Business application of mathematics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Business application of mathematics - Essay Example A simple formula is then derived to select the best five funds from each sector. For low risk investors, the 1st, 3rd and 5th year cumulative performance to the last quarter columns and fund size were used as metrics to decide the best 5 funds from each sector. Basic financial theory states that outsized returns can be generated only by taking risks, so although a fund may exhibit excellent returns, an investor should incorporate risk into the analysis to determine the risk-adjusted performance of the fund and how it compares to other investments. There are several metrics to use when analysing funds, one can decide to use kurtosis, skewness, standard deviation, mean, minimum and maximum functions, value at risk or any other metric or any combination of these metrics. Combining many of these metrics in the analysis of funds is an intensive way of getting the best funds. The metrics used to analyse the funds sometimes give different funds as the best. Most people however use fund size and 1st, 3rd and 5th yearly cumulative values to easily select the best funds. Skewness is a measure of the asymmetry of data in this case, the returns. Positive skewness means mean>median>mode. Negative skewness indicates the probability of a very high risk even if the probability is low. Kurtosis measures the level of flatness of a distribution. Negative kurtosis, indicates a lower probability of results around the mean, and lower probability of extreme values. A positive kurtosis indicates a higher probability of results near the mean, but also a higher probability of extreme values.   The idea of thought behind this criterion is that the yearly cumulative performance to the last quarter is a vital metric that indicates fund performance in the market. Another important metric that investors look at is fund size. Among the yearly cumulative performance columns, a fund that will

The effects of the 2008 financial crisis on the investment in the Gulf Research Paper - 1

The effects of the 2008 financial crisis on the investment in the Gulf area and Qatar - Research Paper Example While closely evaluating the investment activities of Gulf countries including Qatar during 2008 financial crisis and post-recession period, it seems that the global financial crisis did not affect the Gulf region’s investment sector much when compared to other regions. Recession 2008: Impact on the Arab Region The crisis affected most of the Arab region also causing a significant decline in financial markets. Despite the region’s potential economic sources like oil revenue, real estate investment, tourism, and housing, countries in the region became vulnerable to an economic slowdown albeit at a slower pace. The main reason was that the region’s economic activities did not involve productive actions which could reroute the wealth surplus into establishing strong industrial and human skill bases. Also, the region as a whole failed to absorb income and investment on a multiple basis. The results of the downturn were visible in the form of declining living standard s, increasing inequality, growing unemployment rate etc. Migrant workers were the most affected segment in almost every GCC country. The main investors in the region included but not limited to The Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Singapore GIC, the Saudi prince al-Waleed Bin Talal, Kuwait, and Qatar. The outcome for their investment in Corporates like Citigroup, Merrill Lynch, Barclays, and Credit Suisse was not satisfactory or even inflicted great loss on the investors. The crashes in the UK, U.S financial markets affected the Middle Eastern stock markets as well. On September 15th 2008, the Saudi Arabian stock market fell by 6.5%, Doha 7%, Kuwait 3% and Abu Dabi 4.35% (Casa Arabe). However, since the gulf region had already learned lessons from the recession of the 1980s and the oil price fall, they were prepared to confront the new downturn unlike many other developed nations. Evidently, the impacts of the 1980s’ price fall were more intense and rapid than the recent one. The bitter experiences of 1980s taught the GCC countries to respond more flexibly to the new crisis. The difference was that the strategic decisions taken recently were of long-term significance whereas the first ones involved rapid actions. Better fiscal policies and the private sectors’ less dependence on state spending also contributed to the relatively sustainable position of the region. The direct result of this strategy was that all rich GCC countries namely Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi had sufficient overseas assets to carry out their annual programs at least for a short term. Post-Recession Scenario One of the post-recession trends in the Gulf investment sector is the boom of real estate market. When compared other sectors, investing in developed market real estate seemed secure and profitable for many Arab investors, among which Qatar held the prominent position. As Roubini reports, Qatar unlike its Emirati or Kuwaiti counterparts s ustained with lower loan growth, lower profitability and thereby weakening balance sheets (â€Å"Are there..†). The government bought â€Å"stakes in local banks, as well as property and equity holdings on the balance sheets of local banks† and the nation’s â€Å"sovereign wealth fund was among the first to return to significant foreign investment† (Roubini). In fact, the world overcame the issues of the 2008 recession, mainly led by Asian and Middle East countries. For instance, subsequent to the

