Islamic Banking and Finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Islamic Banking and Finance - Essay Example From this discussion it is clear that  the UAE Islamic financial services sector represents 30% of the overall Islamic banking industry based throughout the world. This has been possible largely because of rising requirement of customers within the UAE for Islamic financial services. Islamic banks in the UAE have played a crucial role in financing multiple infrastructure projects in the region, expansion of the human capital market by training talented individuals from the region and also, financed development of housing properties for the citizens of UAE. The growth witnessed in the Islamic banking industry has been driven by the growing requirement for Islamic products and services by an augmenting count of customers. The underlying reason for this growth is the emphasis that the industry lays on ethical principles, their commitment to transparency and implementation of the principle of mutual benefits in transactions and operations. The following sections will explain the produc ts and services offered by three of the leading banks based in the UAE (National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and Emirates NBD). Following that, financial performance of each of the banks will be compared and lastly, comments would be made regarding the difference in between Islamic banking system that these banks follow and the conventional banking system.  The National Bank of Abu Dhabi’s Islamic Financial System is guided by Shari’a principle and rules.  

The Prince by Machiavelli Essay Example for Free

The Prince by Machiavelli Essay In Chapter 25 of his masterwork The Prince, Machiavelli attempted to describe and define fate and how it could be controlled in both political and personal life. In defining ones life and actions against fate, Machiavelli saw the importance of forming a balance of the human tendencies of caution and impulsiveness. Machiavelli favored impulsiveness in regard to human actions directed towards fate, but he saw legitimate value in both mindsets. What he saw as most important was a willingness to change in the face of fate, as the ability to adapt is most important when facing change.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Machiavelli used the image of a torrential flood to describe fate. To Machiavelli, fate was like the flood in that â€Å"everything flies before it, all yield to its violence, without being able in any way to withstand it; and yet, though its nature be such, it does not follow therefore that men, when the weather becomes fair, shall not make provision, both with defences and barriers, in such a manner that, rising again, the waters may pass away by canal, and their force be neither so unrestrained nor so dangerous.† (Machiavelli, 1505, Chapter 25) This implies that what Machiavelli truly meant by fate is uncontrollable change, outcomes in the world that directly affect those that are not necessarily involved in those changes, social or technological, political or personal. These changes happen without the consent of all and therefore many   merely must roll with the punches, although men can make plans that will help them roll with those punches when the time for change arrives. To be sure, change is coming, although one cannot be sure exactly how or when it will come but can make provisions that will be helpful when it does.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After comparing fate to a torrential flood, Machiavelli went on to compare fate to a lady, in order to describe how   he would recommend mastering it. Machiavelli used a fairly non-modern view in the treatment of women to describe fate, saying that the best way to control fate, and women, was to beat and ill-use them. Furthermore, he saw that those bold and adventurous in spirit were more likely to control both women and fate and that young men are best equipped to handle both. While Machiavellis comparison between fate and women is easily seen as a bit sexist now, the comparison was certainly far more palatable when he made it. Further, the assertion that the young and bold are best equipped to deal with change is probably correct; the young are less set in their ways and have more energy with which to attack new challenges. While the simile is certainly not politically correct, it certainly introduces a worthwhile observation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is an intriguing program to attempt to synthesize Machiavellis project in The Prince with the modern project of employing science and technology to overcome nature, both of the world and human. Machiavellis aim was certainly to investigate ways to overcome human nature. If a man was to act in accordance with human nature, Machiavelli saw, he would surely be bowled over by the tide of fate. Machiavelli went so far as to make a case study, a very modern concept, of Pope Julius II to show that decisive, aggressive action was the best methodology to combat change; further, he surely was not afraid to invoke images of technology stemming the natural tide. It seems most likely, however, that while Machiavelli was attempting to make observations that were ahead of his time, he was not absolutely modern in his mindset. Machiavellis chief goal of The Prince was to describe how a political leader could most effectively use political power. This serves as an incomplete view of modern politics, which in addition to aiming at efficiency in power usage also means to maximize the social benefit of that usage. Machiavelli centered on the practicality of politics without looking at its utility. He surely spoke of how to employ technology and science to serve human desire, but he did not define desire in a more complex, democratic, modern state, which should not be surprising, because the mindset had yet to arise. References Machiavelli. (1505). The Prince. Retrieved from: http://www.constitution.org/mac/prince00.htm

