Refinitiv Lipper: European fund flow report - March 2021

For immediate release - !!!

Or so they say. 'Did you add the exclamation marks, boss?' Yes, I did. So? 'Nothing. It's nice work.' Thank you, Voice.

Anyway ...

It's the March European fund flow industry report from the Refinitiv Lipper team. Obviously. What else would it be?

Anyway ...

Long-term mutual funds posted net inflows for March 2021.

The overall fund flows for mutual funds and ETFs in Europe in March amounted to estimated net inflows of €40.7 bn.

Equity funds (+€36.5 bn) were the best-selling individual asset type overall for March.

Equity Global (+€15.0 bn) was once again the best-selling sector among long-term funds for March.

The Man With The Child In His Eyes.

Luxembourg (+€33.9 bn) was the fund domicile with the highest estimated net inflows, followed by Ireland (+€8.3 bn) and Germany (+€3.5 bn).

JPMorgan (+€12.1 bn) was the best-selling fund promoter in Europe for March, ahead of BlackRock (+€8.5 bn), Vanguard Group (+€4.4 bn), and Morgan Stanley (+€3.4 bn).

Fair enough. / Detlef? I suppose you want to say something now ...

Detlef Glow, Head of EMEA Research at Refinitiv Lipper, comments: "Despite the deteriorating situation with regard to The Thing in some parts of Europe, March 2021 was another positive month for the European fund industry since the promoters of mutual funds (+€24.1 bn) and ETFs (+€16.6 bn) enjoyed inflows. The overall flow pattern in Europe has further normalized, as investors in Europe continued to be in risk-on mode in March. In more detail, investors bought further into risky assets as long-term funds (€39.9 bn) and money market products (€0.8 bn) enjoyed estimated net inflows."

Okay. Thanks, Detlef. / Voice? Do you want to add something? 'To what?!' To what he just said. 'No.'

Fine.

ENDS

...

Anything else? Music?

I was rehearsing Mighty Soul and Life and Death this morning, yeah, singing gibberish. Both of those songs can be better than Nothing ... with the right lyrics. God knows when I'm going to try writing them, BUT(!) ... I want the three greatest songs ever, man! Oh, I'm close. Real close.

Listen! It is possible to be the greatest ever songwriter with only ten songs. You don't need hundreds.

Those three, plus the others. Plus that other ballad tune which needs a lyric. Then, uh ... two more songs? Yes, two more.

BIG TEN - !!!

You dig?

That's my vision.

Later(s), kook(s)!

[No. 897] Cut off from EVERYTHING

Isn't that the dream?

And, ah![1], and, listen to me ...[1], and, ah![2], and ... kooks![1], and, listen to me ...[2], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[1], and ... kooks![2], and no squares, please[1], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[2], and who wants to be so isolated?[1], and no squares, please[2], and ... 'Me!'[1], and who wants to be so iso lated?[2], and, uh ...[1], and ... 'Me!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[1], and, uh ...[2], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[2], and I see ... I see ...[1], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[2], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[1], and I see ... I see ...[2], and ... a white room[1], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[2], and ... where I can hide forever[1], and ... a white room[2], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[1], and ... where I can hide forever[2], and, or ... a cave?[1], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[2], and these visions ... they confuse me[1], and, or ... a cave?[2], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[1], and these visions ... they confuse me[2], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[1], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[2], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[1], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[2], and believe it![1], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[2], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![1], and believe it![2], and ... 'Ha!'[1], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![2], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[1], and ... 'Ha!'[2], and I am tired ... but I keep going[1], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![1], and I am tired ... but I keep going[2], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![2], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![1], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[1], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![2], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[2], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[1], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![2], and, uh ... what a life![1], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[2], and, ah![3], and, uh ... what a life![2], and, listen to me ...[3], and ... kooks![3], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[3], and no squares, please[3], and who wants to be so i  s  o  l  a  t  e  d?[3], and ... 'Me!'[3], and, uh ...[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[3], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[3], and I see ... I see ...[3], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[3], and ... a white room[3], and ... where I can hide forever[3], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[3], and, or ... a cave?[3], and these visions ... they confuse me[3], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[3], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[3], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[3], and believe it![3], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![3], and ... 'Ha!'[3], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[3], and I am tired ... but I keep going[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![3], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[3], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[3], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![3], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[3], and, uh ... what a life![3], and

