Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON December 19, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: China's Economic Challenges in New Era. Impact: If only Deng Xiaoping had opted for a career in gardening instead of economics! The 30-year export-led model led to a global obsession with cheap goods, which in turn sparked a race for ridiculous consumerism. Who knew a simple toy from China could lead to the collapse of an entire retail chain?. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'Made in China' was once a badge of shame? Now it’s a badge of honor for bargain hunters everywhere!.
- Headline: Madoff Scandal: Family Ties and Investigations. Impact: Eric Swanson's marriage to Madoff’s niece? Talk about a plot twist! This little family drama might have caused a ripple effect that led to a million conspiracy theories about how love can blind you to financial fraud. Next time you're at a family gathering, remember: your cousin could be a financial threat.. Fact: Fun fact: Marrying into a family of financial fraudsters is NOT listed as a recommended career move on LinkedIn..
- Headline: Even Winners May Lose With Madoff. Impact: Ah yes, the classic case of 'I got rich, but now I must pay for it.' This Madoff debacle not only wiped out fortunes but also sparked a wave of 'I was too good to be true' moments that made us all rethink our investments in the next cryptocurrency fad.. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'too good to be true' is often followed by 'and I should have known better' after the fact?.
- Headline: Redstone and Daughter Said to Clash on Debt Plan. Impact: The Redstone family feud might just be the modern-day equivalent of Shakespearean drama. Their clashes over debt are probably going to inspire a Netflix series about family dysfunction that will make us all feel better about our own Thanksgiving dinners.. Fact: Did you know that feuding over debt in Hollywood is as common as bad scripts and overpriced lattes? Welcome to the family business!.
- Headline: Tax Break May Have Helped Cause Housing Bubble. Impact: This tax break was like handing out candy to kids and expecting them not to get hyper. The housing bubble inflated faster than a birthday balloon, setting the stage for the Great Recession. Thanks, government! You really know how to throw a party.. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing that burst faster than the housing bubble was your dreams of ever affording a home in your lifetime!.
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)