Business & Personal Finance - Books

Corporation Nation

From bank bailouts and corporate scandals to the financial panic of 2008 and its lingering effects, corporate governance in America has been wracked by crises. Amid a weakening system of checks and balances in which corporate executives have little incentive to protect shareholder interests, U.S. corporations are growing larger and more irresponsible at the same time. But dependence on corporate profit was crucial to the early republic's growth, success, and security: despite protests that incorporated business was an inefficient and potentially corrupting system, U.S. state governments chartered more corporations per capita than any other nation—including Britain—effectively making the United States a "corporation nation." Drawing on legal and economic history, Robert E. Wright traces the development and decline of corporate institutions in America, connecting today's financial failures to deteriorating corporate law.In the nineteenth century, checks and balances kept managerial interests aligned with those of stockholders, and public opinion grew supportive as corporations raised billions of dollars to finance infrastructure such as transportation networks, financial systems, and manufacturing operations. But many of these checks and balances were dismantled after the Civil War, creating a space for the managerial malfeasance that spiraled into economic crisis in the twenty-first century. Bolstered with archival and original data, including the first complete count of American business corporations before the Civil War, Corporation Nation makes a compelling argument for improved internal governance and more effective external government regulation.

Defence of Usury, Third Ed.

Business & Personal Finance

This 18th-century work by British philosopher and founder of utilitarianism Jeremy Bentham began as a series of 13 "letters" addressed to Scottish economist Adam Smith. Usury—the practice of charging interest on loans—was outlawed in Britain based on certain passages in the Christian Old Testament. Bentham argued that interest could, in fact, generate positive social benefits. His arguments were very influential and led to the gradual abolishment of restrictions on usury. G.K. Chesterton identified Bentham's essay on usury as the very beginning of the "modern world." There is little evidence as to Smith’s reaction.

Concept of the Corporation

Business & Personal Finance

Concept of the Corporation was the first study ever of the constitution, structure, and internal dynamics of a major business enterprise. Basing his work on a two-year analysis of the company done during the closing years of World War II, Drucker looks at the General Motors managerial organization from within. He tries to understand what makes the company work so effectively, what its core principles are, and how they contribute to its successes. The themes this volume addresses go far beyond the business corporation, into a consideration of the dynamics of the so-called corporate state itself.When the book initially appeared, General Motors managers rejected it as unfairly critical and antibusiness. Yet, the GM concept of the corporation and its principles of organization later became models for organizations worldwide. Not only businesses, but also government agencies, research laboratories, hospitals, and universities have found in Concept of the Corporation a basis for effective organization and management.Because it offers a fundamental theory of corporate goals, this book is a valuable resource for business professionals and organization analysts. It will also be of interest to students and professionals in economics, public administration, and political science. Professional and technical readers who admire Peter Drucker's work will want to be certain this volume is in their personal library. At a time when everything from the size to the structure of corporations is being questioned, this classic should prove a valuable guide.

Women Entrepreneurship in Family Business

Business & Personal Finance

The purpose of this book is to promote discussion about educational objectives generally and objectives in the teaching of educational psychology in particular. To this end, Part 1 contains a review of the literature concerned with these two subjects, and also reports on investigations into the views of British students, teachers, college staffs and educational psychologists on the question of the objectives of educational psychology in teacher preparation. A comprehensive bibliography is provided. A further important section of Part 1 proposes a method of systematizing teaching objectives, and suggests a heuristic device for the generation of objectives at different levels of conceptual generality and complexity of learning. An example of this model in the field of educational psychology is presented, which illustrates the general approach to the generation of teaching objectives and proposes a specific approach to the production of teaching objectives in educational psychology. In Part 2 a selection of readings in the fields of objectives and educational psychology provides the reader with some of the key source material referred to in Part 1. As well as being a valuable and stimulating addition to the current debate on the specifying of educational objectives, the arguments in this book about the role of educational psychology in teacher preparation raise some fundamental questions for those concerned with teacher education.

Contested Agronomy

Business & Personal Finance

The dramatic increases in food prices experienced over the last four years, and their effects of hunger and food insecurity, as well as human-induced climate change and its implications for agriculture, food production and food security, are key topics within the field of agronomy and agricultural research. Contested Agronomy addresses these issues by exploring key developments since the mid-1970s, focusing in particular on the emergence of the neoliberal project and the rise of the participation and environmental agendas, taking into consideration how these have had profound impacts on the practice of agronomic research in the developing world especially over the last four decades. This book explores, through a series of case studies, the basis for a much needed ‘political agronomy’ analysis that highlights the impacts of problem framing and narratives, historical disjunctures, epistemic communities and the increasing pressure to demonstrate ‘success’ on both agricultural research and the farmers, processors and consumers it is meant to serve.Whilst being a fascinating and thought-provoking read for professionals in the Agriculture and Environmental sciences, it will also appeal to students and researchers in agricultural policy, development studies, geography, public administration, rural sociology, and science and technology studies.

