Theology Of Genesis 1-11 Essays - Phoenician Mythology,

Theology Of Genesis 1-11 (A) Introduction Pentateuch is considered to be the most important part in the Old Testament. It recorded the account of creation, the fall of man, the Law Code as well as the experience of the Ancient Israel. Among them Genesis is the first book recorded incidents happened from the creation of the world to Joseph's time. In chapter one to eleven, the origin of the world and human race are introduced and in chapter twelve onwards are the stories of the Ancestors. In this passage, we will concentrate in discussing the theology of chapter one to eleven which contained much valuable and important message for the readers who were probably Israelites in post-exilic period (which would be discussed later). In order to understand the text it is important to have some knowledge about the background of the readers as the author should compose his work under their background so that they may understand easily. Hence brief introduction of the background of Ancient Israelites and Genesis as well as its authorship would be given before we go into discussing its theology. The discussion will be within four topics ---(a) Yahweh has supreme authority and power, (b) Man---as image of God, (c) Mankind's failure and God's reaction and (d) Creation---a continuing process. (B) Background of Canaanites' Religion and Ancient Israelites Both Biblical record and archeological evidence showed that beside the Israelites, there were many other people living in Palestine. They included Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaim, Amorites, Canaanites, Girga*censored*es and Jebusites. In this passage, they are all regarded as Canaanites. Basically, the Canaanites' religions are polytheistic. They believed in many gods in many different levels including those national god, functional gods and family gods or ancestors. In the following paragraphs, a brief introduction of Canaanites' religions would be given as a background for the studies of religion of ancient Israelites. Religion in Ancient Near East Although the gods they worshipped were different, tribes in Ancient Near East did have similar although not exactly the same doctrines. As mentioned above, their religions are polytheistic. Each god in their religion had different function and statues. They had different characters and might fight among themselves. We are going to discuss the religion in Canaan and Babylon as examples. One point must be noted is that the functions of the gods in Canaan are closely related to natural phenomena . For example, Baal Hadad was known as the thunder god who was responsible for raining. Other examples included El Elyon who was known as the sun god , Yamm who was the god of the sea and Mot who was the god of death . Some of the gods were related to daily life. For instant, Anath was the goddess of war and Astarte was known as the goddess of love and fertility and also of war. Another function of Baal was related to fertility. The Canaanites always explained natural phenomena using myths. The alternation of the seasons and the death and renewal of vegetation were believed to be explained through the following myth. When Baal had his temple built, he sent a message to the god of death Mot in which he threatened Mot's life. After that there was a struggle between Mot and Baal and Baal was killed in the battle. After some times Baal's sister Anath went down to the underworld and defeated Mot. Baal was resurrected from death and returned to his power to bring about raining to the Earth. The Canaanites believed that the death and resurrection of Baal happened every year. The defeat of Baal indicated the death of vegetation due to winter frosts or summer drought. The resurrection of Baal revealed the vegetation grew because of annual or seasonal flooding. In this myth, one could easily observe that other that a thunder god, Baal was also a god of fertility. In the sight of the people in Ancient Near East, men were just the slaves of gods. For instance, in Babylon, people believed that mankind was created only because of the laziness of gods . The gods created men so that they could take over their work and serve them. The gods needed the sacrifice of men. However, due to the

Strategic Marketing Plan for Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Strategic Marketing Plan for Marina Bay Sands Hotel Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Strategic Marketing Plan for Marina Bay Sands Hotel specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Executive Summary This report analyses and presents the â€Å"Strategic Marketing Plan† for â€Å"Marina Bay Sands† Hotel. This is a five-star inn located in Singapore, which has excellent leisure facilities, fashionable architecture, and offers first-rate MICE services to clients. The report highlights the overall company history in terms of hotel description, its location, services offered, its clients, owners, and basic formation. The company’s market share and revenue is analyzed, with the significant effect of global economic crunch noted. This has affected the market capitalization over time from 2007 value of $49 billion; $140.00 per share to nearly $3 billion in 2008. There is a brief description of organizational structure and working systems within Marina, this include s the statement of the mission of the organization. Concurrently, PESTLE analysis describes the exterior influences on the industry. An analysis of each factor is evident thus demonstrating the current position of the organization. Market analysis shows that Marina enjoys a strategic location in Singapore, South East Asia with a large customer base. Competition is not as stiff as only one rival, GMB exist in the region. There is an analysis of the four P’s in relation to the business. Noticeably, a SWOT analysis indicates that the organization has more potency and opportunities than the limitations and threats. An outline of recommendations for future methodologies and approaches to marketing is evident in the final part of the report on the firm. Introduction Strategic Marketing Plan This is a vital concept in all business organizations as it forms the root for successful service launch and market performance. Macdonald (2008, p 25) argues that marketing planning helps busin esses to scrutinize and direct the range of interior and peripheral influences on its competency to accomplish lucrative sales, and goals.