero revenue generator eBay and Ms Whitman till gave total control to the Skype owners/founders- which after Ms Whitman bailed out of eBay - the people who inherited eBay Management had to do an expensive cleanup!
Ms Whitman does not have the experience to turn around and clean up messy organisations - however she has record to prove that she can leave behind a California State of fiscal and business chaos behind and eBay is a warm example of that.
Republicans have already made a major mistake in the Democratic state by allowing a liberal Ms Schwartzenegger steal a Republican seat...it will be difficult to win the election if they endorse Ms Whitman - whose experience is hard to convince the public that she wont repeat a eBay - And California cannot afford an eBay!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Cisco and its Product announcement Fiasco!
Cisco is no Apple! And Chambers is far from doing a Jobs to the market!
Cisco announcing another version of their product - whose Previous version has an installed base of 5000 and 300 customers in a $2 Billion market - with such a hype - changing the way we know Internet and all these BS- is a real shame!
Please save the Apple envy till you change the market!
Yes Cisco is a great company with a great market share and a lot of cash ...but it is a real shame to see Mr Chambers and Cisco do a number like the one today!
Hope they will let their technology speak and leave the fan fare to Mr Jobs and Apple!
Cisco announcing another version of their product - whose Previous version has an installed base of 5000 and 300 customers in a $2 Billion market - with such a hype - changing the way we know Internet and all these BS- is a real shame!
Please save the Apple envy till you change the market!
Yes Cisco is a great company with a great market share and a lot of cash ...but it is a real shame to see Mr Chambers and Cisco do a number like the one today!
Hope they will let their technology speak and leave the fan fare to Mr Jobs and Apple!
Greasy Olympian chief & Ms Merkel divert attention!
The Finance Minister and Prime Minister from Greece wind down their road trip in White House- Mr Papandreou the theme seems to be dual in nature.
Even as the Prime Minister blame the Wall Street speculators for the Greek problem and calls for White House to join Him in fighting the evil force- the Finance Minister lends an Olive Branch to Wall Street by supporting Goldman Sachs.
Ms Merkel for her part - keeps diverting the attention to Speculators and keeps pounding the table for International Unity to fight the "Speculators"...
Yes there is need for tighter controls on how these derivatives are used to manage and manipulate global finance- it is hardly the reason for the problem faced by Greece and the rest of Europe.
While Germany benefit from the European Union and Ms Merkel would like to enjoy the benefits at the expense of the weaker economies - The Germans would obviously like to reduce there exposure and investment to continue the benefits of the EU! And obviously any distraction in way of blaming the speculators for the problem faced due to the structural inadequacies of Euro and its lopsided benefits derived by Germany and may be a couple of stronger economies- would extend the life of this flawed relationship and Euro for a bit longer and will continue to attract speculators and investors alike to enjoy managing/manipulating the sentiments to reap rewards for a foreseeable future!
Even as the Prime Minister blame the Wall Street speculators for the Greek problem and calls for White House to join Him in fighting the evil force- the Finance Minister lends an Olive Branch to Wall Street by supporting Goldman Sachs.
Ms Merkel for her part - keeps diverting the attention to Speculators and keeps pounding the table for International Unity to fight the "Speculators"...
Yes there is need for tighter controls on how these derivatives are used to manage and manipulate global finance- it is hardly the reason for the problem faced by Greece and the rest of Europe.
While Germany benefit from the European Union and Ms Merkel would like to enjoy the benefits at the expense of the weaker economies - The Germans would obviously like to reduce there exposure and investment to continue the benefits of the EU! And obviously any distraction in way of blaming the speculators for the problem faced due to the structural inadequacies of Euro and its lopsided benefits derived by Germany and may be a couple of stronger economies- would extend the life of this flawed relationship and Euro for a bit longer and will continue to attract speculators and investors alike to enjoy managing/manipulating the sentiments to reap rewards for a foreseeable future!
Pulling it from the Greece's Mouth...!
Kudos to MS Erin Burnett and CNBC - they asked the most important question tht cn be aasked which will put to rest the cloud hanging over Goldman Sachs and Wall Street practices.
Greece's Finance Minister clearly stated that blaming Goldman for a transaction that was blamed for the current Greece Financial Problem will be stretching and that the transaction in question was done under the laws that was present at that time.
From Ms Merkel to Mr Volcker have been vocal in blaming everything from Euro problem to Greece's financial disaster on Goldman Sachs and their rule book in the derivatives market.
Whether this will remove all European problem - thats another question - however this should be a good beginning to start looking ahead for a better Goldma Sachs performance.
Greece's Finance Minister clearly stated that blaming Goldman for a transaction that was blamed for the current Greece Financial Problem will be stretching and that the transaction in question was done under the laws that was present at that time.
From Ms Merkel to Mr Volcker have been vocal in blaming everything from Euro problem to Greece's financial disaster on Goldman Sachs and their rule book in the derivatives market.
Whether this will remove all European problem - thats another question - however this should be a good beginning to start looking ahead for a better Goldma Sachs performance.
Toyota's Ghost in the machine!
Just when we thought the PR team had this under control...The Ghost s BACK!
With the latest run away Prius on the Freeway hitting the airwaves it appear it will be a while before Toyota can put this episode behind unless they come out clean and does something dramatic in how they handle the problem and address the fixes....Lets Hope for the sake of consumers and shareholders alike that Toyota will redefine the way Japanese companies address consumer concerns and may be change the Management style to become a true global enterprise and redefine Japan 2.0 for the real world!
With the latest run away Prius on the Freeway hitting the airwaves it appear it will be a while before Toyota can put this episode behind unless they come out clean and does something dramatic in how they handle the problem and address the fixes....Lets Hope for the sake of consumers and shareholders alike that Toyota will redefine the way Japanese companies address consumer concerns and may be change the Management style to become a true global enterprise and redefine Japan 2.0 for the real world!
Cisco Kid stealing An Apple Moment!
Cisco has become synonymous with Internet!
Cisco has become the defacto standard for setting standards in empowering employees!
Cisco has refined compensation practies of Technology ompanies for ever!
Cisco after having done these and more has always been a top dog in Silicon Valley for the time it has been around- the last couple of decades!!
Having lost its Mojo to the likes of Apple & Google is looking at Facebook and Twitter and the likes to push it even further down the pecking order in Silicon Valley and the mind share of the buyers mind!
From iPads to Cellphones to home appliances and consumer electronics - they use and abuse the gears of Cisco - Yet they seldom get mentioned these days!
So - Mr Chambers with his Apple moment today s redidining the Internet with the hope of regaining the mindshare of wallstreet and buyers alike!
With a sudden increase in its acquisitions in the alst couple of years - and with no competition in sight - this could be a turning moment for Cisco customers and shareholders alike!
Cisco has become the defacto standard for setting standards in empowering employees!
Cisco has refined compensation practies of Technology ompanies for ever!
Cisco after having done these and more has always been a top dog in Silicon Valley for the time it has been around- the last couple of decades!!
Having lost its Mojo to the likes of Apple & Google is looking at Facebook and Twitter and the likes to push it even further down the pecking order in Silicon Valley and the mind share of the buyers mind!
From iPads to Cellphones to home appliances and consumer electronics - they use and abuse the gears of Cisco - Yet they seldom get mentioned these days!
So - Mr Chambers with his Apple moment today s redidining the Internet with the hope of regaining the mindshare of wallstreet and buyers alike!
With a sudden increase in its acquisitions in the alst couple of years - and with no competition in sight - this could be a turning moment for Cisco customers and shareholders alike!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
The OLD Apple is showing colors AGAIN!
After a decade of innovation and execution revoving around conusmers and customers the successfull Apple is slowly showing its old self which outsmarted rivals in techological break throughs and ideas but failed to excite beyond a handful of elites!
Usability and slickness centered around Apple innovations.
Offering what customers could associate with on a day to day basis.
A Sony with elegance
A Microsoft with reliability
An Intel with Pinache
A Ferrari with affordability
Consumers and critics have almost forgotten how Apple was in its original form, the first decade- Offering what customers SHOULD USE and not what Customers Wanted!
The second coming of Mr Jobs and Apple saw a wise team centering innovation and technology around customers- breath taking ease and elegance and made them fall in love with the half bitten apple! Feeling prowd to have that White cord dangle in an otherwise sober personalities!
But looking more and more at the new products and innovations - iBook and iPad, it looks like Apple might be slowly turning and might be ready to show its old self -
With iBook - Strong armed in pushing for a HIGER prices n the eBooks a near 40% jump to consumers....could have a backlash! Is Apple forgeting waht made iTunes popular? Not the service but the pricing!
With iPad - Bulldozing on an industry so used to Adobe platforms on most of the Web developments and making blackholes popup in Apple mobile devices? Might be good for Apple Technology but not for consumers!
Apple in its Second Life has shown effectiveness in learning from customer messages and changing quickly - unlike the Newton days Apple...
Are these Old Apple Strategies here to stay?
Are consumers , beyond the White cord Danglers , willing to be bull dozed again?
Given History and Time - The answers is NO!
Hope Apple learns and listens to their customers!
Usability and slickness centered around Apple innovations.
Offering what customers could associate with on a day to day basis.
