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High school students, are you interested in the criminal justice system and the impact of legal representation on defendants' outcomes? Then check out the new RAND Corporation study published in Science Advances! The study found that providing legal counsel to defendants during their initial bail hearing led to a decrease in the use of monetary bail and pretrial detention without increasing the likelihood of failure to appear at the subsequent preliminary hearing. This is an important study that sheds light on the impact of legal representation on defendants' outcomes, and it is definitely worth a read!
Are you curious about how the feedback you receive while making an online purchase or playing a computer game affects your mindset? Researchers from Fudan University's School of Management have published a new paper in the Journal of Consumer Psychology that explores the impact of different types of feedback on consumers' psychological state. The article offers original insights into the role of intermittent feedback in generating impatience and boosting motivation. Check out the Phys Org article to learn more!
Are you a startup struggling to obtain external debt financing? Look no further! The London School of Economics (LSE) has published an article that proposes a solution to this challenge. By simply choosing a legal form with high minimum paid-in capital requirements, startups can signal to lenders that they are less likely to default on a loan. This article provides empirical evidence supporting this hypothesis and highlights the implications for entrepreneurs and policymakers. Don't miss out on this valuable insight - check out the LSE reference article now!
Are you interested in human rights and exploitation issues? Canada has just passed landmark legislation aimed at combating modern slavery in supply chains, joining other nations like Australia, Netherlands, UK, and the US. The Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act requires government institutions and Canadian-linked companies to submit an annual report detailing their efforts to address forced labor and child labor in their supply chains. However, this is just the start of efforts to address modern slavery. Read on to find out more about this issue and its impact on businesses. (Source: The Conversation)
Are you curious about the risks of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it affects our lives? Check out the thought-provoking article, "What We Missed about Social Media," on JSTOR Daily. The author shares their experience working in social media before it became the corporate giant it is today, and how it has changed the way we interact with each other. Discover how generative AI can dehumanize us, mislead us, and manipulate us, and why we need to be aware of its implications. Don't miss out on this insightful read!
Are you curious about how the rise of populism has affected multinational companies and investors? Do you want to learn about the challenges foreign multinational corporations face in countries with right-wing populist governments? Look no further than the recent study published by the London School of Economics (LSE), which investigates the factors that make a foreign MNC more or less vulnerable to negative policy actions by right-wing populist governments in Hungary and Poland. Find out how MNCs can reduce political uncertainty and manage political risk in the face of incalculable uncertainty.
Are you curious about the impact of artificial intelligence on art? The London School of Economics (LSE) has published an article exploring the use of generative AI machines in creating new artistic content. From paintings to avatars, this technology is learning its "skills" by consuming human-generated media and populating new content. But what are the implications for artists and their livelihoods? Read on to learn more about the challenges and potential solutions for protecting artists' intellectual property.
Are you interested in understanding why Black defendants are more likely to be held in jail before trial? Check out the recent research from UC Berkeley that suggests that long-standing policies and deeply rooted inequity, rather than a few "bad apples," may explain this. The study proposes an easy fix that could undo racial disparities in pretrial detention, including improving how pretrial reports are written and confronting the overreliance on a defendant's criminal history. Read on to learn more about the human and fiscal costs of pretrial detention and how policy changes could help reduce disparities.
New research by Takuo Sugaya (Stanford Graduate School of Business) and Mitsuru Igami (Yale Department of Economics) reveals the conditions needed for illegal cartels to survive and the factors that lead to their failure. Using game theory to analyze one of the biggest cartel cases in modern history, the researchers discovered that sustained collusion requires mutually beneficial incentives for all companies involved. Findings have implications for policymakers and regulators in their approval of mergers and investment in innovation.
Financial regulators have finally taken an interest in cryptocurrencies due to political pressure, despite law enforcement closely monitoring transactions for years. While crypto may not pose significant micro or macro concerns, regulators are compelled to act. However, their actions may backfire, warns Dr Jon Danielsson.
The Business Blockchain by William Mougayar is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the potential of blockchain technology. This book goes beyond the basics of what a blockchain is and explores the polymorphic characteristics of this revolutionary technology, which will enable frictionless value exchange and redefine relationships, power, and governance. Mougayar, a blockchain industry insider, draws on his extensive experience to describe a future influenced by blockchain technology as the catalyst for change. The Business Blockchain is an invitation to explore the many facets of blockchain technology and learn how to think about its potential. Recommended for entrepreneurs, investors, technologists, and business-minded individuals, The Business Blockchain provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential of blockchain technology. This book is relevant to a wide range of fields of studies, including computer science, economics, finance, and law. It is also useful for professionals in various industries, such as banking, insurance, healthcare, and supply chain management, who are interested in exploring the transformative potential of blockchain technology. Finally, this book is relevant to anyone interested in understanding the future of trust, value exchange, and governance in a decentralized world.
