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 June 5, 2009
Full News Archive
- Headline: Pakistan's Growing Discontent with the Taliban. Impact: The rising anger of Pakistanis against the Taliban led to a series of protests that accidentally inspired a global movement for social media activism, resulting in a cat video craze that still distracts politicians today.. Fact: Did you know that the Taliban once tried to ban music and dance? Good luck with that, considering how many TikTok dances are now being performed in their territory..
- Headline: Celebrating Muslim Arts in New York. Impact: The Muslim Voices festival not only celebrated art but inadvertently introduced hip-hop to a new audience, leading to an unforeseen rise in Muslim-themed rap battles that shook the underground scene.. Fact: Fun fact: New York was also once dubbed the 'City That Never Sleeps' because its residents couldn't find a moment to rest between all the art, culture, and pizza consumption..
- Headline: Investor Confidence in Ratings Agencies Persists. Impact: The continued trust in ratings agencies meant that their flawed systems persisted, which eventually led to a secret society of investors who met under a bridge to exchange investment memes instead of actual advice.. Fact: Ironically, the only thing Moody's has ever rated accurately is the level of denial in the financial sector..
- Headline: Ailing, Banks Still Field Strong Lobby at Capitol. Impact: The banks' strong lobby against bankruptcy law changes led to a never-ending saga of financial crises, inspiring countless horror movies where the banks are the antagonists, leaving audiences wondering who the real monsters are.. Fact: It's said that if you listen closely during a bank lobby meeting, you can hear the sound of wallets weeping..
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2009, it would be worth $220,288 today (220.3x return)