Business overview of sainsbury plc

Business overview of sainsbury plc Sainsbury PLC is considered as one of UKs leading food retailers. The Sainsbury history starts in 1869 and today it says We provide Healthy, Safe, Fresh and tasty food (Sainsbury, 2011). Sainsbury brand has maintained goodwill for many years by providing its customers with healthy safe and tasty food. No compromise on price and quality has been made as they go hand-in-hand. Groceries in Sainsbury was introduced in 1903.John James Sainsbury died in 1928 by that time there were 128 shops and his last words were to keep shops lit. (Sainsbury, 2011). FROM FIELD TO FORK IN UNITED KINGDOM 17,000 Farmers Grocers 2,000+ Suppliers 22 Distribution Centres 800+ Supermarkets 30,000+ Products 150,000+ Colleagues 19 Over million Customers 3) Evaluation of stake holders. Anyone who can affect or be affected by the actions of the organization (Godson, 2008).The term stakeholder was first used by the Stanford Research Institute in 1963 to jointly describe consumers, shareholders, suppliers, employees, financial lenders, and society in general. (Reed, 2008). Relationship Marketing model developed by Gummessons consists of four broad partnerships were exchange take place. They are applied in case of Sainsbury United Kigdom Four Broad Partnerships of Relationship Marketing (Morgan and Hunt 1994) Internal Partnerships-The research studies suggests the quality of relationship a company has with its customers largely depend on how the employees at the front line make customers. (Egan, 2008) Being a great place to work is rooted in Sainsburys heritage and values. Sainsbury plays a vital role in achieving the corporate business goals with the help of its colleagues working for them.1,50,000 of the colleagues together make it successful in delivering great customer service every single day. These individuals by all sense are the face of the company. Delivering great food at fair price and surpassing the customer expectations. The employees are treated in a manner by which retention of employees takes place motivating them to work for Sainsburys customers in the best manner. Sainsbury is proud to be awarded the peoples organisation by the CBI in Human capital Awards 2009.It was awarded in recognition of HR people management excellence. The first ever retailer who has been awarded a gold accreditation from Investors in people for the commitment made to improve business through investment in our colleagues. Out of 168 categories Sainsbury was successful in 165. (J SainsburyP LC) Supplier Partnerships- Two formal documents are held by Sainsbury which cover the commitments made to their suppliers and standard they expect in return. They take pride in having good supplier relations. They are the first supermarket to implement a voluntary code of conduct which went beyond the obligations in previous supermarket code of practice. They issue a supplier handbook to their suppliers which is legally binding code of commercial practice. (J SainsburyPLC). Sainsbury has thoroughly strengthened and widened grocery supply code of practice (GSCOP) which is in force from feb2010 following the competition commission report into the grocery market. Sainsburys supplier have training thereby they can support the skills of suppliers to ensure they can operate efficiently to meet our requirements for quality and sustainability. They are the worlds largest retailer Sainsbury is doing well in the retail sector. (J SainsburyPLC) Buyer Partnerships- Sainsbury engages with the shoppers on a day to day basis by requesting their feedback. (J SainsburyPLC).Sainsbury communicates that it understands it s customers and their needs. Sainsbury customers are mailed a calendar which is their on their wall for twelve months with a new image and a new text or idea every month. (Jenkinson Sain, 2003).Sainsbury does spend to genuinely understand their customers. Moreover it is vital in Integrated Marketing when it comes to big brands like Sainsbury having multiple customer communities. (Jenkinson Sain, 2003) Relationship Marketing ladder of loyalty External Partnerships- As Sainsburys does engage with organisations like NGOs and government and agencies to understand issues and making better decisions. (J SainsburyPLC) Stakeholders like Normative groups Diffuse groups 4.1 Normative groups have authority to regulate or control the actions of an organization (Godson, 2008) These would include Regulatory bodies, Governments, Trade associations, Professional associations, shareholders and finances. The Sainsbury boss fears new VAT rise under new government (Kollewe, 2010). 4.2 In Sainsbury they are committed in reducing the negative impact on the environment and aiming to be leaders in UK for environmental innovation. Climate change is affecting everyone so Sainsbury tries to reduce the environmental footprint as all nature of business has direct or indirect impacts but in retail distinction is is significant. They have been given an A rating in the consumer Focus Green to the Core? In 2010 a five year partnership has been announced with Imperial College, London and Grantham Institute for Climate Change. Sainsbury won Green Retailer of the Year Award at Drinks Business Green Awards on March 8th 2011. (Sainsbury, 2011) Customer Relationship Management As Mass Media Advertising on decline marketers are focussing more on CRM adopting it as the best way to win, retain and grow business. (Handen, 2000). Most definitions of CRM is based around the collection and use of customer data for specific customer-focused activities. (Walton, 2008)CRM is a buzzword that a buzzword thats really not so new (Gateway for India, 2005).CRM previously did allow the neighbourhood grocer to keep a track over few of his customers preferences. To recognise their needs and deliver them effectively. Technology has now allowed to go into future in this model. (Gateway for India, 2005).The CRM today brings the organization closer to the customers allowing the organization to understand and cater to their needs in a better manner. (Handen, 2000).Mass marketing done through advertising and effective campaigns may not reach customers so effectively as CRM can do today. (Handen, 2000) Sainsbury selects Teradata warehouse replacing Oracle and getting CRM solution.This would enable in implementation of CRM and communicating well with the targeted customers and personalized communication and decision making.Sainsbury wanted to carry out a initative in offering customers surpassing to their expectations (Sainsburyselects Teradata Warehouse and CRM solutions, 2001) Sainsbury developed customer relationship to win customers in 2011.As household budgets looked stretched further by tax increase and inflation.There are some elements which can be used to achieve focus on relationships to establish with the shoppers enabling them to win sales over their competitors. (News, 2011) Focus on value- Retailers are trying to promote heavily to their customers with price guarantees and promotional innovation among the key weapons in their communication strategies. (News, 2011) Trend one -Internet Internet is used widely to communicate across different channels.The sales is also recorded in conjunction the price message is also communicated properly. (News, 2011) Trend two-Promotional mechanics-The retailers come up with innovative promotional schemes to attract the customers so that sales would increase,deals such as buy 1 get 1 free.During festivals or some ocassions like Mothers Day, Valentines Day and Easter the promotion schemes becomes more significant in the retail calendars. (News, 2011) Loyalty cards and technology -Loyalty card scheme is been widely used by retailers.It has been gaining momentum helping the retailers to establish good customer relationship in future.To reward the shoppers indirectly encourages and tempts them to shop more which results in more sales. (News, 2011) Non-Food Alongside their strong food propositions Sainsbury approach to develop its hypermarket format and to utilize their extended space for general merchandize. (News, 2011) Customer Service-Customers not only purchase the service but the experience offered by the service organisation. (Adebanjo, 2001).Sainsburys had tried a scheme in the early 2008 which would enable the company to build in the use of Nectar data.Some printed communication could include Money-off coupons,promotional offers, advertising messages and recipie ideas.It did combine customer relationship marketing(CRM) programme with colour printer technology.Moreover the it would help the suppliers to understand how the system can help. (Talking Retail-Hub for grocery retail, 2007). Customer Satisfaction At Sainsbury customers are delivered great service making it easy and enjoyable experience for the customers to shop. (Sainsbury, 2011)(Hill,1999)Customers are satisfied on meeting their expectations otherwise they are dissatisifed. (Adebanjo, Understanding Customer Satisfaction-Uk food industry Case study, 2001).Customer complaints helps to identify the weakness of customer service higlighting areas of improvement.The customers whose complaints are attended and resolved are more likely to remain loyal and share the experience with others. (Adebanjo, Understanding customer satisfaction-Uk food industry case study, 2001).This would enable in handling customer complaints and useful for service and process improvement.Customer focus and to understand customers is increasing among organizations and has become essential for business success. (Adebanjo, Understanding customer satisfaction-Uk food industry case study, 2001).Being prompt and effective in responding to customer concerns and complaints.Compalints are dealt in the store wherever possible by the store duty manager.A team is formed in sainsbury to know customer insights and individuals working together to study trends and needs of customer.They undertake surveys each month.The stores are not aware when they are conducted as it is done secretly when the check is been made unless the stores are informed regarding their performance and scope of improvement.Several steps and initatives are taken sothat customers can easily locate the products on shelves.New approach to reduce queiuing times at check outs.The ambition of Sainsbury is 1 in front at all check outs in our store Self service check outs are introduced by them and hand hold scanner for customers in 34 stores are introduced. (J SainsburyPLC) Loyalty- Loyalty is a positive feeling that consumers may exhibit towards brands,services,stores,product,catgories, and activities. (Godson, Customer loyalty and Inovlement, 2008). Geniuine Loyalty and Repeat-buying behaviour-To distinguish between genuine loyalty and repeat-buying behaviour as organizations sometimes mistake that they have loyal customers but sometimes they may be repeat purchaser in the outlets. There are some reasons to support these (Godson, Customer loyalty and Inovlement, 2008) Lack of Choice- Some cases customers lack choice of options to use some services eg. Bus as a particular company bus may be operating through a particular route an no other companies would have introduced in the same route. Thus the individual may avail the same bus service not because of loyalty but because of convenience even though it may be expensive compared to its competitors but this company bus has monopoly in that bus route. Convenience-A customer may purchase from the nearby grocery outlet not due to loyalty but it being convenient for the individual. Lack of information or ignorance-Sometimes an individual shopping in one outlet like Sainsbury eg Chicken meat Slices of 400gm for one pound may purchase from Sainsbury itself with other items. Reason may be he is not aware about Netto offering Chicken meat slice of 410gm at the same price and more tasty. In such a situation the person is not informed about the alternative and would end up purchasing from the same store not because of loyalty. Customer Loyalty- To develop and maintain customer loyalty which represents a major contributing factor in a firms profitability. (Fulford, 2005).Some studies are of the opinion that customer loyalty positively influences and reduces on market cost and increases sales per customer.(Berry 1995). Loyalty and retailing-Earlier research shows retailing area concentrated mainly on behavioural aspects. However some studies shows little association between loyalty and socio economic status of the household. Customer Identification loyalty programs- Customers should be identified as an individual so that they can be reached directly and relationship can be established. Sainsbury in June 2002 introduced Reward for customers the Nectar Card. (East et al 1995, Mason,1991)Since then it has helped the company to know their customers and benefitting both the parties customer and the company. (Fulford, 2005).Loyalty schemes and programs are been introduced to increase frequency of sales and usage of products and secondly to retain customers base given expense of recruiting new customers and relatively profitability of loyal customers.(Uncles et al;2003).This manner customer loyalty could be increased and interest of using loyalty cards have taken place. Nectar Card introduced by Sainsbury- It was introduced on September 10, 2002. In grocery stores of Sainsbury this was a revolution brought in the loyalty programme. UKs four best known companies Sainsbury, Barclaycard, Debenhams and BP together created Nectar Card UKs most comphrensive reward programme. Extensive advertising on TV on all major channels was accompanied with press and outdoor advertising campaign. As per the extensive research conducted to cater consumer needs there are some features of Nectar programme listed. (Sainsbury, 2011) Choice- The nectar Card could be used to collect points not just for flights but to purchase groceries, in restaurants and for many other purposes. Speed-Nectar points could be earned by shopping at more than 1800 as participating outlets wherever individual shops does not make an individual wait for long number of years to collect enough points so as to claim their rewards. Simplicity-It is simple to use as one card, one points currency. Moreover this same card could be used in other stores like Barclays and customers purse would not bulge with number of loyalty cards and all the points collected would be in one card only. Ease-It is easy to use .The procedure is not complicated. Depending on what one individual wants to use points for Exchange points for Nectar voucher. Call Nectar direct or have points automatically deducted as and when the card is swiped. Huge Investment in Customer Loyalty since Launch of Nectar- On September 28,2009 Sainsbury had huge investment in customer loyalty since launch of Nectar. Pound multi million investment over 5 years Over 1 billion money saving coupons in store Staple everyday basics to help customers through economic downturn This major financial investment in a coupon scheme was to benefit 18.5 million customers retailers serve every week. The customer receive reward at the till with money-off coupons to make further purchase of branded and Sainsbury own brand products. (Sainsbury, 2011) Nectar Card took top spot in race for customers loyalty- More customers use Nectar card in comparison to other loyalty cards. The number of people using nectar card increased over 1million in making Nectar card scheme to be widely used across the country making it popular among customers. The reason being Nectar card widely been used by customers and the attraction for them to use it is because it has number of partners it is associated with. Recent growth in 2010 usage of Nectar card was driven by savvy shoppers who were wanting more of their money during recession. As said by Gwyn Burr, Sainsburys Customer Direct. There customers appreciate and have around 1million new card holders who have signed to take advantage of benefits. (J SainsburyPLC) Easy Jet joined Nectar- Recently on March13 2011 Easy jet joined Nectar loyalty programme. This new partnership created between UKs largest loyalty programme and UKs biggest airlines. This partnership enables Nectar collectors to exchange their nectar points for any easy jest flights in 550 destinations in 30 countries with no restrictions. An article published in The Sunday Times says Sainsbury Chief Justin King-Loyalty cards provide advantage as without loyalty schemes supermarkets are forced to make promotions for their customers as those without data are been drawn into more promotion as they lack sophisticated database. As in Sainsbury coupon at till scheme customers are specially targeted money-off vouchers (Robert, 2010). Internal and External Relationships marketing Internal Relationship Marketing- The vital role played by employees in customer satisfaction has become distinct clear. (Godson, Background and theory, 2008)According to Gummesson E.2002, creating relationships between the management and employee and functions is the aim of internal marketing within relationship marketing. The employees should be given training so that they can serve customers in a manner which would increase the goodwill of the company and consequently develop in having external contacts and tools for external marketing. The employees when treated well this would motivate them to serve the customers. Sainsbury employees are recruited and the staff are treated without any discrimination. Focus to deal with candidates with Equality and Diversity policy at all times. Sainsbury attach Human Resource development to cope up with environment changes not only including the training cost but also investment cost. The policies for Sainsbury disabled people are such that which does not discriminate them from other employees rather gives them an edge and treats them with equality. External Relationship Marketing- . Communication Tools- Traditional communication tools like to sell by attracting attention, promote and persuade prior of making sales. There are two aspects like Asking-To elicit from consumers and buyers to understand their need of the product .Telling-To inform them all the aspects of the product making them aware helping to decide, persuade for acceptance and prompt purchase action.(i.e selling the product to increase level of business and accelerate diffusion of process) (J.Varey,2002) Example of Marketing Communication PERSONAL IMPERSONAL Formal Market Research focus group Market dominated advertising. Informal Consumer dominates face-to-face conversion. Internet chat room Other tools of Communication- Advertising- Making customers aware and delays affect on sales due to learning curve of customers.Sainsbury does extensive advertsing.Sainsbury target shoppers while they are in buying mode.It has effective communication with its customers through advertisments Publicity-Contionous effort made to make other communications credible.Campaigns of Sainsbury does include proof of posting and research available.They capture both point of sale and point of purchase opportunity. Personal selling- Immediate effect on sales. Sales Promotion E-marketing Direct Marketing- Sainsbury does more of direct marketing to reach its target customers.The channel used to reach its customers is through website (Sainsbury.co.uk), advertising through the stores which are widespread acrros UK.The promotion tool used by them is Nectar Card to reward its loyal customers for the purchases made by them. Recommendations- Sainsbury should concentrate on how to lower the price compared to its competitor which wins more of the customers is due to maintain equilibrium between price and quality. Sainsbury concentrates more on food for the food lovers.As consumers nowdays have many options availaible like cheap tasty take-aways and restaurants offering them excellent ambience these would be threat for sainsbury food business.Therefore they should develop their array of product options more to offer customers. Sainsbury should do wider research so that it is successful in understanding its consumers. (n.d.). Retrieved april 3, 2001, from http://www.essaycoursework.com/modelanswer/business/essays/communications-sainsbury-retailer.php (n.d.). Retrieved april 07, 2011, from http://www.essaycoursework.com/modelanswer/business/essays/communications-sainsbury-retailer.php (2005). Retrieved April 10, 2011, from Gateway for India: www.gatewayforindia.com/technology/CRM.htm (2007, october 27). Retrieved march 07, 2011, from Talking Retail-Hub for grocery retail: www.talkingretail.com Adebanjo, D. (2001). Understanding customer satisfaction-a UK food industry case study. British food Journal , 36-45. Adebanjo, D. (2001). Understanding customer satisfaction-Uk food industry case study. British food Journal , 37. Adebanjo, D. (2001). Understanding Customer Satisfaction-Uk food industry Case study. British Food Journal , 36. Egan, J. (2008). Internal Partnerships. In J. Egan, Relationship Marketing:Exploring Relational Strategies in Marketing (p. 174). PEARSON EDUCATION. Fulford, M. R. (2005). Loyalty transfer from Offline to online stores in the Uk grocery industry. International Journal of Retail and Distribution Management (Vol-6), 444-446. Godson, M. (2008). Background and theory. In M. Godson, Relationship Marketing (p. 17). Oxford Press. Godson, M. (2008). Customer loyalty and Inovlement. In M. Godson, Relationship Marketing (p. 102). Oxford Press. Godson, M. (2008). External Relationships. In M. Godson, Relationship Marketing (p. 205). Oxford Press. Handen, L. (2000). Putting CRM to Work. In S. A. BROWN, CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT (p. 8). JOHN WILEY SONS CANANDA LTD. J SainsburyPLC. (n.d.). Retrieved april 11, 2011, from http://www.j-sainsbury.com/cr/index.asp?pageid=59 J.Varey, R. (n.d.). Retrieved from Google Books. Jenkinson, A., Sain, B. (2003, May 15). Sainsburs Little Ones. Retrieved april 07, 2011, from Stepping-Stones: www.stepping-stones.org Kollewe, J. (2010, may 13). guardian.co.uk. Retrieved april 03, 2011, from guardian.co.uk: http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2010/may/13/sainsburys-boss-fears-vat-rise-under-new-government News, S. (2011, January 17). Developingthe customer relationship to win in 2011. Retrieved april 12, 2011, from IGD Retail Analysis: www.igd.com/analysis/hub Reed, F. a. (2008). External Relationships. In M. Godson, Relationship Marketing (p. 205). Oxford Press. Robert, M. L. (2010, march 14). Loyalty cards provide advantage. Retrieved april 09, 2011, from www.businesstimeonline.co.uk Sainsbury. (2011). J Sainsbury plc. Retrieved april 11, 2011, from J Sainsbury plc : www.j-sainsbury.com Sainsburyselects Teradata Warehouse and CRM solutions. (2001, june 19). DS star . Walton, X. a. (2008). CRM. In M. Godson, Relationship Marketing (p. 141). Oxford University Press