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More According to him, planning of the marketing undertakings with inclusion of all the business activities is necessary for potential growth and service to customers. This novel approach enables corporate to gain profit, which is the universal yardstick for gauging efficiency while also satisfying customer desires. Marketing strategies in any business outline become the working targets in the marketing unit (Macdonald 2008, p 26). Williams Leech (2004, P 64) indicates that marketing plan is a representation of outcome of strategy development, setting objectives, and shaping the P’s. That though there may be variances in the structure, the plan mostly consists of the management summary, market situation, â€Å"SWOT and PESTLE† analysis, and marketing objectives. With globalization, the increased interests in hospitality sector require organizations that have sound marketing plans if they are to realize profitability and provide adequate services to the beneficiaries. General Company Background Hotel Description This is Asias fabulous trade and holiday destination, has about 2,500 accommodation and suites, â€Å"state-of-the-art† caucus and exposition amenities, theaters, first-rate casino, leisure and top shopping or dining within Singapore. It is a unification of three deluxe hotels coupled by gorgeous sky patio and Sands SkyPark. Established by the famous gaming corporation, â€Å"Las Vegas Sands,† Marina provides console and bliss for all clients. It offers excellent gaming, noble-concept bars; trendy clubs and delicious meals. In a featured article, Ballinger (2010) observes that it also embodies of three high rise storey commissioned in 2010, wi th 1-hectare crown Sky Park eliciting 360-degree appearance to Nation’s skyline and showing marvelously sculptured precincts, cafeterias and a swimming puddle. The Market Share and Revenue There are estimations that over 90% of the greater â€Å"Las Vegas Sands† is under the ownership of inside members, the current CEO with an approximate of 65%. According to Cohen (2010), MBS has recorded over double in net revenue, say US$485.9 M up from US$216.4 M in subsequent quarter with only 65 days functionality upon its April pliable commissioning.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Strategic Marketing Plan for Marina Bay Sands Hotel specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Income prior to interest, levy, depreciation, and paying off rose up to US$241.6M whereas EBITDA margin escalating to 49.7% from 43.7%. Global fiscal slump has currently affected the marketplace capitalization over time from 2007 value of $49 billion ; $140.00 per share to nearly $3 billion in 2008. It has over time experienced financial crunches, with Sheldon persistently intervening to correct the anomalies. There has however never been a presentable long-term fiscal performance analysis since the hotel came into full fledge operation just i8n recent times. As indicated by Cohen (2010), the hotel performance over short period of operation, is progressive and has added additional upscale value to the Singapore’s hospitality market index and rating. Sheldon Adelson indicates in the â€Å"LVS annual report† (2010) that MBS hotel increases trade and leisure in Singapore and the greater South Asia. He further indicates that the hotel has realized approximately $1 billion attuned property EBITDA in the initial one year of business, which is a tremendous and historical record. Employees and Business Structure The â€Å"Las Vegas Sands Corp.† is involved in the tenure and supervision of this hotel. It has other in tegrated vacation conveniences spread worldwide. As indicated in the â€Å"LVS annual report† (2010, p 21) the company directly employs about 34,000 workers apart from temporarily hired ones on need-based concept. Mutual bargaining treaties do not exist for the Marina hotel employees. In this report, the corporation again indicates that the employees are gratis to engage in labor unions and this shall not affect its fiscal outputs. The business is under ownership of many, with Adelson Sheldon having almost the largest allocate in capital. Several workers help in running business. The hotel is a constituent of the larger â€Å"Las Vegas Corp† and is managed at peak by a sitting executive committee chairing all the LVS initiatives. Regional management in Singapore is responsible for routing the company’s mission and policies in the hotel.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Apart from rest of implementing employees like culinary staff, there exist peak, central level, and line managers with a variety of departments coordinated by the overall manager for hotel’s efficiency. The HR indicates in an interview featured in â€Å"The Pulse, Issue7† (2009, p 3) that MBS hotel has dedication to mentoring and training its employees. That there is broad leadership and unit definite training and instruction in existing organization levels. There is again commitment to edifying a culture of general reverence and support to enhance teamwork. Mission and Vision Statement and/or corporate values In the pulse (2009, p 2), president of MBS redefines the companies mission and vision. The vision is â€Å"We create once- in- a- lifetime encounters every day.