A Sony with elegance
A Microsoft with reliability
An Intel with Pinache
A Ferrari with affordability
Consumers and critics have almost forgotten how Apple was in its original form, the first decade- Offering what customers SHOULD USE and not what Customers Wanted!
The second coming of Mr Jobs and Apple saw a wise team centering innovation and technology around customers- breath taking ease and elegance and made them fall in love with the half bitten apple! Feeling prowd to have that White cord dangle in an otherwise sober personalities!
But looking more and more at the new products and innovations - iBook and iPad, it looks like Apple might be slowly turning and might be ready to show its old self -
With iBook - Strong armed in pushing for a HIGER prices n the eBooks a near 40% jump to consumers....could have a backlash! Is Apple forgeting waht made iTunes popular? Not the service but the pricing!
With iPad - Bulldozing on an industry so used to Adobe platforms on most of the Web developments and making blackholes popup in Apple mobile devices? Might be good for Apple Technology but not for consumers!
Apple in its Second Life has shown effectiveness in learning from customer messages and changing quickly - unlike the Newton days Apple...
Are these Old Apple Strategies here to stay?
Are consumers , beyond the White cord Danglers , willing to be bull dozed again?
Given History and Time - The answers is NO!
Hope Apple learns and listens to their customers!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Financial Reforms and V@#k-er Rule!
Financial Reforms under the Obama Watch and may be the last major initiative by a Washington Powerhouse - Senator Dodd appears close to being inked with bipartisan support!
It seems to address all the polished and sophisticated items that we have been hearing a lot during the last two odd years-
- Transparency
- Consumer Protection Agency
- Too Big to Fail
Interestingly a newcomer to this club "the V@#k-er Rule" has been conspicuously missing - which bodes well for the Financial Institutes & Wall Street. Contrary to popular opinion , in the yin-yang of capitalism , it is the Fixed Income players who play God and play havoc to the free market , dictating what policy makers and common man alike should and should not do n not Mr Blan-kenstein and their Wall Street Buddies.
If the final version passes in its current form Goldman Sachs and the likes will benefit tremendously which will help in putting the economy back on its track.
If this passes it will also support the Obama Quickstop program even though the Whitehouse power politicians talk otherwise and appear beating up Wallstreet
It seems to address all the polished and sophisticated items that we have been hearing a lot during the last two odd years-
- Transparency
- Consumer Protection Agency
- Too Big to Fail
Interestingly a newcomer to this club "the V@#k-er Rule" has been conspicuously missing - which bodes well for the Financial Institutes & Wall Street. Contrary to popular opinion , in the yin-yang of capitalism , it is the Fixed Income players who play God and play havoc to the free market , dictating what policy makers and common man alike should and should not do n not Mr Blan-kenstein and their Wall Street Buddies.
If the final version passes in its current form Goldman Sachs and the likes will benefit tremendously which will help in putting the economy back on its track.
If this passes it will also support the Obama Quickstop program even though the Whitehouse power politicians talk otherwise and appear beating up Wallstreet
The New Washington & Playing the Market Sentiment!
From Greenspan Put to Bernanke Floor we have come to manage the market to directly & indirectly support the expectations.
Now under the Obama Administration we are seeing a new & agressive Expectation Management.
The latest Snowstorm and the Obama Quickstop Plan agressively propogated that the now effect will be pretty damaging to the unemployment report.
Well ahead of the real report the market has been set on track to expect a pretty bad number-
Good Strategy & it worked very well!
Is Obama Quickstop the New Greenspan Put or the Bernanke Put? If it is then the Market will be bouyant & we can see a nice boost in the near term till the economy cn stand on its own!
High Noon Summer Perpetual Spring / Fall New Normal ..3-5 years!
IMF & Germany
Confidence in teh numbers - PIMCO & others
Now under the Obama Administration we are seeing a new & agressive Expectation Management.
The latest Snowstorm and the Obama Quickstop Plan agressively propogated that the now effect will be pretty damaging to the unemployment report.
Well ahead of the real report the market has been set on track to expect a pretty bad number-
Good Strategy & it worked very well!
Is Obama Quickstop the New Greenspan Put or the Bernanke Put? If it is then the Market will be bouyant & we can see a nice boost in the near term till the economy cn stand on its own!
High Noon Summer Perpetual Spring / Fall New Normal ..3-5 years!
IMF & Germany
Confidence in teh numbers - PIMCO & others
Thursday, March 4, 2010
As the pandits would say....lights are on in the Citi!
A very Articulate , confident and convincing at the Hill!
Citi under Mr Pandit has been taking the beeting from reporters and analysts alike through out this Financial Whatever!
Heavy hitters in the Investment communities have started warming up to the emerging Citi and its global brand and how Mr Pandit could possibly make it a multi-bagger for the once in a life time opportunity through its common!
And today listening to Mr Pandit's testimony it is very clear the tide is changing and it is ready to emerge as a Global Banking Force once again.
Citi under Mr Pandit has been taking the beeting from reporters and analysts alike through out this Financial Whatever!
Heavy hitters in the Investment communities have started warming up to the emerging Citi and its global brand and how Mr Pandit could possibly make it a multi-bagger for the once in a life time opportunity through its common!
And today listening to Mr Pandit's testimony it is very clear the tide is changing and it is ready to emerge as a Global Banking Force once again.
Weakening Japanese Yen in cards?
The case for a Weakening Yen -
Japan becoming a less attractive destination compared to China and India
Japanese companies lagging behind in Innovation in the Internet age losing their strongholds to companies like Apple
The Toyota Recall seems to put more than a quality dent in the Automaker - it is slowly raising questions about the Japanese style of Management and customer care
Not to mention the Aging Japanese population which is forced to rely more and more for the export market
And ofcourse low rates and near zero rate financing is not just a Japan syndrome.
With Toyota not fading to the background might force not just Toyota but the Japanese government to do something more dramatic to keep customers flocking to the Japan Brand.
As one of the step Yen Will be forced to weaken significantly from its current levels.
Japan becoming a less attractive destination compared to China and India
Japanese companies lagging behind in Innovation in the Internet age losing their strongholds to companies like Apple
The Toyota Recall seems to put more than a quality dent in the Automaker - it is slowly raising questions about the Japanese style of Management and customer care
Not to mention the Aging Japanese population which is forced to rely more and more for the export market
And ofcourse low rates and near zero rate financing is not just a Japan syndrome.
With Toyota not fading to the background might force not just Toyota but the Japanese government to do something more dramatic to keep customers flocking to the Japan Brand.
As one of the step Yen Will be forced to weaken significantly from its current levels.
"Pay for Procedure!"
Healthcare mess and a stalemate in Washington!
Lobbyists arming the senators and congressman alike with ammunition to fight for their corporate loyalists!
Everyone sensitive to be frank & open on addressing the real problem - As the House speaker said
Accessiblity
Affordability &
Accountability
This needs to apply to every participant in the system includent the beneficiary-ala consumer!
What we havent adressed is the OPEN market competition which compress the pay packages & the premiums for healthcare alike.
For the first time we are hearing politicians & policimakers , who have distanced themselves in addressing the underlying root caue for the cost runup , are finally braving themselves- the catch phrase - "Pay for proedure" needs to be changed!
Now this is just the beginning and might take a whole lot mre to make healthcare affordable & accessible - not to mention accountable!
Lobbyists arming the senators and congressman alike with ammunition to fight for their corporate loyalists!
Everyone sensitive to be frank & open on addressing the real problem - As the House speaker said
Accessiblity
Affordability &
Accountability
This needs to apply to every participant in the system includent the beneficiary-ala consumer!
What we havent adressed is the OPEN market competition which compress the pay packages & the premiums for healthcare alike.
For the first time we are hearing politicians & policimakers , who have distanced themselves in addressing the underlying root caue for the cost runup , are finally braving themselves- the catch phrase - "Pay for proedure" needs to be changed!
Now this is just the beginning and might take a whole lot mre to make healthcare affordable & accessible - not to mention accountable!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Rolling Stones & the Golden Squid!
Media business and music world is still struggling with the modern version of human entertainment!
Selling painted bodysuite by Sports Illustrated to politicians womanizing by TVs and publishers alike havent really spurred much of enthusiasm in this internet enabled population...
From Unintended acceleration to late night talkshow street fights dont seem to stick longer..
From Mr summers to Ms Merkel the Golden mantra for their inadequate policies GS has been a boon with an intended acceleration toward financial reforms and market regulations - yet failing to gin much traction..
But, But not the Golden boys and their Greecy business tactics!!
Yes Mr Blank-enstein ala God - May be the Wall Street Version -and His abode Goldman Sachs seems to attract media attention and main street anger and gives incapable policy makers and politicians enough ammunition to garner followers!
We have seen New York Times go after GS with minded focus - maybe to get shareholder attention? And Fox Business News with its newly acquired asset - Mr Gasparino from CNBC doing the same to create an audience....From Wall Street Journal to Financial Times try and do some investigative journalism
Now a these we an understand..
But, But - Rolling Stones on Golden Squid and the Goldman Boys and practies....? Its like Playboy writing on Faith and Religion for intellectual masturbation! And all media giving them an airplay and wasting ink on reproduction?