Micro-finance and its Impact on Poverty Essay -- Economy, Interest Rat

Despite the growing body of literatures about the microfinance and its impact on poverty, there are counter growing criticisms against microfinance in issues such as reaching the poor, unchanged poverty level, high interest rate, brutality in repayment processes, financial sustainability, and women empowerment. (Hossain, 2010). In terms of poverty reduction and reaching the poor people, the studies edited by (Hulme & Mosley, 1996) on the impact of microfinance on poverty found that poor people do not benefit from microfinance; it is only non-poor people who do well with microfinance and achieve positive impacts. (Morduch & Haley , 2002) points out that studies that have been conducted to examine the microfinance targeting and impact illustrate that MFIs show considerable diversity in their ability to reach poor people and the MFIs that have excellent financial performance do not imply excellence in outreach to poor people. However, (Odell, 2010) thinks it’s impossible to answer the question, does the microfinance work? (Odell, 2010) argues that the microfinance is a collection of tools and there are different types of MFIs, clients, and offered services .MFIs work in different environments, in different countries and it’s not correct to generalize the findings of a single impact study on the m icrofinance on the world. In addition, the measurement of microfinance impact is surprisingly difficult, because it’s not easy to isolate the impact of microfinance from other factors (CGAP). Fore instance, if the clients who got microfinance services are not doing better in their business than those who didn’t, this not means this caused by the microfinance services. There are other factors that could be involved in this impact such as the ... ... and in the term of physical mobility, ownership and control of productive assets, and their status within the community. A second viewpoint believes that microfinance do little to women empowerment and may contribute to reinforcing existing gender imbalances. (Cheston& Kuhn, 2002) conclude that empowerment is a complex process and MFIs microfinance is not always empowering for all women. MFIs need to improve their services and processes to ensure that they support the empowerment of women. Critique and criticism against microfinance extended to argue many other issues such as considered microfinance as a tool of economic globalization, or creation of technology dependency. Millions poor women and men in the world need access to microfinance.Hoewver; Microfinance is need to be review and evaluated objectively to improve its services and learn from its mistakes.

“The Evacuation of Children in World War Two Was a Great Success”

How far do the sources you have used support this interpretation of evacuation in World War Two? (25 marks) Before the War in September 1939, the government understood the risk of air raids and the danger they bring upon major cities in England. Plans for evacuation started as early as 15 years before in 1924; the Air Raid Precaution Committee (ARPC) identified London as the main target, with children as the biggest concern.The government identified, after the ARPC produced a report on the potential disasters of air raid attacks in 1925, that maintaining civilian morale was a priority, and that the fear of bombing would bring it down. So, to prevent low morale (and also to ensure safety for what would be the future generation and social regeneration of Britain), the technique of evacuation was introduced. ‘Success’, in this case, is somewhat difficult to measure as it is a broad term when it comes to asking if it can be seen as a success in terms of numbers: ‘did the government send out as many people as they hoped to? or as a question of the success in the ‘well being of the evacuees’, and questioned as the overall safety of the evacuees: if death and casualty had been avoided/prevented. These sources help to show whether or not evacuation in World War Two was a ‘success’. Evacuation can be seen as a success if the evacuees, specifically children were ‘happy’. This is important as being considered ‘successful’ as whether or not they were treated well and were happy would influence the public morale of the citizens remaining in the city.For example, source one shows a group of children with their accompanying teacher in a Berkshire village, 1939. They appear to be ‘happy’ and well looked after; they seem well dressed and smiling in a peaceful, unthreatening looking setting, safely away from the danger of bombs/air raids. Also, as a teacher is shown to be with them, success id further proven in that the government managed to continue educational services throughout the operation (this point is additionally shown in sources three and four).This suggests evacuation was a success. Though, as the photo shows evacuation in a positive light, it could suggest a propaganda element. However, though possible, it seems unlikely that the photo is staged making it reliable to determine evacuation as a success through child ‘well-being’ and happiness. Furthermore, a view of it being successful in this way is source three, a newspaper extract from Kent, September 1939. The overall impression given is that evacuation was very much a successful operation.According to the source for the majority, it was a ‘happy adventure and homesickness quickly fled’. Again, this suggests success in the well being of the evacuees, though the source goes on to show this further saying that children were ‘eating high teas beyond their dreams and went up to bedrooms larger than thought possible’. From this we can infer that evacuation was a success in the way that children were living better out in the countryside not only for safety, but for lifestyle as well.However, this source is much less reliable that source one as it appears to be in fact very biased as a newspaper trying to imply the best out of evacuation to keep morale high, so it is harder to derive a conclusion of success from the source. Another way in which success is shown through the sources is that evacuation did the job that it was set out to do: to protect the children, and those who are at most risk, from the danger of war, specifically bombing in the city. Source five is a picture showing a bombed school playground in London.From this, we can infer that this is an example of what the government was trying to move children/evacuees away from. It also shows how, being a school playground, children were indeed at risk, thus, by sending the children away, they were, as far as we know, doing a good job of keeping them safe. Overall, this source shows that evacuation was successful as we can infer that children would clearly be safer out of the city, thus justifying evacuation itself. To further justify evacuation and therefore show its success in keeping evacuees safe, source six shows casualties in Liverpool.It shows that the death rate was generally over 100 and even in May 1941, at 1453. Again, this justifies the need to evacuate and the safety achieved through evacuation. Finally, sources three shows the success in evacuation as the sources show effectiveness and good organisation as a success of evacuation. This encompasses overall efficiency and pre-evacuation planning. To be able to transport the huge amount of 1million (intended 4million) to the countryside required this efficiency and overall, sources three and source two mention the efficiency and order of the transport (trains) and organisation in the countryside.In source three, a newspaper article from Kent, says that the departures were efficient, reflecting that it was seen to that ‘each child got milk and food’, and followed up with ‘no confusion’. Even source two, though showing evacuation in a negative way, also comments that the trains ‘ran to time’ and that evacuation came ‘complete with teachers’. Having teachers is shown in sources one, three and four as well. In source one, it is shown as a teacher with a group of children, in three there are mentioned ‘teachers in charge’ and in four, the graph shows about 103,000 teachers were evacuated.The fact that they were able to organise having teachers for the children, as well as having sufficient transport for a million people, shows great planning and effectiveness of the evacuation programme as a success in World War Two. On the other hand, evacuation can be seen as unsuccessful through the sources. One point is that of numbers; according to source four, ‘4 million had been planned for but only 1. 5million went’.Source four is most probably reliable as it is a textbook extract, with the main aim of ‘to inform’, and thus the historian writing this has no reason to twist the truth. Even though this shows efficiency, it shows how evacuation was not successful, as it didn’t go according to government’s plans. It also could suggest that the public didn’t see quite the same urgency to evacuate as the government. This interpretation is further shown as one of the sources is a propaganda poster discouraging mothers to bring their children back to the city.This shows this unsuccessful side to evacuation as it shows that mothers needed this encouragement though posters. This shows how evacuation was unsuccessful in encouraging the public. Source seven suggests that social barriers were broken with the ‘effect of showing one side of the nation to the other’, however two sources suggest different: source 2, a source showing a mainly negative view on evacuation, implies that the social responsibility was not evenly spread and that ‘the poor housed the poor and the wealthy evaded their responsibilities’. This is an alternate view that people weren’t treating the evacuees correctly that goes against mainly source one and three. Source one and three are both from the start of the war (1939 specifically) and therefore could be seen as too specific to generalise a positive experience for the duration on the war and that perhaps source two, a negative view, is a better outlook, despite being a secondary source, on the success of the war as it shows a view over time. Considering all the elements that determine whether ‘The evacuation of children in World War Two was a great success’, I believe that evacuation was in fact a success in most ways of measuring ‘success’: the overall operation fulfilled it’s aims of protecting children from bombs to safer quieter areas of the country (like source one depicts) and that the government did so in an orderly, effective fashion. However, I would not call the evacuation programme a ‘completely’ a success nor a ‘great success’ thorough considering that fewer went than planned and that it is difficult to derive a positive experience from the evacuees themselves. A ‘great success’ suggests complete fulfilment of original plans and a large majority happy and well treated in the operation. Not all sources agree with this, thus, overall, I conclude my agreement that evacuation in World War Two was successful, though not a ‘great’ success.

