FEBRUARY 14, 2003

Full News Archive

• Headline: Swiss Companies Struggle with Strong Franc. Impact: The strong Swiss franc led to a chain reaction where Swiss companies started relocating to other countries, giving birth to the Swiss Cheese Conspiracy - the idea that Swiss cheese is so full of holes because the companies left for tax havens, leaving only the cheese behind.. Fact: Did you know that Switzerland is often mistaken for being a tax haven? It’s actually just a haven for people who enjoy a little too much fondue and chocolate. You know, the essentials..
• Headline: South Korea Has Big Plans For the Area Around Seoul. Impact: Seoul's ambitious plans set off a competitive frenzy in the region, resulting in a bizarre arms race of skyscrapers, where each city was trying to outdo the other until they all collectively forgot about urban planning entirely.. Fact: Did you know that the city of Seoul is so far ahead in tech that they have entire subway lines dedicated to charging your phone? Meanwhile, some places are still figuring out how not to trip over their own power cords..
• Headline: World Business Briefing | Asia: South Korea: Profit For Retailer. Impact: The success of South Korean retailers led to an odd phenomenon known as the 'K-Pop Shopping Spree,' where people began to associate shopping with catchy tunes. Retail therapy took on a whole new meaning, complete with synchronized dance routines at checkout lines.. Fact: Fun fact: South Korean retailers have more marketing strategies than customers. It’s almost like they believe if they shout loud enough about their sales, someone will magically appear to buy everything..