The Evolution of Money – Bane Or Boon?

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Today, almost everything in our lives is related to money. No matter how we try to avoid the subject, it still remains as pertinent as ever before. To understand money, I believe we need to look into its history for lessons to learn. Only with that can we translate these lessons into personal meaning for application and prepare for the future.

As many of you know, money began as bartering where people exchanged items they had for things they wanted. For example, a dairy farmer exchanging milk for clothes. As time progressed, people found out that it was hard to measure relative values ​​of an item. For example, how much milk can be traded for a quantity of clothes? Also, it was slow, hard and time-consuming because for personal gain, people would bargain for the best possible trade. This created the need for a more efficient way of transaction, commodity money.

One of the first few forms of commodity money were gold and silver coins. They were used as these were tangible items representing value. As people found this way to measure values ​​of items, trading became much faster. However, another problem arose because carrying too much of them was inconvenient and could attract attention of thieves. This led to the establishment of banking.

To keep these valuables safe, wealthy people began to appoint individuals with the role of safekeeping them. In return, these individuals issued receipts to these wealthy people as a representation that they owned the valuables. Here, money has evolved from something that held value into a derivative of value. With money becoming compact, people just had to trade with paper receipts instead of bulky items like gold and silver. People could also trade in different places as bankers in these places only had to balance the trading accounts between the buyer and seller with debits and credits against the receipts. This greatly facilitated the movement of money from point A to B where it is needed. This was the start of prosperity in many areas as speed of business was significantly improved.

However, as the bankers held more commodity money like gold and silver in their vaults, they discovered that their clients had little use for them. Here, brilliant individuals brought banking to the next level, from storing wealth to lending wealth and charging interest on the loan subsequently. Now, bankers could earn money from money they did not own.

Naturally, as greed came into the equation, bankers began making loans for money more than what they stored, giving rise to fractional reserve receipt money. For example, $ 2000 lending in receipts when you only have $ 1000 worth of commodity money, creating a fractional reserve ratio of 2: 1. They then collected interest on this expanded money supply and this greatly increased their profits.

With an increased money supply, people had more money to spend and consumption rose, leading to economic growth according to Keynesian theory. However, this also created economic volatility because some greedy banks loaned out too much money that they were unable to meet the withdrawal requests. This led to the establishment of Central Banks, where there was only a centralized and standardized form of receipt money known as the national currency.

The purpose of Central Banks was to regulate the fractional reserve system. However, these Central Banks were profit-driven private banking cartels, not owned by the government. Solutions implemented to solve problems actually caused them to escalate as these big financial institutions now controlled the money supply of nations.

This fiat monetary system was spread throughout the world by the Bretton Woods Agreement in 1944 which gave birth to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank. Fiat money means that only the national currency is accepted as money paid for government bills like taxes. The creation of IMF forced countries to adopt this system to become its member. Naturally, many countries had to adopt this system to gain protection and help from financial superpowers of that era.

However, the last straw was placed to worsen the delicate and fragile situation brought by the fractional reserve system. That was the severing of the US dollar from gold in 1971. This caused the transition of money being a derivative from something of value like gold into a derivative of debt. The next paragraph will explain this.

Today, when there are bailouts, Central Banks like Federal Reserve purchase bonds issued by the US Treasury and print the money the government needs. Subsequently, they just have to leech the government like a zombie by charging interest on this printed money, money they created out of thin air.

This printed money is the debt of the government and can be printed in unlimited numbers by these Central Banks. This is because printing money no longer depended on the amount of gold reserves the government had after 1971 when the US dollar was severed from gold. All of these means that the government can also engage in unlimited debt which has to be repaid by raising taxes, robbing the poor to pay the rich.

Now, in a world that grows today with increasing debt (caused by increasing money supply), do you think the evolution of money is a bane or boon to us? For this, you could look at the prices of gold and silver (commodity money) and compare it with that of national currencies like the US dollar or Euro. I leave it for you to find out.

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Source by Ong Xun Xiang

2010 Top 10 Best Dating Cars for Guys

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There is a saying: "You have to dress to impress on your first date". It is certainly true, but we all have to admit that for guys the most important thing on the first date should be their ride. Just picture this scene: you're at her door in tuxedo with a bouquet of 25 roses (her favorites). She opens the door, takes you by the arm and you slowly walk her towards your Baby Blue color 1998 Toyota Corolla with multiple dings, scratches and a bumper sticker that says "Nirvana". If she is a smart and beautiful girl she will fake faint right there on the spot or will bolt and run away like Usain Bolt. Women do not really care that much about your attire, flowers or manners. Your ride on the opposite will speak volumes to them and in most cases will make them totally blind to everything else. Now picture another scene: you're at her door with one hand holding your falling down pants and in your other hand a 24 ounce can of "Milwaukee's Best" wrapped in a brown paper bag. She opens the door and since she is a smart girl she is about to fake faint or almost ready to bolt like Mr. Bolt but she peeks over your right shoulder and sees your 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Convertible parked in her driveway. And because she is a smart and beautiful girl she takes you by the arm and walks you down to your car. The rest of the story is up to your imagination.

It's very simple my friends – your future and your wife to be is determined by Your Ride. Cruel but true, that's why Date My Ride website came up with a list of 2010 Top 10 Best Dating Cars for Guys. Rides are not listed in any particular order or sequence. Those are simply the Top 10 must haves.

