In The News

Global Consumer Gives Small Companies a Big Reach

Samuel Palmisano May 7, 2008
Rapid flows of information and trade require companies to respond quickly –and that has forced corporations of all sizes to create flexible, yet specialized versions for a range of markets around the globe, explains Samuel Palmisano, chairman and chief executive of IBM, in an opinion essay for the Financial Times. Because of technology, companies small in size are no longer limited to local...

Olympic Torch Protests Pose Dilemma for Host Nations

Barbara Demick May 5, 2008
In planning for an unprecedented 20-nation relay for the Olympic torch, China did not expect to create a flashpoint for protest against its violations of human rights and international law. Attempting to stem a public-relations disaster, China expects other governments to limit protests. Large demonstrations in Paris prompted a grassroots effort at boycotting a large French retailer and even...

Baiting the Dragon: German Business Warns of Pushing China too Far

April 29, 2008
Taking a firm stand on human rights can require sacrifice. Like trade itself, boycotts that attempt to influence national behavior are a two-way street: As Europeans ponder boycotting the Beijing Olympics, German business leaders warn that more than 200,000 jobs in that nation depend on Chinese exports. Harsh criticism of China’s policy in Tibet could fuel calls from Chinese citizens to boycott...

To Aim Ads, Web Is Keeping Closer Eye on You

Louise Story April 15, 2008
Computer programs that record, transmit and utilize detailed consumer preferences are in demand. Search engines monitor users’ every click. Even accounts like MySpace and Facebook, which are not search engines, have jumped onto the bandwagon and collect extensive information about their users. Direct advertising is lucrative. While consumers probably prefer seeing ads that interest them than not...

China’s Crackdown on Tibet Divides Europe

Shada Islam April 14, 2008
Restricting trade is often a tool for governments that want to show their commitment to human rights. But Europe is divided over the relative importance of human rights versus economic growth or the value of trade in promoting those rights. On one hand, trade with China helps to lift millions out of poverty and benefits European consumers. However, China’s suppression of human rights, as...

A Small Stove With Big Ambitions

Margot Cohen April 7, 2008
The invention of a tiny stove in India demonstrates the link between reduced carbon emissions and improved health – and how technology can contribute to slowing climate change. Global energy giant BP is producing and marketing Oorja, which means energy in Hindi, a small pellet stove that produces substantially fewer emissions than the traditional wood-burning stoves so common throughout India. In...

Businesses Say New York’s Clout Is Emigrating, With Visa Policies to Blame

Patrick McGeehan March 31, 2008
Among a company’s most valuable assets is its talent, particularly for financial and technology firms. A report by a business-interest group, Partnership for New York City, argues that America’s visa policies, including caps on the number of highly qualified workers and tough restrictions on extended stays, endanger New York City’s ability to attract and retain top talent. Immigration opponents...