And, ah![1], and, listen to me ...[1], and, ah![2], and ... kooks![1], and, listen to me ...[2], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[1], and ... kooks![2], and no squares, please[1], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[2], and who wants to be so isolated?[1], and no squares, please[2], and ... 'Me!'[1], and who wants to be so iso lated?[2], and, uh ...[1], and ... 'Me!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[1], and, uh ...[2], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[2], and I see ... I see ...[1], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[2], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[1], and I see ... I see ...[2], and ... a white room[1], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[2], and ... where I can hide forever[1], and ... a white room[2], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[1], and ... where I can hide forever[2], and, or ... a cave?[1], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[2], and these visions ... they confuse me[1], and, or ... a cave?[2], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[1], and these visions ... they confuse me[2], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[1], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[2], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[1], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[2], and believe it![1], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[2], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![1], and believe it![2], and ... 'Ha!'[1], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![2], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[1], and ... 'Ha!'[2], and I am tired ... but I keep going[1], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![1], and I am tired ... but I keep going[2], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![2], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![1], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[1], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![2], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[2], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[1], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![2], and, uh ... what a life![1], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[2], and, ah![3], and, uh ... what a life![2], and, listen to me ...[3], and ... kooks![3], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[3], and no squares, please[3], and who wants to be so i  s  o  l  a  t  e  d?[3], and ... 'Me!'[3], and, uh ...[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[3], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[3], and I see ... I see ...[3], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[3], and ... a white room[3], and ... where I can hide forever[3], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[3], and, or ... a cave?[3], and these visions ... they confuse me[3], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[3], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[3], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[3], and believe it![3], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![3], and ... 'Ha!'[3], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[3], and I am tired ... but I keep going[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![3], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[3], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[3], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![3], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[3], and, uh ... what a life![3], and

And, ah![1], and, listen to me ...[1], and, ah![2], and ... kooks![1], and, listen to me ...[2], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[1], and ... kooks![2], and no squares, please[1], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[2], and who wants to be so isolated?[1], and no squares, please[2], and ... 'Me!'[1], and who wants to be so iso lated?[2], and, uh ...[1], and ... 'Me!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[1], and, uh ...[2], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[2], and I see ... I see ...[1], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[2], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[1], and I see ... I see ...[2], and ... a white room[1], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[2], and ... where I can hide forever[1], and ... a white room[2], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[1], and ... where I can hide forever[2], and, or ... a cave?[1], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[2], and these visions ... they confuse me[1], and, or ... a cave?[2], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[1], and these visions ... they confuse me[2], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[1], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[2], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[1], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[2], and believe it![1], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[2], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![1], and believe it![2], and ... 'Ha!'[1], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![2], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[1], and ... 'Ha!'[2], and I am tired ... but I keep going[1], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![1], and I am tired ... but I keep going[2], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![2], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![1], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[1], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![2], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[2], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[1], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![2], and, uh ... what a life![1], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[2], and, ah![3], and, uh ... what a life![2], and, listen to me ...[3], and ... kooks![3], and I can dream, and I can dream, and I can dream, yes, yes, yes, BUT(!) ... will I ever be able to stop?[3], and no squares, please[3], and who wants to be so i  s  o  l  a  t  e  d?[3], and ... 'Me!'[3], and, uh ...[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and the dirt of life, can we spin it away?[3], and a vision now ... 'Yippee!'[3], and I see ... I see ...[3], and ... 'What do you see, sha/man? Tell us!'[3], and ... a white room[3], and ... where I can hide forever[3], and ... a thick white carpet, and one big cushion ... and my guitar! / and in my mind it looks like a padded cell[3], and, or ... a cave?[3], and these visions ... they confuse me[3], and I don't know, man, and I don't know ... and do I even want to know?[3], and you, you, YOU(!) ...[3], and if you(!) want to achieve anything ... it will take years, years! ... if you have a messy life full of sound and fury[3], and believe it![3], and ... are we waiting for a big fuck-off rainbow with our names on it? / and, Christ ... are we really that stupid?![3], and ... 'Ha!'[3], and, yeah, yeah ... and I should know, my kook(s), and I should know ... but I don't want to know[3], and I am tired ... but I keep going[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with words and music demanding that I notice them - all the time![3], and ... 'You're the chosen one!'[3], and I am crazy ... but I keep ... I keep believing![3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and ... ... ...[3], and ... help me, cosmos - !!![3], and ... 'The cosmos won't help you, Mikey / it's the cosmos that's tormenting you'[3], and, uh ... what a life![3], and

Polish tech startups

Hello, good morning.

'Who said that?!' It wasn't me, Voice. 'Who was it, boss?!' Ha! Calm down, idiot. It's a PR email from last week. 'Oh. / Haven't you got any emails from this week?' Yes, I have. But I'm saving one for tomorrow. I'm doing this one now -

Can I interest you in a interview / intro with the managing partner, Tomasz Swieboda? Happy to provide pictures, if required.

No, no, no.

I don't want to give any interviews. I'm a man of mystery, like Prince.

Anyway ...