Focal Point

Business & Personal Finance

The true secret of high achievers is that they know how to find their "focal point" - the one thing they should do, at any given moment, to get the best possible results in each area of their lives.Bestselling author and motivational speaker Brian Tracy brings together the very best ideas on personal management into a simple, easy-to-use plan. Focal Point helps readers analyze their lives in seven key areas and shows them how to develop focused goals and plans in each.This best-selling guide provides timeless truths that have been discovered by the most effective people throughout the ages, answering questions like:In Focal Point, Tracy provides timeless truths that answers questions such as:How can I get control of my time and my life?How can I achieve maximum career success and still balance my personal life?How can I accelerate the achievement of all my goals?Focal Point shows you how to develop absolute clarity about what they want, and how they can achieve supreme satisfaction, both personally and professionally.

Decoding Data

Business & Personal Finance

Welcome to "Decoding Data: A Beginner's Journey into Analytics - Navigating the World of Numbers for Actionable Insights." This e-book serves as your compass in the vast landscape of analytics, providing a comprehensive and accessible guide for beginners eager to embark on their journey into the world of data.The explosion of data in various industries has highlighted the need for individuals who can navigate and interpret this information effectively. Whether you're a student, professional, or someone with a keen interest in understanding the language of numbers, this book is crafted to demystify the complexities of analytics and empower you to harness its potential.We kick off our journey by laying the foundation with a primer on the basics of data, unraveling its various types, and showcasing the significance of clean, organized data in the analytical process. As we progress, we delve into the language of analytics, equipping you with the terminology and concepts necessary for fluent communication in this field.

Demand-Side Sales 101

Business & Personal Finance

For a lot of us, selling feels icky. Our stomachs tighten at the thought of reciting features and benefits, or pressuring customers into purchasing. It's really not our fault. We weren't taught how to sell, plus we've been sold before, leaving us with a bitter taste.Here's the truth: sales does not have to feel icky for you or your customers. In fact, with the right approach, sales can be an empowering experience for all.Bob Moesta, lifelong innovator and coarchitect of the "Jobs to be Done" theory, shares his approach for flipping the lens on sales. Bob shifts the focus of sales from selling, to helping people buy and make progress in their lives—demand-side sales.Now, in Demand-Side Sales 101, you'll learn to really see what your customers see, hear what they hear, and understand what they mean. You'll not only be a more effective and innovative salesperson—you'll want to help people make progress.

A kaleidoscope of tourism research:

Business & Personal Finance

The International Competence Network of Tourism Research and Education (ICNT) covers a wide range of research expertise in the fields of tourism, hospitality and events management. ICNT’s sixth book showcases a kaleidoscope of tourism and hospitality topics, ranging from tourism education to sustainable tourism, wildlife tourism, Brexit and tourism, and to travel intermediation, tourist motivation and experiences. The book explains the way tourism and hospitality are understood in different countries around the world. Consequently, this book stimulates thought and discussion on tourist experiences and management, from the viewpoint of various stakeholders. It provides a wealth of new knowledge and will be a valuable resource for students, academics, researchers and industry members alike.

Currie Road Construction Limited (B)

Business & Personal Finance

Having operated for two years in the Texas market, the company is confronting a variety of difficulties. The case looks at the organization issues of reporting relationships, control systems, and staffing.

Selling Your Startup

Business & Personal Finance

Learn how to sell your startup from an acquisition expertMany entrepreneurs dream of the day their company is acquired and they secure a perfect exit. But information about the process of getting your business acquired usually comes from expensive investment bankers who typically advise late-stage startups.In Selling Your Startup, serial entrepreneur Alejandro Cremades delivers an accessible guide on how to sell your startup. With first-hand experience as a fully exited entrepreneur, investment banker, and lawyer, Cremades describes the tips and tricks startup founders need to sell their early-stage to growth-stage business.In this book, you’ll discover: The role that investment bankers play in the acquisition process, how they add value, and how to break down their fees Preparing your company for sale, including compiling a pitch book, putting its finances in order, and building a target list of potential acquirers How to get to a Letter of Intent, perform due diligence, and reach a purchase agreement Perfect for entrepreneurs of all kinds, Selling Your Startup is a must-have roadmap to the practical realities of company acquisition and contains proven guidance on crafting your perfect exit.