  1. 2010 Chevrolet Hurst / Camaro. This one is the perfect ride for the first date. The new 2010 Camaro will sure knock your date off her feet. Stylish body flow, aggressive grill, 20 inch rims (bling, bling) and 420-hp 6.2L V-8 powerful engine will absolutely close the deal on your first date. Plus this sweet ride is a huge ego booster – no girl will ever care of your looks or clothing when you are pulling into her driveway with this sweet new ride.
  2. 2010 Rolls -Royce Ghost. This one right of the bat makes a statement – I am over 60, I am filthy rich, I could die pretty soon and leave you fighting with my heirs over the money. With ride like this one – 212.6 inches long, price tag of over $ 300K, 536-hp 6.6L V-12 engine you will attract the hottest gold diggers from all over the world. The news flash for gramps – no gold digger will care about your looks, jaw implants, hearing aids or Alzheimer's when you are proudly drooling behind the steering wheel of this bad ass coffin!
  3. 2010 Nissan GT-R. When chicks are going to see you in the ride such as 2010 Nissan GT-R two things will come to their minds – "Fast and Furious and Vin Diesel." This ride will create an impression of you that you are as buff and tough like Mr. Diesel. Put few stripes or flames on the hood; throw in some monstrous speakers and this 485-hp 3.8L V-6 Turbo engine tow seater will become a love ride. No coed will ever say "No" to you when she sees you in this ride flying down the street or doing smoky wheelies. Plus you will be able to smoke every Civic or Corolla at the traffic light. The only bad news is that this ride is not cheap – $ 84K, so your part-time job at Chuck E Cheese's will not cut it.
  4. 2010 Audi R8. Even James Bond- Agent 007 would not be ashamed to ride in this baby. 2010 Audi R8 should be every man's dream. If this is your ride you can be well assured that Miley Cyrus would be fighting Sarah Palin about who gets to go out on the date with you. With this ride even if you are resembling George Costanza from Seinfeld – short, bold, no job, living with parents you absolutely will be dating the most gorgeous women! 525-hp 5.2L V-10 humming engine will make any kitty purr in this powerful ride.
  5. 2011 Jaguar XJ – Series. You want to impress Desperate Housewives from LA, NY, NJ, and OC? Get this kitty cat – 510-hp 5.0L V-8 engines would not be bad for David Beckham either. The look of this car just says: "I am in it to win it" and "Of course I am a Gentleman". Somehow this ride asks you to dress nicely so you become part of the car. And because of all that Euro / British hype ladies would be expecting you to be at the par with this car. Two words to describe this ride: "Gentlemen's Choice".
  6. 2010 Ferrari California. The name says it all – "Ferrari California". To have this ride you must a) live in LA, b) be one of those want to be A list or at least B list celebrities c) "have your dealer on a speed dial" and oh, almost forgot d) you must be skinny. If you meet all of the above this 460-hp 4.3L V-8 engine convertible is Your ride. Just keep in mind you will be attracting certain types of women with those common elements: a) she lives in LA, b) she is one of those want to be A list celebrities, c) "she will have her dealer on a speed dial "d) she will probably be a D size and oh, almost forgot e) she will be skinny.
  7. 2010 Ford F – 250 Super Duty. Smell of beer, wood, gun powder, dogs and fish mixed with other women's perfume that is the smell of a real man driving this Bad Boy! Who cares that his ride is bigger than his 1966 modular home sitting on stilts. A real woman needs a real man and real men drive real bad as trucks such as 385-hp 6.2L V-8 engine Ford F-250 Super Duty! And the best thing about this ride is that you can literally hoard loads of women in its bed.
  8. 2010 Toyota Prius. You get this ride and every girl with "Green Peace" t-shirt will fall for you. Being "green" is fashionable these days. Even some actual A list Hollywood celebrities drive Priuses. But be forewarned that this 134-hp 1.8L engine bucket looking ride will not score you any point with hot gold diggers, desperate housewives or girls from The Hills. Most likely you and your date will end up hugging the trees on a first date.
  9. 2010 BMW M3 Convertible. This ride is an ultimate must have date car for guys. It is amazing how the sound of three simple letters Be-eM-double U will sweep your date of her feet. You will not even need to buy any alcohol, just give her a ride in this 414-hp 4.0L V-8 convertible and she will feel absolutely drunk. Any man becomes a superhero when he drops those three simple letters to the woman …. Be, eM, double U ….
  10. 2010 Mercedes -Benz CL65 AMG. No Top 10 car list is complete without the Benz. Women in all age groups, demographics and social levels will pay attention to you if you come to pick her up on a first date in this ride. We have to stress this again that you looks are not important if you are cruising down the street in this $ 200K plus, 604-hp 6.0L V-12 symbol of wealth. Get your date in a car, relax, adjust your hearing aid or pick piece of spinach from your braces and let this ride do its job.

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Source by Kevin Smithstein

Choice Of Law In Syndicated Loans And Bonds

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INTRODUCTION:

Any relationship between two entities, either persons or institutions, can not be established except in accordance with some set of rules. These rules may be unenforceable norms or customs of a group or society, or some explicit laws having a binding and enforceable authority. A contract is a formal structure of a relationship between two or more parties, binding them together into a contractual relationship; and imposing upon them certain obligations and granting them certain rights over each other. In case of any problem with these obligations or rights, law of the land would come into action. But if the contracting parties belong to different lands, then there would arise a question as to law of which land should come into force. If the contracting parties have no earlier consensus over this issue, then it is more likely that the problem would remain unresolved; and one or more parties would suffer the loss. Hence, the need to decide at the time of making contract, as to which law would be followed.

CHOICE OF LAW IN SYNDICATED LOANS AND BONDS:

Similar is the case of the financial contract. 'Every legal issue under a financial contract must be determined in accordance with a system of law. An aspect of a contract can not exist in a legal vacuum. '(1) Syndicated loans and bonds are mostly international in their character. They usually involve borrowers and lenders from various countries; and 'the greater the number of countries involved the greater the number of municipal systems of law which have to be considered.' (2) As there is not single set of International laws that could effectively govern the syndicated loans and bonds, it is necessary for the parties to these contracts to choose an agreed system of law.