May be , Just May we have reached the bottom in this Goldman Sach dog and pony show and it should start fding to the background!
Selling painted bodysuite by Sports Illustrated to politicians womanizing by TVs and publishers alike havent really spurred much of enthusiasm in this internet enabled population...
From Unintended acceleration to late night talkshow street fights dont seem to stick longer..
From Mr summers to Ms Merkel the Golden mantra for their inadequate policies GS has been a boon with an intended acceleration toward financial reforms and market regulations - yet failing to gin much traction..
But, But not the Golden boys and their Greecy business tactics!!
Yes Mr Blank-enstein ala God - May be the Wall Street Version -and His abode Goldman Sachs seems to attract media attention and main street anger and gives incapable policy makers and politicians enough ammunition to garner followers!
We have seen New York Times go after GS with minded focus - maybe to get shareholder attention? And Fox Business News with its newly acquired asset - Mr Gasparino from CNBC doing the same to create an audience....From Wall Street Journal to Financial Times try and do some investigative journalism
Now a these we an understand..
But, But - Rolling Stones on Golden Squid and the Goldman Boys and practies....? Its like Playboy writing on Faith and Religion for intellectual masturbation! And all media giving them an airplay and wasting ink on reproduction?
May be , Just May we have reached the bottom in this Goldman Sach dog and pony show and it should start fding to the background!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Pounding the British is not an Olympian task!
After milking the Germans with the Greecy practice the market movers look to London for another Golden triump!
With the British Pound losing over 25% in this crisis and the value still headed South is it safe to bet against the Brits?
With Modern Economics of Global monetray system still misunderstood by politicians and policy makers alike - it is hardly the time to bet against the English - the master mind of the monetary system that is widely practiced globally!
What Mr Soros failed to do - the rest of the gang may find it even more difficult to achieve - however it might give a temporary opportunity to benefit from the wild swing that the currency market will produce.
With the British Pound losing over 25% in this crisis and the value still headed South is it safe to bet against the Brits?
With Modern Economics of Global monetray system still misunderstood by politicians and policy makers alike - it is hardly the time to bet against the English - the master mind of the monetary system that is widely practiced globally!
What Mr Soros failed to do - the rest of the gang may find it even more difficult to achieve - however it might give a temporary opportunity to benefit from the wild swing that the currency market will produce.
Healthcare: Pay for Results & not for procedures - Mr Buffet
Indeed a loaded statement from Mr Buffet on health care practices in America.
Politicians and Practice leaders are tongue tied when it comes to medical compensation and practices are everyone is affected & close to those who provide them the care & are obviously nervous to take an objective view into the healthcare reform.
Everyone talks about healthcare cost running out of control & trying to slice the bread with the wrong end of the knife.
And Mr Buffet in a CNBC interview on healthcare reform made the most profound statement anyone has made till date - A loaded statement which if paid attention to in Washington we will have an affordable and practical healthcare solutions and open up the multi-trillion dollar industry for REAL COMPETITION like every other industry making the cost of services affordable and driven by market pressures!
Politicians and Practice leaders are tongue tied when it comes to medical compensation and practices are everyone is affected & close to those who provide them the care & are obviously nervous to take an objective view into the healthcare reform.
Everyone talks about healthcare cost running out of control & trying to slice the bread with the wrong end of the knife.
And Mr Buffet in a CNBC interview on healthcare reform made the most profound statement anyone has made till date - A loaded statement which if paid attention to in Washington we will have an affordable and practical healthcare solutions and open up the multi-trillion dollar industry for REAL COMPETITION like every other industry making the cost of services affordable and driven by market pressures!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Old Cool Aid in a New Bottle!
How long does it take to rebrand , repackage and sell the same stuff after getting slapped and bailed out?
Not Very long!
GMAC & Ditech - know for predatory lending and aggressive marketing campaigns in attracting every one who fell in the Sub prime category!
After getting a very sweet deal - which not many realised - which is being currently questioned and investigated with little or no traction - is back at it!
Same aggressive tactic & predatory campaigns!
Under a new name!
Ally!
Yes Ally Bank! What the hey!
Who is sleeping on the wheels when so much has been talked about learning from the past!
Well now that Ally Bank is part owned by the Tax payers like every other major Banks , Autos & AIG ....one wonders if we will ever learn from the mistakes if the Government keeps intervening to protect failures and prevent the market from self correcting!
Not Very long!
GMAC & Ditech - know for predatory lending and aggressive marketing campaigns in attracting every one who fell in the Sub prime category!
After getting a very sweet deal - which not many realised - which is being currently questioned and investigated with little or no traction - is back at it!
Same aggressive tactic & predatory campaigns!
Under a new name!
Ally!
Yes Ally Bank! What the hey!
Who is sleeping on the wheels when so much has been talked about learning from the past!
Well now that Ally Bank is part owned by the Tax payers like every other major Banks , Autos & AIG ....one wonders if we will ever learn from the mistakes if the Government keeps intervening to protect failures and prevent the market from self correcting!
Drive to Washington wasn't bumpy for Mr Toyoda!
A long journey!
And a long ordeal in Washington!
Absolutely Positively Mr Toyoda has the right Answer for all the questions and humiliation:
I am Sorry- Mr America & Mr Consumer! We will do better!
Several Hours several questions - Same Sincere and sorry face!
Good Work Mr Toyoda!
The press has turned soft & has started showing the good side!
And a long ordeal in Washington!
Absolutely Positively Mr Toyoda has the right Answer for all the questions and humiliation:
I am Sorry- Mr America & Mr Consumer! We will do better!
Several Hours several questions - Same Sincere and sorry face!
Good Work Mr Toyoda!
The press has turned soft & has started showing the good side!
New York Times and Goldman: Who will win?
Another day and another missile and another attack!
From bail-outs to derivatives and everthing in-between!
From V#$kerrule to Propreitary trading
From Executive bonuses to H1N1 flu shots
From lobbyists to conspiracy theories
From Sheila Bair to Big Ben
From AIG to Greece......
From every angle New York Times has a story and investigative reporting- weaving in and out on Goldman Sachs and how it and it only played the most damaging role in this Financial Whatever we are experiencing!
Is NYTimes trying to get recognition in the gobal Financial market- like WSJ and FT? Looking at the approach and the flimsy nature of the investigation it certainly looks like a Financial Tabloid trying to smear at Goldman Sach and its dominance of the Wall Street activities and their influence in Washington!
From bail-outs to derivatives and everthing in-between!
From V#$kerrule to Propreitary trading
From Executive bonuses to H1N1 flu shots
From lobbyists to conspiracy theories
From Sheila Bair to Big Ben
From AIG to Greece......
From every angle New York Times has a story and investigative reporting- weaving in and out on Goldman Sachs and how it and it only played the most damaging role in this Financial Whatever we are experiencing!
Is NYTimes trying to get recognition in the gobal Financial market- like WSJ and FT? Looking at the approach and the flimsy nature of the investigation it certainly looks like a Financial Tabloid trying to smear at Goldman Sach and its dominance of the Wall Street activities and their influence in Washington!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Does Greenspan support his co-workers at PIMCO?
Mr Greenspan correctly pointed to the recession before anyone did and got bad mouthed for the premature predictions & eventually got the blame for it as well.
In a recent comment about the American economy his catch phrase is on exuberance but "extremely uneven" and an extended period of elevated unemployment with not so visible growth in areas of high impact business areas - like housing and autos and small businesses-
sounds like PIMCO's preaching of "NEW NORM"....if this is an independent assessment by Mr Greenspan and not influenced by his affiliation to Germany's PIMCO then it might be something we should pay attention to!
In a recent comment about the American economy his catch phrase is on exuberance but "extremely uneven" and an extended period of elevated unemployment with not so visible growth in areas of high impact business areas - like housing and autos and small businesses-
sounds like PIMCO's preaching of "NEW NORM"....if this is an independent assessment by Mr Greenspan and not influenced by his affiliation to Germany's PIMCO then it might be something we should pay attention to!
Privacy PLEASE...Finally Italians spank Google!
Nude beach in a private corner...
Pay to keep your name off the telephone books...
Fence to keep your neighbor off your property...
dress to shield your skins....
speak softly to keep a secret....
And on and on and on....From time immemorial mankind has always paid a premium for privacy & keeping it close and tight until some one found a way to make money out of exposing them..GOOGLE!
Is it fair for a company to expose what is others and belongs to others and profit out of it? How is this diferent from Papparazi and the TMZs of he world?
Mapping your private quarters and detailing information that are kept aside precisely and instantaneously...locally and globally all at a price for teh affected and for a profit to the Google shareholders!
Now someone wised up and is ready to slap the hands of Google for not getting the consent of thosse affected before broadcasting them not to mention profitting from it!
Whose responsibility is it to get the PROPER consent before capturing, storing & broadcasting them?
Is it the person who initiates the process or the entity who stores and broadcasts them & promotes such activity?
If ditribution is an intrical part of the activity - then the peddler have a responsiblity to share the bame!
What the Italian court did may not be enough to stop the Google juggernaught...however sooner or later a modified version of "PRIVACY LAW" will take over and people will have the opportunity to enjoy their PRIVACY once again!
Pay to keep your name off the telephone books...