Power in Numbers

Business & Personal Finance

The story of UNITAID begins with two world leaders but quickly becomes a lesson in popular philanthropy, involving millions of people each making a small contribution to a program aimed at treating and ultimately eliminating the threat of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria in the developing world. In partnership with the Clinton HIV/AIDS Initiative (CHAI), UNICEF, and other organizations, UNITAID has pioneered techniques for raising massive amounts of money from a wide pool of donors. UNITAID's newest program, collecting small contributions via a check-box on the world's biggest travel websites, launches in the United States in January 2010. It is a fascinating model for philanthropy, proving that you can scale up both the fundraising and the ambition of lifesaving treatment programs. Moreover, UNITAID has proved able to continue its work uninterrupted by the financial turmoil that has blighted other private and government aid programs. It provides a model for challenging times. Launched as a crucial component of UNITAID's "MassiveGood" substantial national publicity and promotion campaign, Power in Numbers is an inspiring case study for anyone interested in social justice, public health, philanthropy, or fundraising.

Toy Monster

Business & Personal Finance

An eye-popping, unauthorized exposé of the House of Barbie from the New York Times–bestselling author of The Kardashians and Crazy Rich. From Boise to Beijing, Mattel’s toys dominate the universe. Its no fun-and-games marketing muscle reaches some 140 countries, and its iconic products have been a part of our culture for generations. Now, in this intriguing and entertaining exposé, New York Times–bestselling author Jerry Oppenheimer places the world’s largest toy company under a journalistic microscope, uncovering the dark side of toy land, and exploring Mattel’s oddball corporate culture and eccentric, often bizarre, cast of characters. Based on exclusive interviews and an exhaustive review of public and private records, Toy Monster exposes Mattel’s take-no-prisoners, shark-infested corporate style. Throughout this scrupulously reported, unauthorized portrait, you’ll discover how dangerous toys are actually nothing new to Mattel, and why its fearsomely litigious approach within the brutal toy business has helped their products dominate potential rivals such as Bratz. Engaging and accessible, Toy Monster shows you why today’s toy business isn’t always fun and games. “Oppenheimer . . . has now trained his sights on the world’s biggest toy company—its egos, scandals and flawed products. In his toyland, nothing is cute.” —The Wall Street Journal “Oppenheimer takes a tour of Mattel’s seamier side, highlighting its dubious corporate practices and kooky cast in this scathing portrait . . . Fast-paced and engaging, this exposé will absorb readers until the last page and will forever change the way they think about the company.” —Publishers Weekly “Thoroughly researched, beautifully written, Oppenheimer’s opus contains all the intrigue and drama of an epic novel.” —C. David Heymann, New York Times–bestselling author

Innovation performance accounting

Business & Personal Finance

For successful innovation in business the responsible managers need a consistent view of the individual processes as well as an assessment of key projects in all phases of the development. Generating new ideas, fast examination of its feasibility requires skilled methods for evaluation of these ideas, plans and especially costs and revenues..Business models, calculation methods and some assessments of certain options are presented by the authors. The ability to identify risks and appropriate responses to misperceptions are important milestones in the innovation process. From analysis of problems to the introduction of market-ready solutions, legal requirements, business demands and risk management systems are discussed. Concepts promoting uniform, binding rules for ratings in the innovation process are treated. The identification of target pricing, target costing and litigation, the evaluation of the solution to calculate risk aspects as tasks in financial management and innovation controlling are part of the content. The authors demonstrate that any innovation in different industries requires a strategic and financial project management. Monetary assessment of the individual processes, a detailed patent portfolio and accounts management for innovation processes are of enormous importance. The book is completed by applications of the Berlin Balanced Scorecard Concept with practical examples from the innovation projects in pharmaceutical and technical business.

Individualism in Modern Thought

Business & Personal Finance

This book is a comprehensive survey of methodological individualism in social, political and economic thought from the Enlightenment to the 20th century. Exploring the works of such figures as de Mandeville, Smith, Marx, Spencer, Durkheim, Simmel, Weber, Hayek, Popper and Parsons, this study underlines the contrasts between methodological collectivism and methodological individualism. The detailed analysis offered here also reveals the theoretical presuppositions behind the collectivist and individualist traditions and the practical consequences of their applications. Infantino concludes in favour of individualism.