A syndicated loan agreement normally is contracted between the highly sophisticated institutions like banks, corporations, state corporations, and even the sovereign states themselves. It involves a number of systems of law (even a single bank operating internationally can be subject to different systems of law) (3). The international bond issues, too, involve issuers and investment banks from different countries. In some respects, international bonds (Eurobonds) are even more 'international' than the syndicated loans, as they are sold to the public at large, and the individuals and other entities buy and sell them in numerous jurisdictions. During this course of business a number of transactions involving numerous legal documents take place. With these transactions rights and liabilities shift from one entity to another very frequently. When it happens in different systems of law, it creates ambiguity about which law should apply in which case. This ambiguity makes the business vulnerable to unpredictable situations. Eventually the whole business market suffers serious damage.

"In order to reduce such uncertainty to a minimum, an attempt is made in practice to apply one system of law to the transaction and to exclude as far as possible the applicability of other systems of law with which the transaction may have some connection. This is generally sought to be achieved in practice by a 'choice of law' clause which subjects to one governing system of law _ 'the proper law' _ the validity, enforceability and interpretation of the contractual and other legal documents which constitute the transaction. " (4)

The practicality provides the opportunity to the lender to have preference in 'choice of law', as in case of a dispute, it is his money that would need to be recovered. In case of the Euro bonds, where an investment bank helps in selling securities (5), the situation becomes different, as the lenders appear on scene after the bond is issued under certain terms including the matter of choice of law. In any case, while exercising the choice, it is preferred that such system is chosen that is familiar to the parties, so that the tendency of using certain type of financial transactions needs not to be changed. Further, the dealing with legal as well as business issues could be convenient. It is also important that the system chosen is greatly mature and the relevant jurisdiction enjoys good reputation for its impartiality. Political stability in that specific jurisdiction and convenience of language are also important factors in choosing a certain system of law (6). The incident of freezing of foreign currency accounts following imposition of emergency after the atomic tests in 1998 (7), the stock market suffered such a huge loss that it took years to recover. In such a situation no serious financial activity can grow without fear of the unseen. While the enforcing forum is not less important a factor; the most significant factor of having the choice of law clause is the "insulation of the loan contract from legal changes in the borrower's country." (8)

While outlining the contract some of the essential documents would be prepared; for example, in case of a bond issue, the subscription agreement, the trust deed, the agreement between managers, the selling group agreement and the bond instruments themselves, and in case of the syndicated loan, the loan agreement. All of these legal documents would require validity, enforceability and when needed interpretation. (9) This could only be done under an agreed system of law.

Determination of rights and liabilities and interpretation of the legal documents would involve a number of laws relevant to the different issue. These may include the securities law, principles of contract, interpretation of contracts law, insolvency law, negotiable instruments law, and the like. All these laws should relate to one system of law, so as to make their interpretation and implementation possible. (10)

There are more than 310 jurisdictions in the world, which are grouped into nine classes ie Traditional English, American Common Law, Mixed Roman / common law, Germanic and Scandinavian, Mixed Franco-Latin / Germanic, Traditional Franco-Latin, Emerging Jurisdictions, Islamic Jurisdictions and Unallocated Jurisdictions (11). These categories are further combined into three major types: Common Law, Napoleonic and Roman-Germanic jurisdictions. (12) This much number of jurisdictions naturally has a potential to create problems in case of international syndicated loans and bonds where different systems of law would be involved. So, it becomes imperative to have 'choice of law' clause in the legal documents.

CONCLUSION:

The term international, in the syndicated loans and bonds, entails multiple laws, forums and jurisdictions. The conflict of laws, in such a case, is natural. Combination of laws, given their different approaches, is not a workable proposition. Harmonization of financial laws at international level is still an idealistic suggestion. So, to form, interpret and execute the international contracts, there is a need to adopt a single system of law. This, the parties to a contract can choose at the time of the concluding of the contract. This is done to ensure the validity, enforceability and interpretation of all the legal documents relevant to the contracts of syndicated loans and bonds. It helps eliminate the uncertainty and unpredictability of the fate of a contract. Most ideally, it is an external law, having a potential to insulate the loan contract from legal changes, especially, in the borrower's country. English law worthy of playing such a role. There is another advantage of choosing it: it does not demand any connection of the lender or borrower with England.

The fundamental importance of the inclusion of 'choice of law clause' in the international syndicated loan agreements and the legal instruments of the bonds, is to get rid of the uncertainty concerning the expectations about the contract, by providing a workable legal mechanism to resolve all the legal issues which would arise from time to time.

REFERENCES:

1). Wood, PR (1995) International Loans, Bonds and Securities Regulation; London: Sweet & Maxwell P-61

2). Slater R (1982) "Syndicated Bank Loans" presented to the Conference on 'The Transnational Law of International Commercial Transactions' at Bielefeld, W. Germany, October 5-7, 1981, in the Journal of Business Law pp 173-199

3). Cranston R (2003) Principles of Banking Law; 2nd Ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press; p 438

4). Tennekoon R (1991) The Law and Regulation of International Finance; London: Butterworths; p 16

5). Mishkin F (1992) The Economics of Money, Banking, and Financial Markets; 3rd Ed. New York: HarperCollins Publishers; p 286

6). Paul C & Montagu G (2003) Banking and Capital Markets Companion; 3rd Ed. London: Cavendish Publishing; p 94

7). Washingtonpost.com, at Http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/inatl/longterm/southasia/stories/pakistan052998.htm visited on 14-05-2005
8). Wood PR (1995) International Loans, Bonds and Securities Regulation; op cit

9). Tennekoon R .. op cit

10). Slater R (1982) op cit

11). Wood PR (1997) Maps of World Financial Law; London: Allen & Overy; p 9

12). Wood, PR (2005) Oxford and Cambridge Introductory Lectures of Financial Law, op cit

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Source by M Shahid Usman

Tenerife Or Gran Canaria – Which is the Best Holiday Island?