Andrew Marvell’s – To His Coy Mistress

In Europe, the seventeenth century was a time that was called a part of the Renaissance (meaning rebirth), an era that was so called, because it was a time in which learning and development in every sphere of life occurred. This was prompted in part by the general reawakening to the idea that since life is temporary, one should make the most of one’s life. This is why the carpe diem (‘seize the day’ in Latin) theme frequently occurs in the literature of the seventeenth century. This theme is of central importance in Andrew Marvell’s ‘To His Coy Mistress’ as well as in Robert Herrick’s ‘To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time’, and other than this theme, both poems share a number of similarities. However, there are also striking differences, which contribute to the individual understanding of each poem. Carpe diem referred to all worldly pleasures, but theses two poems are similar in the way they approach this theme. Although ‘seize the day’ could mean all worldly pleasures, both of these poems emphasize sexual pleasure. Thus in Marvell’s poem, the speaker addresses his â€Å"coy† mistress and tells her than in death, her â€Å"long preserved virginity† (Marvell line 28) will â€Å"turn to dust† (29). Similarly, Herrick’s poem is addressed also to â€Å"the Virgins† who are told to â€Å"be not coy† (Herrick line 13). Also, both poems emphasize the pleasure to be gotten in one’s youth, as Herrick’s poem talks of â€Å"Youth† (10), and Marvell’s poem mentions the â€Å"youthful hue† (33). This shows that the speaker in both poems is intent on persuading these women that sexual pleasures are of most importance and are best when enjoyed in youth, and thus to be coy is nothing but wasting time, since life is short. Some comparisons and images are also common to both poems. For example, the image of the sun is used in both poems that time is running out—in lines 5-8 in ‘To the Virgins’, and lines 45-46 in ‘To His Coy Mistress’. Time itself is also personified in both poems; in ‘To the Virgins’, time is referred to as â€Å"Old Time† (2), and ‘To His Coy Mistress’, the speaker tells his mistress of â€Å"Time’s wingà ©d chariot† (22), and urges her to make the most of time, rather than â€Å"languish in his slow-chapped pow’r† (40). Such a use of personification makes it easier to visualize time as a person, under whose forces are all people. Also, both poems compare the ladies to flowers and thus, again, emphasize their transience. In Herrick’s poem, in the first stanza, there is an indirect comparison of the virgins to the flower that â€Å"Tomorrow will be dying† (4). This is evident in line 3, where the flower is not said to be blooming, but â€Å"smil[ing]† (2). In ‘To His Coy Mistress’, the â€Å"youthful hue/Sits on† the mistress â€Å"like morning dew† (33-34), as if she were a flower. Apart from these similarities, the two poems also have significant differences, which contribute to the individual effectiveness of each. For example, ‘To His Coy Mistress’ is addressed to a single lady, and is very descriptive about why and how the speaker and the mistress should enjoy sexual pleasure. This is because the poem aims to persuade the lady into immediate action. On the other hand, ‘To the Virgins’, (as apparent by the title), addresses all ‘Virgins’ and seeks to persuade them to â€Å"go marry† (14) and not delay marriage for later (not an immediate act). Thus, the poem has a song-like quality, brought out by the four short stanzas, as opposed to the long three sections of Marvell’s poem. This song-like quality in ‘To the Virgins’ is also brought about by the a,b,a,b rhyme scheme, and the completeness of the lines. On the other hand, in ‘To His Coy Mistress’, there is and a,a,b,b,c,c rhyme scheme, but the lines are run-on. This lends a conversational air to the poem, which is in keeping with the speaker’s addressing a single lady. Andrew Marvell and Robert Herrick both have used certain similar devices in their poems to bring out themes that are mutual to them. Yet, they have also employed devices which are peculiar to their own poems, and in doing so, have made them works of literature unique and complete in themselves, instead of stereotypical representations of a certain theme. Works Cited Herrick, Robert. â€Å"To the Virgins to Make Much of Time.† 1648. Poems to Remember. Ed. E. F. Kingston. Toronto: J. M. Dent & Sons. 1964. 22-23. Marvell, Andrew. â€Å"To His Coy Mistress.† 1681. The Norton Introduction to Literature. 8th ed. Ed. Jerome Be

essay121 Essays - Finance, Money, Economy, Free Essays, Term Papers

essay121 Essays - Finance, Money, Economy, Free Essays, Term Papers I was accepted into the Dental Hygiene Program at Howard for fall 2016. I am independent resident in the District of Columbia and work to support myself. I have been applying to grants, scholarships, and loans since I submitted my application to the program back in February 2016 . I have not received approval on any grants, scholarships, and loans as of September 30, 2017 . I currently have a bachelors and I am paying off my student loans to Great Lakes and Virginia Commonwealth University (Heartland Loan). I have used up my Pell Grant eligibility and my Federal Aid has only awarded me 12500.00 for the 2016-2017 school year. I have reached out to my mother for her help to cosign on any type of loan but she has declined due to her already putting money towards my undergraduate degree. I have reach ed out to my brother as well and he is not in a position to cosign for me. I went to my Wells Fargo bank on April 25, 2016 when I found out I was wait-listed for the Hygiene program. I applied for a student loan and was denied due to my credit report . When I graduated in 2013, I faced a financial hardship from being unemployed and was unable to make payments on my credit card from Wells Fargo or make payments on student loans. I didn't pay off the credit card in full and start making payments on my loans to rebuild my credit until 2015. I still have the charge off on my account even though the debt has been paid off. This has made it very difficult for me to get approved for loans, even private loans with high interest rates. I have applied to Sallie Mae an d Sofi for student loans and have been sent denial letters on August 10, 2016 and October 1, 2017 . I have exhausted all of my options and even request that Trans Union mail me a letter stating my debt has been paid off to reapply to more loans. This is my second time applying to Howard's competitive Hygiene program with only 10 seats for this semester. I have worked so hard to get into this program but unfortunately I did not have enough aid to continue the program and was forced to withdraw after fall semester. The director has held my seat to return this Fall and I am currently enrolled. My remaining balance for this semester after estimated aid is $6,558.00. Obtaining this degree means so much to me and I would greatly appreciate any help.

