OCTOBER 3, 2008

Full News Archive

• Headline: Profiting on New Jersey's Financial Woes. Impact: By short-selling states, traders unknowingly set off a chain reaction that led to a nationwide obsession with financial speculation. This eventually inspired a reality TV show about day trading that nobody asked for but somehow became a hit.. Fact: Did you know that short-selling is basically betting against something? It's like when your friend says they can eat an entire pizza and you secretly hope they can’t—just for the sake of your own amusement..
• Headline: Terrorism Convictions Overturned by Appeals Court. Impact: The reversal of these convictions created a legal precedent that led to endless debates about terrorism laws, inspiring a new generation of conspiracy theorists who believe every legal decision is a cover-up.. Fact: Fun fact: The term 'terrorism' has been argued over so much that even the dictionary has started to feel confused..
• Headline: Banks Debt Increase from SEC Decision. Impact: This rule was the financial equivalent of giving a toddler a sugar rush. It allowed banks to accumulate debt like it was going out of style, setting the stage for a financial crisis that would leave everyone wondering if they should invest in gold or canned beans.. Fact: Surprisingly, the SEC is not an abbreviation for 'Silly Economic Choices'—although it could be, given some of the decisions they've made..
• Headline: Cordial but Pointed, Palin and Biden Face Off. Impact: This debate was so cordial that it gave rise to a new political strategy: the 'smile-and-dodge' technique, where candidates learn to nod and grin while completely avoiding the topic at hand—perfect for future debates.. Fact: Did you know that Sarah Palin's scripted lines were so well-rehearsed that they could probably be used for a Broadway musical? Just picture her in 'Hamilton.'.
• Headline: Confronting Taliban, Pakistan Finds Itself at War. Impact: The conflict led to Pakistan becoming an unwitting participant in a global game of 'who can deal with the Taliban better,' resulting in military strategies that had everyone scratching their heads for years.. Fact: It's estimated that the number of people displaced during this conflict was enough to fill a small country. If only they could fill a stadium instead—it might have made for a more entertaining event..