London, 22nd April: Inovo, the venture capital fund investing in technology startups across Poland and Central & Eastern European region (CEE), has today announced the final close of its second fund, Inovo II, at €54m. A range of global funds, entrepreneurs and family offices joined the European Investment Fund (EIF) as the cornerstone investor.

'Oh, good! We've got some fund news!' Yeah, yeah.

Inovo specializes in identifying disruptive tech startups and supporting their development and growth through participation in early-stage, post-traction seed and Series A funding. Having a diverse range of LPs in the fund will enable portfolio companies to secure global funding as they scale and expand abroad. The new fund has already committed funding to several investment opportunities with leading international investors, including European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Andreessen Horowitz, Hoxton Ventures and Point Nine Capital. Notable investments include: Spacelift, Infermedica, Jutro Medical, AI Clearing, Zowie, Preply, Packhelp, Intiaro, Tidio, Allset and Eyerim.

Okay, okay. A diverse range of LPs? I remember years ago when I was selling my vinyl collection ... some guy came round to look at them, and he was surprised by my wide range of musical interests at such a young age. He didn't actually use the words, "A diverse range of LPs", but he could have done - if he had wanted to.

Anyway ...

This fundraise follows the success of Inovo I which generated 3.2x return on investments from a portfolio of 15 high-growth tech startups, most of which have since been sold profitably, two have IPO'd, and three top-performing remain in the portfolio. One of the remaining investments is Booksy, the marketplace for beauty services where Inovo invested at the Seed stage. Now the company is one of the world's top 100 marketplaces with 10 million app downloads and raised $70m in a Series C round (led by CatRock). Booksy is widely considered to become one of the first unicorn startups (those that have a valuation of $1b) from Poland.

Okay, okay.

NOW ... I'm not going to let this Tomasz cat interview me because I want to remain aloof and everything, you dig?

However, I will let him say a few words ...

Tomasz Swieboda, Managing Partner at Inovo comments: "The tech ecosystem in the CEE region is growing at an exceptional pace. In Poland the growth rate is 70% year-on-year. In 2020, almost €500m in venture capital was deployed to 300 companies, which will almost certainly grow this year. It is our expectation that this decade will produce 10 unicorns and a few decacorns from Poland."

Decacorns?! Whatever!

"With 38 million people, Poland is a large market itself. Last year we've seen IPOs of two tech companies valued at over $1bn and focused on the domestic market - Allegro and InPost. Market size is both an advantage and an obstacle, resulting in Polish ecosystem being not very well connected to the West. At Inovo we strive to change that. We are perfectly placed to act as a catalyst to accommodate the new wave of ambitious local founders who want to follow in the footsteps of Booksy, Brainly and Docplanner and target global markets. Through our collaborative approach and international network we can help bridge them to larger investors," adds Tomasz Swieboda.

Okay, okay. He won't stop talking!

But I think that's the ENDS.

'We haven't let Stefan have his say, boss!' Who?! 'Stefan, man. Stefan Batory.' Christ!

All right, Stefan. Come on then.

Stefan Batory, Cofounder & CEO at Booksy comments: "The growth of the Polish startup ecosystem will accelerate after seeing success stories, proving that it's possible to build global businesses out of the CEE region. I am certain that Booksy will serve as one such example, and then many will follow in our footsteps. However, for this to happen, startups need access to VCs like Inovo, which will provide not only capital, but also guidance and international connections for businesses to scale rapidly."

Yeah, yeah.

Thanks!

ENDS

...

Anything else? Music?

Remember that list I made of eighteen world-beaters by other artists? Smells Like Teen Spirit was the only out-and-out rock song on the list. Most of the other songs were rock ballads. Or just ballads. Well, Mighty Soul is also an out-and-out rock song. I just need the lyrics, man. / At least I've got the title and the concept. It's only a matter of time now, and, uh ... work, of course.

I've been thinking of songs that might make the world-beater list ... All The Young Dudes, Yellow, Billie Jean, Wuthering Heights. But no! We can't have too many, can we?

Obviously, this is all for my benefit, for motivational purposes. The world doesn't need to know, doesn't even need to care.

It's a private affair.

'You share your thoughts and dreams with the kooks though, Mikey.' Yes, I do. I love the kooks.

I love all the kooks.

Laters!

If you lose a bit of your discipline ... you lose all of your discipline

That's what I've discovered with my countless, with my endless ... fresh starts. But where is the fresh start to end all fresh starts, or, uh ... start them? No, no. End them! What am I talking about? Never mind.

You see, I start off well on a Monday morning. Then at lunch ... oh, let me just go on to YouTube for five minutes to see what my favourite channels are saying. Big mistake! More like an hour. And, uh ... let me have some Pringles with my sandwich. The next thing ... I'm buying biscuits, man! Do you know what I mean?

