Global Business Update @ BBC

Can banks learn anything from gambling and the way casinos manage their own, considerable, risks? Peter Day's conversation with experts + the complex risk management algorithms @ http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/programmes/global_business.shtml was educational and insightful.

Useful links:
http://business.bournemouth.ac.uk
www.lciclubs.com
http://john-adams.co.uk
www.zyen.com
www.csfi.org.uk

The Czech Diamond + Jewelry Market

The Prague Post's article on growing demand for diamonds and jewelry @ http://www.praguepost.com/articles/2008/09/24/diamond-market-gains-new-glitter.php was insightful.

Useful links:
www.dusak.cz
www.primossa.cz
www.dic.as
www.klenotyaurum.cz
www.alo-jewelry.com

Diamond Mining In Latin America

The Forbes article on diamond mining in Latin America + other viewpoints @ http://www.forbes.com/home/2008/09/23/brazil-diamonds-paraguay-biz-cx_0924oxford.html was interesting. I think the indigenous issues + environmental and social consequences in the Amazon will have to be solved before exploration.

Useful link:
www.vale.com

BullionVault

BullionVault is an internet gold bullion exchange and physical storage provider, founded in 2005 by Paul Tustain. I found Paul's inspiring story during an economic slow-down + viewpoints @ http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/entrepreneur/article4748057.ece interesting.

Useful links:
www.bullionvault.com
www.galmarley.com
www.managementlab.org

Many of the best opportunities are not picked up by corporations. Often they are blinkered as to what constitutes an appropriate use of resources and a bright entrepreneur will be the first mover in emerging market opportunities. However, corporations can be fast second movers, so what’s often difficult for the entrepreneur is to keep their lead and survive.
- Julian Birkinshaw
Co-founder, Management Lab
London Business School

Julian was spot on.

Lessons From The Streets

Do not give out colored stones or diamonds out to people you don't know. You have to know who you are dealing with. When you consign to companies or dealers go the extra mile to check their financial background. Main street = mean street. Be careful. We are in a different world. You are dealing with people who, if things go bad, will crater you.

Random Thoughts

Victorious Roman generals were reminded of the fickleness of their glory by a slave carefully positioned in earshot on the triumphal parade route. 'Memento mori,' the hapless servant would whisper to the wreathed victor as his chariot rattled along Rome's jubilant streets: 'Remember you are mortal.'

- Gerard Baker
(via Timesonline)

Gerard was spot on + A great lesson.

Heard On The Street

Experience is the worst teacher. It gives the test before giving the lesson.

2008 International Science And Engineering Visualization Challenge

The 2008 International Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge special report + the dazzling creative mind @ http://www.nsf.gov/news/special_reports/scivis was brilliant + insightful.

Some of science’s most powerful statements are not made in words. How true!

Useful link:
www.nsf.gov