There has been many theories why luxury hotels charge for wi-fi.
Reasons include guest's price insensitivity, perk, avoid cannibalization, and to maintain
reasonable high internet speed.
Perk was a weak theory to begin with because if customers really needed wi-fi, they would just purchase it.
Cannibalization
cannot be ruled out but is not a very convincing theory either. Who
would just use internet and stay in their room in a luxury hotel?
Customers would surely take advantage of the luxuries that the hotel
provide instead of being sucked in to Netflix, which they can anywhere
else.
Well, today, we are closer to the real reason why they charge for internet. Recently,
Marriott has been fined by FCC for blocking customer's hot spots.
This action rules out price insensitivity and to maintain reasonable high internet speed. If customers were price insensitive then they would just pay for hotel wi-fi. If the hotel cared about internet speed, then they would not care about customers using their own wi-fi.
Hence, what convincing evidence are we left with? Yup, money, money, money...charging for internet makes money and is probably a super high margin business because once you set up the internet, the maintenance is very low cost. That is why Marriott actively banned customer's wi-fi. It could not lose its cash cow, especially as lodging became more competitive with rise of Airbnb and other innovative lodging.
So in sum, luxury hotels charge for internet because it makes profit!
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Close yet far from home [2015/12/26]
A study found that on average an American leaves 18 miles from mom.
This is a quite interesting finding given the unprecedented mobility. 18 miles is 25-40 min
drive in most cases so families are quite close yet we have a whole issue of families
breaking down in the US. Close yet far. Some can be thousands of miles apart yet feel
connected while others never visit those family members who are in the same town.
During the end of year, I think it is a good time to reflect about the relationship with family
and loved ones.
Love, love, love...love more ^^
This is a quite interesting finding given the unprecedented mobility. 18 miles is 25-40 min
drive in most cases so families are quite close yet we have a whole issue of families
breaking down in the US. Close yet far. Some can be thousands of miles apart yet feel
connected while others never visit those family members who are in the same town.
During the end of year, I think it is a good time to reflect about the relationship with family
and loved ones.
Love, love, love...love more ^^
Monday, December 21, 2015
Humans are the problem [2015/15/21]
Self-driving cars are getting into more accidents due to other human drivers.
It is a sad day for AI and humanity. I sort of predicted this. Driving in LA, things can be
quite chaotic. A self-driving car goes by the book but not humans. So even if the AI is
the best driver, in driving if the other driver is not so good then we have accidents.
So should we teach AI to sometimes make judgment calls? This makes things really
complicated for insurance and also for morality. But I think there is a solution, well, an
enhancement, ask the driver to take control in uncertain situations.That should prevent
some accidents. Also, temporarily, we can have self-driving cars use car pool lanes to
avoid collision and we can make signs letting other drivers know that there is a
self-driving car, just like a "baby on board sign" :D
It is a sad day for AI and humanity. I sort of predicted this. Driving in LA, things can be
quite chaotic. A self-driving car goes by the book but not humans. So even if the AI is
the best driver, in driving if the other driver is not so good then we have accidents.
So should we teach AI to sometimes make judgment calls? This makes things really
complicated for insurance and also for morality. But I think there is a solution, well, an
enhancement, ask the driver to take control in uncertain situations.That should prevent
some accidents. Also, temporarily, we can have self-driving cars use car pool lanes to
avoid collision and we can make signs letting other drivers know that there is a
self-driving car, just like a "baby on board sign" :D
Friday, December 18, 2015
Salt gun [2015/12/18]
There is a gun that shoots toxin balls that makes the target nauseated. Well, sounds like
a good idea but if I use a gas mask? Hmmm....I think a taser is much more effective.
Or you could use a flash grenade. That would work too.
a good idea but if I use a gas mask? Hmmm....I think a taser is much more effective.
Or you could use a flash grenade. That would work too.
Tanning ban for teens[2015/12/18]
FDA wants to ban tanning for teens.
First of all, why do you want to irradiate oneself with UV rays? Why do teenagers want to
do that? Blows my mind. I am sure tanning can look good on some people but remember
that radiation is radiation....
An idea may be have people screened for potential cancer risk and then if they are low
risk, they can tan in salons. This may be better for the person and society.
First of all, why do you want to irradiate oneself with UV rays? Why do teenagers want to
do that? Blows my mind. I am sure tanning can look good on some people but remember
that radiation is radiation....
An idea may be have people screened for potential cancer risk and then if they are low
risk, they can tan in salons. This may be better for the person and society.
Friday, December 11, 2015
Go to College hmmm [2015/12/11]
Michelle Obama rapped about going to college.
I do admire Michelle's mission to help people eat better and become more knowledgeable but I don't think going to college solve things. Learning actually changes things. Just going to college, well, leads to loss of money, time, and opportunities. Such tragedy is already witnessed by college kids being unemployed or underemployed, going back to live with their parents, and delaying marriage and other life choices. Plus, there is 1.2 trillion student that may lead to some kind of contagion.
Hence, it would have been better if Michelle rapped about other ways to learn without paying so much for college such as Khan Academy, Coursera, Edx, Udemy, Udacity, and more. These resources are mostly free and high quality and flexible.
So on the next level, it would be great if Michelle could rap about the free and great education resources available online already.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Sneaker King [2015/12/7]
Mark "Mayor Farese has over 3,000 sneakers with an estimated value of $750,000.
Wow...well, I applaud his effort but hmm is it really worth it?
In terms of investment, I can't do a return calculation but assuming that sneakers behave like collectibles and art, then we would expect an annual return of 6%, a return below the market return about 8-10%. We also have to factor in the cost of storage, so returns are not fantastic. Also, if he is smart, he should have some insurance for the shoes so that would further lower the returns as well. So in terms of investment, sneakers do not seem to be a good investment.
But given that he made a career out of collecting sneakers, I guess the returns may actually be higher (we don't know his endorsement deals).
So the lesson here? If you want to collect something then go all in but remember it is a risky move financially but if you derive immense utility from that activity,your call.
Snapshot Serengeti
Sunday, December 6, 2015
[2015/12/5] Ice Man
Quite an interesting documentary about Wim Hof, who shows that with training people can control one's core temperature.
I think we should really look into more of his techniques to figure out, how we can regulate our body better. This will not only make us healthy but much more economic. Imagine all the money and waste we could save by being warm in cold weathers. We save on gas and clothing, and further avoid all the pollution associated with producing energy and goods. We can save a lot of money on air conditioning as well, avoiding to build more power plants.
Furthermore, this technique will be handy, when we are lost and have to survive in the cold.
So let's give a standing ovation to this super human and let us encourage our scientists to figure out to better regulate our body temperature.
I think we should really look into more of his techniques to figure out, how we can regulate our body better. This will not only make us healthy but much more economic. Imagine all the money and waste we could save by being warm in cold weathers. We save on gas and clothing, and further avoid all the pollution associated with producing energy and goods. We can save a lot of money on air conditioning as well, avoiding to build more power plants.
Furthermore, this technique will be handy, when we are lost and have to survive in the cold.
So let's give a standing ovation to this super human and let us encourage our scientists to figure out to better regulate our body temperature.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Lending cars to Uber drivers[2015/12/4]
Uber is launching a program where Uber lends cars to Uber drivers who do not have the cars that meet Uber's standards in a partnership with a rental car.
The idea is actually quite brilliant because it combines the underutilized labor and capital. People who want to make extra money but with no decent car can earn money and the rental car company also makes money.
From an efficiency point, this is wonderful. However, the cost $210 may be hmmm questionable. How did they come up with that amount? Also, shouldn't there be some differentiation. Just like insurance, good Uber drivers should get discounts.
The article does some calculations and shows that it is not a bad deal. I have not done the calculations but it does not look like a good deal.
However, let us remember that without this program, some people could not have ever made money using Uber. So overall, I do agree that this program has issues but in terms of efficiency, it is great. For drivers, just make sure that you do the math and it would be great if Uber could offer at least a range of expected profits like insurance companies. That would make the whole thing much better for Uber, drivers, rental companies, and consumers. Everyone wins ^^
The idea is actually quite brilliant because it combines the underutilized labor and capital. People who want to make extra money but with no decent car can earn money and the rental car company also makes money.
From an efficiency point, this is wonderful. However, the cost $210 may be hmmm questionable. How did they come up with that amount? Also, shouldn't there be some differentiation. Just like insurance, good Uber drivers should get discounts.
The article does some calculations and shows that it is not a bad deal. I have not done the calculations but it does not look like a good deal.
However, let us remember that without this program, some people could not have ever made money using Uber. So overall, I do agree that this program has issues but in terms of efficiency, it is great. For drivers, just make sure that you do the math and it would be great if Uber could offer at least a range of expected profits like insurance companies. That would make the whole thing much better for Uber, drivers, rental companies, and consumers. Everyone wins ^^
Friday, October 23, 2015
Tax man is heahhhh [2015/10/23]
Wow...it's been a while since an update.
Man, life has been busy and I had many excuses not to blog but now I am back.
Hopefully, I can have better content this time.
Just came across a Bloomberg article on local government trying to tax everything possible.
Amusement tax on Netflix? I guess Netflix does provide amusement...With this logic, I won't be surprised if the majority of digital content is taxed. I guess vine will be taxed too soon.
I get that there is a big funding gap in government but taxing is not the only tool. They
could cut some of the unnecessary expenses and start charging for services.
Or cut tax breaks.
For instance, tax breaks for movie productions cost more to tax payers and yet they are still around and increasing in California.
Oh, the irony.
Man, life has been busy and I had many excuses not to blog but now I am back.
Hopefully, I can have better content this time.
Just came across a Bloomberg article on local government trying to tax everything possible.
Amusement tax on Netflix? I guess Netflix does provide amusement...With this logic, I won't be surprised if the majority of digital content is taxed. I guess vine will be taxed too soon.
I get that there is a big funding gap in government but taxing is not the only tool. They
could cut some of the unnecessary expenses and start charging for services.
