Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON November 25, 2009
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- Headline: Medical Debt Fuels Bankruptcy Trends. Impact: This surge in medical bankruptcies sparked a nationwide movement for universal healthcare, which, in an alternate timeline, resulted in the establishment of a 'Free Health Day' where people could get medical advice from fortune tellers instead of doctors.. Fact: It's estimated that more people go bankrupt due to medical bills than for any other reason. Who knew that getting sick could also mean getting poor?.
- Headline: Rajaratnam Defends Galleon Hedge Fund Practices. Impact: Raj Rajaratnam's defense strategy inadvertently inspired a new genre of courtroom dramas where hedge fund managers become the unlikely heroes, forever changing how we view Wall Street villains—even making them relatable.. Fact: Fun fact: Hedge funds are called that because they supposedly hedge against losses. But who knew they also hedge against moral integrity?.
- Headline: On ‘The Biggest Loser,’ Health Can Take Back Seat. Impact: The unhealthy practices exposed by contestants led to significant scrutiny in reality TV, resulting in stricter regulations that would eventually shape the future of competitive eating shows. Yes, the irony is delicious.. Fact: Did you know that some contestants reportedly lost more than just weight? They also lost a sense of reality. Apparently, the cameras add 10 pounds of drama!.
- Headline: Budget Hawks Have a Buffet of Options With Health Bill. Impact: The bickering over health care funding inspired an underground movement of health food enthusiasts to start a 'Budget Cuisine' trend, leading to the rise of kale smoothies served at budget meetings. Nothing screams fiscal responsibility like a green drink.. Fact: Surprisingly, politicians are not actually hawks; they’re more like parrots that repeat what their donors say. Who knew budgeting would be so colorful?.
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Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2009, it would be worth $220,288 today (220.3x return)