Oil markets are being too complacent given the risk of major supply disruptions in the Middle East, analysts told CNBC on Thursday, with one warning that crude futures could rally to more than $200 a barrel.

It comes amid speculation that Israel could be planning to launch a retaliatory attack on Iran targeting its oil infrastructure — a prospect which would likely deliver a rude awakening to bearish energy market participants.

Iran, which is a member of OPEC, is a major player in the global oil market. So much so, it is estimated that as much as 4% of the world’s supply could be at risk if Iran’s oil infrastructure becomes a target for Israel.

Speaking to CNBC’s “Street Signs Europe” on Thursday, Bjarne Schieldrop, chief commodities analyst at Swedish bank SEB, said escalating tensions in the Middle East could have dramatic consequences for the market.

“If ... you really took out the oil installations in Iran, force down the exports by 2 million barrels, then the next question in the market will be what will happen now in the Strait of Hormuz? That, of course, would add a significant risk premium to oil,” Schieldrop said.

Debt holders oppose $1.6 billion value reduction, throwing wrench into TV merger.

Dish creditors "plan to block a distressed exchange that's a key part of its tie-up with rival DirecTV, according to people familiar with the matter," Bloomberg reported today. "A group of steering committee investors has gained a blocking position in order to negotiate with the company, the people said. They may even explore a better outcome through litigation, said some of the people." The Bloomberg article was titled, "Dish-DirecTV Deal Sparks Creditor Revolt Over $1.6 Billion Loss."

As Bloomberg notes, "Dish needs consent from its bondholders to exchange old debts for notes issued out of the new combined entity" in order to complete the deal. A previous Bloomberg article said that "just over two-thirds of [Dish] bondholders in each series of notes have to agree to the exchange, with the deadline set for October 29." EchoStar executives argue that debt holders will benefit from the merger by "owning debt of a stronger company with lower leverage," the article said.

cross-posted from: https://lemm.ee/post/43745210

Source Bloomberg article

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/20349947

DirecTV to Buy Dish and Sling TV in Satellite TV Merger

To those who engaged with my last post, I noticed a fair share of downvotes. While this doesn’t particularly concern me, what does is the value we provide to our customers. I’m not here to control your perspective or force a change, but I do want to raise some questions and ideas.

Do you want to build lasting customer relationships? A reputation that stretches beyond your local town, city, or even country? Because the way many businesses operate today is, frankly, short-sighted. The strategies are not only inconsiderate but ultimately non-beneficial to anyone seeking long-term success.

What do I mean by this?

Imagine the battlefield. The dust rises as swords clash, armies push forward, and victory is within sight—but at what cost? Many salespeople and business leaders are fighting for the quick win. They charge into battle with the sole goal of taking the nearest hill, claiming short-term profit. A hill may be taken, but what of the enemy? You know nothing of their strength, nothing of their tactics, and you leave the field unprepared for the greater war to come.

This approach is reckless. You may win that skirmish, but you lose something much greater: the insight needed to secure lasting victory. The short-term gain blinds you to the larger campaign, to the territories that could be conquered if only you took the time to understand your opponent.

How does this relate to business?

In this analogy, your customers are the battlefield. Charging in for a quick sale without taking the time to know their needs, their motivations, or their concerns is like rushing into battle without a plan. You may secure a sale, but you miss the bigger picture—the loyalty, the trust, and the continued patronage that come from truly understanding those you serve.

A tactician worth their salt doesn’t fight for one hill—they fight to dominate the entire field. They observe, they learn, and they adapt. In the same way, a skilled businessperson must take the time to know their customers, not just as buyers, but as individuals. Every customer is a new encounter, an opportunity to refine your strategy and strengthen your position. By treating each interaction as a step in a larger campaign, you prepare yourself for more than just a single victory—you prepare for the long war.

Now let’s talk about the Long Game.

The long game in battle is never about brute force or a singular, reckless charge. It’s about patience, precision, and foresight. The battlefield is vast, the enemies many, and each movement must be carefully calculated. You don’t simply rush in to take ground; you lay traps, scout the terrain, and find ways to turn the enemy’s strength into their downfall. You build alliances, learn from your scouts, and turn every minor skirmish into a lesson for the next encounter.

In business, this long game is just as essential. You must know the terrain—the market. You must study your adversary—the competition. But more than that, you must understand the people who will ultimately decide the outcome of the war—your customers. You don’t just sell to them. You learn their habits, their needs, and their desires. You become a trusted ally, not just a vendor. This is how you win not just one sale, but every sale that follows.