Or cut tax breaks.
For instance, tax breaks for movie productions cost more to tax payers and yet they are still around and increasing in California.
Oh, the irony.
Monday, August 17, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/8/11-2015/8/16]
Father, thank You for everything. We must always be thankful for Your grace and unending love. It is the hard times that we must seek You more and really rely on You.
Jesus, I am sort of facing pressure with work and all kind of stuff happening in my life. Lord, I pray that You have mercy on me and bless me. I know that You will always walk with me and protect me. Let me adore You more and truly worship You.
1. Thank You Jesus for Your love. Let us always rejoice in Your love.
2. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. I have completed so many tasks with Your help Father.
3. Thank You Jesus for the wonderful church. Let us be more united so we can do great things in Your name.
4. Thank You God for sending so many new souls to our church. Let us be more loving and serve them better.
5. Thank You Jesus for the gym. I missed working out. I am rebuilding wooohooo.
6. Thank You Lord for Chicago. Such a lovely city. Will definitely visit more ^^
7. Thank You Father for all Your insights. We do live in a wicked world. Father, let us never forget Your love and make sure that we love our neighbors and take care of the poor.
8. Thank You God for the great brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us never forget that together in You, nothing is impossible.
9. Thank You Jesus for all the freelancers. Father, I pray that they get good treatment and that they too develop more skills so that they can be more productive and serve You.
10. Jesus, we just want to thank You for everything.
Father, we love You. Let us live by Your will and not ours. Let us not be weak and egoistic but strong and loving in You. Let us live the life that You have planned for us :D
From Snapshot Serengeti
Jesus, I am sort of facing pressure with work and all kind of stuff happening in my life. Lord, I pray that You have mercy on me and bless me. I know that You will always walk with me and protect me. Let me adore You more and truly worship You.
1. Thank You Jesus for Your love. Let us always rejoice in Your love.
2. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. I have completed so many tasks with Your help Father.
3. Thank You Jesus for the wonderful church. Let us be more united so we can do great things in Your name.
4. Thank You God for sending so many new souls to our church. Let us be more loving and serve them better.
5. Thank You Jesus for the gym. I missed working out. I am rebuilding wooohooo.
6. Thank You Lord for Chicago. Such a lovely city. Will definitely visit more ^^
7. Thank You Father for all Your insights. We do live in a wicked world. Father, let us never forget Your love and make sure that we love our neighbors and take care of the poor.
8. Thank You God for the great brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us never forget that together in You, nothing is impossible.
9. Thank You Jesus for all the freelancers. Father, I pray that they get good treatment and that they too develop more skills so that they can be more productive and serve You.
10. Jesus, we just want to thank You for everything.
Father, we love You. Let us live by Your will and not ours. Let us not be weak and egoistic but strong and loving in You. Let us live the life that You have planned for us :D
From Snapshot Serengeti
Monday, August 10, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/8/2]-[2015/8/10]
Thank You Lord for all Your love. Let us never forget how much You love us. Father, always be with us and lets love You and our neighbors more.
1. Thank You Jesus for Your wisdom. Through Your wisdom, I see more wickedness and I realize that we must really serve and pray more. Father, please continue to pour down Your wisdom on us.
2. Thank You Lord for my car. I can give rides and go to places. Let me be more thankful.
3. Thank You Father for my family. They are so loving. Lord, I pray that our family becomes a family believers united in You.
4. Thank You Jesus for my laptop. Yes, I love it. I can do work and also surf the internet.
5. Thank You God for great fellowship. I know that You have great plans for our church. Let us be more united and do great things for Your glory.
6. Thank You Jesus for credit cards. So convenient ^^
7. Thank You God for great food. I am eating very well these days :D
8. Thank You Jesus for WilFit. It is so good to be working out again. I should have started earlier.
9. Thank You Lord for the great books. I am learning so much.
10. Thank You Jesus for making me abandon bad habits. I have cut down the time watching YouTube and cartoons :D
Lord, we just want to thank You for everything. Let us focus more on You and You alone. Father, touch our hearts, so we can serve and love more. Use us for Your glory. We love You Jesus :D
*From Floating Forest
1. Thank You Jesus for Your wisdom. Through Your wisdom, I see more wickedness and I realize that we must really serve and pray more. Father, please continue to pour down Your wisdom on us.
2. Thank You Lord for my car. I can give rides and go to places. Let me be more thankful.
3. Thank You Father for my family. They are so loving. Lord, I pray that our family becomes a family believers united in You.
4. Thank You Jesus for my laptop. Yes, I love it. I can do work and also surf the internet.
5. Thank You God for great fellowship. I know that You have great plans for our church. Let us be more united and do great things for Your glory.
6. Thank You Jesus for credit cards. So convenient ^^
7. Thank You God for great food. I am eating very well these days :D
8. Thank You Jesus for WilFit. It is so good to be working out again. I should have started earlier.
9. Thank You Lord for the great books. I am learning so much.
10. Thank You Jesus for making me abandon bad habits. I have cut down the time watching YouTube and cartoons :D
Lord, we just want to thank You for everything. Let us focus more on You and You alone. Father, touch our hearts, so we can serve and love more. Use us for Your glory. We love You Jesus :D
*From Floating Forest
Sunday, August 2, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/7/29-2015/8/1]
Father, thank You so much for everything. Let us never forget to thank You and praise You. Lord, we often complain too much and forget all the blessings that You have given us. Jesus, let us never forget Your blessings and always praise You.
1. Thank You Father for everything. Let us always be thankful and praise You.
2. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. Thank You so much letting me see and realize many things. Jesus, let us always obey Your laws.
3. Thank You Jesus for internet. Yes, it is fun but also makes the world go around.
4. Thank You God for Kakao. So easy to communicate and call my parents.
5. Thank You Jesus for my new external hard drive. It looks quite cool. Thank you for backing up my data.
6. Thank You Lord for Kindle. Love reading ^^
7. Thank You Jesus for the nice rides and parking. I almost feel like that I don't live in LA.
8. Thank You Lord for Craigslist. One nice source to look for housing and other stuff.
9. Thank You Father for Amazon. Wow, really great service.
10. Thank You God for giving me a healthy body. Always amazed to see my hands move and always happy to wake up everyday to praise You :D
Jesus, thank You for everything. We await Your return and we will train and work hard until Your return. Lord, let us be more loving. Let us spread Your love so all nations can praise You.
From Floating Forests
1. Thank You Father for everything. Let us always be thankful and praise You.
2. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. Thank You so much letting me see and realize many things. Jesus, let us always obey Your laws.
3. Thank You Jesus for internet. Yes, it is fun but also makes the world go around.
4. Thank You God for Kakao. So easy to communicate and call my parents.
5. Thank You Jesus for my new external hard drive. It looks quite cool. Thank you for backing up my data.
6. Thank You Lord for Kindle. Love reading ^^
7. Thank You Jesus for the nice rides and parking. I almost feel like that I don't live in LA.
8. Thank You Lord for Craigslist. One nice source to look for housing and other stuff.
9. Thank You Father for Amazon. Wow, really great service.
10. Thank You God for giving me a healthy body. Always amazed to see my hands move and always happy to wake up everyday to praise You :D
Jesus, thank You for everything. We await Your return and we will train and work hard until Your return. Lord, let us be more loving. Let us spread Your love so all nations can praise You.
From Floating Forests
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/7/24-2015/7/28]
Jesus, we just to praise You. Thank You for being such a loving and faithful God. Lord, let us always remember Your love and share that love with all nations.
1. Thank You Father for Your wisdom. I have been working very productively. Also, I have learned that I did many stupid things...thank You for making me learn and correct inefficient ways.
2. Thank You Jesus for filling me with holiness. I have sinned but the fire of holiness, I feel it inside of me, growing everyday. Lord, let us be more holy.
3. Thank You God for internet. Today, I lost wifi for a while and realize how much we depend on the internet.
4. Thank You Jesus for electricity. Today, I also lost power. And I couldn't do much except read and sleep. Well, that was pleasant. But Lord thank You for giving us electricity that makes our lives much more comfortable.
5. Thank You Jesus for a nice drive and parking. It feels like I don't live in LA sometimes. Thank You again for this great blessing, specially in LA.
6. Thank You Father for good chat. I had a good chat with my roommate and also my friend. Father, please be with us when we share so we can console each other and set our hearts on You.
7. Thank You God for my blog. Yes, I have missed so many posts due to work but at least it reminds me that I should keep thinking, writing, and sharing :D
8. Thank You Lord for Your Word. Let us read it more and have it on our hearts. It is a blessing to know You and praise You, Jesus.
Father, we just want to thank You for everything. Let us never lose sight of You. Let us be more loving and humble. Please touch our hearts
From Floating Forests
1. Thank You Father for Your wisdom. I have been working very productively. Also, I have learned that I did many stupid things...thank You for making me learn and correct inefficient ways.
2. Thank You Jesus for filling me with holiness. I have sinned but the fire of holiness, I feel it inside of me, growing everyday. Lord, let us be more holy.
3. Thank You God for internet. Today, I lost wifi for a while and realize how much we depend on the internet.
4. Thank You Jesus for electricity. Today, I also lost power. And I couldn't do much except read and sleep. Well, that was pleasant. But Lord thank You for giving us electricity that makes our lives much more comfortable.
5. Thank You Jesus for a nice drive and parking. It feels like I don't live in LA sometimes. Thank You again for this great blessing, specially in LA.
6. Thank You Father for good chat. I had a good chat with my roommate and also my friend. Father, please be with us when we share so we can console each other and set our hearts on You.
7. Thank You God for my blog. Yes, I have missed so many posts due to work but at least it reminds me that I should keep thinking, writing, and sharing :D
8. Thank You Lord for Your Word. Let us read it more and have it on our hearts. It is a blessing to know You and praise You, Jesus.
Father, we just want to thank You for everything. Let us never lose sight of You. Let us be more loving and humble. Please touch our hearts
From Floating Forests
Saturday, July 25, 2015
Realtor movies [2015/7/24]
Apparently, upscale realtors are making movies to market their real estate listings.