The global financial crisis of 2008 led to economic turmoil and widespread job loss, but the role of OTC (over-the-counter) derivatives in the crash is not well understood. These complex financial instruments were designed to reduce risk, but they amplified it, resulting in massive losses and a bailout that cost taxpayers trillions of dollars. OTC derivatives are contracts that allow parties to speculate on the future value of assets such as stocks, bonds, or commodities. They are privately negotiated and not traded on public exchanges, which makes them less transparent and harder to regulate. Banks and other financial institutions created increasingly complex and risky derivatives, such as credit default swaps (CDS) that allowed investors to bet on the likelihood of default on mortgages and other debt in the years leading up to the crisis. When the housing bubble burst and homeowners began defaulting on their mortgages, the value of CDS contracts plummeted, causing massive losses for those who held them. This triggered a chain reaction of failures and bailouts as banks tried to shore up their balance sheets and avoid bankruptcy. The government bailouts of banks and other financial institutions during the crisis are estimated to have cost $12.8 trillion globally, including direct and indirect costs such as lost tax revenue and economic output. Leading academics have been critical of the lack of transparency and regulation in the OTC derivatives market. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a law professor and former chair of the Congressional Oversight Panel for TARP, has argued that the complexity and opacity of these instruments makes it difficult to assess risk and protect consumers. Nobel laureate economist Joseph Stiglitz has also warned of the dangers of unregulated financial innovation, calling for stronger oversight and better risk management. Understanding the role of OTC derivatives in the global financial crisis is a lesson in the need for transparency, accountability, and responsible risk management in the world of finance. By exploring this and related topics in more depth, students can gain valuable insights into the workings of the economy and the forces that shape our world.
In today's digital age, we're surrounded by algorithms that shape our daily lives in ways we may not even realize. From social media algorithms that decide what content we see to predictive policing algorithms that influence law enforcement decisions, algorithmic culture is ubiquitous and powerful. So, what is algorithmic culture, and how does it shape our lives and perceptions? At its core, algorithmic culture refers to the way algorithms and the data they process have become embedded in contemporary culture. According to Lev Manovich, a leading academic in the field, algorithmic culture is "a new way of producing and representing knowledge based on data analysis, and a new form of power." In other words, algorithms are not just tools but are also shaping the way we understand and interact with the world around us. One example of algorithmic culture in action is the use of predictive algorithms in the criminal justice system. Proponents argue that these algorithms can help prevent crime by identifying high-risk individuals before they offend. However, critics argue that these algorithms reinforce existing racial biases and lead to unfair treatment of certain groups. Another example is the use of recommendation algorithms on social media platforms. These algorithms decide what content we see based on our past behavior and interests, creating a "filter bubble" that can limit our exposure to diverse viewpoints. Despite its potential pitfalls, algorithmic culture also offers new opportunities for creativity and innovation. For example, computer-generated art is a growing field that harnesses the power of algorithms to produce unique and compelling works. As we navigate our increasingly algorithmic world, it's important to understand the ways in which these tools shape our lives and perceptions. By engaging with academic research and exploring new ideas, we can become more informed and empowered citizens in the digital age.
Did you know that corporate fraud may be more widespread than we think? According to Professor Alexander Dyck and his team, 3% of U.S. companies are caught committing fraud each year under typical surveillance, but the real number may be closer to 10%. Their research, which examines the impact of the Enron scandal on detecting fraud, also estimated that fraud destroys about 1.6% of a company's equity value, representing about $830 billion in current U.S. dollars. This research will inspire you to explore the topic further and think critically about the role of regulation and oversight in corporate governance.
Why do companies manipulate their financial reports? A new study shows that the financial incentives of rank-and-file employees play a significant role in shaping corporate financial reporting. Researchers found that higher pay and fixed compensation for junior accountants can improve accounting quality, while cash bonuses tied to corporate earnings can lead to aggressive revenue recognition and misreporting. Learn more about the bean counters' dilemma and its impact on financial reporting in this thought-provoking study by the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the University of Washington's Foster School of Business.
Are you passionate about technology and its impact on society? Do you believe in the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)? If so, then a career in Artificial Intelligence Ethics may be the perfect fit for you! As an Artificial Intelligence Ethicist, you will be responsible for ensuring that AI technology is developed and used in a responsible and ethical manner. This means considering the potential consequences of AI on society, including issues of bias, privacy, and the impact on jobs. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. For example, an AI Ethicist might work with a healthcare company to develop an AI system that can diagnose diseases more accurately than a human doctor. Or, they might work with a social media platform to ensure that their algorithms are not promoting hate speech or other harmful content. Typical duties might include conducting research on the ethical implications of AI, developing guidelines and policies for AI development and use, and working with cross-functional teams to ensure that AI systems are designed and implemented in a responsible manner. There are many potential areas of specialisation within this field, including AI policy, AI governance, and AI risk management. Other related fields might include computer science, philosophy, and law. Typical education and training for an Artificial Intelligence Ethicist might include a degree in computer science, philosophy, or a related field. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Computer Science, Philosophy, and Ethics. Helpful personal attributes for an AI Ethicist might include strong critical thinking skills, excellent communication skills, and a passion for social justice. Job prospects for Artificial Intelligence Ethicists are strong, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include Google, Microsoft, and the World Economic Forum. In the longer term, the outlook for this field is extremely positive, with the demand for ethical AI experts only expected to grow as AI becomes more integrated into our daily lives. So, if you're interested in technology, ethics, and making a positive impact on society, consider a career in Artificial Intelligence Ethics!