[Cookie Monster. It's important ... ?]

Anyway, I'm still making progress with my music. I only played my guitar for five hours last week, and I could feel my performance slipping. However, I played for two hours yesterday and quickly got back to "professional" level. That's a good sign. I mean, that's what most professionals do. Prince would play all the time, but that's rare. Er, I want to play all the time though, too ... ? I don't know.

Christ! What I need to do is ... cut myself off from EVERYTHING. You can't watch YouTube for five minutes. You can't listen to music for five minutes. You can't eat a few Pringles. You can't eat one biscuit.

Complete discipline or none. / Yeah, yeah. I'm making progress. Isn't that the main thing?

I got up at half five on Sunday morning. That sort of shit is routine for me now. I'm not living like The Dude.

Dear kook(s), how will you know when I've started the ultimate fresh start? I will stop writing about music and personal stuff. Then you will know that I'm also sticking to my diet, and not watching YouTube. I'll be playing my guitar all the time ... when I'm not blogging. Or I'll be writing lyrics.

I'll be constantly active, anyway.

Samurai Krishna monk Zarathustra mountain man is the way to go! Do you know what I mean? My guitar will be my sword.

Uh.

Can Mighty Soul be my best song? All depends on the lyric. [Or maybe the music is enough by itself.] Nothing is poetic. Life and Death will be poetic.

Listen! I've walked about sixty miles in the last two weeks. Three times to Richmond!

And I haven't stopped the dumbbell stuff.

That's why I haven't put on any weight - despite all the Pringles.

Cookies! Peanut ones, yes.

By the way, I used to wear Pringle jumpers when I was a Casual. Ha! Different company.

Okay, okay. I'm going for a walk after lunch. In the glorious sunshine.

Laters!

[No. 896] When you spin ... where are you going?

Nowhere?

And, well ...[1], and we are here ... again[1], and, well ...[2], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[1], and we are here ... again[2], and I know you ...[1], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[2], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[1], and I know you ...[2], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![1], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[2], and can you do that?[1], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![2], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[1], and can you do that?[2], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![1], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[2], and ... 'Great!'[1], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![2], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[1], and ... 'Great!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[1], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[2], and it's all flowing![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[2], and we are here ... where the real power is[1], and it's all flowing![2], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[1], and we are here ... where the real power is[2], and there is no time ... we don't need it![1], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[2], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[1], and there is no time ... we don't need it![2], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[1], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[2], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[1], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[2], and, you, you, you ... ?[1], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[2], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[1], and, you, you, you ... ?[2], and let me break - !!![1], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[2], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[1], and let me bre ak - !!![2], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![1], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[2], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[1], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![2], and I will not worry[1], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[2], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![1], and I will not worry[2], and I will not care[1], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![2], and, well ...[3], and I will not care[2], and we are here ... again[3], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[3], and I know you ...[3], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[3], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![3], and can you do that?[3], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[3], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![3], and ... 'Great!'[3], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[3], and it's all flowing![3], and we are here ... where the real power is[3], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[3], and there is no time ... we don't need it![3], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[3], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[3], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[3], and, you, you, you ... ?[3], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[3], and let me b  r  e  a  k - !!![3], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[3], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![3], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[3], and I will not worry[3], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![3], and I will not care[3], and

And, well ...[1], and we are here ... again[1], and, well ...[2], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[1], and we are here ... again[2], and I know you ...[1], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[2], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[1], and I know you ...[2], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![1], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[2], and can you do that?[1], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![2], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[1], and can you do that?[2], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![1], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[2], and ... 'Great!'[1], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![2], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[1], and ... 'Great!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[1], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[2], and it's all flowing![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[2], and we are here ... where the real power is[1], and it's all flowing![2], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[1], and we are here ... where the real power is[2], and there is no time ... we don't need it![1], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[2], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[1], and there is no time ... we don't need it![2], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[1], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[2], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[1], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[2], and, you, you, you ... ?[1], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[2], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[1], and, you, you, you ... ?[2], and let me break - !!![1], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[2], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[1], and let me bre ak - !!![2], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![1], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[2], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[1], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![2], and I will not worry[1], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[2], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![1], and I will not worry[2], and I will not care[1], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![2], and, well ...[3], and I will not care[2], and we are here ... again[3], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[3], and I know you ...[3], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[3], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![3], and can you do that?[3], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[3], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![3], and ... 'Great!'[3], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[3], and it's all flowing![3], and we are here ... where the real power is[3], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[3], and there is no time ... we don't need it![3], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[3], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[3], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[3], and, you, you, you ... ?[3], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[3], and let me b  r  e  a  k - !!![3], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[3], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![3], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[3], and I will not worry[3], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![3], and I will not care[3], and