† The mission â€Å"We are devoted to turning MBS the globe’s most outstanding destination for leisure, shopping, and business.† From these, we see a resolute hospitality empire with g reat dedication to service delivery and satisfaction. The above values symbolize the hotel’s culture and core fundamental principles that guide service provision to all clients. Olsen Zhao (p 4) in reporting â€Å"Travel and Tourism Intelligence’s† 2001 study states that corporate values are the founding stones for branding; an aspect becoming increasingly vital by generating higher market share. This permits hotels to indict premium rates, issue superior investor proceeds, and launch customer loyalty. Kumar (2010) also recognize that without sound corporate values, businesses in the hospitality industry are unable to set magnetic product or service brands thus cause failure in efficiency and profitability. The PESTLE analysis This refers to a methodology given application by organizations in the study of their exterior macro environment. This acronym stands for â€Å"Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental† (Doyle 2008). The re is scanning and identification of risks or environmental changes, monitoring for recognition of trends, and preparation for mitigation. As indicated in â€Å"The Pulse, Issue7† (2009) the hotel is set in a magnificent outlook, providing a dream hospitality destination for the great South Asia. As indicated in â€Å"LVS annual report† (2010), Adelson views Singapore’s exceptional transport system and immediacy to South Asian population as a business advantage. This couples with the hotel’s iconic architecture, supreme entertainment amenities, and strategic setting next to Singapore’s CBD. These factors will in future help in establishment of sustainable client base. The high rate of globalization increases demand for vacation services. As Cohen (2010) indicates, MBS has recorded over double in net returns since its April commissioning. Increasing technological advancements has enhanced online reservations, client communication, and e-finance serv ices thus uplifting hotel trade. It is evident that technology will increase the company’s performances even in the future, given daily advancements and employment of qualified technical staff. The worldwide recession grossly affected the company, lowering its marketplace share and revenue with a higher percentage. Sheldon Adelson however intervened through increasing his shares and loaning the hotel. The annual report (2010, p 9) indicates that Singapore unlike many Asian hospitality and casino markets is not dominated by junket activity. The regulations here require prospecting junket operators to pass a background audit and have license. There are comprehensive licensing necessities and frameworks, which cushion hotel operations and favor their profitability. The legitimate organism thus favors the company. Current Competitor Analysis Competition amongst resorts in the South Asia is high, especially in Singapore where other hotels apart from MBS include RWS, and Macau. RWS is 100% property of the Genting Singapore, located in Sentosa Island, and is a prime family tourist destination connected to Singapore via vehicle and pedestrian bridge. Both companies provide similar services, with RWS having the advantage of an Island location in the Sentosa. Most importantly, MBS hotel has only one competitor in Singapore. As cited in the LVS annual report (2010, p 10) hospitality activities like betting is observed through state-sanctioned licenses awarded to only two operators, of which MBS is one. There is thus restricted competition in betting. Sentosa as a major competitor in the area only began its functioning in January 2010 with six hotels, about 1800 rooms, â€Å"Universal Studios theme park,† Marine Park, and few others. MBS being one of the LVS hospitality enjoys extensive market exposure than its competitors. Genting chairperson, Lim Kok expected an annual turnout of 13 million clients in the first period of work. Other facilities in Sentosa i nclude Maritime Experiential Museum, conventions or exhibitions conveniences, restaurants, and trade shop. It contains approximately 470 betting tables, 500 electronic gaming tables, and 1200 slots. These are far less considering the diverse services existing at the MBS hotel. Their capital base is also limited unlike MBS, which is not purely under singular ownership thus draws large capital from varied sources. The leading shareholder here is the Adelson, who happens to be the Chair and treasurer of MBS. The competitor has recently not introduced any new services. The plush facilities including swimming pool and first-rate services offered under the three-storey roof empire places MBS hotel far ahead of its rival. Current Market Analysis The hotel faces only one competitor RWS in Singapore. Early this year, the â€Å"Chief Operating Officer† Mike Leven indicates that there is growing demand in the hotel facilities, with 80% occupancy. Entry of the MBS into the nation’ s betting sector doubled at about US$6B during 2010. The US$5.5 billion MBS received 11 million clients, having been operational for about one year. Other cited future markets as stated by chairperson Adelson include Spain and India. As stated in the 2010 annual