Business Perpetuates Rather Than Reduces Inequality in the Society Essay

Business Perpetuates Rather Than Reduces Inequality in the Society - Essay Example This to a great extent has not been the case; in fact in many cases business has perpetuated inequality in the society. These inequalities are mainly manifested when it comes to the personnel in the business organization. The inequality comes in three major regimes; gender, class and race. This paper discusses how business increases inequality in the society rather than reducing it. Discussion First I will define the inequalities that occur in business organizations. As stated earlier the main ones are class, race and gender. Class refers to the differences in control over and access to the resources of the business organization. Class differences are manifested during employment and the wages that are paid. The hierarchies that may be created in organizations may create a wide gap between the top management of the business organization and the workers at the bottom. In large corporations the Chief executive officers sit at the top and wield more power than other workers in the busin ess. Such class difference might not be experienced in small businesses but still the owner or boss has class power over employees. Gender inequality is seen in the difference in beliefs of identities of men and women. Despite efforts to try to close the gender gap in business organizations, most top positions in organization management are still held by men while the low white collar positions like clerks and secretaries are dominantly held by women. Supervisory duties have always been assigned to men in many business organizations. This brings about gender inequality because men and women are not treated equally (Smith 2002). Race inequality comes about because of differences in physical characteristics, oppression, culture and historical domination justified by the underlying beliefs. Businesses owned by certain races in some cases discriminate other races when it comes to employment. They might fail completely to employ the other races or they may employ them and give them junio r positions. There are other differences that might be the base for inequality in business organizations. These include sexuality, religion, physical disability and age. Some business organizations may discriminate against the homosexuals when it comes to employment. There are also cases where certain religions have been discriminated in business organizations. These differences might be vital but they do not carry more weight like gender, race and class in creating inequality. The main intention of business organizations is to make profits (Banerjee 2012). The requirements that are placed for work ensure that the organization does realize profits. These requirements may cause inequality between genders and classes. In a business organization work is designed in favour of men who are totally dedicated to earn a living and do not have other responsibilities for family demands or children. Eight hours of continuous working, giving the work maximum attention, arrival on time and being able to work for extra hours if need arises are some of the general requirements for employees in business organizations. Since it is mostly the workers at the lower level who perform duties that are vital for the realization of profit for the business, it is not easy to relax these requirements for them. On the other hand, the top management may bend these rules for their members. A manager for the business organization may work in the organization on part time basis, may not be required to arrive early, he may also be undertaking other business and is rarely required to work for extra hours. This is not true for a junior employee. Since it is the top management

Employment law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 8

Employment law - Essay Example If the employee finds the termination unlawful then redress may be undertaken before the employment tribunal. Dismissal is not encouraged as the livelihood of the employee is at stake but it does not entail the destruction of the employer if fair causes exist to justify termination. Dismissal is deemed just when anchored on the employee’s misconduct, inability to discharge the duties due to lack of qualifications, the position is redundant, continued employment is prohibited by statutory duty and other analogous reasons. The employee is not without any recourse from unlawful dismissals. An employee may institute a suit before the employment tribunal provided that such employee has rendered one year continuous service. However, an employee may bring an action regardless of length of service when based on â€Å"automatically unfair grounds† thus the time element is not a pre-condition. If the dismissal is rooted on medical reasons, it is sufficient that the employee has rendered one month of service. Accordingly, an employee who was treated unfairly may proceed against the employer. This is the dilemma of Ms. Sally Trent who owns ST Solutions, a small business with seven employees including Sally. A suit for constructive dismissal and harassment was lodged by Trish Dodge, her Secretary/Administrator for about twenty months. According to Sally, Trish was competent in her job notwithstanding long absences due to illness which she failed disclosed. There were no complaints regarding her conduct or had problems dealing with Sally and the other employees. Conflict arose between Trish and Brian, a freelance web designer, who regularly found fault with Trish by shouting words â€Å"you are useless†. When Trish complained to Sally, she told Brian during a drinking get-together to avoid contact with Trish. Brian ignored the warning prompting Trish to walk out. In her letter, Trish stated that she cannot work in the same office as Brian. Sally hired a