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When it comes to Tenerife, you will find a variety of climate changes across the island, with winter temperatures of around 15C to 20C in the winter in the North and 20C to 25C in the South. However, for the majority of holiday goers, Tenerife is at its best during the summer season when you can enjoy temperatures in the 30's – perfect weather to enjoy while you're soaking up the rays on one of the island's glorious beaches.

The island houses many fantastic beaches such as Playa Grande, Playa Las Gaviotas and Playa las Vistas – all of which have their own forms of entertainment whether you are looking to partake in some thrilling water sports or if you are simply looking to sit back, relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.

The beaches all provide eating facilities along the promenades which make them the perfect hang out spots and also make Tenerife one of the best places to visit whether you are a family of four, a couple or a gang of friends looking for the holiday of a lifetime . However, for many a holiday destination is chosen based on the culture which they can expect to be treated with.

Tenerife famously houses the amazing volcano Mount Teide, which is the third largest volcano in the world and the highest mountain in Spain – a sight not to be missed. The island is also home to a wide range of Spanish culture, much of which you can experience through some of the exquisite traditional restaurants which will provide you with some of the best Tapas you will ever taste.

The Canary Islands are renowned for providing fantastic tourist attractions and Tenerife is guaranteed not to disappoint. With the AquaPark, Teide National Park, Loro Parque and La Laguna to name but a few-there is plenty to entertain everyone of any age here. Finally there is the nightlife! Tenerife is perfect for all types of groups whether you are looking to dance the night away every night of your holiday or if you are looking for a family friendly holiday.

With masses of bars and restaurants, you can find cuisine from all over the world to suit any taste pubs and with many of the pubs providing food and family friendly entertainment, you are sure to enjoy every night on the island. For those looking to stay out until the early hours of the morning, you will find many bars which are open to the early hours of the morning, providing a wide range of music. With nightclubs such as Tramps and Veronicas providing some of the best music in Europe at the moment, you are sure to return home each night with a smile on your face.

Gran Canaria has a slightly warmer climate, providing highs of around 35C during its hottest season in July and August and with highs of around 25C during the winter months, it makes the island one of the best locations for a winter holiday as well as a summer holiday.

Similar to Tenerife, Gran Canaria houses some gorgeous beaches such as Playa de Puerto Rico, Playa de los Amadores and Playa del Inglés-which is known as being one of the most famous beaches in Europe. You can find a wide range of entertainment near the beaches from water sports, golf courses and various other amusements as well as masses of coffee shops and eateries-perfect for a bite to eat or a chance to cool off from the sweltering heat!

When it comes to escaping the heat, Las Palmas houses some fantastic galleries, museums and musical arenas, providing you with an eclectic mix of entertainment throughout your holiday, as well as some fantastic designer stores-perfect for those die hard shopping fans. The island also has many tourist attractions which you would expect from a Canary Island such as the Aqua Park, Parque de los Cocodrilo Crocodile Park and two casinos for those who fancy taking their chance with lady luck.

The island is home to some of the best cuisine in Europe, which a wide variety of restaurants providing traditional Spanish recipes with an Latin American and African influence, as well as Italian, Indian and Chinese meals. When it comes to the nightlife however, Gran Canaria provides a more vibrant party scene than Tenerife, mainly thanks to its buzzing gay nightlife. The Yumbo centre in Playa de Ingles is one of the most popular spots on the island with the party often not starting until midnight and lasting until last man standing.

Here, you will enjoy a wide range of Euro-pop and current music to dance away to and with a fantastic atmosphere, you are sure to have a brilliant night. On the island you will also find a wide range of pubs and bars for those looking for a more quiet evening, all of which provide a variety of music from live bands to jazz to chill out zones which are open well into the early hours of the morning. For this reason, the island is perhaps more suited to young groups or those who feel a lot younger than they are!

When it comes to choosing the best island, the Decision is purely made ​​by vBulletin® what type of holiday you are On looking for. Tenerife holidays are On perfect for families and couples or for Those WHO COMPLETE are On looking for a chilled out holiday where they 're can do color : as they 're please . However if the decision maker for you comes to culture and a buzzing nightlife, Gran Canaria holidays are for you. With a mixture of both the gay nightlife scene and the mainstream bars and clubs, you have the best of both worlds and are sure to not forget your holiday in a hurry.

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Source by Mark Scriven

The Top 5 Marketing Tips You Can Learn at Oktoberfest

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Oktoberfest is an annual celebration held in Munich that dates back to 1810. The first edition was a post-wedding feast to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese, and all of Bavaria was invited. The event was so popular it has continued year after year.

So how does this relate to marketing?

When you have more than 200 years to perfect the art of throwing a party, there are plenty of things to learn. From promotions to branding, everything seems to contribute to one common goal: Gemütlichkeit – a German work that roughly translates to a cross between coziness, warmth, belonging, cheerfulness, and fun. And personally speaking, I have never had more fun in my life then I did during my two trips to Munich for Oktoberfest.

As they say when the first keg is opened and the festival begins, "It's tapped!" So here are the top five marketing tips you can learn at Oktoberfest:

1) Raising your prices is not necessarily the best solution.

Every year, the price of a liter of beer goes up, and every year, more and more people attend Oktoberfest. What does this tell us? Lowering your prices is not always a good thing.

Yes, there are obviously more factors involved in this statistic, but as Irish marketer Jon McColloch said in a recent email, it's easier to sell one $ 80,000 BMW than it is to sell 80 Chevy Cobalts at $ 1,000 a piece. And Just in case you're wondering, the average price of a liter at this year's Oktoberfest is about $ 11.68.

