Japan: No Rest For The Weary

New worries spiked after another major earthquake (7.4 magnitude) shook northeast Japan on Thusday night. The world's third largest economy, right behind US and China, has been stagnant for years and is now facing arguably the worst crisis since World War II. Besides human suffering, the country now carries heavy economic burdens as the nuclear safety hazard creates a long-term regional energy shortage. The ongoing tension in the Persian Gulf and rising oil prices only make the problem worse. With the possibility of another magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami looming, according to official research, Japan's economic prospect seems rather grim and uncertain at this point.

Follow up and read more on the economic and political impact of Japan's earthquake at: http://thisbluemarble.com/showthread.php?s=036635f37dab04d7839f72114bb8b91f&t=35866

Another Tech Bubble

Are we heading for another tech bubble? The latest technology funds and Internet start-ups have been given very substantial valuations. For example, valuations for Facebook have quintupled within the last 2 years and Groupon's estimated value increased from $1.4 billion to $25 billion.

What are the implications of this?

Read more at: http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2011/03/30/are-we-heading-for-another-tech-bubble?ref=business

Looking Back: Alexi Savov

Just a recap of our event on March 24th! Alexi Savov, Assistant Professor of Finance led us through an interesting discussion on Risky Arbitrage. Although seemingly confusing (how can an arbitrage be risky?!), Professor Savov successfully guided us through the mechanics of arbitrages and their application to markets in real life.

Intro to Securitization

Tomorrow's event--securitization. If you've ever wondered what it was exactly, do come check us out. And if you already know everything about securitization, still come check us out.

Our speaker is Fouad Onbargi, a portfolio manager at Aladdin Capital. It's going to be great, so see you there!

Superstar Seniors Panel: Looking Back

This was a little while ago, but just a quick recap of our Superstar Seniors Panel, the last event before spring break. Thanks to all those who came out and asked questions, and for those who couldn't make it, here's a quick summary of what happened.

But first, presenting...our superstar seniors!

Having each secured full-time jobs at various reputable firms, the seniors gave us run-throughs of their college lives and recruiting experiences, as well as useful tips on what we should do to become future superstars like them. They didn't all have the same experiences, but bottom line is to take advantage of opportunities as well as create them for yourself, and to talk to people who've been through it before when in doubt. And to also explore outside of Stern. :)

A New Business Model for Gyms

What motivates you to workout? Whether it be the desire to be in better shape, look better, or just live an active lifestyle, inspiration to go to the gym can sometimes wane. Now think about this; what if your money was on the line? Do you think you might be more prone to keep up with your exercise schedule?



A new Boston based service called Gym-Pact is aiming to capitalize on the idea that people will go to the gym if not doing so would hurt their wallet. Gym-Pact forces its members to pay a "motivational fee" if they don't work out at least one time a week. This system has been tested in a chain of gyms in Denmark where membership is free, but missing sessions forces members to incur a full monthly charge -- so far, it seems to be successful.

The goal is for people to stay healthy and attend the gym on a regular basis -- paying if you DON'T excersize may be the answer to making this a reality for us all.

The iPhone Effect

How the iPhone Led to the Sale of T-Mobile USA

“The iPhone effect cannot be underestimated in this decision,” said Theo Kitz, an analyst at Merck Finck, a private bank in Munich. “Without being able to sell the iPhone, T-Mobile was in an unsustainable position and T-Mobile USA became a problem child.”

After Apple's iPhone became the world's leading smartphone, not being able to sell the iPhone became a major problem for T-Mobile. And now, its competitive position has further worsened because starting this February, Verizon has started to sell iPhones too. Is this really the 'iPhone effect'?

Read more at: http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2011/03/21/how-the-iphone-led-to-the-sale-of-t-mobile-usa/?smid=tw-nytimes&seid=auto