Netflix Case study - SmartCustomWriting.com Samples

Netflix Case study - SmartCustomWriting.com Netflix Case studyIntroduction According to Reed Hastings, Netflix have been facing a lot of competition in the video renting market and thus the need to come up with most effective strategies that may help it in improving its productivity. Netflix is a new adventure brought into the market through the internet commerce and the advent of DVD that aided in securing movie rentals. He says that the new strategies that they have employed such as the recommendation system and also focusing on enhancing their clients’ experience concerning their website. It is clear that through such strategic focus Netflix has been able to grow into one of the largest online entertainment subscriptions service in the United States with a total of more than 6.3 million subscribers. Netflix has been in one of the most competitive fields as a business venture. It has been competing with companies such as the Blockbuster. It is therefore vital for Netflix to employ a strategy that will ensure that it gets secondary markets. It is important to develop and implement a flexible and disciplined business strategy that will aim at driving revenue growth, minimizing operation costs and profitability, and maximizing store level productivity. The profitability of the market is the determining factor of the attractiveness of this movie industry. Even though the industry has high burrier to profitability, it also contains various factors that validate its attractiveness. As a result of increased buyer demand, online movie renting is presently one of the fastest growing markets globally. An attractive feature in the market of movie renting is the possibility of having newcomers who develop strong competition, revenue, brand recognition, and strong lead of customers. The main vision of Netflix is to change the manner in which people access and view the movie of their zeal and love. For that reason implementation of present strategies will enable Netflix to reach their objective and guarantee the accomplishment of their vision (Willy, Stephen, David, 2009). Business strategy of Netflix After Netflix realized that the traditional merchandizing system was ineffective, its engineers came up with a proprietary recommendation system in order to balance the needs of their customers. Netflix also signed a new signing account which made customers to be capable of identifying new favorite movie genre, including rating specific movie titles from one to five. Netflix’s proprietary algorithm was a strategy that solely depended on the results of these surveys. The surveys help both the company and its clients in placing their orders or choosing the movies they prefer. This recommendation page also included information on why the movie was being recommended apart from just the title and rankings. This kind of strategy ensured that customer’s gotten what they preferred most. Moreover, Netflix’s software refined its understanding of the clients’ preference (Willy, Stephen, David, 2009). The company also did the screening of movies through its inventory management with the aim of avoiding frustrating its customers. The system increased utilization Netflix’s library of films in order to be in short supply. It was an important strategy since it satisfied the needs of the customers since it picked the needs of the customer. SWOT Analysis of Netflix Netflix has a number of strengths which include: a) a strong e-commerce expertise, b) knowledge about technology, c) defect free merchandise to the clients, and d) expertise that are capable of providing consistent customer services. It also has experienced and capable workforce, valuable physical assets, and proven managerial know-how (Willy, Stephen, David, 2009). Netflix also has a number of core deficiencies in comparison to other companies that puts it at a disadvantage in the marketplace which include: a) inventory control is one of the most difficult things in Netflix since DVDs are sent to the clients through the mail, and this means that the DVDs may arrive late or may be broken or even lost in the delivery process, b) it is also hard to determine the number of DVDs that reach customers since they have the right of keeping them as long as they wish, c) Netflix also does not distribute videotapes, but just DVDs, this can make the company loose customers, and finally, d) even though it is not expensive but convenient, it is less economical to those client who watch less than one movie every week (Willy Smith, 6). Netflix also has some opportunities such as: a) Netflix will provide a service that will allow its customers to download movies online, b) it will also give lower variable costs which will be profitable in the long run, c) its feature (SamGoody.com) will be a service that will enable its clients to access discs if need be, and finally, d) it has a rapid growth potential that will enable it to gain popularity and development (Willy, Stephen, David, 2009). Netflix has threats that do not allow them to be more competitive in the online video market; it also has some features that do not satisfy the needs of the clients. It is also faced with competition from other companies offering online rental services. Conclusion In order for the company to gain a large base, it must begin to implement its long term goals and advertise to specific consumer needs which have been assured by the recommendation system. Since technology is ever changing, Netflix will have to devise it marketing strategies to march those that other companies use in online market. It is also vital to look at globalization which is another long term goal since it has various guiding principles to worry about when venturing into the global market. Finally the whole team at Netflix needs to target on the research development in order to improve on their strategies (Willy, Stephen, David, 2009). Work Cited Willy Smith, Stephen Kaufman, and David Spinola. â€Å"Netflix Case from the Business Harvard School, Case # 9-607-138, (2009), pp 2-15.

Acts of Terrorism

An investigation into the reasons that acts of terror are committed. This paper explores the motivations behind acts of terror. It is written in the light of the September 11thattack on the USA in 2001 and it studies recent acts of terrorists both in the United States and elsewhere in the world. It focuses on the personality of Osama Bin Laden and what he symbolizes for the American people.A great deal has been written about terrorism since 11 September 2001, but this should not blind us to the fact that terrorism is hardly a new phenomenon. Although it is hard to believe that there is anyone in the world who is not now more aware of the possible reach and effects of terrorism than they were six months ago, if we are to come to a better understanding of the ways in which terrorists operate and the basic human psychology of terrorism than we must take a longer view of the phenomenon (McDermott 2002). Only if we do soif we look at terrorism over a period of centuries and include an analysis of both religiously motivated and other forms of terrorismcan w e come to any clear understanding of what happened in the United States in September as well as what has happened since then (Miller 2002).

Is effectively reducing production costs a driving force for the shift Research Paper

Is effectively reducing production costs a driving force for the shift of Manufacturing from China to the USA - Research Paper Example Examples of these costs are labor cost, transportation costs and supply chain risks. Increase in the cost of production has made the businesses to move near to their customers or moving back home where the production costs will be lower (Shephard, pg.67). There are numerous specific drivers which may be either external or internal to china and which are forcing manufactures to seek another production locations; the major one is the increasing competition for talents and labor costs. The biggest advantage for china was that it had cheap labor though that benefit is dwindling. So the increase in labor costs has become a major challenge for the companies which are operating in china these is because every fast growing and foreign company in china are all competing for employees who are qualified mainly those employees who have skills thus making it difficult for business to entice and maintain top talents. The increase in labor costs has reduced profits of the manufacturers significantly (Janoski and Darina, pg 115). There are also other costs which have increased too. The costs of real estates have increased nearly at manic rates due to the government institutions which have delegated minimum land charges. Other factors like electricity costs has also increased and the rate of corporate tax has raised to 25% from 15%, also the tax associated incentives has disappeared or it has not been easy to obtain. Increase cost of these inputs of production has made it difficult for the businesses to operate in china which has decreased the profits. The other cost which is related to production of manufacturers in china is the risk which is associated with the protection of intellectual property. Foreign companies which have been operating in china have been in worry of guarding their intellectual property despite the significant attention it has been receiving only a

Business research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Business - Research Paper Example Introduction It is important to understand the various concepts of a supply chain in order to comprehend sustainability in a business even further. The chain flows from the initial generator of the raw materials to the final person to benefit from the product, that is, the customer. In any business practice, risks are some of the most important aspects to recognize and the management of these threats helps in making the flow of work better and that of the products faster and thus the importance of carrying out research on how to best manage them. The research identifies three aspects of risk management ought to receive a high amount of attention. One of these is risk identification the other aspect to consider is that of risk assessment and then there is risk management. Problem Statement Occurrence of risks is one of the leading causes of business failure over the past few years. This is happens because of the poor management of the risks by the responsible teams. Managing risk in s upply chain management is very vital for the success of any company from the fact that in the unfortunate case of one of the risks occurring, all levels of the supply chain are affected, regardless of the point at which the product was during the risk occurrence (Conroe, 2008, 63). It is thus the duty of every player in the chain to ensure that recognition and evaluation of all risks takes place in an effort to put into place the important strategies to evade the risk. The research aims at showing the different levels of a supply chain and indulge deeply in the risks that each of the level managers go through. Moreover, there ought to be the identification of the two key classes of supply chain risks for the purpose of risk assessment. I chose management of risks in supply chain because I have had various experiences where companies languish from the amount of ignorance portrayed by their administration. An example of this is the BP case where there was the loss of a lot of the comp any’s credit from the oil spill that happened having the company in a recession for a few months (Adams, 2011, 473). The ignorance is mostly in terms of recognizing the source of the risks. Many are cases when companies fail due to the fact that the management thinks that the problem is a minor one and does not have much weight. However, I seek to change this notion in an effort to make people understand that each part of the chain has a role to play in either the success or the failure of the commodity they seek to establish. It all depends on the type of risk management. The issue at hand has had people always take risk management classes in an effort to solve the various arising matters that may have the company in a position to have a risk occurring. Research has shown that companies that do not take the steps end up regretting and consequently having a poor reputation due to customer dissatisfaction. Gaps in the research are in that it has been impossible to find cases t hat show immediate resolution of a risk taking place unlike the many present cases of risk occurrence. Risk Identification and Analysis Over the years, supply chain management has had its fair share of changes providing the need of every business to stay keen on its goals in this highly competitive 21st century. The study shows how the external and internal risks are vital for identification in any

Behavioral Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Behavioral Analysis - Essay Example It has a PE ratio of 27.9, and there are about 12 stock trade analysts rating Biogen as a Buy neither a sell nor a hold company. Average volume for Biogen has been 2.0 million dollars shares daily for 30 days annually. It has a market cap of 90.8 billion dollars and is a part of the medical sector and drug companies. Biogen stock has a beta of 0.62 and a short float of 1.3 percent with 0.89 days to cover. Biogen shares are up 13.7 percent annually of the close of trading monthly. According to the Street Quant Ratings, Biogen is a rate as a buy and the company’s strength exists in many areas. For example, the solid stock price performance, impressive record of earnings per share growth, and compelling growth net income. Others include robust revenue growth and largely solid financial status with reasonable debt levels by most measures. According to the recent highlight analysis of the Biogen company ratings, influenced by its outstanding earnings growth of 72.77 percent and other vital driving factors. The stock of the company languished by 30.23 percent over the past years outsmarting the performance of the S&P 500 index rating the same time. BIIB irrespective of numerous stock market challenges would maintain despite enjoying fabulous gains in the past year. Biogen Company has recorded significant earnings per share creating improvement in the recent quarter compared to the previous quarter. Company shows a pattern of positive earnings per share growth over a period of two years. In every fiscal year, the company increases its bottom-line profits by the rate of 12.39 dollars compared to 7.82 of the past years. Besides, the market anticipates much increase in the earnings of 16.78 dollars from 12.39 dollars (The Street Wire 2015, p.1). The company depending on the net income growth from the same quarter a year ago significantly outperformed against the S&P 500.The rate exceeded other sectors such as Biotechnology industry average. When compared to the

The key international trading factors between the European Union and Research Paper