I am not sure if it is worth the money but definitely gets the attention. Also, it gives ideas
for the potential buyer on how to use the place. I applaud the realtor's innovative
strategy. May be the realtor could have made more realistic videos such as a butler
showing how the house can be used rather than just women showing lot of skin. Also,
realtors can have people give a tour virtually using a go pro.
PS
At least models and actors can have another source of income :D
From Snapshot Serengeti
Friday, July 24, 2015
McDonald goes upscale [2015/7/24]
McDonald's Japan is providing fancy meal. Wow, really? I guess it is a good publicity/
marketing stunt but if they are trying turn McDonald into an upscale restaurant then we
should really have a new management. There is a difference between being bold and
innovative and just plain suicidal. I admire McDonald's operational prowess and I also
like Big Mac but hmmm...recent moves about becoming upscale...well, they are hopefully
experimental. I think McDonald can become lot better by creating better hamburgers
and having healthier options. Let's start with making the actual burger look more closer
to the ones shown in the commercials :D
From Floating Forests
marketing stunt but if they are trying turn McDonald into an upscale restaurant then we
should really have a new management. There is a difference between being bold and
innovative and just plain suicidal. I admire McDonald's operational prowess and I also
like Big Mac but hmmm...recent moves about becoming upscale...well, they are hopefully
experimental. I think McDonald can become lot better by creating better hamburgers
and having healthier options. Let's start with making the actual burger look more closer
to the ones shown in the commercials :D
From Floating Forests
Give Thanks [2015/7/20-2015/7/23]
Let us always exalt You. Let us praise You in all circumstances. Father, thank You so much for everything.
1. Thank You Lord for another productive day. Father, please give us more wisdom so we can glorify You more.
2. Thank You Jesus for giving a heart to repent. Lord, we are such sinner but Your grace covers all sins. Let us be more holy everyday.
3. Thank You Jesus for Costco. Great prices and quality.
4. Thank You Lord for nice drive and parking. Wow...I almost forgot that I lived in LA. Thank You Father.
5. Thank You for all Your blessings and Your love. We are so weak and idiotic. Yet You love us so much.
6. Thank You Jesus for teaching the right ways to worship You. I am too naive and I don't often understand what You try to teach us. Yet You enlighten us. Let us gather wisdom from You so we can more intimate with You Lord.
7. Thank God for Mozzarella and smoked salmon. So Yummy.
Father, let us never stop being cheerful and thankful. I have sinned a lot these days and I know that it is due to my iniquity but Lord please bless me so I can pass the tests. Lord, let us always praise You. We love You Jesus.
From Floating Forests
1. Thank You Lord for another productive day. Father, please give us more wisdom so we can glorify You more.
2. Thank You Jesus for giving a heart to repent. Lord, we are such sinner but Your grace covers all sins. Let us be more holy everyday.
3. Thank You Jesus for Costco. Great prices and quality.
4. Thank You Lord for nice drive and parking. Wow...I almost forgot that I lived in LA. Thank You Father.
5. Thank You for all Your blessings and Your love. We are so weak and idiotic. Yet You love us so much.
6. Thank You Jesus for teaching the right ways to worship You. I am too naive and I don't often understand what You try to teach us. Yet You enlighten us. Let us gather wisdom from You so we can more intimate with You Lord.
7. Thank God for Mozzarella and smoked salmon. So Yummy.
Father, let us never stop being cheerful and thankful. I have sinned a lot these days and I know that it is due to my iniquity but Lord please bless me so I can pass the tests. Lord, let us always praise You. We love You Jesus.
From Floating Forests
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/7/19]
Jesus, it is a blessing to know You Lord. Father, even in the darkest times, please be with us. We cannot live without You. Lord, discipline us but do not forsake us. Let us always be with You.
1. Thank You Lord for the wonderful worship. Let us get to know You more and enjoy Your presence more.
2. Thank You Father for the lovely brothers and sisters in Christ. We are different but in You we are one. Father, let us love one another more.
3. Thank You Jesus for Kindle. I love reading. Please give me more time to read ^^
4. Thank You God for my computer who works a lot. I promise that I will buy a new desktop when I have the funds :D Thank You Desktop ^^
5. Thank You Jesus for LA. It has nice weather and it is a land that needs You. Father, let us be the salt and the light of this world.
6. Thank You Jesus for Your wisdom. Please give us more wisdom so we can be more humble and loving.
7. Thank You God for everything. Let us always be more thankful and praise Your name.
Lord, we just want to thank You for Your grace. Let us always be more thankful daily. Let us thank You for everything. Father, we love You and we pray in Your Name, Amen.
From Penguin Watch
1. Thank You Lord for the wonderful worship. Let us get to know You more and enjoy Your presence more.
2. Thank You Father for the lovely brothers and sisters in Christ. We are different but in You we are one. Father, let us love one another more.
3. Thank You Jesus for Kindle. I love reading. Please give me more time to read ^^
4. Thank You God for my computer who works a lot. I promise that I will buy a new desktop when I have the funds :D Thank You Desktop ^^
5. Thank You Jesus for LA. It has nice weather and it is a land that needs You. Father, let us be the salt and the light of this world.
6. Thank You Jesus for Your wisdom. Please give us more wisdom so we can be more humble and loving.
7. Thank You God for everything. Let us always be more thankful and praise Your name.
Lord, we just want to thank You for Your grace. Let us always be more thankful daily. Let us thank You for everything. Father, we love You and we pray in Your Name, Amen.
From Penguin Watch
Monday, July 20, 2015
Vatican's 1 Billion Euro Off Balance Sheet [2015/7/19]
I was quite disturbed that Vatican had more than 1 billion Euros off books. Of course,
there is nothing wrong with off balance sheet items if they are used for legitimate reasons (Not Enron).
But this is the Vatican, where it is arguably ruled by people with very high morals. Anything
that raises hint of doubt or insinuation about questionable behavior should not have been tolerated.
After all, modern accounting was founded by Luca Pacioli, a monk, and early ledgers
always contained religious formulas such as "in the name of the Holy Trinity" or in the
"Name of God and Profit."
Hence, given the holy roots of modern accounting, Vatican's off balance sheet behavior
is quite shocking. Well, the mess is supposedly cleaned up but I hope that the Vatican
sets an example, after all the new pope Francis does seem to be more active in political
and economics.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Sunday, July 19, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/7/17]
Jesus, we praise You for Your glory. We are very weak but through Your grace, we have been revitalized. Lord, let us always reside in You :D
1. Thank You Jesus for Coke. Yes, I like soda time to time :D
2. Thank You Lord for giving me the opportunity to learn so much about IPOs. I will do good research and also make money ^^
3. Thank You Father for air conditioner. It's getting in hot in LA.
4. Thank You Lord for credit cards. I can't believe I have so many, all of them providing good rewards.
5. Thank You Jesus for great fellowship. Let us become more united by being vulnerable and encouraging one another.
6. Thank You God for Stata. Yes, Stata, you feed me.
7. Thank Your Lord for Amazon. Such good recommendations. Unfortunately, I am broke and need to save.
8. Thank You Father for coffee. Love the taste, smell, and texture. Just need some good chocolate and biscuits ^^
Thank You Lord for being such an awesome God. Let us always dwell in You and worship You alone.
From Penguin Watch
1. Thank You Jesus for Coke. Yes, I like soda time to time :D
2. Thank You Lord for giving me the opportunity to learn so much about IPOs. I will do good research and also make money ^^
3. Thank You Father for air conditioner. It's getting in hot in LA.
4. Thank You Lord for credit cards. I can't believe I have so many, all of them providing good rewards.
5. Thank You Jesus for great fellowship. Let us become more united by being vulnerable and encouraging one another.
6. Thank You God for Stata. Yes, Stata, you feed me.
7. Thank Your Lord for Amazon. Such good recommendations. Unfortunately, I am broke and need to save.
8. Thank You Father for coffee. Love the taste, smell, and texture. Just need some good chocolate and biscuits ^^
Thank You Lord for being such an awesome God. Let us always dwell in You and worship You alone.
From Penguin Watch
Give Thanks [2015/7/18]
Father, thank You for Your love and blessings. Let us never forget that You have saved us from death and that Your grace is enough. Let us never stop praising You Lord. We love You Jesus and we thank You for everything.
1. Thank You Lord for McDonalds. Yes, the food is not so good but it is good for the price.
2. Thank You Father for Google. It's so much faster to search coding problems than search a book hee hee.
3. Thank You Jesus for a very productive day. I did not check my email, and did not watch much YouTube and I got lot of things done.
4. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. You have been so generous with Your wisdom, let us pray more for Your wisdom.
5. Thank You God for a pleasant walk after the rain. So nice to smell the earth and the grass.
6. Thank You Father for electricity. Man...without electricity, hmmm...well I would read books :D
7. Thank You Lord for making me learn so much about IPOs. It is a brave new world.
Lord, let us be more thankful. And let us never forget that You love us and that You want us to spread that love to all nations.
From Penguin Watch
1. Thank You Lord for McDonalds. Yes, the food is not so good but it is good for the price.
2. Thank You Father for Google. It's so much faster to search coding problems than search a book hee hee.
3. Thank You Jesus for a very productive day. I did not check my email, and did not watch much YouTube and I got lot of things done.
4. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. You have been so generous with Your wisdom, let us pray more for Your wisdom.
5. Thank You God for a pleasant walk after the rain. So nice to smell the earth and the grass.
6. Thank You Father for electricity. Man...without electricity, hmmm...well I would read books :D
7. Thank You Lord for making me learn so much about IPOs. It is a brave new world.
Lord, let us be more thankful. And let us never forget that You love us and that You want us to spread that love to all nations.
From Penguin Watch
Friday, July 17, 2015
Education vs. Degree [2015/7/16]
The post from Mises Institute makes excellent points about how student loans work as
subsidies that create useless degrees, creating lot of waste. People often confound
between education and a degree. An education is when you learn something and a
degree is when you fulfill certain requirements and get an acknowledgement/ certification
for the completion of the requirements.