2) Planning is paramount.

Every year, months before 7 million people walk through the gates and the music begins and the mugs clank, Oktoberfest is planned down to the smallest of details. The famous märzen beer is brewed in March . The massive beer halls holding upward of 10,000 people are constructed months in advance. Even the locals get in on the planning.

The famous German waitresses carrying all those liters can make enough money during the two plus weeks of Oktoberfest that they do not have to work the rest of the year. If they can make a one-euro tip per beer, carry 14 beers at once, and make a new run for beers every five to seven minutes … well, you do the math. They have, and they plan for it every year.

3) Make charitable donations.

The Hacker-Pschorr family – one of Munich's most famous breweries and one of the "Big Six" permitted at Oktoberfest – donated the land on which the festival is held. They were present at the first Oktoberfest in 1810, and because they gave Munich the fairgrounds for the festival, it's safe to say they'll be allowed at every one after. Giving can go a long way.

4) Be creative with your branding.

Beer has been around for a long time in Bavaria. So long, in fact, that there is a bit of uncertainty as to when some of the Big Six breweries were even created!

The oldest is Augustiner Bräu, established in 1328, and they certainly know a little bit about making beer, as well as marketing it (or not marketing it). They did not change the shape of their bottle when it was popular to do so. They rarely ever change their label. They do not engage in advertising campaigns. They do not export their Oktoberfest beer. They are the only brewery at the festival to serve it from traditional, wooden barrels. And their beer just happens to be the most popular at the festival and is noted by the locals, almost unanimously, as the best beer at Oktoberfest.

What does this tell us? That producing a high-quality product, and then just sticking to that, can often be the best way to build your brand.

5) Sell an experience.

Yes, people go to Oktoberfest for the beer and the pretzels and the music. Some go to a certain tent for a special food served there. Some pick a hall because they like the band or the décor.

Individually, these are all great, but when you add them up, they create an experience that is hard to replicate. Every tiny detail contributes, from the smell of candied almonds to the bright lights of the roller coasters.

Use this philosophy to analyze your products and services. Make sure your customers are getting the same attention, and make an effort to give them an experience they will never forget, every time.

Maybe even come up with a clever name or tagline to help brand it. At Oktoberfest, it's called gemütlichkeit. Whenever gemütlichkeit is mentioned in song, it 's mandatory that people toast. When people toast, they drink. Needless to say, the song is played quite often. That is Sales and Marketing 101. Prost!

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Source by Chad Stamm

How To Make Easy Money Betting on Soccer and Other Sports Online

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There is no limit to how much money you can make in online Sports Betting. Just how successful you become will depend entirely on your own little efforts.

OK! You may be one those people who loses lots of money regularly on sports betting. I've been there many times and from my experience it hurts so much to lose money. After many trials and errors, I stumbled upon the Key to successful betting. Am about to reveal to you this lucrative online business as the easiest and cheapest investment ever on the internet.

Sports Betting

For those just starting out. Sports betting is all about betting against bookmakers. It is quite different from betting against other people the way most people do. It is also different from pools betting. Bookmakers are betting companies that provide the platform for betting activities. They also provide the prices and expected winnings on each football match.

All you need to do is to determine the outcome of a particular match or a series of matches. You do not need to predict the exact score line. Though there are bets where you can predict the exact score line. The price per match will be determined by how hard or difficult it is. The easier the match, the lesser the potential returns. The harder the match, the higher the potential returns.

Let use soccer (football) for illustration:

Assuming TEAM-A on top of the league table wants to play TEAM-B who are at the bottom and out of form at home, we all know there is a very high likelihood that TEAM-A would win if in good form plus all the advantages to their side. The money you are expected to win if you bet TEAM-A will beat TEAM-B will be very small in fact.

On the other hand, if you say TEAM-B will beat TEAM-A, then the expected monetary returns would be high. It will be high as well if you say it will end in a draw.

Okay. Let's move on.

Predicting that TEAM-B, the under-dog will beat TEAM-A, the odds could be 4/1. That means that if you bet with $ 1 you will win $ 4 plus your $ initial 1 which makes your total earnings $ 5. I've used US dollars above as an example. Most bookies operate in Pound Sterling, dollars and Euro. So if you want to bet on it, what would you do? Start analyzing and seeing possibilities.TEAM-A to win at 2/7 simply means to win $ 2 you have to play with $ 7. You need to ask yourself is it worth risking $ 7 to $ 2 win? Or will you back the weaker TEAM-B to win at 4/1? You only need to put in $ 1 to win an extra $ 4. But will TEAM-B beat the stronger TEAM-A at home? The greater the risk the greater the potential returns, the lesser the risk the lesser the potential returns. That is where your football mind and knowledge is needed.

Let's Understand Prices / Odds more using real soccer teams for example.

Take a look at this match in the fixture and price. Lets say Chelsea FC to beat Manchester City at home is priced at 2/5. That is you bet with $ 5 to $ 2 win. That is a total expected returns of $ 7.

(Always remember that the figure at the end is what you stake with and the one in front is what you will win)

The match is 11/4 for a draw and 6/1 for an away win for Manchester City. It means 1/1. You play with $ 1; you win an additional $ 1. You play with $ 100 you win an additional $ 100.

Other Kinds of Odds …

Not all odds are written in fractions. As in not written like 3/1, 1/5, 4/9 and so on. Some odds are written in decimals like 1.35, 2.42 etc. If you see 2.42, it simply means if you bet with one dollar, you will earn return of 2.42 dollars. Whatever figure is shown, it means that it is what will be returned if you place $ 1. So you can calculate your expected earnings according to what you want to bet on.

