09/26/14

Apple: The Undying

Ever since the sleek, compact iPhone 6 was released, Apple’s stock dropped by approximately 3%. Many customers complained about the software update that hindered users from making phone calls on their new gadgets. The stock decline resulted in a larger decline in technology shares. Apple had no choice but to remove the software update because of the arising problems that mainly affected customers who purchased the iPhone 6. Later, Apple offered their customers a way to manually remove the update, the solution to the malfunctioning. Apple announced that affected iPhone users could retrieve the older version of the iOS 8 software by connecting their phone to a Mac or Windows computer.

iPhone 6

Several years ago when the iPhone 4 was introduced, Apple also dealt with unsatisfied users who complained about glitches. Acting as a catalyst, the social media sites flooded the newsfeed with information about the iPhone 6 Plus’ susceptibility to bending, further affecting the stocks. Although Apple stocks were affected by these complaints and rumors, I am confident that this billion-dollar company will be able to pull itself out of this disaster. Negative publicity is bound to affect Apple’s reputation; however, there is still a high demand for the iPhone 6. Apple’s prestigious reputation is unbreakable.

09/26/14

Return of the NHL!

Between September and March is the most exhilarating time of the year because the National Hockey League exhibition and regular-season games are back in session! Whether it is victory or loss, Canada’s economy benefits from the NHL games. During the NHL lockout in 2012, there was a drastic drop in the sum value of goods and services produced in the economy. Furthermore, many hockey fans were affected by this heartbreaking news. It is no surprise that the NHL makes such a huge impact on the economy because it is Canada’s most famous sport. People grew up watching, talking about, or even playing this sport.

NHL

With the return of the NHL, fans will hang out in restaurants and bars to watch games and bond over hockey discussions. Spectator sports employ approximately 0.5% of the entire workforce, contributing $4.5 billion to Canada’s economy. Hockey stadiums also hire many part-time workers for concession stands, ticket sales, clean up duty, and set up. I think it is great now that NHL is back; it will create many job opportunities for students who are looking for part-time work.  The NHL is a major contributor to the Canadian economy. It creates numerous job openings, attracts tourists, and increases revenue for local businesses.

09/26/14

Costs of University

Aside from the pricey tuition that university students pay every semester, the rising costs of textbooks is another major dilemma that students face. The costs of textbooks have risen by 834% over the last 30 years. While students are already struggling to save enough money for their tuition, the costs of books become additional financial burden for them. Depending on the field of study, an average student can spend up to $1000 per semester on textbooks. The prices of new textbooks can range from $150 to $300.

Used textbooks

University students try to keep their textbooks in good condition so they can sell it to others.

Students with little money in their pocket may resort to buying used books at a reduced cost or look online for the best deal, because who likes to pay full price? However, students may be set back from purchasing used textbooks when the publisher releases a new edition. If the professor requires their students to have a specific edition for the course, students are left with no choice. Perhaps, they can spend a few nights at the bookstore or share the cost of a book with a friend. Either way, both are not preferable solutions. As a first year university student, I experienced similar frustration as many students – searching, contacting, and bargaining for required textbooks at the lowest price possible. Needless to say, purchasing textbooks from the bookstore would be my last option

09/9/14

Sewer Oil Found In Moon Cakes

Gutter oils were baked into mooncakes to reduce costs. Oil manufacturers in China, ignoring the health concerns of many consumers, replaced butter with sewer oil to lower material costs. As Milton Friedman stated, the social responsibility is to “make as much money as possible while conforming to the basic rules of the society, both embodied in law and those embodied in ethical custom.” By selling illegally recycled oil, the company gains short-term profits at the expense of the consumers’ health. The gutter oil has dangerous chemicals such as heavy metals and carcinogenic toxins that can cause gastrointestinal pain leading to severe health issues.

While the oil company profited in the short run, the company could face fines up to US $1.67 million and possibly be put of business. The Stakeholder theory states that in order for a business to succeed, all stakeholders must benefit. The stakeholders affected by this oil scandal include the owner of the Oil Company, the employees of the oil and Mooncake Companies, the Mooncake manufacturers, and the customers. All stakeholders suffered from the selfish actions of the Chang Guann Oil Company, which does not satisfy the social responsibilities of a business.

mooncakes