( pain Management) letter to my subject examiner Essay

( pain Management) letter to my subject examiner - Essay Example Pharmacologic Pain Interventions often alleviate pain symptoms by reviewing the prescription. However, this part of treatment is temporary and is concerned with reducing the pain rather than curing it to the core in the long run. Moreover, there are some major constraints in Pharmacologic Pain Intervention that include inadequate knowledge of nurses, little support from doctors and patient’s approval. In our last meeting, we had a thorough discussion on the topic that really helped me in gaining clear insights of the subject. Your insights offered a clear understanding along with making me think at a different and broad level. I personally believe that Pharmacologic Pain Interventions is a serious issue in the pain management, both acute and chronic. It requires specific knowledge and understanding along with a sense of ethics. There is no doubt that your guidance helped me in gaining multiple perspectives of the subject matter and with your due permission, I would like to explore the knowledge and understanding of nurses on Pharmacologic Pain Interventions especially in Saudi Arabia. Few research papers have already been written pertaining to this issue and with this analysis, it would further help in understanding the core intricacies of pain management in an analytical and critical manner. Therefore, I need your permission to go ahead with the above mentioned thought. Lack of adequate knowledge is the biggest worry in Pharmacologic Pain Interventions as nurses often try to alleviate pain but with limited knowledge fail to do so in the long run (Kaki, Daghistani (2007). I personally believe that this assignment has a lot more to offer and underpin and with inadequate knowledge and training actins as serious threats, the concept of Pharmacologic Pain Interventions can be explored in a critical manner. All these points are based on the

Chapter question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Chapter question - Essay Example age, compatibility, complexibility, trialability, observability, impact on social relations, reversibility, communicability, time, risk and uncertainty, commitment and modifiability† (Edberg, p. 59). Relative advantage defines the measure of effectiveness and efficiency of a proposed innovation with respect to the old technology. A significant relative advantage will therefore motivate a faster adoption of the theory. Complexibility refers to the level of ease of applying a proposed technology. While a complex technology may delay implementation due to lack of implementation resources and determination of certainty over the technology, a less complex technology can be immediately implemented (Edberg, p. 59). Triability however defines the ability to test the technology, practically, before its adoption. Where such practical tests are possible, decision can be made on whether to adopt the technology or not. In cases where such tests are not possible, alternative approaches must be devised and this may delay adoption of the proposed technology. The impacts that the technology can have on the society are also important in determining how fast it can be implemented. This is because social responsibility measures must first be put in place before implementation of the technology. The other factors can also either speed up or delay implementation (Edberg, p.