There are also the American Odds presented in form -110, + 220, etc. The Decimal odds seem to be by far the easiest to calculate. The bookies (bookmakers) can determine what kind of odds they will be using. Actually some bookmakers allow you to choose the odd type that suits you. Whatever Odd you use the result is the Same. However, chose only Odd type you are comfortable with.

Bet Types

There are many types of bet provided by Sport books to suit your needs. The basic bet types are the 1X2 (three outcomes, Home Draw Away), the 12 (only two outcomes, Win or lose), the 1X, 2X (Win or Draw), Not Draw. Other extended betting types are Number of goals, Half / Full Time result, Odd / Even number of goals, Asian Handicap, Live or in-play betting option, exact score line, etc. While sports like boxing, tennis, etc have fewer basic betting options, soccer has the most betting option.

It's very easy alright making unlimited cash betting on sports online. Now you are thinking: if it were so easy how come people lose money at all? Answer! Is most of the time you do guess-work; try-your-luck, inadequate or no information, etc.

But that's no good business or investment doing guess-work. You know what it is? It's called gambling. An investment mind-set is a vital ingredient to make money in Sports betting backed by good knowledge.To be successful punter making tons of dollars on sports betting you need reliable, tested and proven information, systems and strategies to guarantee profits and high returns.

Why you need reliable information.

Ever seen even the strongest teams on top of a league lose to under-dogs at the bottom of league table? Causing bettors to lose lots of money? Why for instance should a team like? Manchester United lose to black even when they have over 90% chance of winning? It hurts a lot lose this kind of bet.Yeah it happens. 99% of all soccer punters (bettors) THINK they know who will win the game and which team will go over or under the total and end losing almost all their bets and a lot of money, which leaves 1%. Those 1% are professionals that make a living betting on soccer and other sports.

Post why? It's because there some secrets in Sports betting that can only be unlocked with the right kind of information that gives knowledge. This is not knowledge of how the games is played but knowledge of how to make money betting on games played.

Knowledge is power in a general sense is but in sports betting the knowledge is money.

Yes, you need a system that works most times to become an investor making lot of money on sports betting. Sports betting should be seen as an investment, that way you make money most of the time. Though fun in sports betting can not be left out for those who have passion for the games, the passion can be converted into lots of cash using proven betting systems and strategy. Football (soccer) has most systems and strategies because it offers more betting options than any other sports.

How to Make the Money.

One way, is to do it yourself by applying proven systems and strategies. Another is to get others to work for you through professional Tips service. However there are free and paid professional Tips service to give you betting clues and predictions.

The SECRET of this lucrative online business is information. With the right information you are sure to become super RICH from this easiest and cheapest investment online anyone from 18 years old can make. That is the legal age for gambling in most countries that regulate top Rated Sport books or Bookmakers. Some reputable sports books require IDs to confirm the age compliance among other things.

GAMBLE RESPONSIBLY. BET ONLY THE MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE!

Contact Send an : Felixinbiz@gmail.com

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Source by Felix U Offiong

Buzan's Imindmap Review – How Good is It?

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Who uses Buzan's Imindmap?
People who understand what mind mapping really is. Most people have not got any idea of ​​what mind mapping really is. The mind map rules are in place for a very specific reason: increasing your brain potential !. As soon as you leave out a few of the 10 rules, you're basically killing a beautiful and very powerful technique. In all truth, this is what all other mind map software packages are selling; a product that looks like it's a mind map software package, but is not at all. Imindmap IS mind mapping. It's the closest to the real thing; drawing by hand. That's why Tony Buzan is so positive about this software package and why he is giving testimonials to this software package. People realizing this will never ever buy anything else than Imindmap !.

Who does not use Imindmap?
People who do not believe in the power of mind mapping. Many people think that mind mapping is a fad. Most of these people never ever thought about their thinking and learning at all. And what the technique is telling us, is that we could use our brains way more effective and efficiently. To many this is the same as that you tell them that they do not know how to use their brain. That, of course, is not possible and therefore they shut down their brain to the possibility that other techniques could be beneficial to them. At moments like this they see a mind map. This is a moment that their brain is telling them that an information overload is coming up.

Who does Buzan imindmap make happy?
People who are looking for a good price / quality score for a mind map software package. Well, if you look at the prices of all so-called software packages, imindmap is not even expensive. The cheapest version is about 99 dollars. On the other hand there is another version for professional users, which will set you back 295 dollars. 349 EURO and that's the starting price for a Mindmanager software package. And most importantly, it's not even a mind map software package that obeys to the rules that the originator of mind mapping states are necessary in order to be fully mind mapping. In my opinion, Mindmanager is all about compatibility with Microsoft and really pointing in the area of ​​the business world. But that does not mean that this software is really doing what it says it's doing.

Who does Imindmap make sad or angry?
'Normal' software producers of text documents as I can imagine that they would love to integrate mind mapping into their software. They can, but they can not call it mind map software. Mind mapping is a registered trademark by Tony Buzan. They can not do that. Tony Buzan has only given rights to Imindmap as this software is in compliance with the mind map rules that Tony Buzan advocates. Until today, April 2009 there is no software firm that has even come close to what Imindmap software can do.

Who finds it easy to use imindmap software ?
People who are really into mind mapping and really do not want to produce them by hand. With software you can speed up the process of producing mind maps considerably.

Who finds it hard to use?
People who have never used the software or a computer.

Who buys it?
People used to produce mind maps by hand and want to explore new frontiers with the use of mind maps.

Who will always buy Imindmap software?
People who are building their websites in the form of mind maps.

Who will never buy Imindmap?
People who only want to use handcrafted mind maps.

Who uses Imindmap correctly?
Every user should be able to start using this Imindmap software correctly.

