A report released by Ernst & Young in cooperation with the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) shows that, after a brief pause in 2009 and a modest rebound in 2010, the world’s 60 largest economies will continue to globalise steadily between now and 2014, driven by the continued global economic recovery, technological innovation and the rise of the emerging markets.
More than 800,000 Generation Y New Zealanders (18 to 30 year olds) are either in the workforce or about to join it. They bring with them new attitudes and beliefs about work that will change the face of New Zealand. What do they think of their parents’ generation of managers (the Baby Boomers)?
The World Bank says food prices are at “dangerous levels”, after its latest Food Price Watch showed prices rose by 15% in the four months to January. The index is now 29% above its level a year earlier. The bank estimates 44 million more people have been pushed into poverty since last June. While soaring prices, particularly for dairy products, are good news for our exporters there are wider economic implications to consider, as Executive Update’s economic commentator Bob Edlin outlines.
The stereotypical bad boss is one who marches through the workplace barking orders left and right. But there’s another type we’ve probably all experienced at one time or another: bosses who don’t do what they need to do.
New claims data analysis from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) shows that over half of its $15 million total claims costs in 2010 related to medical and evacuation expenses and highlight the astronomical level medical claims can reach when travellers fall critically ill overseas. Of particular relevance for business travellers also is the statistic that shows 22% of all claims paid in 2010 related to cancellation and changes to planned journey expenses.
New Zealand company directors need to have a much more rigorous and focused approach to performance if they are to add value, live up to their potential, restore investor confidence and lift New Zealand’s productivity, says one of the country’s most vocal business leaders Kerry McDonald. “In short, we need to spark a revolution in New Zealand’s corporate governance culture – maybe not among all organisations, but certainly in those that are not really cutting the mustard.”
Usually reliable sources suggest the Government is trying to keep the South Canterbury Finance investigation tightly under wraps. The media, or those competent to chase the story, are having trouble getting access to interesting information, even through Official Information channels.
While tax depreciation allowances on building structures will no longer be claimable from April, companies that own their own premises will still be able to claim significant depreciation on commercial and industrial buildings services or “fit-out”.