The key international trading factors between the European Union and the Middle-Eastern countries. Specifically the countries in - Research Paper Example The European countries consists of religions like Roman Catholicism,  Orthodox Christianity, Protestantism,  Sunni Islam, Shia Islam,  Judaism and Buddhism. All these religions entities are different in their traditions, beliefs and ideologies. Catholic Christians are concentrated mainly in countries like, Italy, Vatican, France, Hungary, Poland etc. Turkey, Syria, Algeria like countries have Islam as the major religion Orthodox Christians are heavily populated in countries like, Russia, Ukraine, Rumania, Bulgaria, Greece whereas Protestant Christians are staying in mainly in countries like Denmark, Germany, Finland, Sweden etc. Even amidst these extremely diverse cultural diversities, most of the European countries were able to assemble under the flag of EU for improving their bargaining power in the global trade activities. Common currency Euro is introduced in order to improve the integration process further. Middle East, especially the gulf countries are traditionally goof trading partners of Europe. In fact most of the gulf countries are engaged in more trade activities with the Europe than with any other region in the world. Majority of the gulf countries are Muslim countries and even then they have less political problems with the European world. On the other hand, America’s foreign policies and activities were watched suspiciously by the Gulf countries because of America’s unholy tie up with Israel. Thus most of the Middle Eastern countries took the EU as their best friend in trade activities. However, the trade activities between the gulf countries and the EU have witnessed lot of ups and downs in the recent times because of various reasons. This paper analyses the success and failures of EU’s trade tie ups with Middle East over the years. Relations between the European Union and the GCC date back to the mid-1980s. In 1989, the two organizations signed a cooperation agreement, which included a wide range of sectors: agricultu re, fisheries, industry, energy, sciences, technology, investment, environment, and trade. Over the years, dialogue between the EU and GCC has been characterized by ups and downs and has mainly focused on trade cooperation. During the 1990s, trade flows between the two blocks were actually very low, and only since 2001 they have began to intensify, thanks to the increase in oil prices rather than to the intensification of trade volumes. Negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) have been part of EU-GCC cooperation, but after 20 years, this goal is still elusive (Talbot, p.13) Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates are the major GCC countries which have strong trade tie ups with the Europe. These six countries formed a regional organization; The Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) in May 1981. â€Å"The major objectives of this cooperation are to enhance coordination, integration and inter-connection among its Member States in di fferent spheres†(The EU & the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)). â€Å"All these six GCC countries currently benefit from preferential access to the EU market under the EU's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)†(Gulf region 2010). Even before the formulation of European Union,

Memo of Advice to Mr. US on Taxation System Case Study

Memo of Advice to Mr. US on Taxation System - Case Study Example The tax rates are applied to taxable income which is arrived after deducting all expenditure incurred by the individual as specified in IRS. Every US citizen (Mr.US) working and residing abroad is bound to report income from sources outside the United States under Form 1099 from foreign payer (Publication 525, 2010). According to Arnold and McIntyre (3) individuals confront serious risks of having to pay excessive levels of tax as Mr. US being citizen of US and resident of UK may have to deal with tax laws of both countries. However dual residence problems are generally resolved through the tie breaker in tax treaties between the two countries i.e. US and UK. Mr.US can be benefited from the double taxation treaty which follows the OECD Model Tax Convention. Mr. US shall file a report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) as his account is maintained by foreign organization in Mauritius, a labor agency which contracts the services of Mr. US to Newco in London for the period of five years. Tax Exchange Information Agreements between US and UK are incorporated in Double Taxation Treaty and Mr. US will have to comply with the double taxation treaty of filing the FBAR reports and paying income tax for his income earned for his services. Similarly, Labor Agency in Mauritius will pay taxes for its income from UK in Mauritius as well as United Kingdom as per the double taxation treaty existing between these two countries. As evident from the case study, Mr. US could face dual source issues arising through varying definitions in tax jurisdictions i.e. in US and UK. Mr. US may seek tax exemption within double taxation treaty between United States and United Kingdom. Mr. US may claim tax deduction in double taxation through exemption, credit or tax deduction through structured finance and possible exemptions in form of dividends and capital gains (Arnold and McIntyre,Ch. 15). It is informed that many tax jurisdictions do not grant deductions for future risk loss o r contingency provisions while some countries permit deduction for pension provisions. Mr. US shall get tax exemption from pension provision granted by Mauritius broker firm. The Mauritius broker company intends to open a discretionary trust in favor of Mr. US family owned by Mauritius firm. It is mentioned that shareholders dividends do not in any legally relevant sense arise in the taxing state which means the taxation belongs to the country to which the corporation belongs, i.e. Mauritius where the firm will be established (Arnold and McIntyre,Ch.3 53). The discretionary trust, where the remaining $225k have been diverted will be paid by the trust wholly under double taxation treat between two countries; United States and Mauritius, as the residence of trustees is in US while the trust is incorporated in Mauritius (Arnold and McIntyre,Ch.1, 21). Works Cited Arnold Brian J and McIntyre Micheal J International Tax Primer, Chapter

Behavioral Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Behavioral Analysis - Essay Example It has a PE ratio of 27.9, and there are about 12 stock trade analysts rating Biogen as a Buy neither a sell nor a hold company. Average volume for Biogen has been 2.0 million dollars shares daily for 30 days annually. It has a market cap of 90.8 billion dollars and is a part of the medical sector and drug companies. Biogen stock has a beta of 0.62 and a short float of 1.3 percent with 0.89 days to cover. Biogen shares are up 13.7 percent annually of the close of trading monthly. According to the Street Quant Ratings, Biogen is a rate as a buy and the company’s strength exists in many areas. For example, the solid stock price performance, impressive record of earnings per share growth, and compelling growth net income. Others include robust revenue growth and largely solid financial status with reasonable debt levels by most measures. According to the recent highlight analysis of the Biogen company ratings, influenced by its outstanding earnings growth of 72.77 percent and other vital driving factors. The stock of the company languished by 30.23 percent over the past years outsmarting the performance of the S&P 500 index rating the same time. BIIB irrespective of numerous stock market challenges would maintain despite enjoying fabulous gains in the past year. Biogen Company has recorded significant earnings per share creating improvement in the recent quarter compared to the previous quarter. Company shows a pattern of positive earnings per share growth over a period of two years. In every fiscal year, the company increases its bottom-line profits by the rate of 12.39 dollars compared to 7.82 of the past years. Besides, the market anticipates much increase in the earnings of 16.78 dollars from 12.39 dollars (The Street Wire 2015, p.1). The company depending on the net income growth from the same quarter a year ago significantly outperformed against the S&P 500.The rate exceeded other sectors such as Biotechnology industry average. When compared to the

Memo of Advice to Mr. US on Taxation System Case Study

Memo of Advice to Mr. US on Taxation System - Case Study Example The tax rates are applied to taxable income which is arrived after deducting all expenditure incurred by the individual as specified in IRS. Every US citizen (Mr.US) working and residing abroad is bound to report income from sources outside the United States under Form 1099 from foreign payer (Publication 525, 2010). According to Arnold and McIntyre (3) individuals confront serious risks of having to pay excessive levels of tax as Mr. US being citizen of US and resident of UK may have to deal with tax laws of both countries. However dual residence problems are generally resolved through the tie breaker in tax treaties between the two countries i.e. US and UK. Mr.US can be benefited from the double taxation treaty which follows the OECD Model Tax Convention. Mr. US shall file a report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) as his account is maintained by foreign organization in Mauritius, a labor agency which contracts the services of Mr. US to Newco in London for the period of five years. Tax Exchange Information Agreements between US and UK are incorporated in Double Taxation Treaty and Mr. US will have to comply with the double taxation treaty of filing the FBAR reports and paying income tax for his income earned for his services. Similarly, Labor Agency in Mauritius will pay taxes for its income from UK in Mauritius as well as United Kingdom as per the double taxation treaty existing between these two countries. As evident from the case study, Mr. US could face dual source issues arising through varying definitions in tax jurisdictions i.e. in US and UK. Mr. US may seek tax exemption within double taxation treaty between United States and United Kingdom. Mr. US may claim tax deduction in double taxation through exemption, credit or tax deduction through structured finance and possible exemptions in form of dividends and capital gains (Arnold and McIntyre,Ch. 15). It is informed that many tax jurisdictions do not grant deductions for future risk loss o r contingency provisions while some countries permit deduction for pension provisions. Mr. US shall get tax exemption from pension provision granted by Mauritius broker firm. The Mauritius broker company intends to open a discretionary trust in favor of Mr. US family owned by Mauritius firm. It is mentioned that shareholders dividends do not in any legally relevant sense arise in the taxing state which means the taxation belongs to the country to which the corporation belongs, i.e. Mauritius where the firm will be established (Arnold and McIntyre,Ch.3 53). The discretionary trust, where the remaining $225k have been diverted will be paid by the trust wholly under double taxation treat between two countries; United States and Mauritius, as the residence of trustees is in US while the trust is incorporated in Mauritius (Arnold and McIntyre,Ch.1, 21). Works Cited Arnold Brian J and McIntyre Micheal J International Tax Primer, Chapter