And, well ...[1], and we are here ... again[1], and, well ...[2], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[1], and we are here ... again[2], and I know you ...[1], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[2], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[1], and I know you ...[2], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![1], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[2], and can you do that?[1], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![2], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[1], and can you do that?[2], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![1], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[2], and ... 'Great!'[1], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![2], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[1], and ... 'Great!'[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[1], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[2], and it's all flowing![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[2], and we are here ... where the real power is[1], and it's all flowing![2], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[1], and we are here ... where the real power is[2], and there is no time ... we don't need it![1], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[2], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[1], and there is no time ... we don't need it![2], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[1], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[2], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[1], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[2], and, you, you, you ... ?[1], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[2], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[1], and, you, you, you ... ?[2], and let me break - !!![1], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[2], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[1], and let me bre ak - !!![2], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![1], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[2], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[1], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![2], and I will not worry[1], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[2], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![1], and I will not worry[2], and I will not care[1], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![2], and, well ...[3], and I will not care[2], and we are here ... again[3], and I'll be honest, man ... I can't see us leaving the dizzy life behind / and we just dig it too much[3], and I know you ...[3], and you can be in your room / and you can be in your office / and it doesn't really matter, does it?[3], and the trick is ... oh, feeling the same, feeling great ... forever![3], and can you do that?[3], and ... 'Of course they can, Mikey!'[3], and we're going nowhere, that's the truth / and we're staying in one sweet spot - the centre of the universe![3], and ... 'Great!'[3], and yeah, yeah ... let's make it last[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and with stars and planets within us ... we're so big[3], and it's all flowing![3], and we are here ... where the real power is[3], and being personal for a moment ... music is easy for me, yes ... and one day I'll write lyrics the way I write conceptuals[3], and there is no time ... we don't need it![3], and ... 'Ha, ha, ha!'[3], and when the words run out? ... uh, I can't see  it happening, but ... I suppose we'll be truly free then ... ?[3], and, but, but, BUT(!) ... the cosmos has plans for me[3], and, you, you, you ... ?[3], and I'm stuck with words ... they are jam[3], and let me b  r  e  a  k - !!![3], and words, and music - a curse, and a blessing ... ?[3], and I don't know ... I just don't know, my kooks, no, no, no ... I don't know![3], and let's, let's ... 'Let's not worry' ... okay, okay[3], and I will not worry[3], and a-ROUND here ... yes - !!![3], and I will not care[3], and

Google and Twitter execs

Right. What are they doing, these execs? 'They're joining -' Let me handle it, Voice, please. This is my blog. 'I'm your intern, boss. I can -' Whatever. Please!

Okay ...

I am the PR for XA Network. An investment organization of execs from prominent tech companies such as Gojek, Grab, Google, Amazon, Netflix and Twitter. We have appointed our first advisory board today which includes a YouTube co-founder (Steve Chen), Twitter APAC lead (Maya Hari), an ex-Microsoft exec (John Wood) and a Balderton Capital partner, ex-Google (David Thevenon).

Okay, okay. PR email. No endorsement, obviously. But lots of execs! Not just Google and Twitter.

We would welcome the opportunity to brief you on the organization and arrange an interview with one of the board appointees. Is this of interest? Do you require an image?

Now, hang on a minute! I don't do interviews, and - 'You already have your image sorted!' Christ! Yes. I've got the polo shirts, the sunglasses, the cords ... I need some Levi's 501 jeans. I'm going off the idea of normal chinos, too square, but the cord ones I've got - yes, Levi's - are nice, and I'll get more, BUT(!) ... I certainly don't require an image. 'Suede Timbs!' Thanks for asking, anyway, PR person.

Okay. What is this all about?

20th April 2021, London: The XA Network [the X denotes any tech firm with $1b+ valuation and the A refers to Alumni], the leading member-based investment network of executives from prominent tech firms in Southeast Asia, has today appointed an advisory board. The appointments signal the organization's growth and reach, as the Southeast Asian digital economy proves resilient and is racing ahead at full velocity. 

John Wood (ex-Microsoft, Room To Read), Steve Chen (co-founder of YouTube), Maya Hari (Twitter) and David Thevenon (Balderton Capital, ex-Google) have been appointed to advisory board positions. They will work directly with the members as the organization scales and will champion the new purpose - to be an organization that fosters inclusive innovation for the benefit of start-ups across Southeast Asia. 

Southeast Asia, eh?

I wonder what John says ...

Is he delighted?