report, advertisement is through both mass and print media, and internet. The hotel marketing department participates in unswerving marketing as permitted in diverse geographic locations; these may be through top slot and chart games markets. According to this report, the hotel enjoys the Singapore market, which has advanced fiscal and transportation network in the S. E Asia locality. This is a place for both trade and vacation. There are further indications that the STB had 11.6 million international guests in 2010, an elevation of 20% unlike 2009 (LVS annual report 2010, p 9). The total mean duration of visit by tourists in Singapore as estimated by STB was 3.9 in 2010. This obvious market enables the hotel to benefit as p resently, the entire betting market has equal contributions from VIP and crowd gaming portions. Additionally, inputs from slot equipment and mass betting segment enhance early escalation of market. Major gaming patrons are from Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. There is nonetheless, expectations of further market extensions into novel feeder markets considering the geographic placement. Cohen (2010) reports that most customers approve the first-rate services offered in this hotel. Current Marketing Mix Marketing involves the matching of an enterprise’s roles and competencies with the client’s desires to attain satisfaction on the two sides (Bowie Buttle 2004). Marketing mix embodies an array of manageable, strategic marketing concepts that a company may blend to realize the response it longs for in the targeted market. It comprises of an entirety of what an organization can do to manipulate demand for its services or products (Wood Brotherton 2008). As indicated by Reid Bojanic (2010), the set collate into the four P’s of â€Å"Product, Place, Price, and Promotion.† They further indicate that organizations are keen to manipulate these variables to develop a strategy for service or product used to found a marketing program. The hotel presents a range of services to visitors on site; the conspicuous ones include meetings and conferencing conveniences, incentives, and exhibitions (MICE). Within it, one may enjoy first-rate casino, leisure, theatre sessions, and shopping expeditions. There are fantastic views from the SkyPark space; this is home to globe’s longest swimming pool, restaurants, and twilight clubs. It offers flexible and exclusive conventions in the area. Several corporate, international, theatrics events, and state functions occur in Marina. Concierge desks services include some of the currently operational services at the expo and convention hub. This enables delegates to buy parking tickets at cheaper amounts unlike other MICE facilities. Promotion as indicated in the LVS annual report (2010, p 10) is through lots of media channels. TV, radio broadcasting, internet, newsprint, magazines, and billboards include some of the commonly used advertisement channels. There is use of direct marketing in various geographic locations, aimed at definite market segments, embodying the â€Å"premium slot and table games markets.† The hotel’s sales unit frequently organizes cocktail events as part client campaign (The pulse 2009, p 4). Targets include voyage agents, corporate regulars, and forum exhibition organizers. The location of Marina is strategic within the great South Asia. Singapore’s good transport network and financial stability is a business merit (Pulse 2009). There are transport systems from the airport designated for visitors destined to Marina. The hotel’s marvelous structural design, excellent leisure facilities, and tactical location help to attract client s. Marina has nightly charges from $237.22 to $1,166.10. There are however, varied charges depending on the type of services offered, rates try to align with those set by STB and fluctuate variably between tourist low and high peaks. The seasons affect demand for these services and gaming charges are set for dissimilar segments but not for junkets. SWOT analysis SWOTs refer to the inferences for establishing strategic marketing schemes. Organizations maximize on strong points and available opportunities within their reach and minimize their weaknesses and outdoor threats (Reid Bojanic 2010). Major strengths of Marina are its capital base so that it minimally relies on external funding, and its iconic architecture that attracts large pool of customers. It has strategic setting in Singapore, which is a vastly industrial state with great tourist attraction capacity. From the pulse (2009), it is evident that Marina hires services of qualified professionals and human resources capable o f driving its objectives to success. The Skypark provides great view of the Singapore from top. This provides an inimitable tourist attraction, which is only in Marina. The restriction of junket gaming by Singapore government makes Marina casinos to be the only outstanding betting destination apart from GMB in the SE Asia. Marina enjoys an established brand and image emerging from the mother company, â€Å"Las Vegas Corp.,† which has long developed many hospitality centers globally. Weaknesses may include constant fluctuations in trade due to varying tourism seasons. The MICE services help in reducing losses as corporate hold functions regularly throughout the year. The MICE and casino services significantly reduce overreliance on a single target group. Marina casino enjoys market opportunities due to litigation of betting by Singapore. The huge annual tourist turnout in the country and its strategic location in the South East Asia provides adequate customer base for the hote l. Threats include competition from GMB, which is also a plush