Thus, a degree does not necessarily lead to more education.
In fact, I have seen more useless degrees that rob people's money and
opportunity. People do not often realize that the cost of a degree is not only the tuition
but all the other cool things you could have done if you did not go to school. In addition,
people magically think that degrees will open doors and boost one's income. This is not
really the case. Many degrees are not really worth the money. Forbes just ran a quick
video showing the best and worst master degrees. Of course, one cannot value the
worth of a degree just by income but your degree is just a hobby or intellectual curiosity
when you cannot really afford it then you should think twice.
People need to wake up and realize that degrees are not the answer. The answer is
knowledge and wisdom. The good thing is that you don't have to spend a fortune to
gain knowledge and wisdom. We have the internet! It is filled with information
(just google, wikipedia, youtube) and it is cheap. Plus, now we have the great MOOCs
(Coursera, edX, Udacity). There is a plethora of good information on the web. You can
even ask questions on Quora if you have questions. You can also get tutoring service
from many online tutoring websites. The point is that you don't have to have to get a
degree to gain knowledge and wisdom and have a more fulfilling life.
At this point, someone always asks but I need to signal my abilities and the best way to
do it is to get a degree. Well, in some cases yes, but in this digital age, you
can show your skills online. You can create blog showing your artwork, data analysis
skills, whatever you are good at. If you are a good cook, you can upload your cooking
videos. You can also participate in competitions such as Kaggle and show your quant
skills. Of course, shining in the internet is like trying to stand out in Noah's flood but
it is possible and has been done by many. You just have learn every day and work hard.
So before you decide to go get a degree, see what can you learn and do without going
to school. You will realize a lot!
From Snapshot Serengeti
subsidies that create useless degrees, creating lot of waste. People often confound
between education and a degree. An education is when you learn something and a
degree is when you fulfill certain requirements and get an acknowledgement/ certification
for the completion of the requirements.
Thus, a degree does not necessarily lead to more education.
In fact, I have seen more useless degrees that rob people's money and
opportunity. People do not often realize that the cost of a degree is not only the tuition
but all the other cool things you could have done if you did not go to school. In addition,
people magically think that degrees will open doors and boost one's income. This is not
really the case. Many degrees are not really worth the money. Forbes just ran a quick
video showing the best and worst master degrees. Of course, one cannot value the
worth of a degree just by income but your degree is just a hobby or intellectual curiosity
when you cannot really afford it then you should think twice.
People need to wake up and realize that degrees are not the answer. The answer is
knowledge and wisdom. The good thing is that you don't have to spend a fortune to
gain knowledge and wisdom. We have the internet! It is filled with information
(just google, wikipedia, youtube) and it is cheap. Plus, now we have the great MOOCs
(Coursera, edX, Udacity). There is a plethora of good information on the web. You can
even ask questions on Quora if you have questions. You can also get tutoring service
from many online tutoring websites. The point is that you don't have to have to get a
degree to gain knowledge and wisdom and have a more fulfilling life.
At this point, someone always asks but I need to signal my abilities and the best way to
do it is to get a degree. Well, in some cases yes, but in this digital age, you
can show your skills online. You can create blog showing your artwork, data analysis
skills, whatever you are good at. If you are a good cook, you can upload your cooking
videos. You can also participate in competitions such as Kaggle and show your quant
skills. Of course, shining in the internet is like trying to stand out in Noah's flood but
it is possible and has been done by many. You just have learn every day and work hard.
So before you decide to go get a degree, see what can you learn and do without going
to school. You will realize a lot!
From Snapshot Serengeti
Give Thanks [2015/7/16]
1. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. I am amazed how I am able to handle some coding issues. I am becoming a research machine. Thank You Jesus.
2. Thank You Father for our health. There is so much sickness and pain but thanks to Your love, we are very healthy. Father, let us always be healthy so we can serve You more.
3. Thank You Father for Kindle. I left at church for one day and I missed it the whole day. I love reading.
4. Thank You Lord for the bible. Whenever I am stressed, I read Your Word and realize how much You love us. I also realize how prophets and disciplines won tests and trials, further glorifying You. Thank You Lord.
5. Thank You Jesus for fried rice. I always loved fried rice but I had stop eating for a while but today's lunch was absolutely delicious :D
6. Thank You Father for giving me the wisdom to discern. I realize that many things are vain and evil. Lord, thank You for giving me discernment so I can serve You better and love others more.
7. Thank You Lord for my hourglass. Makes sure that I focus and stand up and exercise every 25 minutes :D
8. Thank You God for Elevate. Love playing those games.
Thank You Jesus for all Your blessings. I feel so blessed. Let us always seek You first and work continuously for Your kingdom.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/7/15]
Father, let us always be thankful and full of joy. Let us rejoice even when we are tired and stressed. You gave us so much. Let us never forget Your love but share with all nations.
1. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. Let us always be humble and only rely on Your wisdom.
2. Thank You Lord for our daily bread. Thank You for generous blessings :D
3. Thank You Father for my computer. It is really working hard these days. Also, external HD, you are the MVP.
4. Thank You Jesus for great fellowship. Father, let us be united and love another more.
5. Thank You God for the smart phone. It is great to listen to podcasts and play Elevate.
6. Thank You Lord for blogger. Yes, my blog is still not so developed but I enjoy writing posts.
7. Thank You Father for water. Let us not forget that LA is a desert....thank You Father.
Thank You Jesus for all Your blessings. Let us always be thankful and more loving.
From Snapshot Serengeti
1. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom. Let us always be humble and only rely on Your wisdom.
2. Thank You Lord for our daily bread. Thank You for generous blessings :D
3. Thank You Father for my computer. It is really working hard these days. Also, external HD, you are the MVP.
4. Thank You Jesus for great fellowship. Father, let us be united and love another more.
5. Thank You God for the smart phone. It is great to listen to podcasts and play Elevate.
6. Thank You Lord for blogger. Yes, my blog is still not so developed but I enjoy writing posts.
7. Thank You Father for water. Let us not forget that LA is a desert....thank You Father.
Thank You Jesus for all Your blessings. Let us always be thankful and more loving.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Greeeeceee [2015/7/15]
I am not a Greek expert but I highly doubt that Greece can repay back its debt so what
are the options?
According to a Bloomberg article, Greece can either have the debt restructured, haircut,
or devalue its currency.
I believe that debt restructuring and haircut should happen because Greece cannot
simply pay back the money and the IMF agrees and EU knows. However, the debt
restructuring should be conditional on making reforms and making achieving milestones.
I pray that the Greek people can put their act together instead of protesting because
that will only make things worse. Burning and destroying does not add to GDP...
Devaluing currency is a possibility but it is uncertain whether it will work. Yes, it will make
Greece more competitive but also broke....
So how do we solve this problem? Well, the best case scenario is that Greece sells some
unnecessary assets and increases productivity, which seems quite far away right now.
But given that Greeks are smart and accomplished (Yes, western civilization advanced
there the most), I am sure they will figure it out. At the mean time, we can
help by going on vacation to Greece and also mentoring Greeks who are willing to push it
through.
From Snapshot Serengeti
are the options?
According to a Bloomberg article, Greece can either have the debt restructured, haircut,
or devalue its currency.
I believe that debt restructuring and haircut should happen because Greece cannot
simply pay back the money and the IMF agrees and EU knows. However, the debt
restructuring should be conditional on making reforms and making achieving milestones.
I pray that the Greek people can put their act together instead of protesting because
that will only make things worse. Burning and destroying does not add to GDP...
Devaluing currency is a possibility but it is uncertain whether it will work. Yes, it will make
Greece more competitive but also broke....
So how do we solve this problem? Well, the best case scenario is that Greece sells some
unnecessary assets and increases productivity, which seems quite far away right now.
But given that Greeks are smart and accomplished (Yes, western civilization advanced
there the most), I am sure they will figure it out. At the mean time, we can
help by going on vacation to Greece and also mentoring Greeks who are willing to push it
through.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Stopping What I have learned today... [2015/7/14]
I am sad to announce that I will be stopping "What I have learned today" given the lack of time that I have to write something meaningful and entertaining....
Well, it wasn't so meaningful and entertaining but still with my lack of time, the quality
seemed to go down....So rather than put up forced posts, I have decided to rest a the
series for a while until I have some more time to think and write better.
Yes, other series are on a limbo and I will fix that too with time...For now, I will just
write about one topic with more depth. I really I wish could do more analysis but for now
it'll be like a Big Mac, definitely not great but gives enough calories and economic.
So my posts will be short and sweet, hopefully. I look forward to writing more in-depth and detailed pieces in the future :D
From Penguin Watch
Well, it wasn't so meaningful and entertaining but still with my lack of time, the quality
seemed to go down....So rather than put up forced posts, I have decided to rest a the
series for a while until I have some more time to think and write better.
Yes, other series are on a limbo and I will fix that too with time...For now, I will just
write about one topic with more depth. I really I wish could do more analysis but for now
it'll be like a Big Mac, definitely not great but gives enough calories and economic.
So my posts will be short and sweet, hopefully. I look forward to writing more in-depth and detailed pieces in the future :D
From Penguin Watch
Give Thanks [2015/7/10-2015/7/14]
Father, thank You for all Your blessings. I have been quite busy and have not had time to thank You enough. Let me always thank You first and be thankful in all circumstances.
1. Father, thank You for everything. Let me be always thankful and praise You.
2. Jesus, thank You for Your wisdom. Every time I was stuck and stressed about
research, you gave me wisdom to handle the issue. Please bless us with more wisdom
so we can glorify You.
3. Lord, thank You for helping me repent. Father, I have been tempted and I fell. But
thank You God for making me repent and get up again. You are such a loving God and
we love You.
4. Thank You Jesus for Kindle. I am reading more now and I hope to read more. I want to finish one book at least every ten days.