Transforming Agriculture in South Asia

Business & Personal Finance

Debates about public expenditure in the agricultural sector have reopened in many developing and emerging economies because of high budget deficits and changes in public opinion. As a result, agricultural policy in many of these countries is beginning to take a more market-oriented approach to agrarian problems, most notably through the introduction of contract farming. This book explores the policy issues around contract farming and its transformative potential and addresses the lack of empirical research on this topic by focusing on South Asia: principally India, Bangladesh and Nepal.The book first addresses the effects of contract farming (vertical coordination) on productivity, food security indicators (yield, consumption expenditures, prices), employment and input usage. Then it draws lessons from the South Asian case studies on the impact of institutional changes, like contract farming, on income and food security of smallholder households. The core of the book includes case study chapters on several commodities that are produced under contract farming, including vegetables and fisheries in Bangladesh, low-value crops in Nepal and coffee in India. Other chapters also explore contracts, storage, input usage and technical efficiency in these cases. This book serves as an essential guide to academics, researchers, students, legislative liaisons and think tank groups interested in agrarian issues, agricultural economics and agricultural policy in emerging economies and particularly in South Asia.

Vertrauen im Beruf

Business & Personal Finance

Auf Vertrauen kommt es an - auch und gerade im Beruf. Welche Vorteile hat eine vertrauensbasierte Zusammenarbeit? Wann ist Vertrauen eine riskante Vorleistung? Wie können Sie verlorengegangenes Vertrauen zurückgewinnen? Dieses Buch gibt Ihnen Auskunft - fundiert, verständlich und praxisnah.Inhalte:Wie Vertrauen zustandekommt, wie es sich im beruflichen Umfeld entwickelt und sich vom Vertrauen von Freunden unterscheidetWo Vertrauen förderlich und wo es eher hinderlich oder riskant istWie es verspielt wird und man es wieder erwirbtMit einem Geleitwort von Jochen Mai: "Gesundes Vertrauen kennt Grenzen"

Comprendre la Bourse avec Captain Economics

Business & Personal Finance

Vous ne comprenez rien - ou pas grand-chose - à la Bourse ? Pas d'inquiétude, c'est normal : la Bourse est devenue en quelques dizaines d'années un univers aussi gigantesque que complexe.Mais ça, c'était avant. Avant de suivre le Captain Economics et ses aventures dans le monde merveilleux de la Bourse. Armé d'une bonne dose de recul, d'un brin d'humour et de centaines de recherches sur le sujet, le Captain va vous faire découvrir - ou redécouvrir - le fonctionnement des marchés financiers. L'innovation technologique entraîne avec elle son lot d'opportunités et de risques, son lot de gagnants et de perdants. Mais ces innovations vont-elles principalement engendrer de l'instabilité et des crises, ou bien vont-elles permettre de rendre le système financier plus efficace, plus rapide, et plus stable ? Vulgariser la finance et vous faire comprendre la Bourse - sans passer par des raisonnements simplistes ou des idées toutes faites - voilà l'objectif de ce livre ! Vous êtes prêts ? Enfilez, vous aussi, votre costume de super-héros et suivez le Captain Economics dans les rouages de la Bourse.Retrouvez dans le livre des liens vers des podcasts !

Mortgage Loan Process

Business & Personal Finance

The Mortgage Loan Process can be a very unnerving process and the first time home buyer is very much in a disadvantaged position. First time home buying is a special occasion in everyone's life. However, due to the complexities around it, most people approach it with a mix of fear, anxiety and uncertainty. This book is written with the purpose of making the process easier and more predictable. The book tries to demystify the entire process by avoiding the lender jargon. The book first helps you in deciding whether you are ready to buy or not and then gives a step by step instruction on what you can expect along the process should you decide to buy. The book has been authored by Robert Thomas who has more than 13 years of lending experience. Robert says as a loan officer I provide insights and my desire is to help you obtain your mortgage loan at the best possible interest rate and have as little stress as possible. Knowledge is power!

The Lion Wakes

Business & Personal Finance

The Lion Wakes tells the modern story of HSBC, starting in the late 1970s, when the bank first broke out of the Asia-Pacific region with its purchase of Marine Midland Bank in the US. It follows HSBC's battle to purchase Midland Bank in 1992, the subsequent move of head office from Hong Kong to London, and the string of acquisitions that brought the bank to its pre-eminent place in global finance today. Acclaimed historians Richard Roberts and David Kynaston chronicle the bank's struggles as well as its successes: the last part of the book deals with the ill-fated move into consumer finance in the US, as well as the financial crisis of 2008 and its effect on HSBC. Impeccably researched and generously illustrated from the HSBC archives, this is a valuable addition to global financial history.

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