In a well-fought war, the general who listens to the whispers of his scouts and the murmurs of his soldiers is the one who triumphs. This is how you should treat your customer base: as scouts and soldiers in your long-term strategy. By understanding them deeply, you don’t just sell them a product; you become part of their journey. And when that happens, they don’t just buy from you—they return, time and time again. And they bring others with them.

So which path do you choose: the reckless charge or the calculated campaign?

Will you continue to rush into battle with no plan beyond the immediate gain, or will you rise to the level of a true tactician, guiding your business with foresight and wisdom? You could continue on the short path, fighting skirmishes and chasing momentary profit. Or you could fight for something greater: a reputation that spans continents, customer loyalty that endures for generations, and a business that thrives, not just for a season, but for a lifetime.

The choice is yours. But remember: True victory belongs to those who see beyond the immediate fight. The future belongs to those who understand the battlefield and its players—and who are willing to play the long game.

Informal note: I just recently studied The Art of War by Sun Tzu, complementing the tactical insights I’ve gained from studying Meng Tian for quite some time. If you happen to disagree with any of this, I encourage open communication. Only downvoting helps neither of us.

In today’s competitive market, understanding the unique needs of customers is paramount, particularly when assisting families in significant purchases such as vehicles or footwear. Imagine a family entering an auto dealership, looking to purchase a vehicle that accommodates their large family and specific requirements. The initial step in this process is to engage the family in a conversation about their budget and essential features. However, my approach goes beyond simply matching criteria. 

Tailored Solutions for Unique Family Dynamics

After establishing a budget, I would delve deeper by asking questions about the ages of their children and any particular safety features they may require. For instance, if there are toddlers in the family, we might prioritize vehicles with advanced safety systems, easy access to car seats, or spacious interiors to accommodate strollers and other child necessities. By focusing on these aspects, I can ensure that the vehicle not only meets their practical needs but also promotes a sense of safety and security within the family unit. 

Moreover, I consider the psychological implications of the purchase. A family vehicle serves as a space for bonding, adventure, and comfort. By offering options that encourage positive family experiences, I aim to maximize the developmental benefits for the children while ensuring the vehicle is psychologically beneficial for the entire family.

Why This Matters: Building Trust and Community

This approach is crucial because consumers rely on us to find the right vehicle that meets their needs, budget, and safety requirements. We facilitate significant financial milestones for our customers, often representing a substantial investment for families. By considering factors beyond mere specifications, we can foster a community of growth and trust, enhancing our reputation within the town.

Expanding the Concept: A Holistic Approach in Retail Footwear

This same philosophy applies to retail, particularly when selling footwear. Imagine a family shopping for shoes for their children. The process begins similarly: I would inquire about their budget and any specific features they are seeking—whether it’s durability for active play or support for growing feet. 

Finding the Best Shoes Across Price Ranges

To further illustrate this approach, let’s examine how I would guide a family in selecting shoes by identifying three of the best options across three different price ranges: low, medium, and high.

 Low Price Range (Under $50)

1. Adidas Advantage Base  

Description: Affordable, stylish, and comfortable, these sneakers provide good support for everyday wear.  

Why It Works: Their classic design appeals to children and parents alike, making them a versatile choice for various occasions.

2. New Balance 680v6

Description: A lightweight running shoe with ample cushioning, suitable for active children.  

Why It Works: Offers a balance of quality and affordability, ensuring kids can run and play comfortably.

3. Skechers Microburst 

Description: These shoes feature a breathable mesh upper and a lightweight design, perfect for casual wear.  

Why It Works: The emphasis on comfort and style makes them attractive to kids, while parents appreciate the value.

 Medium Price Range ($50-$100)

1. Nike Air Max Excee 

Description: Combining style and comfort, these shoes are ideal for both sports and casual outings.  

Why It Works: The Nike brand is trusted, and the Air Max technology offers excellent support, making them a popular choice among older children.

2. ASICS Gel-Contend 7

Description: Designed for active kids, these shoes provide cushioning and support for running and playing.  

Why It Works: ASICS is renowned for its athletic footwear, and these shoes deliver quality at a reasonable price.

3. Saucony Cohesion 14  

Description: A versatile running shoe that offers stability and comfort, suitable for various activities.  

Why It Works: The emphasis on functionality combined with a stylish design appeals to both parents and children.

 High Price Range (Above $100)

1. Hoka One One Bondi 8

Description: Known for exceptional cushioning and support, these shoes are perfect for long distances and active kids.  

Why It Works: Hoka's focus on comfort and performance makes these shoes a worthwhile investment for serious young athletes.

2. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39

Description: A highly regarded running shoe that balances comfort, responsiveness, and durability.  