5. Thank You Lord for Upwork. It really helps my research and I look forward to building great data bases.
6. Thank You Father for the bible. Let us always read the bible and obey Your Word. Let us be more loving.
7. Father, thank You for giving me the ability to play the guitar. Yes, I am not good but the fact that I can make sounds is just amazing and such a blessing.
8. Jesus, thank You for my loving family. I pray that we become a family of faith and serve all nations.
9. Jesus, thank You for our wonderful church. Let us unite and glorify You.
10. Father, thank You for excel because I do get a lot of work done with excel :D
Jesus, we just want to thank You for all Your blessings. Let us love You more everyday. Let us truly love and serve our neighbors. Father, be with us so we can further Your Kingdom and give glory to You.
From Penguin Watch
1. Father, thank You for everything. Let me be always thankful and praise You.
2. Jesus, thank You for Your wisdom. Every time I was stuck and stressed about
research, you gave me wisdom to handle the issue. Please bless us with more wisdom
so we can glorify You.
3. Lord, thank You for helping me repent. Father, I have been tempted and I fell. But
thank You God for making me repent and get up again. You are such a loving God and
we love You.
4. Thank You Jesus for Kindle. I am reading more now and I hope to read more. I want to finish one book at least every ten days.
5. Thank You Lord for Upwork. It really helps my research and I look forward to building great data bases.
6. Thank You Father for the bible. Let us always read the bible and obey Your Word. Let us be more loving.
7. Father, thank You for giving me the ability to play the guitar. Yes, I am not good but the fact that I can make sounds is just amazing and such a blessing.
8. Jesus, thank You for my loving family. I pray that we become a family of faith and serve all nations.
9. Jesus, thank You for our wonderful church. Let us unite and glorify You.
10. Father, thank You for excel because I do get a lot of work done with excel :D
Jesus, we just want to thank You for all Your blessings. Let us love You more everyday. Let us truly love and serve our neighbors. Father, be with us so we can further Your Kingdom and give glory to You.
From Penguin Watch
Greece Crisis Updated [2015/7/13]
Greece and EU finally agreed to a bailout, where Greece will literally lose more through asset sales and having constant monitoring.
It is definitely an unfair deal but the reforms should have happened in 2010...and has not
even after five years later....
Yet the Greek cannot stop blaming EU. No one forced Greece to borrow money. Also
that money was spent on generous compensation for government workers and pension.
Yet the Greek blame on the creditors. I don't expect things to change until
Greece admits that they have overspent and now have to build itself again.
No matter how much the Greeks deny, the fact that they got generous pension
and compensation cannot be denied. Also, nobody said anything about an
incompetent government which did not even account for its expenditures...
After many years of neglect and abuse, we have today's Greece.
It is now up to the Greeks to start working harder, pay taxes, and obey the rules.
Also, time to promote entrepreneurship so the inefficiencies can be eliminated at a faster
rate.
Here are some practical suggestions that could help Greece.
1. Tourism. Well, time to attract more tourists. Lot of Chinese and Indians traveling these days. Having less protests, definitely attracts more tourists.
2. Freelancing. Lot of Greeks speak English, they can earn money through freelancing at upwork.
3. Modernize agriculture. Greece could use more advanced farming techniques to increase productivity.
4. Artifacts for sale. Greece has lot of artifacts. They can auction the artifacts and raise more money.
From Penguin Watch
It is definitely an unfair deal but the reforms should have happened in 2010...and has not
even after five years later....
Yet the Greek cannot stop blaming EU. No one forced Greece to borrow money. Also
that money was spent on generous compensation for government workers and pension.
Yet the Greek blame on the creditors. I don't expect things to change until
Greece admits that they have overspent and now have to build itself again.
No matter how much the Greeks deny, the fact that they got generous pension
and compensation cannot be denied. Also, nobody said anything about an
incompetent government which did not even account for its expenditures...
After many years of neglect and abuse, we have today's Greece.
It is now up to the Greeks to start working harder, pay taxes, and obey the rules.
Also, time to promote entrepreneurship so the inefficiencies can be eliminated at a faster
rate.
Here are some practical suggestions that could help Greece.
1. Tourism. Well, time to attract more tourists. Lot of Chinese and Indians traveling these days. Having less protests, definitely attracts more tourists.
2. Freelancing. Lot of Greeks speak English, they can earn money through freelancing at upwork.
3. Modernize agriculture. Greece could use more advanced farming techniques to increase productivity.
4. Artifacts for sale. Greece has lot of artifacts. They can auction the artifacts and raise more money.
From Penguin Watch
Monday, July 13, 2015
About becoming a nomad [2015/7/14]
I have started reading Medium and I like it. It definitely has better content than most blogs or news.
So few days ago, I ran across an article about living a nomadic life, traveling around and doing what you want.
Personally, I like the article and I recommend all of my friends and others to travel as much as possible and see the world so that they can expand their thoughts.
However, living a nomad life style is actually quite hard and there are downsides.
First, it is stressful. It looks fun but you have to plan a lot and be very disciplined. One bad move and you will be without your wallet and passport, specially in developing nations. Also, you may be too focused on having fun that you forget to work and run into a deficit. Trust me, it is cheap abroad but not free...Also, the stress is compounded when you have to adapt to a new place every time. Yes, you will be more experienced but still adaptation is not instant and takes time and effort.
Second, security concerns. Some places are outright violent and dangerous. Other places have hygiene issues. Also, your money is not safe. Lot of times, you have to cash in your hands. Yup, keeping money safe is not as easy as it sounds.
Third, loneliness and loss of connection. Making new friends is fun and mingling with strangers is definitely good. But as humans we need to strong connections and a support network. This strong ties are not usually available when you lead a nomadic life. Of course, modern technology such as Skype and Whatsapp can help but they don't substitute for human touch and being home.
Fourth, traveling itself can become the end. There are people who travel because they are obsessed with checking of places that they have been. Instead of having fulfilling lives, their lives are dictated by either impressing themselves or others. They feel the pressure to do things rather than enjoying. Many travelers confess of such sins. Pushing themselves to see and do everything in one site, making them stressed and even ill. So it is important not to forget the purpose, living a fuller life not checking off a list.
Finally, nomadic life can make you less responsible and less adaptive. This sounds very counterintuitive but it is often true when one has an exit option. Some individuals will just simply leave the place if they see issues. Instead of trying to solve the issue, they will just walk away. They just say, "Fine. I'll just go to another place." For instance, if there has been a dispute with a community or a colleague, instead of trying to work out, they will tell themselves, "Nah, I'll leave in three month. So whatever." Such behavior can lead to irresponsibility and actually make one less adaptive. This is a very sad yet real situation that happens. And this is what might have happened to your expat uncle or friend. They have great stories but yet they seem to be quite immature and cannot deal with issues quite well...
So should we not lead nomadic lives? No, no. I am not against nomadic life but just giving the potential risks so individuals can be better prepared. I think traveling, seeing the world, and nomadic life is good for most people for a few years, specially if they can avoid the downfalls mentioned above. Just be prepared and happy travels :D
From Snapshot Serengeti
Improving Corporate Culture [2015/7/12]
Just read a short and simple post about improving corporate culture.
Here are my thoughts to each point.
1. Actually lead by example. This one is valid. Lot of bosses try to manipulate rather than lead.
2. Celebrate the small victories. Yes, this also makes sense. Step-by-step. Also, boosts the moral of the workers.
3. Don't hire everyone. Yes, don't hire inconsiderate and borderline psychotic people. This one is specially important because one toxic guy can ruin the party.
4. Real Life Meetings. Personally, most meetings are waste of time...and can be done by email....
Overall, the post is short and sweet but here are some issues to think about.
Leading by example, why does it fail? Often leaders are not real leaders but are in that for some other reasons. For instance, the prior leader was so bad that the next one could not be worse.
Don't hire everyone. Ok...sometimes you have to make trade-offs between skills and personality, just look at Steve Jobs.
Meetings...Number one complaint of workers...useless meetings.
Finally, everyone firm and organization is different, so don't try to apply everything you
read from books and hear from consultants. Because if you do, you will have certain
failure. Be wise and experiment :D
From Snapshot Serengeti
Here are my thoughts to each point.
1. Actually lead by example. This one is valid. Lot of bosses try to manipulate rather than lead.
2. Celebrate the small victories. Yes, this also makes sense. Step-by-step. Also, boosts the moral of the workers.
3. Don't hire everyone. Yes, don't hire inconsiderate and borderline psychotic people. This one is specially important because one toxic guy can ruin the party.
4. Real Life Meetings. Personally, most meetings are waste of time...and can be done by email....
Overall, the post is short and sweet but here are some issues to think about.
Leading by example, why does it fail? Often leaders are not real leaders but are in that for some other reasons. For instance, the prior leader was so bad that the next one could not be worse.
Don't hire everyone. Ok...sometimes you have to make trade-offs between skills and personality, just look at Steve Jobs.
Meetings...Number one complaint of workers...useless meetings.
Finally, everyone firm and organization is different, so don't try to apply everything you
read from books and hear from consultants. Because if you do, you will have certain
failure. Be wise and experiment :D
From Snapshot Serengeti
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Cheaper Airline [2015/7/11]
So a concept of space maximizing plane seats has been introduced. Basically, the
plane saves space and weight by having passengers seat in zig-zag form, making them look at each other.
Ohhh... how uncomfortable. Well...it is but if it means cheaper flights, I am all for it. Heck,
for a short trip, I think it's definitely worth it.
Also, I am willing to weigh myself to pay less. Why not?
I think more choices for passengers is great for aviation. Lower cost of flying, more
mobility, more interactions, more creativity and learning. The increased choice for
cheaper flight increases the utility of the passengers who want to fly cheaply.
Would I always want the cheapest flight possible? Not always, I don't go on United Airlines
after they made a mess with my luggage and provided really awful customer service.
But still given reasonable quality, I would not mind cheaper flights with less comfort. The
money saved can be used to help the poor, invested, or be used for more interesting
uses.
