JULY 3, 2002

Full News Archive

• Headline: Ousted Executive's $11 Million Auto Stock Sale. Impact: Yang Rong's stock sale not only tanked his own reputation but also sparked a global trend of executives dumping stocks right before scandals. Now, every business school includes a module on 'How to Make a Quick Exit.'. Fact: Did you know Yang's name literally means 'to prosper'? Guess he missed the memo on staying prosperous in the stock market!.
• Headline: Vivendi Universal's Tumultuous Farewell. Impact: Jean-Marie Messier's dramatic exit was like a pebble thrown into a still pond, but instead of ripples, it created tsunamis. The media's obsession with corporate scandals was born, leading to endless 'Reality TV' style boardroom dramas.. Fact: Fun fact: Messier's farewell speech was so emotional that it actually broke the ‘Most Dramatic Exits’ record, previously held by soap opera characters!.
• Headline: Trenton Budget Crisis Resolved. Impact: The New Jersey budget deal paved the way for political backroom deals that would make even the most seasoned mobster proud. Say hello to the era of 'corporate-friendly' governance where taxes are merely a suggestion.. Fact: Did you know that in New Jersey, they actually have a saying: 'You scratch my back, I’ll scratch your budget'? It’s a real thing, look it up!.
• Headline: New Mine Laws Weighed. Impact: The proposed mine laws were a catalyst for global discussions on corporate responsibility, leading to a newfound trend of 'ethical mining.' Too bad many companies just added 'ethical' to their names without actually changing anything.. Fact: Did you know that during white rule, the only thing more valuable than gold in South Africa was the ability to ignore human rights? Just thought you’d like to know!.
• Headline: Stewart Broker Handled Shares For Her Friends. Impact: Martha Stewart's stock maneuver became a gold standard for celebrity entrepreneurs. It actually inspired a new line of business advice: 'How to Befriend Your Broker and Still Look Innocent.'. Fact: Did you know that Martha's stock handling was so well-regarded that it later inspired a cooking show called 'Cooking the Books'? Just kidding! But wouldn’t that be a hit?.