Fence to keep your neighbor off your property...
dress to shield your skins....
speak softly to keep a secret....
And on and on and on....From time immemorial mankind has always paid a premium for privacy & keeping it close and tight until some one found a way to make money out of exposing them..GOOGLE!
Is it fair for a company to expose what is others and belongs to others and profit out of it? How is this diferent from Papparazi and the TMZs of he world?
Mapping your private quarters and detailing information that are kept aside precisely and instantaneously...locally and globally all at a price for teh affected and for a profit to the Google shareholders!
Now someone wised up and is ready to slap the hands of Google for not getting the consent of thosse affected before broadcasting them not to mention profitting from it!
Whose responsibility is it to get the PROPER consent before capturing, storing & broadcasting them?
Is it the person who initiates the process or the entity who stores and broadcasts them & promotes such activity?
If ditribution is an intrical part of the activity - then the peddler have a responsiblity to share the bame!
What the Italian court did may not be enough to stop the Google juggernaught...however sooner or later a modified version of "PRIVACY LAW" will take over and people will have the opportunity to enjoy their PRIVACY once again!
PIMCO's New Normal...
What is NEW NORMAL according to Mr El Erian of Germany's PIMCO:
> Greater Government Regulation
> Lower Consumption
> Slower Growth
> shrinking global role for US economy
And Resulting in
Lower Than Average Returns!
> Greater Government Regulation
> Lower Consumption
> Slower Growth
> shrinking global role for US economy
And Resulting in
Lower Than Average Returns!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Toyota & the Art of Japanese Management!
When Akio Morita ruled the Management World - Japan was peaking! From Harvard to Silicon Valley the rage was Japanese style Management!
From Quality circles to pull systems - the world was amazed! Every market that the Japanese entered the eventually dominated the market - from consumer electronics to industrial automation!
That is yester years! Or yester Decades ago!
After 20 years of struggle from its peak- is Toyota incident an aberration or just the kind of symptoms that leads to systemic collapse of a developed economy?
The largest market for Toyota till date - the North American consumers - have kept Toyota and Lexus in a pedestal and they have maintained an impeccable image.
The last three months of events are exposing a style of Management that Japan is used to when it comes to markets outside Japan!
Mr Lentz - a poor choice for Toyota t send to the fire storm - doing more damage than an average Joe blow could have done in a similar set up!
No Preparation!
No recollection of case data!
Fumbling on details and communications!
An air of arrogance - a typical used car sales attitude till he was put in his place!
An about turn to accommodate and apologise - and surrender - an attempt at crying - yes its an emotional narration - but hardly believable!
This certainly exposes the Japanese style of management that the World hasn't been exposed to - where the domestic market and operations are nothing but a bunch of puppets who cannot think and act independently!
Sony and Nissan - have been handed over to non Japanese executives to turn around their businesses as they have failed to survive under Akio Morita's Art of Management!
If Toyota does not change its style of Management it will be very difficult to handle their dominance with manufacturing alone!
Mr Toyoda - Good luck with your Washington encounter! Hope your legacy and openness will leave a believable impressions - which Mr Lentz failed to accomplish!
From Quality circles to pull systems - the world was amazed! Every market that the Japanese entered the eventually dominated the market - from consumer electronics to industrial automation!
That is yester years! Or yester Decades ago!
After 20 years of struggle from its peak- is Toyota incident an aberration or just the kind of symptoms that leads to systemic collapse of a developed economy?
The largest market for Toyota till date - the North American consumers - have kept Toyota and Lexus in a pedestal and they have maintained an impeccable image.
The last three months of events are exposing a style of Management that Japan is used to when it comes to markets outside Japan!
Mr Lentz - a poor choice for Toyota t send to the fire storm - doing more damage than an average Joe blow could have done in a similar set up!
No Preparation!
No recollection of case data!
Fumbling on details and communications!
An air of arrogance - a typical used car sales attitude till he was put in his place!
An about turn to accommodate and apologise - and surrender - an attempt at crying - yes its an emotional narration - but hardly believable!
This certainly exposes the Japanese style of management that the World hasn't been exposed to - where the domestic market and operations are nothing but a bunch of puppets who cannot think and act independently!
Sony and Nissan - have been handed over to non Japanese executives to turn around their businesses as they have failed to survive under Akio Morita's Art of Management!
If Toyota does not change its style of Management it will be very difficult to handle their dominance with manufacturing alone!
Mr Toyoda - Good luck with your Washington encounter! Hope your legacy and openness will leave a believable impressions - which Mr Lentz failed to accomplish!
Italy latest to gamble in derivatives..!
Italy has made over $10 Billion investing and speculating in the swaps market over the last decade!
Bravo for disclosing their winning streak on the heals of the Olympian failure by the Greeks and getting spanked for their Roman indulgences!
In the name of hedging and spreading risks more and more economies are following the path of least resistance to making money without disrupting their political affiliations and maintaining their populist stand!
This could pose a serious advantage to the Fixed Income players as they find more and more sophisticated mechanism to manipulate and manage smaller economies to favor their investment objectives. Euro in its current form poses a major structural danger that could help people with access to sophisticated financial instruments to disrupt smooth flow of capital while playing God and spanking any player defying their rule book!
Bravo for disclosing their winning streak on the heals of the Olympian failure by the Greeks and getting spanked for their Roman indulgences!
In the name of hedging and spreading risks more and more economies are following the path of least resistance to making money without disrupting their political affiliations and maintaining their populist stand!
This could pose a serious advantage to the Fixed Income players as they find more and more sophisticated mechanism to manipulate and manage smaller economies to favor their investment objectives. Euro in its current form poses a major structural danger that could help people with access to sophisticated financial instruments to disrupt smooth flow of capital while playing God and spanking any player defying their rule book!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Toyota - A good buy in a bumpy road!
Mr Toyoda goes to Washington while Consumers drive to Honda and Ford dealers!
While the Dealers look to Paris for her winning tricks- it sure looks like hell for Toyota motors and its crashing stock!
Saving $100 Million dollars in negotiating with NHTSA is hardly an ethical flaw to break the company given billions and billions are spent in Washington by Lobbyists to manage and swing the policy makers.
Auto market is still licking its wound form the Financial Whatever..and the consumers are ready for the upgrade cycle. With China and India grows at blistering speed the current nightmare might pass as another dream in achieving Toyota's global dream.
Toyota share is a good buy and if it crashes/falls during the Washington reddericks on Toyota - it will be great opportunity to load up on Toyota for long term investors.
While the Dealers look to Paris for her winning tricks- it sure looks like hell for Toyota motors and its crashing stock!
Saving $100 Million dollars in negotiating with NHTSA is hardly an ethical flaw to break the company given billions and billions are spent in Washington by Lobbyists to manage and swing the policy makers.
Auto market is still licking its wound form the Financial Whatever..and the consumers are ready for the upgrade cycle. With China and India grows at blistering speed the current nightmare might pass as another dream in achieving Toyota's global dream.
Toyota share is a good buy and if it crashes/falls during the Washington reddericks on Toyota - it will be great opportunity to load up on Toyota for long term investors.
Is Euro a Risky proposition?
Greece is on everyone's mind and now that everyone knows where Greece is...its a logical extension for people like Soros to question the existence of Euro.
The unwinding of Euro and going back to national currency system will be a major nightmare given its role in the global capital market.
Growing pains and structural inadequcies might be adjusted to accomodate the inequalities in still developing and not so sophisticated EU countries while the fixed income players harvest and feat on the swiss holed currency!
Yet - the failure or fracture f the currency is hardly a case for the demise of Euro!
Euro II will emerge better and stronger and will pose a major threat to Dollar a few exits down the Currency Bahn!
The unwinding of Euro and going back to national currency system will be a major nightmare given its role in the global capital market.
Growing pains and structural inadequcies might be adjusted to accomodate the inequalities in still developing and not so sophisticated EU countries while the fixed income players harvest and feat on the swiss holed currency!
Yet - the failure or fracture f the currency is hardly a case for the demise of Euro!
Euro II will emerge better and stronger and will pose a major threat to Dollar a few exits down the Currency Bahn!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Washington Invites Mr Toyoda!
Finally a formal invite to Mr Toyoda!
Should Mr Toyoda drive to Washington?
Should Mr Toyoda drive to Washington?
Ms Merkel spanks Goldman for Greecy Behaviour!
And ofcourse supports EURO's solidarity and claims EURO's help in managing the Financial Whatever!
Germany benefiting the most from Euro and the Maastricht Treaty in its various evolution cycle- till date.
The Weaker economies and countries are strapped and stripped of their economic prosperity as Germany and to a lesser extent France enjoying prosperity during the last decade. Heading into its teen can Euro be s=distracted by the fixed income players who have remarkable found a loop hole to benefit from the Germany backed EU policies?
As Ms Merkel voices more and more of her iron fisted opinion about Greece has found Goldman Sachs as another scape goat to eat the cake and keep it too!
During the last few years we have seen many scandals and bribery come out of Germany from Siemens to Mercedes Benz which some slapping from US and very little from Ms Merkel's administration - and yet when it comes to slapping Goldman Sachs and Greece , which obviously benefits German interest , Ms Merkel is quick on the draw!