So let us not complain about cost cutting measures. If you want better service then just
be sure that you are ready to pay for it ^^
From Snapshot Serengeti
plane saves space and weight by having passengers seat in zig-zag form, making them look at each other.
Ohhh... how uncomfortable. Well...it is but if it means cheaper flights, I am all for it. Heck,
for a short trip, I think it's definitely worth it.
Also, I am willing to weigh myself to pay less. Why not?
I think more choices for passengers is great for aviation. Lower cost of flying, more
mobility, more interactions, more creativity and learning. The increased choice for
cheaper flight increases the utility of the passengers who want to fly cheaply.
Would I always want the cheapest flight possible? Not always, I don't go on United Airlines
after they made a mess with my luggage and provided really awful customer service.
But still given reasonable quality, I would not mind cheaper flights with less comfort. The
money saved can be used to help the poor, invested, or be used for more interesting
uses.
So let us not complain about cost cutting measures. If you want better service then just
be sure that you are ready to pay for it ^^
From Snapshot Serengeti
Thoughts about Pot Uber [2015/7/11]
Ok...now we have on demand weed delivery services.
Well...it does make the streets safer because you will not have to go to dangerous
places or meet dangerous people to buy weed. It will also lower the pot price on the
streets, decreasing criminal funding.
Yet...I am just amazed how people still want to do drugs and want it to do so
comfortably. I do not deny certain beneficial aspects of marijuana but I still don't
understand why people want to do so much drugs. Of course, it has to do with pain
and maybe fun but still...isn't life fun even sober? I really think we should research
why people do drugs and how we can decrease the usage. Legalizing will solve the
criminal part but I am not sure if we want to have a new generation just experimenting
drugs, we really don't know what effects drugs have to younger generations, specially
children. Of course, most people who do drugs will make sure their kids stay away from
consumption but accidents do happen. Yup, we have seen drunk kids. Now we will
have high kids, which I hope it doesn't have lasting effects.
From Snapshot Serengeti
What I have learned today [2015/7/10]
1. Recycling fraud in California by bringing plastic from other states. Let's be more conscious and take care of the environment....Best recycling is consuming only what is needed.
2. Billionaire Schonfeld builds his own all star family office team. Utilizing smart yet lack of track record managers seems like a great idea ^^ Something hopefully that all family offices and pensions learn. As long as the risk is reasonably managed, the funds would be fine.
3. Seattle home prices going up with a tech boom. Seattle is a great place. Lot of trees, bike friendly :D Time to buy some REITs may be?
4. Verifying outsourced work is more time consuming than expected.
5. Zillow stock is crashing. It may be a good takeover target given that US real estate is not going to go away ^^
*From Snapshot Serengeti
2. Billionaire Schonfeld builds his own all star family office team. Utilizing smart yet lack of track record managers seems like a great idea ^^ Something hopefully that all family offices and pensions learn. As long as the risk is reasonably managed, the funds would be fine.
3. Seattle home prices going up with a tech boom. Seattle is a great place. Lot of trees, bike friendly :D Time to buy some REITs may be?
4. Verifying outsourced work is more time consuming than expected.
5. Zillow stock is crashing. It may be a good takeover target given that US real estate is not going to go away ^^
*From Snapshot Serengeti
What I have learned today [2015/7/9]
1. More humane or natural funeral services are being offered. Personally, I think we should respect the dead but not spend a fortune.
2. Russians miss cheese after economic sanctions. Free trade is the way to go. Hope Putin stops the empire building.
3. Caffeine simulates muscle contractions in the large intestines that can increase the urge to go to the bathroom. Not going to drink so much coffee, when I have important business :p
4. A Detroit doctor faces health care fraud where he even treated healthy patients with Chemo. This is just sad. Stealing is already bad but causing more harm by putting patients into Chemo? Wow...better pray for this doctor and his victims. Also, always go to at least three doctors before deciding to get critical treatment.
5. Russians cannot have enough Teslas. Well...I guess they have to showoff wealth someway...Wish the rich Russians spent their money on investments and helping the poor.
From Snapshot Serengeti
What I have learned [2015/7/8]
1. People age at different rates. We sort of knew this but it is amazing how some people really gets stressed or do not take care of themselves and become quite old even at 30...Better take good care of ourselves.
2. We still don't know how bikes work. We definitely need more research here because bikes are really efficient for transportation :D
3. Yes, money can incentivize people to be happy. We are quite rational beings :p
4. Early childhood trauma and adversity can affect in adulthood. We cannot be free from the past....This is why really need to protect and care for children because they are the most vulnerable.
5. Venmo has security issues. This is why I am still not using Venmo.
From Snapshot Serengeti
2. We still don't know how bikes work. We definitely need more research here because bikes are really efficient for transportation :D
3. Yes, money can incentivize people to be happy. We are quite rational beings :p
4. Early childhood trauma and adversity can affect in adulthood. We cannot be free from the past....This is why really need to protect and care for children because they are the most vulnerable.
5. Venmo has security issues. This is why I am still not using Venmo.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Give Thanks [2015/7/6]
Thank You Lord for another blessed day despite temptations. Father,
1. Thank You Lord for a blessed day. Father, let us always start the day by being thankful.
2. Thank You Jesus for giving us wisdom. Lord, let us always seek Your wisdom and Your wisdom alone.
3. Thank You Father for always giving us the strength to pray. Let us never stop praying but pray more for all nations and Israel.
4. Thank You Jesus for productivity. I will be more diligent and less lazy.
5. Thank You Lord for air. Yup, thank God we have air.
6. Thank You Father for able hands. Wow...imagine typing with voice to text hmmm...not so pleasant.
7. Thank You God for all Your glory. Let us be thankful and give more glory to You Lord.
Thank You Jesus for everything. Let us praise You more and let us not be lazy but let us be awake and more humble.
From Snapshot Serengeti
1. Thank You Lord for a blessed day. Father, let us always start the day by being thankful.
2. Thank You Jesus for giving us wisdom. Lord, let us always seek Your wisdom and Your wisdom alone.
3. Thank You Father for always giving us the strength to pray. Let us never stop praying but pray more for all nations and Israel.
4. Thank You Jesus for productivity. I will be more diligent and less lazy.
5. Thank You Lord for air. Yup, thank God we have air.
6. Thank You Father for able hands. Wow...imagine typing with voice to text hmmm...not so pleasant.
7. Thank You God for all Your glory. Let us be thankful and give more glory to You Lord.
Thank You Jesus for everything. Let us praise You more and let us not be lazy but let us be awake and more humble.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Thursday, July 9, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/7/9]
Father, we thank You for everything. Let us always be joyful and thankful. Let us pray everyday. Jesus, please give us the strength so we can be more loving.
1. Thank You Father for a quick trip to Costco. Also, thank you for abundance :D Let us not waste your blessings.
2. Thank You Jesus for my car. Thank You for being a good car and enabling me to go to places :D
3. Thank You Father for parking. What a blessing, specially in LA.
4. Thank You Lord for finviz. I think I may have found potential investments :D
5. Thank You God for giving me an able body. Really, amazing how I can walk and open doors. Robots still have trouble coordinating their movements :p
6. Thank You Jesus for a sound brain. After listening about brain injuries, thank You Father that I have a relatively healthy brain.
7. Thank You Jesus for good prayer session today. Please help us pray with Your spirit. Let us pray for Your Kingdom. Let us pray that Your love touches and heals all nations.
8. Thank You Lord for the pleasant weather. I hope it rains soon. Be gone drought :D
Thank You Father for all Your blessings. We praise You. Let us love You more everyday so that we can be stronger and expand Your Kingdom. Let us serve You and glorify You.
Psalms 23
1. Thank You Father for a quick trip to Costco. Also, thank you for abundance :D Let us not waste your blessings.
2. Thank You Jesus for my car. Thank You for being a good car and enabling me to go to places :D
3. Thank You Father for parking. What a blessing, specially in LA.
4. Thank You Lord for finviz. I think I may have found potential investments :D
5. Thank You God for giving me an able body. Really, amazing how I can walk and open doors. Robots still have trouble coordinating their movements :p
6. Thank You Jesus for a sound brain. After listening about brain injuries, thank You Father that I have a relatively healthy brain.
7. Thank You Jesus for good prayer session today. Please help us pray with Your spirit. Let us pray for Your Kingdom. Let us pray that Your love touches and heals all nations.
8. Thank You Lord for the pleasant weather. I hope it rains soon. Be gone drought :D
Thank You Father for all Your blessings. We praise You. Let us love You more everyday so that we can be stronger and expand Your Kingdom. Let us serve You and glorify You.
Psalms 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside
quiet waters,
he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of
death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they
comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my
life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Calling out Bill Gross?! [2015/7/9]
Bill Gross has been called out for not following through his trade idea of shorting China.
It is highly likely that the people who called out Bill Gross either do not know how to
invest or trade, or they like to complain at everything.
First, institutional trading is quite complex because it is not easy to move massive
amounts of money at once and the institution has to ensure that proper risk
management is in place.
Second, many institutions have many investment thesis and they have their own
investment decision process.
It is likely that Janus decided not to follow the short China trade either due to risk
concerns or they had other perceived higher profitable trades.
People should really examine their track records before they call out Bill Gross. Yes, he
has messed up recently and got fired from PIMCO. But he is the best bond manager of
all times.
To learn about Bill Gross' amazing performance and career, please listen to Masters of Business podcast.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Give Thanks [2015/7/7]
Jesus, we just want to praise You for Your unending love. Father, the world is wicked but we will win the world through You. Let us be more loving and serve others. Let us go the extra mile and show the love that You have given us.
1. Thank You Lord for waking me up this morning. Another to be obedient and glorify You Jesus. I will become holier everyday ^^ More loving :D
2. Thank You Father for Your unending wisdom. Let me become wiser and follow You more. Lord, let my life be a dedication to You.