On his appointment, John Wood, advisory board member at XA Network comments: "I'm delighted to join this esteemed board to support and drive the ambitious community of investors. The XA Network brilliantly embodies Metcalfe's law - e.g., the value of a network rises exponentially as the number of users grows. I believe this generation of technology leaders, by working together to support the start-up ecosystem in Southeast Asia, will have an immense impact on the region. We are all very committed to the power of smart capital, intense mentoring and fuelling inclusive innovation. This approach resonates with me on many levels and I look forward to helping XA Network scale to the next level."

Okay, okay, er ... Metcalfe's law. I haven't heard that one before. 'What about Fowke's law? Do you have a law, boss?' Well, not really. 'Can't you think of one, just off the top of your head, like?' Ha! If it means so much to you, Voice ...

The more you rock in the free world, the freer you become.

How about that? 

'Yeah, that's all right.'

Okay. Let's finish with Nellie ...

Nellie Wartoft, CEO at Tigerhall comments: "We raised $2m in 2020, it was a huge milestone for the company but we had a lot to do. The XA Network members are some of the absolute most supportive investors I've ever had on my cap table. They're never afraid of rolling up their sleeves and doing real work either, which is rare to find amongst investors. They feel much more like an extended team than just financial investors to me, and have been key to Tigerhall's success."

What?! When have investors ever rolled up their sleeves and done real work?! 'Nellie must have seen it, boss.' Ha, ha, ha! Well, I'll believe it when I see it!

Never mind.

ENDS

...

Anything else? Music?

Well, even if I write more songs ... I'm sure this will be the album -

This World Don't Mean a Thing

Lucky You

Round The Bend

What's This Life We Live?

Mighty Soul

Good Times

Stella

Malibu

I'm Right Inside

Nothing

Life and Death

Laters.

Thursday night stuff

Just Thursday night stuff. That's all. There's no harm in it. I'm tired, anyway. I'm listening to The Strokes. Their first album. I think they signed to Rough Trade. I'm not sure there's much point in signing to small labels these days. The way the music business is. You're not going to be noticed. And there are only three major labels. I'm not bothered about it. If I can't be a big star, there's no way I'm getting in massive debt as a small star. Not at my age. I would rather be a songwriter for others. But I don't think it will come to that. My songs are too big, and too good. I had chips for dinner. No surprise, obviously. I had quiche as well. And water. Yes, I'm tired. I walked to Hammersmith and back earlier. I have no idea why. Everything looked grim. Reminded me a lot of the early Eighties with the riots. We haven't had the riots yet. Give it time. Sooner or later, people - the kids, I suppose - will stop being scared of the virus and then wonder why they haven't got any fucking jobs, money or ... any future, any future at all. Where will I be then? Malibu? I don't know. I'm just thinking about my music at the moment, all the time. I need those lyrics. Yes, I'll write them soon. Listen. It's no problem having seven "world-beaters" on one album. Different structures, styles, moods. It's gonna be okay. The most on one album so far? Two. Wonderwall and Don't Look Back In Anger on (What's The Story) Morning Glory? That album sold over twenty million copies. It's a shame it's not the Nineties, eh? I'd sell forty million. Never mind. I'm looking forward to the Roaring Twenties. [Are they here yet?] With stadiums. Bring it on, all of it.

I'm not worried about anything any more. Bad stuff. Good stuff. Any stuff. It's all the same to me. Just let me live in my own reality, my own world. That's all I ask. I'll take the rough with the smooth.

There's a book I used to get out of the library a lot, oh years ago. Viva Picasso by David Douglas Duncan. It's out of print now, but you can still buy the book on Amazon. I might order it soon.

It's just pictures. It's pictures of Picasso in his own world. No one else can get a look in. That's great, I think.

Don't you think?

[No. 895] I will record the greatest album of all times

With a little help from my strangers.

And, yeah, yeah ...[1], and people I don't even know yet ...[1], and, yeah, yeah ...[2], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[1], and people I don't even know yet ...[2], and ... yeah![1], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[2], and ... 'That's all?'[1], and ... yeah![2], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[1], and ... 'That's all?'[2], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[1], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[2], and my hair has been cut, so ...[1], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[2], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[1], and my hair has been cut, so ...[2], and polo shirt[1], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[2], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[1], and polo shirt[2], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[1], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[2], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[1], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[2], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![1], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[2], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[1], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![2], and I know, I know[1], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[2], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[1], and I know, I know[2], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[1], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[2], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[1], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[2], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[1], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[2], and, well ... I don't know[1], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[2], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[1], and, well ... I don't know[2], and maybe ... one last fandango?[1], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[2], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[1], and maybe ... one last fand ango?[2], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[1], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[2], and ... 'And your soul?'[1], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[2], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[1], and ... 'And your soul?'[2], and ... ... ...[1], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[2], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[1], and ... ... ...[2], and ... 'Yippee!'[1], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[2], and, yeah, yeah ...[3], and ... 'Yippee!'[2], and people I don't even know yet ...[3], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[3], and ... yeah![3], and ... 'That's all?'[3], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[3], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[3], and my hair has been cut, so ...[3], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[3], and polo shirt[3], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[3], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[3], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[3], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![3], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[3], and I know, I know[3], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[3], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[3], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[3], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[3], and, well ... I don't know[3], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[3], and maybe ... one last f  a  n  d  a  n  g  o?[3], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[3], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[3], and ... 'And your soul?'[3], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[3], and ... ... ...[3], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[3], and ... 'Yippee!'[3], and