How long can Ms Merkel play this charade before the local communities rebel against the Big Brothers who are stealing their future?
Germany benefiting the most from Euro and the Maastricht Treaty in its various evolution cycle- till date.
The Weaker economies and countries are strapped and stripped of their economic prosperity as Germany and to a lesser extent France enjoying prosperity during the last decade. Heading into its teen can Euro be s=distracted by the fixed income players who have remarkable found a loop hole to benefit from the Germany backed EU policies?
As Ms Merkel voices more and more of her iron fisted opinion about Greece has found Goldman Sachs as another scape goat to eat the cake and keep it too!
During the last few years we have seen many scandals and bribery come out of Germany from Siemens to Mercedes Benz which some slapping from US and very little from Ms Merkel's administration - and yet when it comes to slapping Goldman Sachs and Greece , which obviously benefits German interest , Ms Merkel is quick on the draw!
How long can Ms Merkel play this charade before the local communities rebel against the Big Brothers who are stealing their future?
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
What NEXT...Mr Ellison?
America's Cup is not a dream anymore!
After spending close to a decade and may be more than a Billion Dollars Mr Ellison won the America's Cup with Style & Elegance and by more than a mile!
Oracle has been winning on its own under the able leadership of the Dual Personalities of Ms Safra and Mr Phillips...with Mr Ellison looking from above!
Now that America's Cup is in his locker will MR Ellison focus more on the Corporate World and really make Oracle the leader of the heap beating the likes of IBM and HP?
It is a tall order to scale that wall of Technology- there is no personalities to fight like Mr Gates or Mr Bertarelli from his past brawls - only vision and execution! With IBM and HP close to four times in size by revenue - it will take more than a dozen Peoplesofts and Siebels or Sun Microsystems to beat them in revenue-
However if Mr Ellison has the tenacity and the execution capability - which he has - and focuses in bringing his Thin Client with fat Oracle in the back office - he can make it happen without too much of acquisition. As his vision from over 15 years back - of thin client is slowly taking shapes under a different name - Mr Ellision can conquer the World of Technology if he can execute and deliver on his recent acquisitions.
Oracle is a steal at this price based on the Sun synergy!
After spending close to a decade and may be more than a Billion Dollars Mr Ellison won the America's Cup with Style & Elegance and by more than a mile!
Oracle has been winning on its own under the able leadership of the Dual Personalities of Ms Safra and Mr Phillips...with Mr Ellison looking from above!
Now that America's Cup is in his locker will MR Ellison focus more on the Corporate World and really make Oracle the leader of the heap beating the likes of IBM and HP?
It is a tall order to scale that wall of Technology- there is no personalities to fight like Mr Gates or Mr Bertarelli from his past brawls - only vision and execution! With IBM and HP close to four times in size by revenue - it will take more than a dozen Peoplesofts and Siebels or Sun Microsystems to beat them in revenue-
However if Mr Ellison has the tenacity and the execution capability - which he has - and focuses in bringing his Thin Client with fat Oracle in the back office - he can make it happen without too much of acquisition. As his vision from over 15 years back - of thin client is slowly taking shapes under a different name - Mr Ellision can conquer the World of Technology if he can execute and deliver on his recent acquisitions.
Oracle is a steal at this price based on the Sun synergy!
M & A is back and might help the recovery!
2010 might turn out to be a big year for M&A and might not just help Wall Street firms but will certainly aid the recovery and have a huge impact in the ailing economy!
BIG DOGS of Europe!
First it was Barclays; Now it is BNP Paribas - slowly the Phoenix is rising!
Yes after almost two years the winners are emerging and resoundingy!
The Investment bankers are licking their - well not their wounds - but their preys and loading up on profits and bonuses!
Can this trend help them fight the PIMCO's of the world and maintain their superiority and bring the economy back to life?
Ms Merkel and the likes while eating the Cake under an EURO umbrella are also attempting to keep it at the expense of the weeklings of Europe - which will aid the PIMCOs f the world and make it difficult for the Barclays of the world.
Ms Merkel might lose the War as London and NY rise from their ashes - may be with a couple of more quarters of profit!
Yes after almost two years the winners are emerging and resoundingy!
The Investment bankers are licking their - well not their wounds - but their preys and loading up on profits and bonuses!
Can this trend help them fight the PIMCO's of the world and maintain their superiority and bring the economy back to life?
Ms Merkel and the likes while eating the Cake under an EURO umbrella are also attempting to keep it at the expense of the weeklings of Europe - which will aid the PIMCOs f the world and make it difficult for the Barclays of the world.
Ms Merkel might lose the War as London and NY rise from their ashes - may be with a couple of more quarters of profit!
FOXy Moves!
Arrogant , Full of attitude & Great Reporting!
No not Mr Murdoch!
Charlie Gasparino & he has left a blazing record of his character and his ability to bring sensation to an otherwise boring Wall Street Media!
Fox Business has been shooting blank bullets since its inception and missed the Almost Depression opportunity entirely - which was a great opportunity!
Then again WSJ under its umbrella has become a partisan play - another bold bet by Newscorp! Which might help Financial Times gain market share in the US market which has been a WSJ & Barrons world for over a century!
Mr Murdoch has always been a slow started in every asset he has purchased - including FOX - which has become the most watched network after being ridiculed for years to imitate and steat the BIG THREE!
May Be , Just May Be - Mr Gasparino joining his peers - Yes Arrogant , Bold & Opinionated individuals - who have been dominating the viewership - like Mr Oriely , Mr Beck and the likes , is only the beginning and will change the FBN fortune!
No not Mr Murdoch!
Charlie Gasparino & he has left a blazing record of his character and his ability to bring sensation to an otherwise boring Wall Street Media!
Fox Business has been shooting blank bullets since its inception and missed the Almost Depression opportunity entirely - which was a great opportunity!
Then again WSJ under its umbrella has become a partisan play - another bold bet by Newscorp! Which might help Financial Times gain market share in the US market which has been a WSJ & Barrons world for over a century!
Mr Murdoch has always been a slow started in every asset he has purchased - including FOX - which has become the most watched network after being ridiculed for years to imitate and steat the BIG THREE!
May Be , Just May Be - Mr Gasparino joining his peers - Yes Arrogant , Bold & Opinionated individuals - who have been dominating the viewership - like Mr Oriely , Mr Beck and the likes , is only the beginning and will change the FBN fortune!
Friday, February 12, 2010
Greecing the Market with Chinese Legs!
Moving from Financial Whatever to a more stable economic environment is still a complicated process and might be several ones for several books for several years to come!
Even before the stage lights are off from the Greece and EURO play - here comes China and their tightening measures!
And ofcourse the market getting jitty on that!
Unlike Greece - China is a large economy and could potentially have an impact - BUT, Yes BUT like Japan and every other closed market China is also less open to gloabl corporations! Currency is a managed instrument in China! Its a very very Export economy!
A wild swing in teh market only demonstrates that we are still being shunted around the poles byt he handful managing and manipulating hte direction - May be this is what Mr El Elrian call the "New Norm" - where a manipulated and fragile financial system is very pportunisitic f you know who is the Director is for the current stage and know the script - as it gets layed over and over again!
Even before the stage lights are off from the Greece and EURO play - here comes China and their tightening measures!
And ofcourse the market getting jitty on that!
Unlike Greece - China is a large economy and could potentially have an impact - BUT, Yes BUT like Japan and every other closed market China is also less open to gloabl corporations! Currency is a managed instrument in China! Its a very very Export economy!
A wild swing in teh market only demonstrates that we are still being shunted around the poles byt he handful managing and manipulating hte direction - May be this is what Mr El Elrian call the "New Norm" - where a manipulated and fragile financial system is very pportunisitic f you know who is the Director is for the current stage and know the script - as it gets layed over and over again!
PIMCO 3 EU 0
New Norm Economy is still in play!
As we had mentioned here over and over again regarding how Germany's PIMCO and their voices from US - Mr El Erian and Mr Gross are managing and manipulating global policy makers both plitica & monetary alike - have demontrated they are still strong and know their power.
Greece and Euro is the recent example and will not be the last!
Call it co-ordinated move or opportunistic play - in a capitalistic free market there is no qualms about playing by the book and within operating and legal guidelines!
In a Darwinistic fast moving and internet enabled global capitalism the best way to participate is to observe the BIG DOGS and realign the priorities!
And it is important to identify the difference between who is right and who has the ability make them right by managing power and reach!
As we had mentioned here over and over again regarding how Germany's PIMCO and their voices from US - Mr El Erian and Mr Gross are managing and manipulating global policy makers both plitica & monetary alike - have demontrated they are still strong and know their power.
Greece and Euro is the recent example and will not be the last!
Call it co-ordinated move or opportunistic play - in a capitalistic free market there is no qualms about playing by the book and within operating and legal guidelines!
In a Darwinistic fast moving and internet enabled global capitalism the best way to participate is to observe the BIG DOGS and realign the priorities!
And it is important to identify the difference between who is right and who has the ability make them right by managing power and reach!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
On the eve of Winter Olympics..the World looks to Greece!
Is Greece too big to FAIL or the gobal economy has just gotten too weak under its underpinnings?