Who misuses Imindmap?
How can one misuse Imindmap. I really would not know.

Who else could use Imindmap?
Individuals who want to manage time, because 1. With a mind map the user will be able to identify instantly what the problem areas of knowledge and projects are / could be. 2. To take notes will take much less time in a mind map. Do not forget; you only need 10% of the normal amount of information in order to understand the same. Weird enough a mind map will provide a better insight to the user and will provide the user even with a richer and more complete understanding of the matter in general.

What value does Buzan's Imindmap represent?
Provider of overview in complex situations and information.

What assumptions underlie it?
You are not shocked by the creativity this software is going to add to your information.

What are the most important features?
Imindmap can be used to make and use your own e-learning courses.

What is most liked about it?
Less calculating power of the computer is necessary in order to run this program.

What are Imindmap's major weaknesses?
Large mind maps are not easily displayed on one monitor.

What needs does Imindmap fulfill?
See the relations between seemingly unrelated matters by getting a helicopterview.

What other name could describe it?
Mega Memory Booster

What do customers suggest?
Make it more flexible so that the branches start to adjust themselves when they touch eachother.

What are the most important features?
Making your own images is no problem with Imindmap

Where could Imindmap be used?
With IT-projects

Where does Imindmap perform best?
At places were students are; mind map all information that needs to be learned.

Where is Buzan Imindmap sold?
Online

Where is Imindmap used?
On a computer.

When does Imindmap perform best?
When you're looking for a way to quickly produce a mind map that can be distributed among your friends / guests quickly.

When is Imindmap misused?
Double lined messages make a mind map difficult to read and interpret.

When is Imindmap most used?
When starting projects.

When is Imindmap used?
The moment you want to draw a mind map quickly as you want to spread the info among your visitors, it's time to use Imindmap.

When is Buzan's Imindmap used correctly?
Making interactive mind maps

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Source by Jack Brutschin

Tempur Pedic Mattress – Features & Benefits

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Tempur Pedic mattresses is the name world trusts when it comes to the most effective pressure relieving sleep system of the 21st Century. Tempur use a temperature sensitive visco-elastic "memory foam" material that was first used by the NASA to help astronauts deal with the gravitational forces. The pressure relieving properties of the material led to its application in the medical field to treat patients suffering from back and neck pain.

Tempur Pedic mattresses are designed to improve your sleep quality. The visco-elastic temperature sensitive material used in these mattresses moulds to the exact contours of your body, providing ultimate support. According to medical practitioners, providing support to the natural curve of the spine is essential to fight neck and back problems. For patients, who are suffering from sore joints, it is important that they experience relief from pressure points in different sleeping positions. This is where the Tempur visco elastic mattress score over the other mattresses available in the market.

A Tempur mattress gives you a firm feeling when you lie down on it. However, eventually, you experience weightlessness, as it softens under your body weight and temperature and moulds itself to your body. The most important feature of the Tempur visco elastic material is that it creates no counter pressure when under compression. It allows your body load to get distributed on the entire area evenly. This is why it is said to possess pressure relieving properties. Tempur Pedic mattresses are regarded as the perfect solution to back and neck problems, and provide the best conditions for a good night's sleep.

The Tempur Pedic mattresses also combine softness with superior durability. When put under compression, the Tempur mattresses lose their thickness 5-10% less compared to a highly elastic polyurethane foam. This means they would serve you for many years to come. Once purchased, you may rest assured for next 10-15 years.

The Tempur Pedic mattresses do not require any special bed. They can be placed on any bed base or well ventilated surface. If you are concerned about the higher price tag of these mattresses, you may choose to go for the Tempur Overlay which could be placed on top of any conventional mattress, provided it is in good condition or under 5 years old. Made up of 7cm TEMPUR visco-elastic, temperature sensitive material, the Tempur Overlay would be a perfect choice if money is a constraint. It too could offer comfort and relief from pressure points.

Visco elastic mattresses Tempur are On available in all common sizes: 2'6 " the Small a Single, 3'0" a Single, 4'0 " the Small Message Double, 4'6" Message Double, 5'0 "King Size, 5'3" Euro King size, and 6'0 "Super King size. This means you would find a Tempur mattress for yourself, no matter how small or large you bed is. you may choose to buy a Tempur Pedic mattress for yourself from a reputed online store. There are quite a few reliable online stores in the UK offering genuine Tempur mattresses at discounted prices. They also offer free delivery service. So, shop for your Tempur mattress today from the comfort of your home.

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Source by Adrian Fytche

Simmons Luxaire Mattress – A Buyer's Guide

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For couples who want a mattress with motion separation but have individual support requirements, the Simmons Luxaire Mattress might just be the answer to a good night's sleep.

Many couples loose sleep because of each others tossing and turning during the night. Mattress manufacturers have come up with various types of mattresses that offer motion separation, so that the movement of one partner does not disturb the sleep of the other. The types of mattresses offered to consumers have ranged from water mattresses, to pocket coil springs mattresses, to memory foam mattresses. Indeed, Simmons has produced all three types of these mattresses; the Simmons Natural Spring, the Simmons Beautyrest, and the Simmons Beautyrest with memory foam, respectably. And, whilst all of these mattress types do offer some degree of motion separation, the one thing they do not offer is the degree of support offered to each partner.

It is not unusual for one partner to be much heavier, by comparison, than the other, which means that each sleeper requires a different degree of support from the mattress they're sleeping on. Conventional mattresses have been unable to offer motion separation whilst at the same time, offer the individual support for the sleeper. This is where the Simmons Luxaire Mattress comes into its own.