Consumer Behaviour Essay Example for Free

Consumer Behaviour Essay Problem recognition is defined as the perception of a difference between the ideal state of affairs and the actual situation (stream notes chapter 1 Schiffman et al. (2011). Needs recognition is the first stage of all consumer decision process. The problem recognition for buying a RADO watch is initially my want for being able to wear a watch. However I know I want a luxury watch of high value and class, this makes the purchase of a high involvement highly complex and an extensive problem solving decision as it is very expensive. I will be very motivated in the next step which is the search for information. Being of such a high priced purchase I want to find out as much information as I can, not just about the product but also the effect of wearing a RADO watch. Firstly I will do an internal search of information, this is a quick sweep over the mind on what I can recall about the product and is done as soon as a problem is recognised. With lower interest or motivated purchases this could be deemed enough and I would move onto the purchase. However, as this is a complex purchase I want to know more information, this is called an external information search. By including an external investigation I will better understand the risks involved with buying a RADO watch. Such as functional risk, will the product work as expected? Physical risk, is the watch safe? such as reactions to the materials it is made from. Financial risk, is it worth the price? will I gain enough satisfaction to warrant such an expensive item. Social risk, am I going to embarrass myself or not fit in? Physiological risk, what effect will wearing a RADO watch have on myself esteem, will I feel good? and lastly time risk, the amount of time and effort spent on the purchase decision, was it a waste? The amount of time spent on an external information search all depends on the value of the product to the consumer. In this case I would undergo a very detailed investigation where I invest a lot of time because of my student financial situation. When doing external research I am soon effected by marketers and exposure to outside stimulants. For example when doing my search I wanted to see where I could purchase a RADO watch from . When I visited the RADO website I was soon drawn in by the instant look of class and wealth which appeals to my personality and realize by purchasing a new RADO watch I would be fueling my ego and moving towards my ideal self image. I also satisfied my need for knowledge and information about the product, I learnt what they were made out of, what new technology they include and what celebrities and events endorse the products, which to me shows they are of a popular status and could create a positive image about myself. Therefore I will move on to the next stage of the decision model, evaluation of alternatives. By using the conjunctive decision rule I am able to set a degree of cut off standard. The Executive watch market is very competitive and includes other brands such as ROLEX, TISSO and MIDO. All of which offer a similar product but I believe a RADO watch provides a better experience. Its combined features such as having a reputation of being scratch free, sleek and an industry leader for design and new materials match its personal experience portraying a high social class, wealth, success and confidence. After all Andy Murray wears one. After being satisfied with my choice and research I then purchase the RADO watch from either the Christchurch or Auckland supplier. However Purchasing the product IS important it is not the final stage of the consumer decision model. After purchasing the product a consumer then evaluates the effect, while wearing my RADO watch I evaluate its effect, has it meet all my expectations. Consumers will try to reduce post purchase cognitive dissonance by seeking support that they made the right decision, either from peers, advertising or other customers. After purchasing my watch I felt it did meet all my expectations of class and image aswell as functionality however I was not happy from the price I paid. RADO watches are very expensive ranging from over $1000 for the cheapest. After investing so much money I feel that it is not worth the satisfaction or wellbeing I gained. Therefore I would take the final step in the model by divestment. I would claim back my money from the watch by reselling it. Divestment is the remarketing, reselling or disposal of the product or packaging after use. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ My purchase of a Manual tooth brush is allot more simple and would be considered a habitual decision with low involvement as I would always choose the cheapest brush. The first stage, needs recognition would occur when my current tooth brush became worn out and I need a replacement. When undergoing an information search I would solely rely on an internal method and would feel satisfied that I know enough information about the product choices. The reason I have a low involvement outlook is because I see the product as low risk as there is no strong design difference or any features between the choices that effect social, financial, psychological, or time risk. they all seem indifferent apart from a slight price difference. This comes from a recollection of past experiences where I get the same satisfaction from any brand, The next step in the model, pre purchase evaluation of alternatives would solely happen at the single shop I went to when I am actually picking my product from the shelf. As a tooth brush is of low involvement and value to me I have no motivation to visit any other outlets and want to get the purchase done as fast and easily as possible. The next step is to purchase the item, which I will do by picking the cheapest one from the shelf, pay then leave the store to consume the product. When I consume the product I don’t have many standards that need to be meet. Therefore this brush easy for fills my requirements and I am satisfied. Being of a low involvement purchase the post purchase evaluation will be limited and not as extensive of such as the RADO watch. I will continue to re purchase this brand but only if it remains the cheapest, I have no brand loyalty and will switch to alternative brands if there are opportunities such as a sale. The final stage in the process is divestment. After use, both the product and its packaging will be disposed of as rubbish because it holds no further value for resale, unlike the watch which is still valuable because of its high price. cant try it on rado †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã ¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ The standard consumer decision process model by Engel, Blackwell and Miniard is very useful for marketers as it is a road map of consumers minds which takes a journey through the different steps of consumption, starting with problem recognition then information search, evaluation of alternatives, purchase, consumption, post consumption evaluation and lastly divestment.