If EURO the seond largest Economic Block and Greece contributing less than 2% of that i shaken and i on the verge of losing its decades worth of consolidation....
If the Global Economy is looking squarely at the Brink AGAIN within a year BECAUSE of GREECE.....which is less than .5% of the gobal economy...
And Finally the whole World knows where Greece is & is certainly very touching just before the Winter Olympics!
If EURO the seond largest Economic Block and Greece contributing less than 2% of that i shaken and i on the verge of losing its decades worth of consolidation....
If the Global Economy is looking squarely at the Brink AGAIN within a year BECAUSE of GREECE.....which is less than .5% of the gobal economy...
And Finally the whole World knows where Greece is & is certainly very touching just before the Winter Olympics!
While Toyota is being spanked....silently the little one that can...!
Whats happening to Honda Motor Company?
There is not a day gone in 2010 without talking and bashing Toyota! It looks like it could have its own segment in new hour if it continues any longer!
While this is going on in main stage...it appears Honda ha been on its own script! Silently recalling thousands and thousands of cars for one thing or the other!
Is this a coincidence or a Japanese syndrome? And do we have more to come from the Rising Sun when its economy and politics is struggling to keep awake!
There is not a day gone in 2010 without talking and bashing Toyota! It looks like it could have its own segment in new hour if it continues any longer!
While this is going on in main stage...it appears Honda ha been on its own script! Silently recalling thousands and thousands of cars for one thing or the other!
Is this a coincidence or a Japanese syndrome? And do we have more to come from the Rising Sun when its economy and politics is struggling to keep awake!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Is Goldman Sachs on its mending path with the Administration?
The Pay czar proudly crows that Goldman Sachs and Mr Blankfein listened to HIM before announcing the BONUS and salary structure for GS!
First the number stunner then the endorsement from the WhiteHouse Wage Police!
May be, Just Maybe Goldman will be back and it might be a good opportunity to start loading up the common!
First the number stunner then the endorsement from the WhiteHouse Wage Police!
May be, Just Maybe Goldman will be back and it might be a good opportunity to start loading up the common!
Mr Toyoda, Bows to America ...More Importantly to its Consumers!
Slow to react & respond!
But Mr Toyoda showed why he is still serious to maintain Toyota's loyal customer!
Beefing up its lobbyists and Washington presence!
Speaks to the NHTSA chief & plans a visit to Washington! Breaking the Japanese Tradition - keeps addressing the press core in English!
As everyone know bad news never travels alone - they dig up more and more dirt - from relationship with a couple of high ranked DC individuals to isolating union shops to pull their shutters down!
Solutions are still evasive yet the customers are very patient!
Will this be contained within Toyota or become a Japan backlash?
More soothing ad campaign and sending non-unionised labor force to Washington to have a less damaging outcome from the hearings...these are all meat for the press and the are hungry!
May be , Just May be Mr Toyoda will use this as a kitchen sink opportunity and open up the cover and start fresh with the American Consumer and preserve Japan Inc.
But Mr Toyoda showed why he is still serious to maintain Toyota's loyal customer!
Beefing up its lobbyists and Washington presence!
Speaks to the NHTSA chief & plans a visit to Washington! Breaking the Japanese Tradition - keeps addressing the press core in English!
As everyone know bad news never travels alone - they dig up more and more dirt - from relationship with a couple of high ranked DC individuals to isolating union shops to pull their shutters down!
Solutions are still evasive yet the customers are very patient!
Will this be contained within Toyota or become a Japan backlash?
More soothing ad campaign and sending non-unionised labor force to Washington to have a less damaging outcome from the hearings...these are all meat for the press and the are hungry!
May be , Just May be Mr Toyoda will use this as a kitchen sink opportunity and open up the cover and start fresh with the American Consumer and preserve Japan Inc.
J D Powers & Consumer Reports - sleeping on wheels?
The world is watching Toyota mishandle one of the largest recalls by an Auto company in recent memories-
while the Toyota management and their dealer network has been deaf years to the consumer complaints for over a decade - where was the King makers of J D Powers and Consumer Reports?
Is it time for them to be relevant for a change?
Not to adjust their ratings after the disaster an try to be a bit more to the ground hearing what the real complaints are from the consumers?
May be , Just May be this experience will make the necessary changes to bring J D Powers and Consumer Reports more realistic and accurate assessment of the products.
while the Toyota management and their dealer network has been deaf years to the consumer complaints for over a decade - where was the King makers of J D Powers and Consumer Reports?
Is it time for them to be relevant for a change?
Not to adjust their ratings after the disaster an try to be a bit more to the ground hearing what the real complaints are from the consumers?
May be , Just May be this experience will make the necessary changes to bring J D Powers and Consumer Reports more realistic and accurate assessment of the products.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Can Toyota rattle JAPAN Inc?
Is it 1980s all over again?
Is the beginning nightmare back again for Japan Inc?
Thank you to Wal-Mart Japan was a household name offering low quality and low cost products which enabled Japan to seed the foundation to become a Industrial superpower which has become synonymous for Quality and reliability.
Until Now!
We have mentioned for over a couple of years in this blog about how American cars and products are much superior to Japanese products - dollar for dollar.
Now Toyota facing with once in a lifetime crisis is reluctant to respond fast - like a deer in the cross hair of a headlight!
Not moving decisively and quickly will not just affect the fortunes of Mr Toyoda but will have a disruptive effect on Japan Inc!
Is the beginning nightmare back again for Japan Inc?
Thank you to Wal-Mart Japan was a household name offering low quality and low cost products which enabled Japan to seed the foundation to become a Industrial superpower which has become synonymous for Quality and reliability.
Until Now!
We have mentioned for over a couple of years in this blog about how American cars and products are much superior to Japanese products - dollar for dollar.
Now Toyota facing with once in a lifetime crisis is reluctant to respond fast - like a deer in the cross hair of a headlight!
Not moving decisively and quickly will not just affect the fortunes of Mr Toyoda but will have a disruptive effect on Japan Inc!
Germany's PIMCO at it AGAIN!!
While everyne is bashing Goldman Sachs and WallStreet for the recent turmoil and promoting a conspiracy theory to funnel money to GS- the real force bahind the blackmail and a larger beneficiary of Government failure PIMCO is at it AGAIN.
A couple of months back when Mr Summers and his buddies from Washington started downplaying and also discrediting Germany's PIMCO and their opportunisitic Trio of Mr Gross , Mr El Erian and Mr McCully - they were quick to put a campaign- this time the same tactic but different approach.
They started with dumping US assets and moved enmass to German assets and obfourse like last time around are blanketting the media folks with FUD about weaker economies outside US - in effect supporting their German assets ....well well it certainly is working - both in gaining value to German assets which is reflected in the pread between German rates and other weaklings - some of them as high as 300 basis points.
PIIGS and now they have started pushing the haystack that belongs to the Mighty Queen as well.
The war against Wall Street and Goldman is misguided as the real force which is getting away with maintaining volatility and making it more easy for them to make money - the fixed income players - are getting what they wanted - A little fear and respect!
A couple of months back when Mr Summers and his buddies from Washington started downplaying and also discrediting Germany's PIMCO and their opportunisitic Trio of Mr Gross , Mr El Erian and Mr McCully - they were quick to put a campaign- this time the same tactic but different approach.
They started with dumping US assets and moved enmass to German assets and obfourse like last time around are blanketting the media folks with FUD about weaker economies outside US - in effect supporting their German assets ....well well it certainly is working - both in gaining value to German assets which is reflected in the pread between German rates and other weaklings - some of them as high as 300 basis points.
PIIGS and now they have started pushing the haystack that belongs to the Mighty Queen as well.
The war against Wall Street and Goldman is misguided as the real force which is getting away with maintaining volatility and making it more easy for them to make money - the fixed income players - are getting what they wanted - A little fear and respect!
Friday, February 5, 2010
9 Million is no laughing matter...BUT
The cat is finally out!
Possibly the most hated man in the whole Financia Whatever we just experienced!
The most profitable entity and the man responsible for the most efficient business has been hiding for the last couple of months after decaring one of the most profitable years in its history!
Call it conspiracy or ability to manage/influence decision- thats what Management does and thats what they get paid. If you can get things done without having to pay for it- thats even better.
Pfizer jsut spent over $25 Million dollars in lobbying - I am sure it had nothing to do with Healthcare reform which is in the processes of getting watered down....that too in a regime which got elected on zero tolerance on lobbying platform!!
And now back to the most hated CEO - Mr Blankfein of Goldman Sachs - taking home 9 Million in stocks as bonus after tremendous srutiny from the press and politicians alike. Here is a company which was forced to take TARP and bas blamed for taking insurance money for what they were legally owed...still getting shafted because he worked for the most hated and envied form in the country!
Even Jamie Dimon of JP Morgan too much more than that whose numbers were much lower than GS...may be GS waited to see how much JPM gave Mr Dimon and made sure that Mr B got less than that.
Will this remove the cloud over GS - I guess if there was no reason to hate them in the first place and the press and government hated them anyway - I guess one doesn't need anything more to keep hating them!
Still GS did the right thing by playing it low key and trying to accomodate the anger of the people!
Possibly the most hated man in the whole Financia Whatever we just experienced!