3. Thank You Jesus for helping me solve a coding problem. Yes, I not be lazy and study more.
4. Thank You Father for a good dinner. Lord, let us have great fellowships so we can unite in You and stay strong.
5. Thank You Jesus for my wonderful family. Let us be the family of believers. The family who will obey and follow You Jesus.
6. Thank You Father for water. I realize how much water I drink and how bad things would be without water. Let us be always thankful for your blessing.
7. Thank You Lord for internet. Yup, we have great knowledge all around. Let me focus on using the internet for good and waste less time reading meaningless stuff.
Thank You Father for Your love. Let us be more thankful and abide in Your word. Let us not be foolish but wise and loving.
From Snapshot Serengeti
1. Thank You Lord for waking me up this morning. Another to be obedient and glorify You Jesus. I will become holier everyday ^^ More loving :D
2. Thank You Father for Your unending wisdom. Let me become wiser and follow You more. Lord, let my life be a dedication to You.
3. Thank You Jesus for helping me solve a coding problem. Yes, I not be lazy and study more.
4. Thank You Father for a good dinner. Lord, let us have great fellowships so we can unite in You and stay strong.
5. Thank You Jesus for my wonderful family. Let us be the family of believers. The family who will obey and follow You Jesus.
6. Thank You Father for water. I realize how much water I drink and how bad things would be without water. Let us be always thankful for your blessing.
7. Thank You Lord for internet. Yup, we have great knowledge all around. Let me focus on using the internet for good and waste less time reading meaningless stuff.
Thank You Father for Your love. Let us be more thankful and abide in Your word. Let us not be foolish but wise and loving.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Give Thanks [2015/7/8]
Lord, we just want to thank You for everything. Thank You for being able to thank. Lord, let us spread Your love to all nations.
1. Thank You Jesus for clothing.
2. Thank You Lord for enabling me to practice the guitar. It is so amazing that I can make sounds with the guitar.
3. Thank You Father for good productivity and peace of mind. Father, let us always rely on You and praise You.
4. Thank You Jesus for a great bible study and fellowship. Let us work harder for Your Kingdom, let us not be lazy.
5. Thank You Lord for forgiving our sins. Thank You for giving me the courage to repent. Father, I am so unworthy yet Your love overcomes our iniquities. Thank You Lord. Let me be holier everyday.
6. Thank You Jesus for worship songs. They do light up the spirit :D
7. Thank You Jesus for Kindle, absolutely love reading books ^^
8. Thank You Father for Your wisdom. You give me so much wisdom. Let me become wiser and do Your will. Let my life be a fragrant offering to You.
Jesus, we just want to thank You for Your Majesty. Let us become more loving and holy. Please forgive our sins and let us overcome sin so we can glorify You.
From Snapshot Serengeti
1. Thank You Jesus for clothing.
2. Thank You Lord for enabling me to practice the guitar. It is so amazing that I can make sounds with the guitar.
3. Thank You Father for good productivity and peace of mind. Father, let us always rely on You and praise You.
4. Thank You Jesus for a great bible study and fellowship. Let us work harder for Your Kingdom, let us not be lazy.
5. Thank You Lord for forgiving our sins. Thank You for giving me the courage to repent. Father, I am so unworthy yet Your love overcomes our iniquities. Thank You Lord. Let me be holier everyday.
6. Thank You Jesus for worship songs. They do light up the spirit :D
7. Thank You Jesus for Kindle, absolutely love reading books ^^
8. Thank You Father for Your wisdom. You give me so much wisdom. Let me become wiser and do Your will. Let my life be a fragrant offering to You.
Jesus, we just want to thank You for Your Majesty. Let us become more loving and holy. Please forgive our sins and let us overcome sin so we can glorify You.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
What I have learned today [2015/7/7]
1. World's best selling drinks are whiskey, vodka, and Liquer. Whiskey is understandable given it is highly priced but liquer. Diageo owns Johnnie Walker and Smiroff.
2. Trash pick up Uber will definitely transform the recycling and waste business. With demand pick up, we will have less waste, cleaner streets, and happier people. We really need this as soon as possible with all the trashed furniture in LA.
3. 1 out of 3000 junior mining companies go from early stage exploration to production,
4. In 2014, consumers spent 5 billion on digital gift cards and online gift card sales are growing at 29% a year.
5. Every dollar lost online due to fraud can cost $3 to the retailer. We need to increase digital security because it is easier to commit fraud and harder to catch. Also, consumers should be wary and report immediately if they see anything suspicious.
6. Netflix is releasing its own movies. Yup, it's the battle of the contents in media. I expect more original and high quality series and movies from Amazon, Hulu, and Netflix. I hope people don't do too much binge watching.
From Penguin Watch
What I have learned today [2015/7/6]
1. Chinese and Hindi are the most spoken languages in the world. English is spoken 101 countries.
2, Air conditioner was invented in 1925.
3. Amazon is having prime day! Wow...this is really going to disrupt the retail market. Go Amazon! Hopefully, it doesn't increase impulsive shopping.
4. A ultraviolet light device has been created to sterilize rooms. We should install them in every household and public area. Yay, less infection!
5. Before radios, pilots navigated using large concrete arrows.
From Snapshot Serengeti
2, Air conditioner was invented in 1925.
3. Amazon is having prime day! Wow...this is really going to disrupt the retail market. Go Amazon! Hopefully, it doesn't increase impulsive shopping.
4. A ultraviolet light device has been created to sterilize rooms. We should install them in every household and public area. Yay, less infection!
5. Before radios, pilots navigated using large concrete arrows.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
What I have learned today [2015/7/5]
1. Burt Shavitz, founder of Burt's Bees died. We will miss him....
2. Hydroponic produce is increasing in the US as the water and land costs rise.
3. Vacations can be happier if you can incorporate the vacation experience to your life.
4. Charcoal production is inefficient and its energy production is also inefficient yet over 51 million tons of wood charcoal were made worldwide. We need to focus more on replacing charcoal first then focusing too much on clean energy.
5, Seahorse tail structure may provide a good design to build more mobile robots.
6. Wheelbarrow was invented in China.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Monday, July 6, 2015
What I have learned today [2015/7/4]
1. According to KPMG, 30% of the top 50 firm's website are not mobile friendly. This is an issue because personally, I do more mobile search these days and if the website is not mobile friendly, I just close it. So firms need to fix this given that the benefits are probably much greater than the costs.
2. It is hard to take good pictures even with good camera. It takes lot of learning and practice :D
3. Cleaning barbecue grill is hard and kills the joy of having a barbecue :p
4. Amazon really has an amazing selection.
5. Law school applications are going down.
From Snapshot Serengeti
What I have learned today [2015/7/3]
1. Artist sculpted everything, he ate in a year. I like this type of creativity. Also, reminds that we should consume less and care more for others,
2, Writing daily posts is challenging. Need creativity and discipline.
3. It takes time and effort to hire good freelancers at Upwork.
4. HR has lagged behind because it overemphasizes that issues that do not matter (things that are in the domain of the executives such as culture) and do not explain their actions well. Plus, big data is threatening HR practice.
5. Always look for catalysts, if there is no catalyst then firms can be undervalued for sometime.
From Snapshot Serengeti
2, Writing daily posts is challenging. Need creativity and discipline.
3. It takes time and effort to hire good freelancers at Upwork.
4. HR has lagged behind because it overemphasizes that issues that do not matter (things that are in the domain of the executives such as culture) and do not explain their actions well. Plus, big data is threatening HR practice.
5. Always look for catalysts, if there is no catalyst then firms can be undervalued for sometime.
From Snapshot Serengeti
What I have learned today [2015/7/2]
1. USA giant robot challenges Japan's giant robot. It's a nice project not sure how useful it is but pretty good entertainment.
2. Making bankruptcy laws more efficient in Italy will increase the efficiency of the Italian economy. Faster bankruptcy procedure enables faster reorganization and redeployment of assets,
3. Bolivia's economy is thriving with less regulation, promoting entrepreneurship.
4.Underground urban farming can foster more sustainable agriculture and deliver more fresh produce to the cities.
5. Australia is a only country that is also a continent.
From Snapshot Serengeti
Sunday, July 5, 2015
Give Thanks [2015/7/5]
1. Father, thank You for waking me up this morning and filling me with Your thoughts. Father, let me become holier.
2. Thank You Jesus for my computer. It is really a great tool to learn and work. Let me use technology to glorify You.
3. Thank You for the wonderful worship. Let us not judge others but be more loving. Let us truly love our neighbors.
4. Thank You Father for the abundant food. We had so much bread and chicken that I took some home. Yay! Time saved from cooking.
5. Thank You Jesus for great bible study. Let us know the word more so we can truly reside in You.
6. Thank You Lord for giving me the discipline and the time to catch up on my blog.
7. Thank You Jesus for Upwork. I love the efficiency and helping free lancers.
From Penguin Watch
Give Thanks [2015/7/4]
Jesus, thank You for a lovely Saturday. Let us always thank You. Thank You for all of Your blessings. Thank You for another glorious day ^^
1. Thank You Lord for the wonderful BBQ with brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us be more united in You and make disciples of all nations.
2. Thank You Jesus for Upwork. It really improves the efficiency.
3. Thank You Father for a supporting family. I have been blessed with such a loving family. Father, let our family become a family of faith that will do great things for Your Kingdom.
4. Thank You God for USC. Yes, there are issues but it is a fast growing school with good academic programs.
5. Thank You Father for the guests that came to our BBQ yesterday. We just pray that they get to know You Jesus.
6. Thank You Lord for the fireworks. Yes, they are a bit wasteful but small amounts are pretty. Let us use Your resources more wisely.
7. Thank You Jesus for photography. I like pictures and they bring back good memories.
Thank You Lord for all Your blessings. Let us free ourselves from sin and let us celebrate the true freedom and love that You have given us :D
From Penguin Watch
1. Thank You Lord for the wonderful BBQ with brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us be more united in You and make disciples of all nations.
2. Thank You Jesus for Upwork. It really improves the efficiency.
3. Thank You Father for a supporting family. I have been blessed with such a loving family. Father, let our family become a family of faith that will do great things for Your Kingdom.