Examine sociological explanations Essay Example for Free

Examine sociological explanations Essay There seems to be a direct link to what goes on in schools and what takes place at work. The functionalist approach to education and economy is that through socialisation education helps maintain society by introducing young people into values and beliefs such as achievement. They argue that education teaches what is needed within the world of work like numeracy and literacy skills or specific skills for particular jobs. The education system allocates people to the most appropriate jobs, which suits their abilities using examination results. Through the eyes of the functionalists this is seen to be fair because there is an equal opportunity for everyone, everyone has the chance to succeed in society on the basis of their ability. If they work hard and try hard at school then they will succeed and climb the social ladder obtaining a higher social status. They see education as turning pupils into model citizens that the most able pupils will succeed and obtain the most important jobs. Durkheim stated that education performs the function of making individuals feel they are members of a social group. This can be done through lessons such as history. He believes that school teaches pupils how to co-operate and work with others. The subjects that are taught in schools are related to skills that are required for work. The education system sifts and sorts the people according to their ability and that those who want to achieve can do so despite social class or background. Parsons thinks that the school is the first place where they are taught universal values and rules. School helps introduce a consensus; this is where everyone agrees on the same basic values. Schools challenge pupils abilities and their talents so that they can be issued into specific jobs. Davis and Moore explained that some people have greater talents than others and to ensure that society functions efficiently the most able individuals are allocated the most efficient jobs. The education system is responsible for this, targeting the people who are most able then training them for important jobs. However, some people would argue that this is far too optimistic. This idea of meritocracy is untrue does not exists. There are certain barriers that get in the way the main one being social class. An example of this is careers such as medicine and law where certain firms will not accept you if you have been to a university that was previously a polytechnic college. There is nothing wrong with these universities but certain people and groups see them as lower class and therefore less likely to employ them. This is a barrier that gets in the way. There is a lack of evidence that schools teach work specific skills, an example of this is how often does a job require you to know quotes from Shakespeare, some subjects have a limited usefulness to the world of work. The principal of having a general consensus in school is not always the case; different social groups have different sets of values. Marxists disagree with this approach stating that its main function is to maintain, legitimate and reproduce, generation after generation of inequalities transmitted through common values and beliefs. Failure and inequality is encouraged within working class people, this is taught in schools. What goes on in school is related to the world of work, the pupils are like the workers and the teachers are like the bosses. Marxists explanation of education is that it does entirely depend on intellectual ability only the pupils who conform will rise above the rest. Schools reproduce the appropriate work force with the correct attitudes for factory work. They argue that it turns working class kids into conformists workers. Marxists argue that a hidden curriculum lies within the education system that filters out working class children into working class jobs it is a passive process that gets them used to this idea of inequality and hierarchy. It makes them accept it and not challenge it this is the correspondence principal. Bowles and Gintis argue that what goes on in schools is directly related to the world of work. The organisation of school to that of work is very identical, separate school lessons mirroring separate work place tasks. The examination results and payment are the enjoyment of working and learning. Educational success and promotion at work is based on work. Again what was just said isnt always the case. Bowles and Gintis never actual got any research evidence to support their claims. Most jobs now demand people with flair, ambition and people with charisma not mindless idiots as Marxist stated. Not all schools respond in exactly the same way and not all pupils respond in exactly the same way as Bowles and Gintis suggested. Not all children are passive products of the education system it might motivate some children with the thought of ending up in a factory. Paul Willis conducted his survey in 1977 and provides internationalist approach to understand the meanings pupils. Willis identifies pro-school and anti-school subcultures. The anti school subcultures where nicked named the lads ands the pro-school subcultures were called the earoles. Willis was a neo-Marxist who stated that the lads developed strategies to cope with the boredom of school and basic routine that they would eventually end up in at work. The lads chose to and accepted themselves as failures and didnt see the point in trying so just gave up. It was not passive as Marxists first thought. Even this type of attitude created the right workforce, they were uncritical and just got on with it. Paul Willis focuses on actual working at the school. One criticism of Paul Willis work is that either the student rebelled against the system or they conformed they were never really in between and this didnt really make much sense. It was unrealistic not many people were 100% in a category they were in between and this didnt show up in Willis results. Vocational Education was introduced because when students left school and went to work they didnt really possess the appropriate skills for work or the correct attitude. Vocational education changed this and improved their working attitudes with ideas such as work experience. As part of Curriculum 2000 key skills were introduced, this was asked for by a lot of employers and it gave students a basis insight into how to use a computer. A number of other schemes were introduced for those post 16 student s who didnt want to stay on at school, the government would pay half their wages and the company that employed them would pay the other half. This was great for the company because they were getting labour for half the price and once they had got to 19 they would sack them and employ another 16 year old. The schemes led to low paid and low skilled part time employment. The main aim for the government to set this scheme up was so that when it came to Election Day it meant that the number of people who where unemployed was low. There was first an assumption that unemployment was caused by a lack of skills amongst young people. In actual fact it could be to do with lack of jobs. Cohen stated that this attitude and discipline training made the post 16 people ready to except low paid jobs. In conclusion there is no one simple explanation about the relationship between school and economy. All of the information featured is theories and beliefs based on different perspectives. Up to a certain point all of the theories are true and probable in certain situation. No one can speak for the whole of society what happens in one group might be completely different to another. I would however be incline to put my trust in to a lot of what Paul Willis says partly because of the way he carried out his study, it was very in-depth.

