Corb7 International September 25, 2019 Newsletter

International Business

Feature

Fake News Hurts Business!

Turn on any news broadcast and it seems like all you will hear are cries of fake news or a daily pronouncement that the world is coming to an end.  We have become a society of extremes, and the once cherished middle ground has been obliterated.  Recently, I heard the perfect description used by a television pundit when he termed the current circus we are watching as an “apocalyptic hamster wheel.”  It certainly does not seem far-fetched to believe business is likely to be hurt if we do not get some return to civil order.

Tribal Civil War
Not so long ago in the United States, virtually every city had two major newspapers, several local television stations (plus radio stations) for current event reports and the three major networks (ABC, CBS and NBC) which people relied on for their national and international news. Then in 1980, the 24-hour news network CNN broke ground and established itself as a force.  For approximately 20 years, it seemed like everyone somewhat respectfully coexisted.  With the advent of the Internet and the eventual development of social media, however, all hell has broken loose. Gone is the illusion of objectivity and news is now commoditized, often existing as little more than cheerleaders and propaganda machines.  Essentially, the media – to remain competitive – has sold its objectivity to become foot soldiers for whatever side they advocate. There is no such thing anymore as a neutral broadcasting.

Thus, the social media phenomena changed news, politics and business forever and not necessarily for the better.  The consumer, of course, is more informed than ever before but are we receiving quality information or just junk food for the mind?  Perhaps even more ominous, social media has been weaponized and ridicules behavior from fringe characters has become common. We have become desensitized to this element, and a social media mob mentality now exists, which overreacts with outrage at the slightest incident. This newfound power to establish “crowds” can bring out base and childish behaviors.  To be so easily offended is to tip your hand as being simple and narrow minded, nevertheless, it can also be dangerous for all of us.   To use an American baseball term, we are left with no one calling balls and strikes – everyone is simply rooting for their team.

Politics and the media have a tremendous effect on business and an objective media would be an extremely stabilizing force for all us. It would hold politicians accountable.  For example, the current push towards socialism – a system that has virtually never worked but appeals to the good nature of man – is especially troubling and not being thoroughly examined.  Again, not so long ago the policies being proposed would have been appalling to most everyone.  The Genie, nevertheless, is out of the proverbial bottle and where this will end is anyone’s guess. One thing is for sure; however, both business and wealth are very portable. If pandering politicians start hiking punitive tax to extreme levels, you will see both quickly exit for more favorable ground leaving little left behind.  Perhaps then the level heads will return to having a dominant influence.

•  Draft / Excerpt from new book coming next year.

International Business

Business Tools

Swiss Trust Company Synopsis

A Swiss Trust Company (STC) is a very valuable and unique business tool, which can be flexible yet meet specific objectives.  Historically, the STC has been most valuable to international entrepreneurs who need to:
Move investment capital faster
to take advantage of growth opportunities resulting in increased profit.
Exercise more control over capital transactions
in order to reduce third party fees thus creating savings.
Establish a major European beachhead
to protect funds from political instability and consolidate global business interest.
Alternative to captive bank ownership
which can be a very long and expensive process to successfully complete.

Because of success in their respective fields, our client’s business interests and personal interests are often intertwined.  To that end, owning a Swiss Trust Company also offers the additional individual benefits of asset protection and estate planning possibilities.

Swiss-friendly approach on Crypto regulations
Switzerland is ranked number one of top ten European countries for starting a blockchain company due to its friendly regulation environment and supportive startup ecosystem with world-class service providers. It is rapidly emerging as a crypto paradise, supported by its banking skills, low-tax-system, elite universities and Switzerland as brand itself which has attracted a large variety of foreign cryptocurrency and blockchain startups. In Switzerland cryptocurrencies and exchanges are legal, and the country has adopted a remarkably progressive stance towards cryptocurrency regulations. The long-term policy regarding crypto-currencies on the part of the Swiss Financial Market Authority and its clarification of many aspects related to their business makes Switzerland one of the best places worldwide to lauch an ICO.

Crypto valley in Zug
The Swiss city Zug in central Switzerland, also known as Crypto valley, is one of the most crypto-friendly cities in the world. Perfectly positioned to get the most out of the decentralized, stable and predictable Swiss political system and its unique business environment, Zug is incomparable for an uncomplicated and pragmatic implementation of business ideas with world-class infrastructure. Zug offers a solid basis for global growth due to its business-friendly philosophy and the openness and easy accessibility of its authorities with short communication channels. With its low-tax-system, pro-business environment and fantastic quality of life Zug has attracted numerous multinationals, creating an international and cosmopolitan culture with an easy access to powerful global networks.