And, yeah, yeah ...[1], and people I don't even know yet ...[1], and, yeah, yeah ...[2], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[1], and people I don't even know yet ...[2], and ... yeah![1], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[2], and ... 'That's all?'[1], and ... yeah![2], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[1], and ... 'That's all?'[2], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[1], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[2], and my hair has been cut, so ...[1], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[2], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[1], and my hair has been cut, so ...[2], and polo shirt[1], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[2], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[1], and polo shirt[2], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[1], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[2], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[1], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[2], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![1], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[2], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[1], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![2], and I know, I know[1], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[2], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[1], and I know, I know[2], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[1], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[2], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[1], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[2], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[1], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[2], and, well ... I don't know[1], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[2], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[1], and, well ... I don't know[2], and maybe ... one last fandango?[1], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[2], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[1], and maybe ... one last fand ango?[2], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[1], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[2], and ... 'And your soul?'[1], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[2], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[1], and ... 'And your soul?'[2], and ... ... ...[1], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[2], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[1], and ... ... ...[2], and ... 'Yippee!'[1], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[2], and, yeah, yeah ...[3], and ... 'Yippee!'[2], and people I don't even know yet ...[3], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[3], and ... yeah![3], and ... 'That's all?'[3], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[3], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[3], and my hair has been cut, so ...[3], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[3], and polo shirt[3], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[3], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[3], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[3], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![3], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[3], and I know, I know[3], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[3], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[3], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[3], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[3], and, well ... I don't know[3], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[3], and maybe ... one last f  a  n  d  a  n  g  o?[3], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[3], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[3], and ... 'And your soul?'[3], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[3], and ... ... ...[3], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[3], and ... 'Yippee!'[3], and

And, yeah, yeah ...[1], and people I don't even know yet ...[1], and, yeah, yeah ...[2], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[1], and people I don't even know yet ...[2], and ... yeah![1], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[2], and ... 'That's all?'[1], and ... yeah![2], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[1], and ... 'That's all?'[2], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[1], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[2], and my hair has been cut, so ...[1], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[2], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[1], and my hair has been cut, so ...[2], and polo shirt[1], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[2], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[1], and polo shirt[2], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[1], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[2], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[1], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[2], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![1], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[2], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[1], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![2], and I know, I know[1], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[2], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[1], and I know, I know[2], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[1], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[2], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[1], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[2], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[1], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[2], and, well ... I don't know[1], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[2], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[1], and, well ... I don't know[2], and maybe ... one last fandango?[1], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[2], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[1], and maybe ... one last fand ango?[2], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[1], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[2], and ... 'And your soul?'[1], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[2], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[1], and ... 'And your soul?'[2], and ... ... ...[1], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[2], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[1], and ... ... ...[2], and ... 'Yippee!'[1], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[2], and, yeah, yeah ...[3], and ... 'Yippee!'[2], and people I don't even know yet ...[3], and musicians, and a producer, and a record company that lets me do what I want ... that's all I really need[3], and ... yeah![3], and ... 'That's all?'[3], and in THE FREE WORLD, obviously[3], and, Christ ... will it ever be free?[3], and my hair has been cut, so ...[3], and, and, and ... 'You've got the T-shirt'[3], and polo shirt[3], and it's all coming together ... yes, yes, yes, eleven songs that go together perfectly[3], and ... 'You'll be bigger than Elon after this lot'[3], and, ha, ha, ha! / and thank you, Adam, uh, I mean, Voice[3], and, listen! ... I'm not asking for the moon, you dig? / and ... I'm actually asking for the entire freakin' cosmos![3], and ... 'The cosmos loves you, Mikey!'[3], and I know, I know[3], and I am the greatest a-ROUND here or anywhere - just like a butterfly and a bee[3], and ... Are the Twenties roaring yet?[3], and ... What's the BIG QUESTION ... ?[3], and, uh, uh, uh ... Am I mentally prepared?[3], and, well ... I don't know[3], and by Kew Bridge, just like Ringo ... I often enjoy my last days of "freedom"[3], and maybe ... one last f  a  n  d  a  n  g  o?[3], and, yes ... I would like to go to St Ives again soon ... it's opening up now[3], and I can say ... my mind, man ... is better than it was[3], and ... 'And your soul?'[3], and I'll be honest, Voice, kooks ... mind, soul, heart ... it's all the same when you're as confused as I am[3], and ... ... ...[3], and the cosmos is in me - that's the main thing[3], and ... 'Yippee!'[3], and

Deviance - !!!