hospitality center located in Sentosa Island. The casino faces competition from the backdoor betting junkets that operate illegally despite government’s stringent regulations on gaming. The current global economic slump is a major threat to the company. This may not favor quality services and expansion into novel markets. Future Marketing Strategy (Objectives/ Activities) The hotel should concentrate on varied segments in the population. There can be an espousal of different service rating mechanism for home and foreign visitors to encourage both. Thi9s will ensure service utilization by almost all segments of population, thus increasing client base and returns. Maximization of cash flow from operating assets can result through organic returns upscale and working effectiveness. Collaboration with organizations, especially tour travel bodies will help in future to attract more customers and satisfy their needs. Thi s will again expand capacity and increase competitive strength. Careful rate fixing will help the hotel to reduce loss of its customers to the competitors like GMB in the future. The company should strive to extend to new feeder markets all over the continent and establish itself as a world’s foremost hospitality service provider in five years time. This is achievable through active and noble means of capital outsourcing from IPO’s, bonds, and engaging in sustainable loaning systems. List of References Ballinger, L. (2010), Dont go off the VERY deep end Infinity pool 55 STOREYS above ground opens in Singapore in dazzling new  £4bn resort. Web. Bowie, D. Buttle, F. (2004), Hospitality Marketing: An introduction, Oxford, Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann. Cohen, M. (2010), Singapore Casinos an Uncertain Bet. Web. Doyle, P. (2008), Value-Based Marketing: Marketing Strategies for Corporate Growth and Shareholder Value, Chichester, West Sussex, John Wiley and Sons. Kumar. ( 2010), Mktg of Hospitality Tourism Serv. New Delhi, Tata McGraw-Hill Education. Las Vegas Sands Corp. (2010). Annual Report; Marina Bay Sands Singapore April 2010. Web. Macdonald, M. (2008), Malcolm McDonald on Marketing Planning: UnderstandingMarketing Plans and Strategy, Philadelphia, PA, Kogan Page Publishers. Olsen, M. Zhao, J. (2008), Handbook of Hospitality Strategic Management, Massachusetts, MA, Butterworth-Heinemann. Reid, R Bojanic, D (2010), Hospitality marketing management, 5th edition, Hoboken NJ, USA Wiley Sons. The Pulse, (2009), Bigger and Bolder. Issue N. 7. Web. Williams, KS Leech, C. (2004). Creating a Customer Focus CMIOLP, Massachusetts, MA, Butterworth-Heinemann. Wood, R. Brotherton, B. (2008). The Sage handbook of hospitality management, California, CA, SAGE Publications Ltd.

Sample Recommendation Letters for College Applicants

Sample Recommendation Letters for College Applicants Many colleges, universities, and business schools request recommendation letters as part of the application process. Choosing the person to ask for your recommendation is often your first challenge because you want an honest letter that will improve your chances of being accepted. Also, if you are the person writing a letter of recommendation, it may be difficult to know where to begin.   No matter which side youre on, reading through a few good letters of recommendation will certainly help. With these samples, you can make better decisions about whom to ask, what should be included, and take note of the best format for writing one. Every college applicant has a different situation and your relationship with  a student and recommender is also unique. For that reason, were going to look at a few different scenarios that can be adapted to fit your needs. Choosing the Right Person for a Recommendation A good recommendation letter  from a high school teacher,  college professor, or another academic reference  can really help an applicants  chances of acceptance. Other sources of recommendations might include a club president, employer, community director, coach, or mentor. The goal is to find someone who has had time to get to know you well.  A person who has worked closely with you or known you for a significant period of time will have more to say and be able to offer specific examples to back up their opinions. On the other hand, someone who doesnt know you very well may struggle to come up with supporting details. The result might be a vague reference that doesnt do anything to make you stand out as a candidate.   Selecting a letter writer from an advanced course, extra-curricular group, or volunteer experience is also a good idea. This shows that you are motivated and confident in your academic performance or willing to put in extra effort outside the typical classroom. Although there are a lot of different things that are considered during the college application process, previous academic performance and work ethic are among the most important.   Recommendation Letter From an AP Professor The following letter of recommendation was written for a college student who is also an undergraduate program applicant. The  letter writer  is  the students AP English professor, whose class other students may struggle with, so there are some extra benefits here.   What makes this letter stand out? As you read this letter, note how the letter writer specifically mentions the  students outstanding work ethic and  academic performance. He also discusses her leadership capability, her ability to multi-task, and her creativity. He even offers an example of her record of achievement- a novel project that she worked on with the rest of the class. Specific examples like this are a great way for the recommender to reinforce the main points of the letter.   