The most profitable entity and the man responsible for the most efficient business has been hiding for the last couple of months after decaring one of the most profitable years in its history!
Call it conspiracy or ability to manage/influence decision- thats what Management does and thats what they get paid. If you can get things done without having to pay for it- thats even better.
Pfizer jsut spent over $25 Million dollars in lobbying - I am sure it had nothing to do with Healthcare reform which is in the processes of getting watered down....that too in a regime which got elected on zero tolerance on lobbying platform!!
And now back to the most hated CEO - Mr Blankfein of Goldman Sachs - taking home 9 Million in stocks as bonus after tremendous srutiny from the press and politicians alike. Here is a company which was forced to take TARP and bas blamed for taking insurance money for what they were legally owed...still getting shafted because he worked for the most hated and envied form in the country!
Even Jamie Dimon of JP Morgan too much more than that whose numbers were much lower than GS...may be GS waited to see how much JPM gave Mr Dimon and made sure that Mr B got less than that.
Will this remove the cloud over GS - I guess if there was no reason to hate them in the first place and the press and government hated them anyway - I guess one doesn't need anything more to keep hating them!
Still GS did the right thing by playing it low key and trying to accomodate the anger of the people!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
John Chambers and Cisco: A market Jynx??
Excellent quarter and blowout numbers anywhich way you dice it!
Mr Chambers in several interview was very optimistic and projected not just for the next couple of quarters - but for the next several years CISCO growing mid to high teens! Thats something Mr Chambers hasn't uttered in a while!
To be precise - the last time Mr Chambers was this "Optimistically optimistic" as opposed to his famous caustiouslly optimistic was over a decade ago during the Tech Bubbl when Cisco was growing 30-50%. It took a decade for Mr Chambers to regain the confidence...!
Give the headwind the economy is facing - globally with so much of political uncertainity both in US and Europe one can only hope that Mr Chambers hasn't jynxed the market!
Mr Chambers in several interview was very optimistic and projected not just for the next couple of quarters - but for the next several years CISCO growing mid to high teens! Thats something Mr Chambers hasn't uttered in a while!
To be precise - the last time Mr Chambers was this "Optimistically optimistic" as opposed to his famous caustiouslly optimistic was over a decade ago during the Tech Bubbl when Cisco was growing 30-50%. It took a decade for Mr Chambers to regain the confidence...!
Give the headwind the economy is facing - globally with so much of political uncertainity both in US and Europe one can only hope that Mr Chambers hasn't jynxed the market!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
US to Americans: Stop Driving Toyota!
Toyota's problem just became a bit more complicated!
US Transportation Secretary issued a strong unprecedented cry to Americans and Toyota- Stop Driving Toyota cars untill fixed! That's over 8 million of them!
This comes at a time when Americn Tax payers own a majority in GM and have a vested interest in American Automobile industry!
This is the strongest the Obama Administration has taken to show how serious it is in defending its interest- be it foreign trade or its consumers & voters.
With China in the cross-wires of Obama as well this might be a very delicate perio for global economy & relationships.
Is this the beginning of a new era in Global economy or just an abberation?
Eitherway it bodes well for American Consumer and Detroit!
US Transportation Secretary issued a strong unprecedented cry to Americans and Toyota- Stop Driving Toyota cars untill fixed! That's over 8 million of them!
This comes at a time when Americn Tax payers own a majority in GM and have a vested interest in American Automobile industry!
This is the strongest the Obama Administration has taken to show how serious it is in defending its interest- be it foreign trade or its consumers & voters.
With China in the cross-wires of Obama as well this might be a very delicate perio for global economy & relationships.
Is this the beginning of a new era in Global economy or just an abberation?
Eitherway it bodes well for American Consumer and Detroit!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Hewlett Packard - the silent Technology Leader!
The silent Technology leader Hewlett Packard has been at the top of the Technology heap under Mr Mark Hurd without making a splash or noise.
IBM in the last three years has done a wonderful job of moving over 90,000 jobs to India and expanding huge in China - translating that into a phenomenal earnings growth story - all keeping it under the es an scrutiny f their customers and media. During that phase of earnings surge due to low cost labor - the top line has been slow to come.
On the other hand HPQ has been growing its top line both organically and through carefully executed acquisitions. The recent acquisition of EDS bodes well for HPQ's top and bottom line growth. So far both EDS and HPQ has not indulged like IBM to capitalise the ow cost labor markets of India and China.
Now HPQ ha other plans- in addition to traditional off-shore activities - HPQ is trying something new- Moving its Global Logistics and Supply Chain activities to India. In the next 2-3 years the center in Chennai is slated to grow from under 50 people to over 6000!
It is a huge risk thatHPQ is taking by moving the supply chain and logistics group away from corporate America - however this could show a huge boost to the bottom line.
As HPQ starts to capitalise its EDS customers with its ow cost initiatives from India like IBM - that will also add a neat little number to its bottom line.
If we have to just learn from how Wall Street responded to IBM when its off-shore initiative translated into earnings - I am sure HPQ is headed for a substantial increase in its value - given where it is compared to IBM's valuation.
HPQ's 3Com move with Mercury Interactive and EDS bodes well for increased customer penetration and should start showing in its top line starting soon.
IBM in the last three years has done a wonderful job of moving over 90,000 jobs to India and expanding huge in China - translating that into a phenomenal earnings growth story - all keeping it under the es an scrutiny f their customers and media. During that phase of earnings surge due to low cost labor - the top line has been slow to come.
On the other hand HPQ has been growing its top line both organically and through carefully executed acquisitions. The recent acquisition of EDS bodes well for HPQ's top and bottom line growth. So far both EDS and HPQ has not indulged like IBM to capitalise the ow cost labor markets of India and China.
Now HPQ ha other plans- in addition to traditional off-shore activities - HPQ is trying something new- Moving its Global Logistics and Supply Chain activities to India. In the next 2-3 years the center in Chennai is slated to grow from under 50 people to over 6000!
It is a huge risk thatHPQ is taking by moving the supply chain and logistics group away from corporate America - however this could show a huge boost to the bottom line.
As HPQ starts to capitalise its EDS customers with its ow cost initiatives from India like IBM - that will also add a neat little number to its bottom line.
If we have to just learn from how Wall Street responded to IBM when its off-shore initiative translated into earnings - I am sure HPQ is headed for a substantial increase in its value - given where it is compared to IBM's valuation.
HPQ's 3Com move with Mercury Interactive and EDS bodes well for increased customer penetration and should start showing in its top line starting soon.
Toyota misunderstands Pedal to the Metal!
Over several years of fatal accidents and complaints, Toyota finally admits the problem and tries to address what is mushrooming to be a much larger problem that is systemic and intentional in its nature to ignore the safety of the consumers.
Recent revelations from Transportation safety department reveals that Toyota reluctantly agreed to the recent recall after representatives were sent to Japan to explain the legal obligations of Toyota.
Even the current fix looks like a hogwash that might still leave the real problem unaddressed as reports from National Safety Board and documents that is surfacing from various litigations against Toyota.
Mr Toyoda , the chief Executive is reluctant and evasive in addressing the problem.
Is this the beginning of a new era where American consumers will finally understand the value of GM and Ford and the value they stand for? January's sales number from Ford and GM sure do indicate a renewed enthusiasm towards the American built quality cars!
Recent revelations from Transportation safety department reveals that Toyota reluctantly agreed to the recent recall after representatives were sent to Japan to explain the legal obligations of Toyota.
Even the current fix looks like a hogwash that might still leave the real problem unaddressed as reports from National Safety Board and documents that is surfacing from various litigations against Toyota.
Mr Toyoda , the chief Executive is reluctant and evasive in addressing the problem.
Is this the beginning of a new era where American consumers will finally understand the value of GM and Ford and the value they stand for? January's sales number from Ford and GM sure do indicate a renewed enthusiasm towards the American built quality cars!
From Beijing to Bangalore....!
While Healthcare is hiding or hybernating the Administration is on its way to promoting the other agenda- Export , Education & Renewable Energy!
It is evident from the speeches and interviews that are coming from the WhiteHouse and Mr Obama's close circle!
back on his usual Town Hall meetings it is more focused and bold!
In several meetings in the past several week - Mr Obama talks about competing with China , Germany , India & the likes when talking about the agenda!
While putting domestic agenda on a war path to most traditional beliefs and practices - the Administration is not minsing words when it comes to going head to head against China and Europe and low cost economies like India and the likes.
Seems to be working so far - with opposition taking a hesitant approach and letting almost every initiative pass through! With or without Nbr 60!
It is evident from the speeches and interviews that are coming from the WhiteHouse and Mr Obama's close circle!
back on his usual Town Hall meetings it is more focused and bold!
In several meetings in the past several week - Mr Obama talks about competing with China , Germany , India & the likes when talking about the agenda!
While putting domestic agenda on a war path to most traditional beliefs and practices - the Administration is not minsing words when it comes to going head to head against China and Europe and low cost economies like India and the likes.
Seems to be working so far - with opposition taking a hesitant approach and letting almost every initiative pass through! With or without Nbr 60!
V@#k-er Rule....headed in the right direction or misguided?
Is this a Texan style shootout from an Old era posterboy for pre-internet economy or a honest attempt to address a future financial event?