The commercial space industry is expanding, but the laws governing outer space are unclear. The Outer Space Treaty, created by the United Nations in 1967, makes it illegal for any nation to claim ownership of outer space or celestial bodies. However, the treaty does not mention private companies, which could lead to disputes as firms like Planetary Resources plan to mine asteroids for resources. Additionally, space debris poses a risk to spacecraft, but current law states that the country that launched the debris owns it forever. This lack of clarity means that there could soon be a demand for space lawyers. Learning about the legal complexities of outer space can prepare students for the future and provide intellectual stimulation while also offering practical skills for a potential career in the field.
If you're a student who is intrigued by the complex and ever-changing world of business, corporate law could be the perfect career path for you. Corporate lawyers play a critical role in advising companies on legal matters and helping them navigate the intricate web of laws and regulations that govern modern commerce. Here's a closer look at what a career in corporate law entails and why it might be a great fit for you. Corporate law is a fascinating field that blends business and law, with a focus on the legal issues that arise in the context of corporate activities. Corporate lawyers help companies with a wide range of legal matters, such as structuring and negotiating business transactions, complying with regulatory requirements, and resolving disputes. Some corporate lawyers work in-house for a single company, while others work for law firms that provide legal services to multiple clients. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in corporate law is the opportunity to work on high-stakes deals and transactions that can have a significant impact on the global economy. For example, a corporate lawyer might work on a merger between two multinational companies, help a startup navigate the legal hurdles of an initial public offering (IPO), or advise a Fortune 500 company on a major joint venture. The work can be challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. In terms of day-to-day responsibilities, corporate lawyers often research and analyze legal issues, draft contracts and other legal documents, and advise clients on the legal implications of various business decisions. Some corporate lawyers specialize in particular areas of law, such as securities law, tax law, or intellectual property law. Others work in related fields such as mergers and acquisitions, private equity, or investment banking. To become a corporate lawyer, you'll typically need to earn a law degree (J.D.) and pass the bar exam in the state where you plan to practice. Some popular undergraduate majors for aspiring corporate lawyers include business, economics, and political science. Many law schools offer courses and clinics focused specifically on corporate law, and some also offer joint degree programs that combine law and business. In terms of personal attributes, successful corporate lawyers tend to be analytical, detail-oriented, and able to think strategically. They should also have excellent communication skills, as they will be working closely with clients, other lawyers, and business executives. The job prospects for corporate lawyers are generally strong, particularly at top law firms and in-house legal departments at large companies. Many of the world's leading law firms have dedicated corporate practices, and some of the most well-known names in the business world, such as Goldman Sachs, Microsoft, and Procter & Gamble, have large legal departments that employ corporate lawyers.
The topics of securitisation and the global financial crisis are not just about numbers, facts, and statistics, but also about human failure, greed, and risk. It's a tale of how a small spark in the world of finance led to a massive explosion that shook the global economy to its core. Let's start with the basics. Securitisation is the process of pooling together various financial assets and then selling securities backed by those assets to investors. The idea behind securitisation was to spread the risk of default among many different investors and make the financial system more stable. However, the reality was far from what was promised. The global financial crisis of 2008 was triggered by the collapse of the housing market, which had been the backbone of the securitisation industry. The crisis was caused by the failure of the rating agencies, who were supposed to assess the risk associated with securities, but instead, gave high ratings to securities backed by risky loans. Ever heard of the term NINJA loans? No Income, No Job, No Assets - these were the types of loans that were being securitised and sold to investors. The financial industry was full of these loans, and the ratings agencies were happy to give high ratings to these securities, leading to the financial crisis. Leading academics such as Raghuram Rajan and Joseph Stiglitz have made significant contributions to the field of securitisation and the global financial crisis. Rajan highlighted the dangers of the financial system's reliance on securitisation, while Stiglitz criticised the rating agencies for their role in the crisis. We hope this write-up has inspired you to dive deeper into the world of securitisation and the global financial crisis. It's a fascinating topic with real-life examples and lessons to be learned. So, grab a book, turn on a documentary, or start a project, and let your imagination take you on a journey to a world of risk, failure, and exploration.
Are you interested in self-driving cars and the future of transportation? The London School of Economics (LSE) has published an article exploring the potential role of new forms of digital money in the development of autonomous driving systems. From micropayments to dynamic toll systems, this article offers a thought-provoking analysis of the possibilities and challenges presented by the convergence of AI, programmable money, and transportation technology. Don't miss this insightful read!