To Whom It May Concern:Cheri Jackson is an extraordinary young woman. As her AP English Professor, I have seen many examples of her talent and have long been impressed by her diligence and work ethic. I understand that Cheri is applying to the Recommendation Letter From a Debate Coach This letter was written by a high school teacher for an  undergraduate business school applicant. The letter writer is very familiar with the student since they were both members of the schools debate team, an extra-curricular that demonstrates a drive in academics.   What makes this letter stand out?  Getting a letter  from someone who is familiar with your classroom behavior and academic ability can show admissions committees that you are dedicated to your education. It also demonstrates that you have made good impressions on those in the educational community. The content of this letter could be very beneficial to the applicant. The letter does a good job of demonstrating the applicants motivation and self-discipline. It also cites specific examples to support the recommendation. As you are reading this sample letter, take note of the required  format for recommendations. The letter contains short paragraphs and multiple line breaks for easy readability. It also contains the name of the person who wrote it as well as contact information, which helps makes the letter look legit. To Whom It May Concern:Jenna Breck was a student in my debate class and has also been on myRecommendation Letter From Volunteer Experience Many undergraduate business programs ask applicants to supply a recommendation letter from an employer or someone who knows how the applicant works. Not everyone has professional work experience, though. If you have never worked a 9 to 5 job, you can get a recommendation from a community leader or non-profit administrator. Though it is traditionally unpaid,  volunteer experience  is still a work experience.What makes this letter stand out? This sample letter demonstrates what a  recommendation from a non-profit administrator might look like. The letter writer emphasizes the students leadership and organizational skills, work ethic, and moral fiber. Although the letter doesnt touch on academics, it does tell the admissions committee who this student is as a person. Demonstrating personality can sometimes be just as important as showing good grades on a transcript. To Whom It May Concern:As the Director of the Bay Area Community Center, I work closely with many of the community

Trade Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Trade Law - Essay Example Benny was asked by Carlos to make all shipping arrangements; though it is the buyer’s obligation to make such arrangements under FOB contract. ‘Under an FOB sale, the buyer is responsible for making the arrangements for shipping the goods to their destination’. Thus, it had to be Carlos’ obligation to make all shipping arrangements with him being the buyer of the goods. Moreover, according to the FOB contract law, the seller is not under a duty to ship the goods until he has received shipment instructions from the buyer; thus Benny was not obliged to arrange any shipment without Carlos giving him the necessary instructions. It should be added, that this is the Buyer’s responsibility to arrange the shipment of goods to the port of destination. . The two cases were destroyed during loading at the port; it is necessary to find out who is responsible for these losses. According to s 20 of the Sale of Goods 1979, risk passes with property and in FOB sales risk passes along with property upon shipment – that is, when the goods pass the ship’s rail.

Macro Economics Wall Street Journal Article Essay

Macro Economics Wall Street Journal Article - Essay Example It could not however be fully associated with higher future income or enrollment in schools (Da Costa ‘Wall Street Journal’). The lives and welfare of these disadvantaged groups in America were however changed for the better. The macroeconomic value of the ‘Summer Jobs Program for the Poor Youth’ is closely linked to the economic theories of Business Cycles and Unemployment. Investing in the summer jobs programs for the disadvantaged youths led to changes in the cycles of business and unemployment in America. Unemployment, which is a major factor affecting the young population in America is significantly reduced as more youths get opportunities for employment. Increased income and savings will see more young people venture into individual business investments. Resultantly, more cycles of business will arise. The underlying assumption is that by being part of the active production, these disadvantaged youths lower their risks of imprisonment and death. Lowered cases of imprisonment and mortality imply an increased labor force provided by the prime-aged population and hence higher productivity. The economy’s business cycles and unemployment trends will, therefore, be

Essay --