Swiss Trust company as perfect support for US-investors in engaging in business activities related to Crypto
The Swiss Trust company is one of the best known and respected vehicles in the business world. Swiss Trust companies can easily function as a holding entity and a flagship structure for any company and investment. They provide administrators with an excellent level of discretion and security and maintain a great number of types of assets, including shares, commodities, real estate properties, fixed income assets and cash. This flexibility combined with discretion, privacy and prestige makes the Swiss Trust company the perfect business vehicle for US-investors in engaging in business activities related to Crypto, such as ICO, participation and investing in ICO or crypto assets, acting as escrow agent or fiduciary in crypt assets related transactions.

International Business

  Business Psychology

A Good Hobby Helps Your Mental Health

Hobbies can provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Finding the right hobby requires the consideration of a host of factors, including one’s own personality. The following are some common personality types and the hobbies they might find rewarding.

The Athlete

Athletes can pursue a host of potential hobbies or activities that will foster their love of sports. Men and women who still have a hop in their step can sign up to compete in adult sports leagues. Depending on the sport, leagues might be available to adults of various ages and skill levels, and some may even be more focused on fun than competition.

For athletes who can no longer lace up their cleats, coaching youth sports or volunteering to coach at a nearby school provides a chance to stay involved even if competing is no longer possible.

The Reader

Book lovers also can channel their passions for the written word into a rewarding hobby. While reading might not seem like the most social activity, readers who want to use their love of books to grow their social networks can start a book club. People of all ages and backgrounds love to read, so starting a book club can be a great way to meet an array of people.

Readers also can call their local libraries or schools to ask about reading programs for children. Volunteer to read to youngsters, helping the next generation discover the wonders of reading.

The Executive

Men and women who have experienced great success in the world of business can pursue a host of low-stress opportunities with a goal of sharing their experiences with the next generation of business leaders. Teaching a course at a local college or university is one such avenue, and executives can even offer to work with high school students interested in pursuing careers in business. Teaching and mentoring might be less traditional hobbies than crocheting or woodworking, but they still provide a way for adults to pursue their passions away from the constraints of the office.

The Traveler

Men and women who love to travel can begin writing travel blogs where they share stories of their domestic and international travels. Use the blog to offer an insider’s insight into certain cities, offering advice on obscure eateries or activities that might be off most tourists’ radars. Include photos with each blog post to attract more readers.

When looking for a new hobby, adults may find that activities that suit their personalities tend to be the most rewarding.

Lifestyle

Executive Fitness

Understanding How Caffeine Effects You!

Caffeine is a vital component of many people’s daily routines. A morning cup of caffeinated coffee provides the boost people need to get out the door and on their way each morning.

The history of caffeine and its use in beverages is mired in mystery and myth, though the U.S. National Library of Medicine notes that the historical origins of caffeinated tea and coffee are relatively recent. The USNLM indicates that coffee did not become widespread in Europe until the 18th and 19th centuries, remaining something of a luxury until somewhat recently. And while England’s love of tea is widely known, caffeinated tea did not become common in Britain until the 18th century.

While it might have taken its time to take root in many cultures across the globe, there’s no denying the prevalence of caffeine in the 21st century. A bitter substance that occurs naturally in more than 60 plants, caffeine can be found in coffee beans; tea leaves; kola nuts, which are used to flavor sodas; and cacao pods, which are vital to the creation of many chocolate products.

Many people get their caffeine from beverages, and the amount of caffeine such people consume may depend on which beverages they choose. For example, the USNLM says that an eight-ounce cup of coffee typically contains anywhere from 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine. A 12-ounce can of soda is considerably less caffeinated, containing about 35 to 45 milligrams of caffeine on average. The extra boost people get from sodas might be due to sugar, as sodas are notoriously high in sugar.

Caffeine has various effects on the body, some of which are beneficial. For example, the USNLM notes that caffeine is a diuretic, which means it can help the body get rid of extra salt and water by increasing the need to urinate. Caffeine also stimulates the central nervous system, providing that morning boost of energy that so many coffee drinkers rely on every day.

But not all side effects of caffeine consumption are beneficial. Because it increases the release of acid in the stomach, caffeine can sometimes contribute to upset stomach or heartburn. In addition, caffeine can interfere with the absorption of calcium in the body, though the organization American Bone Health notes that such interference may only occur among heavy coffee drinkers who consume upwards of four cups of coffee per day.

The USNLM notes that most people can consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day without suffering any ill effects. But exceeding that amount may contribute to a number of unwanted side effects, including restlessness, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, dehydration, anxiety, and rapid or abnormal hearth rhythm. It’s also important to recognize that some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others, so what’s good for the goose is not necessarily good for the gander.

Caffeine plays a vital role in many people’s lives, and understanding its effects can help people make smart decisions regarding their caffeine consumption.