Noun Formation: English And Vietnamese

Noun Formation: English And Vietnamese As we all know, word are the most important unit in one language. We use words everyday, in many various fields of life: from work to studying, form informal situation to formal situation. From word, we can create phrases, sentences to communication with each other under many forms. Amongst words, noun is a rather crucial part. Nouns have several functions in sentences. They can be the subject, an object, an appositive, or a complement (Rakoczy). Therefore, noun-formation can be recognized as the sub process of word-formation, and it will share some same characteristic of word formation. My essay is aimed at identifying, analyzing and contrasting the noun formation between English and Vietnamese to magnify the similarities and differences. Based on this paper, I hope to help my readers clear about noun formation and help the educators have a universal perspective of the unavoidable errors of learning process in both Vietnamese and English learners. NOUN-FORMATION IN ENGLISH Because noun-formation is the sub-process of word-formation, it also follows the same morphological rules of word-formation. Nouns are formed by morphemes as well. According to the classification, we have compounding, affixation or derivation, and conversion. More specifically: Affixation or derivation, forms nouns with affixes. Compounding is the combination of two or more morphemes. Conversion, also called zero derivation, is the creation of a word from an existing word without any change in form (Conversion, 2001). For example, word shifts from verb to noun without change of its morphemes. There is other noun-formation such as reduplication, clipping, blending, acronyms, and borrowing. Reduplication is repeating an item with a change in the beginning consonant or change in the middle vowel. Clipping is a process which consists in the reduction of a word to one of its parts (Marchand:1969). Clipping is also known as truncation or shortening. (Clipping, 2001), without changing its meaning. Blending is combining of shortened of two or more morphemes to form a new word. On the other hand, acronyms are nouns using the initial letters in words, phrases, or proper names. Last is borrowing, which actually has two types: using the exact word from another the language and translating it literally, we often called the second type calque or loan translation. NOUN FORMATION IN VIETNAMESE Similar to English, noun in Vietnamese was also formed by morphemes. However, the noun-formation from affixation does not appear in Vietnamese as it is in English. The free morpheme and bound morpheme in Vietnamese are defined differently. More particularly, the bound morpheme in Vietnamese can be used as a separate word. In English, when the bound morpheme stands alone, it doesnt make a full word. In Vietnamese, noun was formed by combining two free morphemes, two bound morphemes, or one bound morpheme and one free morpheme. As a result, noun is formed by compounding, conversion together with other methods such as reduplication, clipping, acronyms, and borrowing. Moreover, because of the long-term domination of the Chineses dynasties and French colonist, the vocabularies which Vietnamese borrowed from Chinese and French are numerous and various. CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS BETWEEN ENGLISH AND VIETNAMESE 1. Affixation (Derivation) In this part, I will discuss the affixation in English. The affixes involve prefixes and suffixes. For example, from the adjective literal, we only need to add the suffixes -cy to form the noun literacy. Together with the suffixes, the prefixes also contribute to the noun formation. When we offer a new add-on il-, we immediately have a new noun illiteracy which has the opposite meaning to the noun literacy. Consequently, the prefix of noun can change the meaning of the origin, but it still maintains the word class. The suffix, on the other hand, when be attached to the base, it can transform a verb to a noun or other word class. Some typical suffixes for noun are: -ant, -er, -or, -mentà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. In addition, prefixes and suffixes contain some given meanings which were displayed below: Prefixes Meaning Suffixes Meaning Anti- Against -tude state of Mis- wrong, astray -ist dealer, doer Post- After -ism doctrine, belief Dis- not, opposite of -ity state of being Inter- between, among -cy state of being De- get rid of -eer, -er, -or person who 2. Compound nouns In English, except some single words are noun themselves, noun can be formed by many methods, such as some in table Compound patterns Examples Noun + Noun bloodstream, seashore, cupboard Adjective + Noun hardboard, blueberry, softball Verb + Noun swimming pool, washing machine Preposition + Noun inbox, outbox, overcoat Verb + Verb make-work, drop-kick Verb + Preposition breakaway, hideout, takeaway Phrases Compound stock-in-trade, mother-in-law Special Compound tetragon, archeology According to the table, there are many patterns to form a noun. However, we can classify all the patterns into 3 categories: The solid or closed form: two words were combined as one word. Ex: timetable, blackboard. The hyphenated form: two words are connected by a hyphen. Ex: son-in-law, stitch-up. The open or spaced form: the word consists of two longer words, and often written separately. Ex: high court, slow motion. Meanwhile, in Vietnamese we have the coordinated compound noun and the principal-and-accessory compound noun, which were also known in Vietnamese are tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ « ghà ©p Ä‘Ã ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ³ng là ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ­p and tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ « ghà ©p chà ­nh phà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ¥. The coordinated compound noun is the noun was built from two components with equal meaning, for example: chà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ £ bà ºa, quà ¡Ã‚ ºn à ¡oà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. The coordinated compound noun often expresses the general and synthetic meaning which was one main point that makes it different from the principal-and accessory compound noun. The principal-and accessory compound noun is the noun that involves two components, in which one component depends on the other. The secondary component will classify the main component. For instance: we have the first component is Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ng, which means the way to go, and the second one is sà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¯t, a kind of metal that made this kind of way. When we combine those two components, we will have the new noun: Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ng sà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¯t, which actually means railway in order to distinguish with Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ng khà ´ng, Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ng thà ¡Ã‚ »y, Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ng bà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â€ž ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ 3. Conversion The conversion is a very interesting process of forming new word. It occurs in both English and Vietnamese. Without changing its forms, we can change the meaning of the word, even the word class (but I dont talk about word class-change because this essay is focused on the noun formation, not the word formation) more specifically, lets examine these two examples: Ex 1: Firstly, in English, with the word stop in 2 sentences It is time to put a stop to the violence. I get off at the next stop. In the first one, stop means the act of stopping the violence, but in the second sentence, stop actually means a place where a bus or train stops regularly for passengers to get on or off. Clearly, the form of the noun stop doesnt change. Ex 2: In Vietnamese, take the word phà ¡Ã‚ »Ã… ¸ as example Mà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¹ tà ´i nà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¥u phà ¡Ã‚ »Ã… ¸ rà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¥t ngon. Khà ¡ nhià ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ u ngÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ i Ä‘Ã  n à ´ng hià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡n nay cà ³ tÆ ° tÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã… ¸ng chà ¡n cÆ ¡m thà ¨m phà ¡Ã‚ »Ã… ¸. phà ¡Ã‚ »Ã… ¸ in the first sentence is a Vietnamese dish, but the second sentence connotes the meaning of something new, especially another women, not their wives. Thus, English and Vietnamese resemble each other on this process of forming new nouns. Being used under many various circumstances, the word itself generates many different metaphorical meanings. 4. Other formation a. Reduplication Both English and Vietnamese have reduplication. However, reduplication only seizes a small number of nouns in English. Vietnamese reduplication has two types: repeating the whole word (ba ba, chà ¢u chà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¥u, cà  o cà  oà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦) and repeating some components of the word. Moreover, we dont find many Vietnamese nouns which belong to the second types. The maximum length of Vietnamese reduplicative words is no more than four, and the minimum length is two. Most of the reduplicative words are two-word length. Some of reduplicative English words are: ping pong, flip flop, tick-tockà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. b. Clipping According to VÃ…Â © Ä Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c Nghià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡u, Vietnamese only considers this process as temporary form or the spoken form of word. By definition, it doesnt happen with every word (Nghià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡u 2007). bÆ °Ãƒâ€ Ã‚ ¡m bÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ºm Æ’Â   bÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ºm ki-là ´-gam Æ’Â   kà ­ là ´ Ä Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £ng cà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â€ž ¢ng sà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £n Vià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡t Nam Æ’Â   Ä Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £ng Whereas, English have lots of words was formed by clipping such as: photo from photograph, rhino from rhinocerosà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ c. Acronym By using the initial letters of a phrase as one word, acronym has produced a massive number a word. Because those words were created by acronym are more memorable than the phrases, many people like this type of noun-formation, especially in names of some organizations. In English, we have AIDS, radarà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. In Vietnamese, we also have some acronymic words such as TW from trung Æ °Ãƒâ€ Ã‚ ¡ng, CLB for cà ¢u là ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¡c bà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â€ž ¢. d. Blending Blends deal with the action of abridging and then combining various lexemes to form a new word . This process combines shortened of two or more morphemes to form a word. For instance, brunch is the combination of breakfast and lunch, motel is the combination of motor and hotel. This is one special feature of English which doesnt exist in Vietnamese at all. e. Borrowing English and Vietnamese borrowed a vast number of words. In Vietnamese, because of the Chinese and French domination, the borrowed vocabularies are mainly from those two countries. It was divided into two layers: Chinese origin and Indo-European origin. Some examples should be taken into account are described in the tables below Vietnamese French xà   phà ²ng Savon pà ª-Ä‘an pà ©dale mà ¹i xoa mouchoir Vietnamese Chinese Ä‘Ã ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â€ž ¢c già ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £ à ¨Ã‚ ®Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¦(dà ºzhĆº) kà ½ già ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £ à ¨Ã‚ ¨Ã‹Å"à ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¦(jà ¬zhĆº) Vietnamese also translate literally some vocabulary in Chinese and French into Vietnamese for necessary usage, it usually was known as quà ¡ trà ¬nh Vià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡t hà ³a hoà  n toà  n such as: Ex: à ©Ã‚ £Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃƒ ¦Ã‚ ©Ã… ¸ (fÄâ€Å"ijÄ «) phi cÆ ¡, phi = bay, cÆ ¡ = mà ¡y mà ³c â‚ ¬Ã‚ ¢ mà ¡y bay (Vietnamese) (Ä Ãƒ  o Duy Anh, 2005) à ¨Ã‚ Ã‚ ½Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ (tÄ «ngzhĆº) thà ­nh già ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £ (Chinese), in Hà ¡n-Vià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡t tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ « Ä‘ià ¡Ã‚ »Ã†â€™n già ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £n yà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿u, thà ­nh = nghe, già ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £ = chà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ° và ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚  ngÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ i â‚ ¬Ã‚ ¢ ngÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ i nghe (Vietnamese) (Ä Ãƒ  o Duy Anh, 2005) English also have two types of borrowing vocabulary: the exact foreign word and calque. According to different sources, around 30% of all English words have a French origin (Calque, 2001). Some of the French words that were used in English are ablation, accent, bonnet, desertà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. Similar to Vietnamese, English also translate the words literally from many other languages for usage. We can take some calques as examples: Latin: Lunae dies => Old English: Monan dà ¦g (day of the moon) => Modern English: Monday (University of Oxford, 2005) French: gratte-ciel and Spanish: rascal cielos (both literally means: scrape-sky) => English: skyscraper. (Calque, 2001) TEACHING IMPLICATIONS The aim of contrastive analysis between English and Vietnamese is to draw out the linguistic same and differences. However, it also has another valuable practical basis for teaching and learning. By contrasting those two languages, we can forecast the potential difficulties that the learners may encounter when learning foreign languages. Firstly, Because of the differences in word order, Vietnamese pupils tend to produce error such as room dinning instead of dinning room, which means phà ²ng ăn in Vietnamese pie apple instead of apple pie, which in Vietnamese it is bà ¡nh tà ¡o. This error often happened in compound noun. Secondly, when we want to mention the plural forms of nouns in Vietnamese, we usually use the word nhià ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ u before nouns such as: nhià ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ u ngÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ i, nhià ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ u hy và ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ngà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. That is the point. In English, we must add -s or -es behind countable nouns, for example: girls, boysà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and preserve the uncountable nouns. Therefore, Vietnamese learners have a tendency to forget the -s and -es for countable nouns and vice versa for uncountable nouns. This also elucidates the reasons why Vietnamese pupils misuse two words many and much for countable and uncountable nouns. Thirdly, in Vietnamese, we can say Chim Ä‘ang hà ³t without any determiners. This sentence conveys the full meaning and is grammatical right. Otherwise, if we apply this rule in to English, which requires the determiners for noun, it is completely wrong. We cannot say Bird is singing (the right sentence should be The bird is singing). Finally, I want to emphasize that, besides the methods of teaching and learning, the syllabus, one of the major causes of the above errors is the differences in English and Vietnamese, or we can call it the linguistic cause. CONCLUSION Vietnamese and English show similarities as well as differences, and noun formation is a complicated process in both languages. It demands the learners to master the rules and apply it in the proper place. Vocabulary in English and Vietnamese are copious. However, Vietnamese have more types of noun formation in English, which makes the Vietnamese is more difficult for the foreigners. If you understand these linguistic characteristics of theses two languages, you make a further step in absorbing them. What Age Should Marriage be Allowed? What Age Should Marriage be Allowed? People should be allowed to get married only after age of 30 Marriage is one of the most important systems which keep the continuation of the social unity through marriage between a man and a women, who agree together to build a family. Getting married is a very important decision in every individuals life because they are planning to spend their entire life with their spouses. Sometimes people get married at an early age and than experience problems in their relationship. If People are allowed to get married only after age of 30 than they will be more matured, professionally settled and have a good financial position. And lastly, individuals would have lived and enjoyed all their dreams which are sometimes not possible after marriage. Firstly, People should be allowed to get married only after age of 30 as they will be able to understand relationships more maturely. Age and experience brings with it wisdom most of the time. An individual marrying after the age of 30 would be able to precisely understand their spouse, would have learnt to deal with problems effectively, which will help them lead a healthier married life. For instance, if a couple gets married at an early age and if they do not know how to handle family problems than this can become a big drawback for their marriage and can lead to divorce. Secondly, People should be allowed to get married only after age of 30 as till this age most of the individuals would have achieved a lot of success in their career life and would have a good financial position to take care of their family. If individuals get married at an early age than the couple have to struggle in personal and professional lifes due to insufficient funds. For instance, if people will be allowed to get married only after age of 30 than they will plan their future well and have enough earnings to handle the expenses to keep their family happy. Lastly, People should be allowed to get married only after age of 30 is that waiting till the age of 30, will allow people to â€Å"live their dreams† as they will have many years after education to achieve what they want to. Individuals would have lived and enjoyed their peak years in their lifes which will lead to fulfillment of their dreams and will provide them with a sense of satisfaction in life. For instance, if an individual is allowed to get married after age of 30 will know a particular age limit of getting married and will try to live all their dreams in life till that age so that after marriage they do not have any complications related to their dreams and they can live a joyful married life. In conclusion, people should be allowed to get married only after age of 30 because they will be more matured and will have a better understanding of relationships, secondly till the age of 30 individuals would have achieved success in their careers and lastly individuals would have lived all their dreams till they turn to 30. These factors will make them feel more comfortable about their married life. They will be able to give all the happiness and love to their life partners because till 30 they would have found a right life partner who can take good care of their needs and wants.