Before Augustus, there was Julius Caesar. Caesar appointed himself as dictator for life in Rome. Caesar declared himself all powerful and had control over the entire government. However, Brutus and Cassius assassinated Caesar because they believed he was becoming too powerful and had created a monarchy. Caesar was the granduncle of Augustus and because of this, Augustus wanted to avoid a connection with Caesar roots in becoming a dictator. Augustus avoided a tyranny and he could eliminate the risk of being assassinated like Caesar. In turn, Augustus put on a facade of seeming as though he was not becoming all-powerful. In order to deceive the government, Augustus denied any attempts that were given to him to take the throne as an authoritarian and continued to do great things for the will of the people, to be seen in a good light. While putting on a disguise for the Senate and the people, he made it seem as though power was in the hands of the Senate, when in actuality, he was consol idating power into his own hands. Augustus was seen as the savior of the people of Rome during the time of starvation. In the Res Gestae, Augustus explains that he declined the offer of being king by the people and the senate; he further states, â€Å"I did not decline at a time of the greatest scarcity of grain the charge of the grain-supply†¦I freed the entire people, at my own expense.† Augustus refused to take the throne because it would make him seem as though he was a dictator, similar to Julius Caesar. Instead, to gain the people’s respect, he entice the Roman people. According to Tacitus, an action of this gratitude was one form of gaining the people trust and keeping the Senate in the shadows of his true plan. Tacitus, though, sheds some negative... ... as though he was, no one could challenge his authority. Augustus persuaded the Roman people and Senate through briberies that he was not all-powerful, but a good person. He wanted everyone to see him as no less than the average Roman person. Through Res Gestae written by Augustus, he shows his lavish gifts and the ways in which he declined the throne a few times to move away from becoming Julius Caesar regiment. However, many people such as Dio Cassius and Tacitus were not fooled by his ways and knew that he had a plan the entire time to have absolute power, similar to that of Caesar. The Senate and magistracies were weaker under Augustus’ rule because he had maintained the Senate powers in his own hands. Due to this, many people did not oppose him. In the end, Augustus formed a monarch and use discretion to not show the people and the Senate of his true tactics.

Agency Problem – Essay

I partially agree with the statement that managers have a severely limited amount of discretion to pursue actions inconsistent with shareholder wealth maximization. By investing in a company, shareholders aim to maximize their wealth and achieve portfolio diversification. The objective of managers is assumed to be to further these interests by maximizing the firm’s share value. This can be achieved by taking on projects with positive NPV and good management of short-term capital and long-term debt. However, shareholders and managers are assumed to want to maximize their utilities; so this objective may not always be the priority for managers as they may rather prefer to maximize their own wealth or further other personal interests of theirs. This conflict of interest between the two is an example of the principal agent problem. The principal agent problem occurs due to two reasons. The first is the separation of ownership from control – the principal or the shareholders may own a corporation but it is the agent or manager who holds control of it and acts on their behalf. This gives managers the power to do things without necessarily being ‘detected’ by shareholders. The second is that shareholders may not possess the same information as the manager. The manager would have access to management accounting data and financial reports, whereas the shareholders would only receive annual reports, which may be subject to manipulation. Thus asymmetric information also leads to moral hazard and adverse selection problems. The following are areas where the interests of shareholders and managers often conflict: Managers may try to expropriate shareholders’ wealth in a number of ways. They may over consume perks such as using company credit cards for personal expenses, jet planes etc. †¢Empire building: Managers may pursue a suboptimal expansion path for the firm. They may expand the firm at a rationally unfeasible rate in order to increase their own benefits at the cost of shareholders’ wealth. †¢Managers may be more risk ave rse than shareholders who typically hold diversified portfolios. †¢Managers may not have the same motivation as shareholders, likely due to a lack of proper incentives. Managers may window dress financial statements in order to optimize bonuses or justify sub optimal strategies The principal agent problem normally leads to agency costs. This has been identified by Jensen and Meckling(1976) as the sum of: 1. Monitoring costs: Costs incurred by the shareholders when they attempt to monitor or control the actions of managers. 2. Bonding costs: Bonding refers to contracts that bond agents' performance with principal interests by limiting or restricting the agent’s activity as a result. The cost of this to the manager is the bonding cost. 3. The residual loss: Costs incurred from divergent principal and agent interests despite the use of monitoring and bonding. However the manager’s discretion is quite limited in practice. There are a number of internal and external solutions to agency costs for shareholders. Internal: †¢Well-written contracts ensure that there are fewer opportunities for managers to over consume perks. †¢An external board of directors could be appointed to monitor the efforts and actions of managers. This board would have access to information and considerable legal authority over management. It could thus safeguard information and represent shareholder interests in the company. †¢The board could hire independent accountants to audit the firm’s financial statements. If the managers don’t agree to changes proposed by auditors, the auditors issue a qualified opinion. This signals that managers are trying to hide something, and undermines investor confidence. †¢Compensation packages where the reward