4. Thank You God for USC. Yes, there are issues but it is a fast growing school with good academic programs.
5. Thank You Father for the guests that came to our BBQ yesterday. We just pray that they get to know You Jesus.
6. Thank You Lord for the fireworks. Yes, they are a bit wasteful but small amounts are pretty. Let us use Your resources more wisely.
7. Thank You Jesus for photography. I like pictures and they bring back good memories.
Thank You Lord for all Your blessings. Let us free ourselves from sin and let us celebrate the true freedom and love that You have given us :D
From Penguin Watch
Give Thanks [2015/7/3]
Father, we just want to adore You. Let us always praise You and stand firm in You. Let us not doubt but always be more loving.
1. Thank You Father for a very productive day. I don't even know how the day passed but thank You for Your wisdom.
2.Thank You Lord for great worship. Let us pray more in unison. Let us unite under You.
3. Thank You God for good dinner. I love small sandwiches :D
4. Thank You Jesus for obeying Your will. Let us put You first before anything. Please give us the wisdom to discern.
5. Thank You Father for my sand watch. It really raised my productivity.
6. Thank You Lord for coffee. Mmmm...my morning fuel.
7. Thank You Jesus for water and electricity. Let us always be grateful for all your blessing.
Jesus, let us be more loving and let us not be afraid to share Your love. Father, let us be the channel that Your blessing flow :D
From Penguin Watch
1. Thank You Father for a very productive day. I don't even know how the day passed but thank You for Your wisdom.
2.Thank You Lord for great worship. Let us pray more in unison. Let us unite under You.
3. Thank You God for good dinner. I love small sandwiches :D
4. Thank You Jesus for obeying Your will. Let us put You first before anything. Please give us the wisdom to discern.
5. Thank You Father for my sand watch. It really raised my productivity.
6. Thank You Lord for coffee. Mmmm...my morning fuel.
7. Thank You Jesus for water and electricity. Let us always be grateful for all your blessing.
Jesus, let us be more loving and let us not be afraid to share Your love. Father, let us be the channel that Your blessing flow :D
From Penguin Watch
Give Thanks [2015/7/2]
1. Thank You Jesus for all Your wisdom. You have given me so many ideas. Let me use those ideas to glorify You.
2. Thank You Father for an efficient trip to Costco. Bought everything with efficiency and got out sort of in time ^^
3. Thank You Lord for an awesome lunch with friends. We coincidentally met at a restaurant almost at 2pm :D
4. Thank You Jesus for great parking. Yup, right in front of the house.
5. Thank You Father for credit cards. Wow...imagine carrying so much cash or writing a check? Yup, credit cards make transactions more efficient and it gives you rewards.
6. Thank You Lord for kindle. I will have to make more time for reading. I should really try to just read an hour every day ^^
7. Thank You God for Elevate. It is a very well-made App and I pray that it helps individuals improve their English and math skills. Also, I look forward to making my own education apps.
Thank You Lord for everything. You are such an awesome God. Let us know more about Your heart so we can love more and glorify You.
From Penguin Watch
Saturday, July 4, 2015
July 4th Celebration Spending [2015/7/4]
Happy Independence Day!
I love great food, great time with family and friends, and fireworks. But I think we need
moderation. According to Forbes,
The saved money could be used a rain day fund, donations, or seed money for a new business.
Trust me, you can eat about $60 worth off BBQ and you will be quite happy. One less
bottle of beer will probably save you from embarrassment and extra work out to burn of
the fat. And you can blow up one less thing and save money, less pollution, and lower
risk of potential injury.
So for 2016's 4th of July, let's be more prudent and spend less. God bless America
*From Floating Forests
I love great food, great time with family and friends, and fireworks. But I think we need
moderation. According to Forbes,
- an average American spend $68.16 on BBQing.
- in 2010, $341.4 million was spent on beer
- spent lot of money on firework.
The saved money could be used a rain day fund, donations, or seed money for a new business.
Trust me, you can eat about $60 worth off BBQ and you will be quite happy. One less
bottle of beer will probably save you from embarrassment and extra work out to burn of
the fat. And you can blow up one less thing and save money, less pollution, and lower
risk of potential injury.
So for 2016's 4th of July, let's be more prudent and spend less. God bless America
*From Floating Forests
What I have learned Today [2015/7/1]
1. Korean scientist sentenced for academic fraud. There is no excuse for scientific fraud. Hope we keep cracking down on fraud.
2. Use selfies for credit card transactions. Great idea except for privacy concerns ^^
3. US GDP will still be larger than China in 2030.
4. 40% of residents in Amsterdam commute by bike. This is what I call efficient! Hope the world bikes more too.
5. EY fined 4.07 million for violating independence rule. I think the penalties should be higher to deter further independence rule violations.
From Floating Forests
What I have learned today [2015/6/30]
1. In India, there is a village of wrestlers who work as bouncers. A village of wrestlers...India could have its own WWF. That would be entertaining.
2. Charter plane for frequent commuter for 2000 a month from NYC to Boston. This is what I call aviation innovation. I just hope they still have to fly less because well flying does consume time and energy and produces pollution. Can't wait for virtual reality meetings :D
3. First 3D printed car. 3D printing will bring more customization to cars and also lower cost because we won't have to build massive factories but instead have small shops.
4. Male models get paid way less than female models. Should we start complaining? hmmmm...
5. There are no rivers in Saudi Arabia.
From Floating Forest
What I have learned today [2015/6/29]
1. Japanese elders are increasingly dying alone and only being found after months. This is very tragic, we should really put more effort in taking care of the elderly.
2. Disney bans selfie-sticks. I don't like selfie-sticks although it was a good idea. Soon we will have drones taking pictures of us, I wonder how Disney will react then.
3. Airbnb's CEO, Chesky, has great points about leading the firm. Learn quickly by talking to experts and be bold. Great advice, also things that you can only learn when you set on an adventure not in school.
4. Google's self-driving car cut off Delphi's self-driving car. I am all for driverless cars but we'd better make sure that it is safe and that there is some nuclear option making the car stop to avoid any disasters.
5. E-Cigarettes are more harmful than perceived. We need to do more research about E-Cigarettes.
From Floating Forests
2. Disney bans selfie-sticks. I don't like selfie-sticks although it was a good idea. Soon we will have drones taking pictures of us, I wonder how Disney will react then.
3. Airbnb's CEO, Chesky, has great points about leading the firm. Learn quickly by talking to experts and be bold. Great advice, also things that you can only learn when you set on an adventure not in school.
4. Google's self-driving car cut off Delphi's self-driving car. I am all for driverless cars but we'd better make sure that it is safe and that there is some nuclear option making the car stop to avoid any disasters.
5. E-Cigarettes are more harmful than perceived. We need to do more research about E-Cigarettes.
From Floating Forests
Friday, July 3, 2015
My Thoughts about Greece [2015/7/3]
There was panic and some shock in the markets when Greece defaulted.
However, I was not surprised. The way Tspiras acted, trying to blame the lender for the
nation's woes seemed like a doomed strategy. But what surprised me was how the
Greeks did not say let's get our act together but instead kept blaming other nations and
capitalism.
Greeks cannot really blame others as rampant corruption, tax evasion, and early and
generous retirement has been possible not only by corrupt politicians by the supporting
public. People loved the populism and the cronyism, as long as they could enjoy it.
Now that the money has run out, they are complaining. This is unacceptable.
If Greeks do not repent and mend their ways, there will be a more vicious cycle and the
birth place of democracy will be a sad downfall of its former glory.
So what can be done to save Greece? Throwing more money, will not fix things.
Now they really have to make reforms. Yes, it will be painful but often people are so
stubborn that they resist until the very end. However, I do remain optimistic about Greece.
Greece has lot of smart and good people. Well, it is time for Greece to help them do the
job so it can get out of this crisis.
What can the rest of the world do? Here are somethings that we can do to help Greece.
1. Invest in Greece. With a crisis, there will be some good buying opportunities.
2. Help the Greek. If you know anyone who related to Greece and can do something for Greece help them. You can help them through guidance or simply moral support.
3. Teach in Greece. If you are a professor or can teach something help educate the younger generation so they can increase their productivity.
4.Help the reforms. If you have skills in detecting tax evasion or corruption, offer to help out.
5. Visit Greece. Greece is a mess right now but after it settles help them through tourism.
Finally, let us all pray for the best. Let us love our neighbor with all our hearts.
From Penguin Watch
However, I was not surprised. The way Tspiras acted, trying to blame the lender for the
nation's woes seemed like a doomed strategy. But what surprised me was how the
Greeks did not say let's get our act together but instead kept blaming other nations and
capitalism.
Greeks cannot really blame others as rampant corruption, tax evasion, and early and
generous retirement has been possible not only by corrupt politicians by the supporting
public. People loved the populism and the cronyism, as long as they could enjoy it.
Now that the money has run out, they are complaining. This is unacceptable.
If Greeks do not repent and mend their ways, there will be a more vicious cycle and the
birth place of democracy will be a sad downfall of its former glory.
So what can be done to save Greece? Throwing more money, will not fix things.
Now they really have to make reforms. Yes, it will be painful but often people are so
stubborn that they resist until the very end. However, I do remain optimistic about Greece.
Greece has lot of smart and good people. Well, it is time for Greece to help them do the
job so it can get out of this crisis.
What can the rest of the world do? Here are somethings that we can do to help Greece.
1. Invest in Greece. With a crisis, there will be some good buying opportunities.
2. Help the Greek. If you know anyone who related to Greece and can do something for Greece help them. You can help them through guidance or simply moral support.
3. Teach in Greece. If you are a professor or can teach something help educate the younger generation so they can increase their productivity.
4.Help the reforms. If you have skills in detecting tax evasion or corruption, offer to help out.
5. Visit Greece. Greece is a mess right now but after it settles help them through tourism.
Finally, let us all pray for the best. Let us love our neighbor with all our hearts.
From Penguin Watch
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