Why It Works: Its performance features cater to older children involved in sports, while the Nike brand adds an aspirational element.

3. Adidas Ultraboost 22

 Description: These premium sneakers combine style and advanced cushioning technology for a luxurious feel.  

Why It Works: The blend of performance and aesthetics makes them a favorite among trend-conscious youths.

Understanding Developmental Needs in Footwear

Beyond the initial questions, I would explore the developmental stages of the children. For younger children, I would emphasize shoes that promote healthy foot development and provide ample support. For older kids involved in sports, I would recommend shoes that cater to their specific activities, ensuring that they enhance performance while minimizing the risk of injury.

Just as with vehicle purchases, the psychological aspects are significant. Shoes are often tied to self-expression and confidence, especially for children. By guiding parents to select footwear that not only fits well but also resonates with their child’s personality, we create a positive shopping experience that contributes to the child’s overall self-esteem and comfort.

The Food Industry Perspective: Marketing and Consumer Engagement

In both the automotive and footwear industries, the holistic approach can also be mirrored in the food sector, where understanding consumer preferences is crucial for effective marketing and engagement. For instance, consider a family shopping for healthy meal options. A grocery store can implement strategies similar to those in vehicle and footwear sales.

Tailored Recommendations: Just as we inquire about a family’s needs for vehicles and shoes, grocery stores can engage customers by asking about dietary restrictions, family sizes, and meal preferences. This information can guide staff in making personalized recommendations.

Product Range Selection: Similar to identifying the best shoes across different price ranges, grocery stores can curate selections of healthy foods across various price points. This may involve offering budget-friendly options like store-brand products alongside premium organic choices.

Community Engagement: Establishing trust with consumers is crucial. Grocery stores can foster community by hosting cooking classes or health workshops, encouraging families to make informed choices. This aligns with the concept of facilitating significant purchases—like food that nurtures and sustains families.

Promotional Strategies: Marketing campaigns can focus on the developmental benefits of nutritious food for children, emphasizing the importance of healthy eating habits. This could involve collaboration with local schools or pediatricians to reinforce the message.

Conclusion: Enhancing Customer Experience Through a Holistic Lens

By adopting a holistic approach in automotive, retail footwear, and the food industry, we not only fulfill the immediate needs of our customers but also contribute to their long-term satisfaction and well-being. In doing so, we cultivate trust, loyalty, and a strong sense of community—key components in establishing a reputable business. Ultimately, our goal is to serve not just as salespeople but as facilitators of meaningful experiences that positively impact the lives of our customers and their families.

cross-posted from: https://lemm.ee/post/43492652

Source Financial Times article

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/20268258

Source Wall Street Journal article

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/20257795

"In virtual meetings Thursday afternoon, the cloud software giant notified staffers who report to its Hillsboro office, thirty minutes outside of Portland, of its decision. Customer-success employees, who account for much of the Hillsboro office's staff, were given until November 26 to decide whether to take a severance package or relocate to Indianapolis, Atlanta, or Seattle, where Salesforce also has offices. Other employees were told they could continue to work for Salesforce remotely."

In a video uploaded to the Chinese social media platform Bilibili in October, a Shein warehouse worker in southern China with black-rimmed glasses tells the camera he picked 650 clothing items during his last shift—a feat he claims to have accomplished, in part, by not taking a single bathroom break. The worker says the sacrifice would help him reach his goal of earning 10,000 RMB (nearly $1,500 at the time) a month at his job picking and packing customer orders for Shein, the global fast-fashion juggernaut valued last year at $66 billion.

In a separate Bilibili video posted a few days later, a different Shein staffer says that he is “sweating profusely after picking goods all night,” but he’s grateful, at least, that his team leader is friendly. In a third clip shared to the short-form video platform Kuaishou in November, another Shein worker with long hair pulled back into a low ponytail tells the camera she is having trouble lifting her left hand after completing an 11-and-a-half hour shift at a Shein warehouse. “My first time working in logistics, there won’t be a second time,” reads the caption.

Note: title is drawn from the article, and I'd argue is rather exaggerated given the contents. A better title might be, "A Look Into Shein's Reliance on Gig Workers". Just realized this may be behind paywall for some, archive link in the event of that.

In February, Moody's downgraded Israel's rating to A2. The upcoming change reflects not only the geopolitical escalation but also Moody's lack of confidence in the Israeli government's ability to manage fiscal consolidation and reduce debt.

Credit rating agency Moody's is set to release an updated rating on Friday which is expected to downgrade Israel's credit rating to A3, equivalent to an A- rating by other agencies.