to the manager is linked to firm performance. This includes performance related bonuses and the payments of shares and share options. Ambitious, lower managers are a threat to the jobs of inefficient, evading ones. External: †¢The lenders of a company also monitor; a bank for instance would track the assets, earnings and cash flows of the company it provides a loan to. †¢Managerial labor market: Poor managers may not get another job or get a much poorer one. Ultimately the most important indicator to the labor market of managerial performance is share price. †¢Capital Markets – A falling share price increases the threat of a take-over, which can often result in redundancies. More concentrated shareholding by outsiders can lead to monitoring by them and improve managerial performance. However there are a few problems with these solutions though, which make it possible for managers to circumvent them to a small extent. In order to keep the share price high, managers may focus more on short term profitability at the cost of long term profitability. They may use gimmicks to temporarily boost the share price and neglect spending on research, development and H. R. They may also provide sub standard products and cease providing services for old, or relatively less important products in order to reduce costs and make a quick profit. This damages the company’s reputation, reduces its competitiveness in the future and thus affects long-term shareholder value negatively. While block holders may act as external monitoring mechanisms, they can also have private incentives to go along with management decisions, which may be detrimental to firm performance. Writing better contracts may reduce the problem of asymmetric information, but not fully solve it. This is because the design of such contracts is technically infeasible due to various reasons such as the difficulty of foreseeing all future contingencies. Dispersed shareholders often do not exercise the few controlling rights that they have. This leads to a free rider problem where shareholders would prefer to let other shareholders do the task of monitoring as they cannot justify spending on it over the few shares that they each own. In order to resist takeovers, managers may design contracts that compensate them in the event of loss of control due to the takeover. They may also undertake targeted repurchases and devise a poison pill, which changes the fundamental aspects of the corporate rules without the knowledge of shareholders. While incentive schemes such as shares and share options are effective, they are still reactive in the sense that they provide no mechanism for preventing mistakes or opportunistic behavior. Managers may continue to focus mainly on quarterly goals rather than the long term as they are allowed to sell the stocks after exercising their options. By focusing on quarterly performance, managers could boost the stock price and avail higher personal profits on their subsequent sale of stock. Managers may also sell their shares as soon as they are high, leading people to think that they lack confidence in their own operations. This may adversely affect share price. Share options also increase the risk of EPS dilution from an increase in shares outstanding. Managers may often ‘window dress’ financial statements as the company must be seen to perform well in order to improve share valuations. They may report inaccurate information, especially if their short-term rewards outweigh their long term ones such as pensions. It also encourages shareholder approval, and so would lead to less difficult AGM’s. Many managers may hide the true value of assets in order to hide the losses they incurred while buying them. Window dressing also involves managers presenting statistics such that they highlight the perceivably best bits about the company’s performance and avoid emphasis on the worst aspects of the previous year’s business. Other common practices of this include disguising liquidity problems and fraudulent representation of liabilities. This gross misrepresentation of debts has been seen with Enron in the US, where $billions of long-term liabilities were hidden off the balance sheet. Its executive Jeffery Skiller, initiated the use of mark to market accounting, while hoping to meet Wall Street expectations. Enron ultimately became bankrupt while its shareholders suffered huge losses. Despite having model board of directors and a talented audit committee, Enron’s managers were able to make it attract large sums of capital to fund a questionable business model and hype its stock to unsustainable levels. Worldcom, a telecommunications company in the US, inflated profits by disguising expenses as investment in assets and inflated revenues with bogus accounting entries from corporate, unallocated revenue accounts. In mid 2000, its stock price began to decline and CEO Bernard Ebbers persuaded WorldComà ¢â‚¬â„¢s board of directors to provide him corporate loans and guarantees of over $400 million to cover his margin calls on Worldcom stock. The board had hoped that the loans would avert the need for Ebbers to sell the substantial amounts of WorldCom stock that he owned, as this would have further reduced the stock's price. However, the company ultimately went bankrupt and Ebbers was ousted as CEO in April 2002. The shareholders suffered massive losses as they watched World Com’s stock price plummet from $60 to less than 20 cents. Thus, we can see that while there is room for managers to indulge in personal wealth maximization, it is quite difficult to do so. Usually, the solutions tend to be adequate enough to correct the conflicts, and restrict manager’s discretion.