The Simmons Beautyrest Luxaire Mattress, unlike conventional mattresses, has been designed to offer different comfort levels for both sides of the bed. The Luxaire mattress is an air mattress, where the left and right sides of the dual-chamber air mattress inflate and deflate separately with hand controls, so both sleepers can enjoy personal comfort without disrupting the other's sleep. This means that both sleepers can adjust the support to their own, individual requirements.

Not only, does the Simmons Beautyrest Luxaire mattress, allow each sleeper to adjust the comfort to their individual needs, the Luxaire mattress also comes with two controls – so you do not have to wrestle with each other.

The Simmons Luxaire mattress comes with the following features:

1. Dual-chamber airbed with heavy-duty rubber air chambers – for personalized, adjustable comfort.

2. Ergonomic controls – backlit LEDs reflect firmness levels. Auto-fill and memory features.

3. The mattress cover is a diamond-quilted, floral damask Lyocell, which make the mattress durable, soft and breathable.

4. The Simmons Luxaire comes with solid wood foundation and quilted fabric – there is a pouch on each side for hand controls.

5. Euro-top comfort layer – 2 "tri-zoned memory foam is denser in the center, which is where you need the most support.
6. Visco-elastic memory foam – conforms to the exact shpre of your body, thus alleviating pressure point – especially good for those who suffer back problems.

7. StayPure satin comfort sleeve – zippered for easy removal and cleaning.

8. Protective, 6-1 / 2 "pre-assembled foam-based tray, with a reinforced center and vinyl encased barrier, which prevents moisture from reaching the foam.

9. Whisper-quiet air compressor – designed for quicker response time and quiet inflation / deflation.

10. Simmons will set-up the new mattress and foundation and takes away your old one.

11. UL listed computerized air compressor.

12. The Simmons Luxaire mattress complies with California flammability requirements.

13. The Simmons Luxaire mattress comes in King or California King size.

14. The Beautyrest Luxaire mattress comes with manufacturer's 2-year full and 18-year prorated limited warranties.

The Simmons Beautyrest Luxaire mattress is the perfect answer for couples who want motion separation, but also want different degrees of support. It's an expensive mattress, but it does deliver the support each partner's wants and should last a lifetime. It's one of the best mattresses available for couples. With the Simmons Beautyrest Luxaire mattress two beds become one.

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Source by Robin Cassidy

Sports and Hobbies in France

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Sports is a popular pastime in France with football, judo, tennis and basketball dominating the sporting arenas. France also involves itself in grand racing car events, bicycle racing also making its presence felt in the world of tennis and martial arts.

Popular sports

The most popular sports is soccer but the French have a known taste for speed and endurance in car and bicycle racing, grace and precision in tennis and soccer, as well as the rough and tumble spectacle offered in the two rugby styles of League and Union

Bicycle racing – The Grands Tours of France are renowned worldwide as being the oldest and most prestigious. One of them, the Tour de France is the world's most famous cycling event.

Motor car racing – Endurance racing in sleek and fact sports cars is a test to the limit for both driver and car at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The race is rated as the most famous held on the speed track of Sarthe.

Tennis tournaments – The Grand Slam tennis tournaments are a spectacle to watch on the French turf. One of the four Grand Slam tournaments known as the French Open is played and so is the Paris Masters.

Olympic Games – A French aristocrat by the name of Pierre de Coubertin was the inventor of the modern Olympic Games by his enthused call for a revival of the Games at the end of the 19th century. The hosting of the first Games went to Greece as a fitting gesture for the landwhere the Games were born. France hosted the second Games in 1900 and became the first home for the International Olympic Committee. Since then, France has hosted 4 Olympic Games, with one again in Paris in 1924 and 3 Winter Olympics in 1924 (Chamonix); another in 1968 (Greoble) and the third Games in 1992 (Albertville)

Soccer – This is the favourite sport of the French crowds in which team members don the blue shirts and tri-colour shorts during matches toting their patriotism. The national soccer team gained immense success and popularity starting in the 21st century by winning the FIFA World Cup in 1998, a second place in the same series in 2006 and 2 European Championship victories in 1984 and 2000. The Ligue 1 is the country's top national competition.

Rugby Union – This is another popular sports with a huge following especially in the Paris area and south western France. The national rugby team has gathered an impressive array of victories winning 16 of the Six Nations Championship series. It took part in Every Rugby World Cup; it reached the semi-finals 6 times and became a finalist in 3 games in the Rugby World Cup.

Rugby League – The southern crowds of spectators adore this variance of rugby football. Venues are found mainly in the cities of Perpignan and Toulouse. The topmost league for the competition in Europe is the Super League but for local professional competition, the Elite One Championship is the league to follow.

Basketball – Basketball has taken a strong hold on the sports minded people of France and over the past 20 years the country has engendered teams now rated as of elite world class. The national side won the FIBA ​​Euro Basket in 2011 outstripping its performance over the past 60 years. To complement the feat, the side also won 2 Olympic Silver Medals in 1948 and 2000.

Sailing – Singlehanded and shorthanded sailing is the favourite of the French when it comes to battling against the winds and waves of the Atlantic and the world's oceans. The zenith of the sport is embodied in the Vendee Globe which is a singlehanded ocean challenge around the world. The grueling trip begins off the French Atlantic coast every 4 years. To sustain the suspense and excitement are 3 sailing competitions across the Atlantic Ocean – the Mini Transat 6.50; the Tour de France Voile and the Route du Rhum.

Hobbies

French people also enjoy a variety of hobbies on a regular basis. There is skiing in the high slopes of the Pyrenees and Alps; fencing is a very popular form of self -defense which is widely practiced. Another very popular pastime is kite surfing mainly above and along the coastal waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Going to the theatres and listening or playing music as well as dancing are all popular hobbies. For the bodily active interested in physical self-defense, there is the "parkour," a variant of martial art which originated from France.

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Source by James E Harrison