It appears like a misguided attempt at trying to solve a problem too complex to comprehend even for the intellectuals like the Bens & Volcker's of the world!
It might turn out to be another V#@k-ing effort by the Administration showing their anger at the wrong people - as the Investment Bankers would say!
If the V@#k-er rule is aimed at solving the problem of market meltdowns - we certainly are looking at the wrong side of the problem and refusing to see the complexity of global market and the internet enabled distributed micro powers of the world which can distrupt the fragile capital market with very little effort.
With so much money at stake it might have a tough time to pass in Washinton - even if does it will fail to address even the basics of basics in trying to address the capital market's underlying problems.
It appears like a misguided attempt at trying to solve a problem too complex to comprehend even for the intellectuals like the Bens & Volcker's of the world!
It might turn out to be another V#@k-ing effort by the Administration showing their anger at the wrong people - as the Investment Bankers would say!
If the V@#k-er rule is aimed at solving the problem of market meltdowns - we certainly are looking at the wrong side of the problem and refusing to see the complexity of global market and the internet enabled distributed micro powers of the world which can distrupt the fragile capital market with very little effort.
With so much money at stake it might have a tough time to pass in Washinton - even if does it will fail to address even the basics of basics in trying to address the capital market's underlying problems.
NASA: No Moon For you - 10 Years!
National Pride & Go where no man has gone before- well not quite!
Focusing National research in areas that will have immediate impact for American business and people will make absolute sense in these economic times where the deficit has expanded almost perennially & the national competitiveness is waning from the corporate world. With Internet and the likes making it easier for global companies to shrink the time time lag to catch up with innovation an reach of global market - it is absolutely essential to divert every resource to areas of innovation that is of utmost importance to increase competitiveness and marketability globally!
Focusing National research in areas that will have immediate impact for American business and people will make absolute sense in these economic times where the deficit has expanded almost perennially & the national competitiveness is waning from the corporate world. With Internet and the likes making it easier for global companies to shrink the time time lag to catch up with innovation an reach of global market - it is absolutely essential to divert every resource to areas of innovation that is of utmost importance to increase competitiveness and marketability globally!
Angry Administration vs Angry People!
Looking back into history we have a lot of documented episodes of angry people and how Revolutions are born and the results. Some successful and some not.
Very rarely have we come across incidences of Angry Administration! Yes we have seen Angry Rulers who several decades and even centuries back it is documented that such Rulers take their anger mainly on foreign invasions and very limited domestic disruptions.
America showed its displeasure and mind you not 'ANGER' by Mr Obama sweeping to office giving his Administration a super majority enabling his agenda to fast track till Number 60 was lost to a naked Senator from the opposition!
Unemployment is pretty high in recent memories!
People around the country are losing their homes and savings at an alarming rate!
More and more people are seeing their retirement age being pushed away for a while!
Yet the only Angry people around are those surrounding the Obama Administration!
It is difficult to recall from recent history where a White House Administration has surrounded itself with VERY ANGRY individuals who have a very demeaning attitude and outlook when they approach the media or release a statement.
Showing a dramatic shift in Policies is one thing - but Showing ANGER??
It is not sure what an Angry Administration is capable of doing - certainly it will be ugly if an Angry Administration is forced to face an Angry People!
From Axlerod to Summers - everyone is so angry and unfriendly when they are confronted by press. It is not just on FOX- even on MSNBC which has become a pro administration channel - atleast a channel which throws stone at the surging FOX team's popularity!
Mr Obama - It might be good to have a "POLITICAL FACE" and not an angry FACE to the people. After all it does not take a majority of population to tip over only a few percentage! Don't need to send the team to Dale Carnegie atleast take the edge off before meetings and stick to policy agenda - emotionless!
Very rarely have we come across incidences of Angry Administration! Yes we have seen Angry Rulers who several decades and even centuries back it is documented that such Rulers take their anger mainly on foreign invasions and very limited domestic disruptions.
America showed its displeasure and mind you not 'ANGER' by Mr Obama sweeping to office giving his Administration a super majority enabling his agenda to fast track till Number 60 was lost to a naked Senator from the opposition!
Unemployment is pretty high in recent memories!
People around the country are losing their homes and savings at an alarming rate!
More and more people are seeing their retirement age being pushed away for a while!
Yet the only Angry people around are those surrounding the Obama Administration!
It is difficult to recall from recent history where a White House Administration has surrounded itself with VERY ANGRY individuals who have a very demeaning attitude and outlook when they approach the media or release a statement.
Showing a dramatic shift in Policies is one thing - but Showing ANGER??
It is not sure what an Angry Administration is capable of doing - certainly it will be ugly if an Angry Administration is forced to face an Angry People!
From Axlerod to Summers - everyone is so angry and unfriendly when they are confronted by press. It is not just on FOX- even on MSNBC which has become a pro administration channel - atleast a channel which throws stone at the surging FOX team's popularity!
Mr Obama - It might be good to have a "POLITICAL FACE" and not an angry FACE to the people. After all it does not take a majority of population to tip over only a few percentage! Don't need to send the team to Dale Carnegie atleast take the edge off before meetings and stick to policy agenda - emotionless!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Kudos to Mr Kudlow!
Watching Mr Kudlow respectfully drill Mr Paulson was unbeleivble!
On Economy's near Collapse...
On faltering to respond....
On change of course within months of denial?
On Dollar for Dollar backing for Goldman Sachs from AIG...!
Amazing interview and teh closest one can get a "Direct" answer..squirmng/dancing on the Goldman Issue....
Great Work Mr Kudlow- Keep up the good work!
On Economy's near Collapse...
On faltering to respond....
On change of course within months of denial?
On Dollar for Dollar backing for Goldman Sachs from AIG...!
Amazing interview and teh closest one can get a "Direct" answer..squirmng/dancing on the Goldman Issue....
Great Work Mr Kudlow- Keep up the good work!
British Screwed US!
Mr Paulson's rederick is quite unusual given how controlled and patient he was during the crisis!
Darling & the Queen's Army of soldiers - like in 1812 tried to burn down the Americans! Only this time they burried Lehman when Wall Street and American Capitalistic Economy was gettng uprooted!
During the last two years the British Media - Financial Times and The Economist have been outright critical of Americn capitalism and Washinton's excess - contributing their share to an already shaky markets. And ofcour WSJ joining the ranks of Fox only made it easier for the British Media to gain more popularity in the global market!
Now The Time of London joins their brethren- Shaking Goldman Sachs with its own boat load of rumours.
May Be , Just May Be - there is more to what the English words meant when Mr Paulson said that British Screwed US!
Darling & the Queen's Army of soldiers - like in 1812 tried to burn down the Americans! Only this time they burried Lehman when Wall Street and American Capitalistic Economy was gettng uprooted!
During the last two years the British Media - Financial Times and The Economist have been outright critical of Americn capitalism and Washinton's excess - contributing their share to an already shaky markets. And ofcour WSJ joining the ranks of Fox only made it easier for the British Media to gain more popularity in the global market!
Now The Time of London joins their brethren- Shaking Goldman Sachs with its own boat load of rumours.
May Be , Just May Be - there is more to what the English words meant when Mr Paulson said that British Screwed US!
Apple and its Dominance~
Call him Sadist - May be!
When Steve Jobs released the best positioned and marketed iPhone on live Internet he pulled the quote for Research In Motion and showed the world how their share price was crashing!
Now with iPad in an interview with Wall Street Journal's Mr Mosberg Mr Jobs predicted forcefully that Amazon's price advantage will disappear! And it Did And unlike RIM Amazon tried to bully the publisher and bowed with its tail tucked behind quickly - And saw its Share on a tailpin at one point dropping more than $14! If Amazon were to learn from Research In Motion - Mr Bezo's should take a different tatic than the one he just took and reversed!Both in trying to flex its muscle and also trying a closed and proprietary technology with little to show for inway of innovation! Yes Apple is no sait - but Mr Jobs seem to know where the consumer's heart is - atleast the elitist type!
RIM is still trying to recover since the release of iPhone and has a very bleak future given iPhone's continued popularity and Apple's bulldozing CEO!
Recent rumours about Mr Job's anger on Google is certainly interesting given where the technologies of both the companies are headed!
When Steve Jobs released the best positioned and marketed iPhone on live Internet he pulled the quote for Research In Motion and showed the world how their share price was crashing!
Now with iPad in an interview with Wall Street Journal's Mr Mosberg Mr Jobs predicted forcefully that Amazon's price advantage will disappear! And it Did And unlike RIM Amazon tried to bully the publisher and bowed with its tail tucked behind quickly - And saw its Share on a tailpin at one point dropping more than $14! If Amazon were to learn from Research In Motion - Mr Bezo's should take a different tatic than the one he just took and reversed!Both in trying to flex its muscle and also trying a closed and proprietary technology with little to show for inway of innovation! Yes Apple is no sait - but Mr Jobs seem to know where the consumer's heart is - atleast the elitist type!
RIM is still trying to recover since the release of iPhone and has a very bleak future given iPhone's continued popularity and Apple's bulldozing CEO!
Recent rumours about Mr Job's anger on Google is certainly interesting given where the technologies of both the companies are headed!
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