Oddly Relevant Nov-19-2012

Taiwan politics: a former heart-throb loses his shine: Once of hope of Taiwan known for his promise in ground-breaking agreements with China to end Taiwan’s economic marginalization, Ma Ying-jeou now barely enjoys a popular satisfaction of 13% due to (1) a stagnating economy thanks to 70% of GDP being export, (2) shaky national pension scheme, and (3) Ma’s indecisiveness in many consequential policies. [Note: a good man who can use a bit more wisdom and courage]…Source: http://www.economist.com/news/asia/21566657-former-heart-throb-loses-his-shine-ma-bumbler?spc=scode&spv=xm&ah=9d7f7ab945510a56fa6d37c30b6f1709

Who’s the next Intel CEO? In every case the new CEO has come from the existing Intel ranks, an exception is unlikely this time as Intel longs for a leader of exodus out of its past. The torch could go to the current COO, Brian Krzanich, given the importance in the lead in manufacturing. Other candidates include head of software Renee James, corporate strategy lead Stacy Smith, and David (Dadi) Perlmutter who heads up product. [Note: Is INTC still a buy now?]…Source: http://www.wired.com/business/2012/11/whos-the-next-intel-ceo/

What killed Twinkies: Plenty of culprits including weak management, short-sighted labor unions, and poor judgment by investors; but the real reason is because the company completely failed to innovate. Once a staple in the lunchbox, Hostess became too complacent and was outcompeted by innovating rivals. [Note: damn healthy choices.]…Source: http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2012-11-19/what-killed-twinkies#r=read

Deathwatch: Sharp: Producer of Japan’s 1^st crystal radio, the world’s 1^st mass-produced microwave oven, and the 1^st camera-equipped mobile phone, Sharp is currently the worst performing stock in the world with credit rating in junk status. Its lack of vision drove itself to irrelevance—(1) by becoming the supplier of parts in a fickle market and (2) failing to brand and develop desirable products. [Note: consumer electronics is a dangerous game.]…Source: http://readwrite.com/2012/11/16/readwrite-deathwatch-sharp

Watch 131 years of global warming in 26 seconds: [Note: while you ponder in awe, beware the color-code bias, measurement technology difference, and the ambiguity of units]…Source:  http://www.climatecentral.org/blogs/131-years-of-global-warming-in-26-seconds