Lifestyle

Spirits & Cuisine

Try a True Taste of the Mediterranean Diet

In recent years, heightened awareness with regard to the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet have led many people to try it. Many delicious dishes are included in a Mediterranean diet, and for many newcomers, this approach to eating suits their lifestyles and health goals.

Offal might not be the first thing people think of when considering a Mediterranean diet, but it fits in with the Mediterranean way of cooking that uses every part of the animal. Those who want a truly Mediterranean experience can try their hands at the following recipe for “Pan-fried Kidneys with Bacon and Mustard” from Sophie Braimbridge’s “Stylish Mediterranean in Minutes” (Kyle Books).

Pan-fried Kidneys with Bacon and Mustard

Serves 4

3/4 ounce dried porcini

14 ounces lamb’s or calf’s kidneys

13/4 ounces smoked bacon

1 tablespoon chopped thyme or rosemary leaves

1 garlic clove

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons brandy

4 tablespoons heavy cream

2 teaspoons good-quality whole grain mustard

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon coarsely chopped flatleaf parsley to garnish

Immerse the porcini in just enough hot water to cover them (too much water results in overcooking later) and set aside to soften. Halve the kidneys lengthwise, remove the thin membrane on the outside if necessary and cut out the white fatty core. Cut into 1/2-inch cubes and set aside. Dice the bacon or cut into strips. Chop the thyme and garlic and set aside.

Select a large skillet and heat up the oil and butter. When hot, add the kidneys, cooking one side until just brown, then turning to brown the other side. Season with salt and pepper and remove carefully with a slotted spoon, keeping the butter and oil in the pan. Add the bacon and cook briefly.

Squeeze out the porcini, reserving the soaking liquid, and add to the pan along with the garlic and thyme. Cook, stirring frequently, until the bacon is just lightly browned. Return the kidneys to the pan along with the reserved porcini liquid, discarding any sediment at the bottom of the bowl. Then add the brandy. Cook for a few minutes to reduce the liquid until it makes a thick sauce. Add the cream and mustard, bring to a boil, and when the sauce just coats the kidneys, remove from the heat.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle & Travel

Try a Motorcycle Tour!

Motorcycles are a great way to travel. Motorcycles provide a multi sensory experience that many riders feel cannot be rivaled.

Motorcycles have a come a long way in comfort and features since creators Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach debuted the first motorcycle in Germany in 1885.

The popularity of motorcycles has fluctuated over the years, and the people who ride them have changed as well. In 2014, for example, women represented 14 percent of all motorcycle owners, states the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  In 2018 that same number had grown to 19 percent. Generally speaking, motorcycle ownership has become a pursuit of the financially solvent, married and well educated. According to the finance and investment resource The Motley Fool, most new motorcycles sold in the United States are on-highway bikes, rather than off-road styles. These bikes are ideal for motorcycle tours.

Speaking of motorcycle tours, they can be an ideal way to see the country or the world. Motorcycle tour companies are popping up on just about every continent and can help make for extraordinary road trips. Pairing a motorcycle ride with a touch of history can treat riders to hidden details of the places they visit and offer an up close and personal look at many sights and attractions.

With motorcycle tours, there’s often something for everyone. Riders can take in sumptuous landscapes, zigzag on mountain roads, ride along coastal vistas, and even explore areas featuring medieval architecture or other historical locales. Motorcycle tourists can ride as a group or strike out on their own.

Many tours put together an impressive package that includes elegant accommodations, breakfasts and dinners, support vehicles to carry luggage and other necessities, custom maps and route sheets as well as admission to special attractions at stops along the tours. Certain tours also may be personally guided.

Motorcycle tours can be well worth the effort of research and booking for those who prefer to travel around North America, Europe or Asia on two wheels. A quick search online will yield motorcycle tours close to home or at many popular destinations.

Business Services

Business Acquisitions

 SWISS TRUST COMPANIES FOR SALE!

A Swiss Trust Company is a Non-Banking Financial Business Model that will operate for you as a holding entity and a flagship structure adding prestige and operational authority to any venture.  This totally unique corporate structure perpetuates the legacy and tradition of the Swiss financial industry and transitions smartly into any business undertaking that you may embark on.

Swiss Trust Companies are not banks but come as close as you can get without actually being a licensed Swiss bank. Thus, many of the authorities and advantages a bank provides become available to ownership without a large capital requirement and with much lower ongoing costs. Vintage Swiss Trust Companies bestow enormous advantages upon its owner due to its history and date of incorporation, which include the opportunity for profit & asset protection.

* Free E- Book:  “The Complete Guide to Swiss Trust Company Ownership”

Click Here for Your Free Copy