Category Archives: Economics

Why Japan became an economic superpower: Podcast

Posted on April 27, 2026 by odeboyz

Japan was crushed in in 1945 and the Americans turned it into a colony. Douglas MacArthur became, in essence, a dictator. He wrote the Japanese constitution which included clauses enforcing pacifism. This had the unintended consequence of releasing capital for … Continue reading →

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The strategic use of ‘Fear’: Iran 2026

Posted on April 17, 2026 by odeboyz

The USA is spending billions of dollars in the Iranian war.1 Strategic fear comes more-or-less free. Like all strategies it requires management. The Mafia knew this long ago, and immortalized it in the phrase, “I’m going to make you an … Continue reading →

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Bezos and Musk compete again

Posted on April 11, 2026 by odeboyz
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Is a McDonald’s burger food?

Posted on April 11, 2026 by odeboyz

“There have been a lot of online videos and photos touting the fact that when left out for an extended period of time, a McDonald’s hamburger does not rot and that this is because they are laden with chemicals. The … Continue reading →

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Capitalism is shameless

Posted on April 8, 2026 by odeboyz

Philip Morris is the largest tobacco company in the world. “In July 2021……[they] agreed to buy Vectura Group for £1.1bn – a company that, at the time, made most of its £200m revenue from a portfolio of products to treat … Continue reading →

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War Studies: Trump’s War of Choice, Iran 2026

Posted on April 1, 2026 by odeboyz

“I’m going to make you an offer that you can’t refuse” The Godfather 1972 Don Corleone knew exactly what he wanted and how to get it. Trump is a nincompoop who barges into situations with the subtly of a train … Continue reading →

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Gambling and the Stock Market

Posted on March 4, 2026 by odeboyz

Introduction Many managers are little better than gamblers who are adept at strutting their stuff convincingly and looting their companies. Sometimes they get lucky and add value, but many destroy shareholder investments. The history of the FTSE is littered with … Continue reading →

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Victims of Trip Advisor strike back

Posted on February 7, 2026 by odeboyz
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Japan’s loneliness crisis monetised

Posted on January 28, 2026 by odeboyz

“I started working as a grandmother-for-hire after my dog died….and my daughter told me about a company that hires older women to play the role of grandmother for strangers. I’m hired to cook for guests, and to act like a … Continue reading →

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Christmas presents

Posted on December 17, 2025 by odeboyz

“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned to buy things they don’t want to impress people they don’t like.”

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