Well, this sounds great, don't it?! 'PR email, boss?' Of course.

Anyway ... 'Oh, before we start ... you're looking really cool today.' Oh, thank you, Voice. 'Is that a new polo shirt you're wearing?' This? No. 'Okay. Well, it must be those new jeans you're wearing.' I've had these jeans for ages. I'm not wearing my best stuff for blogging, man. 'Ha! I know!' What? 'You've had your hair cut!' Yes, yes. Yesterday. 'Wow! You really do look like the King of Cool now.' Yeah, of course. / You can't see me, reader(s), but I do!

Anyway ... Deviance - !!! Let's see what this is all about ... 'I'm excited!' Calm down. 'Okay.' Right -

The collapse of corporate giant Carillion in January 2018, highlights a culture of financial deviance embedded at the heart of the UK construction sector, according to research by London South Bank University (LSBU).

Uh. Financial deviance. 'Never mind.' Christ. 'Are you going to continue with this email?' Well, I've started it now ...

The research shows that, following the collapse of a major financial institution like Carillion, individuals and teams in the wider construction sector, often accommodate, explain away or normalize discrepancies and problems. These become part of a culture which unintentionally reduces awareness of the potential consequences of that deviant behaviour. Taken together, these factors can result in a company not following codes of practice while failing to anticipate and manage a wide range of potential reputational issues and structural internal crises.

But it could be worse! 'Perverts, boss.' Exactly!

By performing a qualitative analysis on the collapse of construction giant, Carillion, the researchers have exposed the most common deviant practices and sources of 'normalization of deviance' embedded in the sector. The findings suggest that 'normalization of deviance' lies not only internally, but also externally, in the wider industry environment in which construction organizations operate. The results sound an alarm bell and call for structural reform of the construction industry to prevent the negative effects of corporate deviance.

But ... 'It could be worse!' Yeah.

Okay, okay. There's a lot of this. 'Do this bit.' Okay -

The research detected three distinct types of 'normalization of deviance' that existed within Carillion before the corporation's collapse that could also be prevalent in the wider construction sector:

Late payment to suppliers;

Aggressive accounting;

Auditors failing to identify problems.

Well, er ... do you know what I mean? 'Yeah.'

The research project is led by Dr Sara Hajikazemi, Senior Lecturer in Project Management at LSBU's Business School, in collaboration with co-authors from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and Nord University in Norway, and the University of Oulu and Tampere University in Finland.

Okay. What does Sara say then?

Dr Sara Hajikazemi, says, "Our research shows that 'normalized deviance' has always been present in the construction sector. What is concerning is that, as happened with Carillion, construction companies currently lack an early warning system that could alert them to emerging signs of deviant corporate behaviour and malpractice. This means that the construction industry is still likely to be at risk of falling prey to 'normalized deviance' and its damaging consequences in future."

Well, okay. Thank you, Sara. I mean, fair enough and everything. This is a serious problem you've highlighted. I'll just say ... it could be worse, you know?

ENDS

...

Anything else?

Yeah, so ... I walked to Shepherd's Bush and back yesterday. Some nice cardio - as they call it.

I did actually buy some new clothes in the Westfield shopping centre. Not King of Cool clothes though. Just standard stuff. 'For blogging with.' Whatever.

I looked through the window at the Lacoste shop. Unfortunately, all the yellow polo shirts are bright yellow now for some reason. I had a pale yellow one before. I prefer pale, you dig? Never mind.

I went into the Adidas shop. I nearly bought some Gazelles. I might get some next time. I've had a few pairs.

I walked past the Tesla shop.

Last year, I bought my suede Timbs in the Timberland shop.

They've got loads of good shops there, kook(s)!

Laters.

Refinitiv Lipper: European ETF market report - March 2021

Okay, okay. Detlef and the gang again. 'ETFs again, boss!' Yes, Voice. ETFs again. There's no harm in it, I suppose.

Anyway ...

ETF promoters in Europe experienced estimated net inflows of €16.6 bn for March.

Assets under management in the European ETF industry hit a new all-time high (€1,095.8 bn) at the end of March 2021.

Equity ETFs (+€18.7 bn) posted the highest estimated net inflows in the European ETF industry for March.

The best-selling Lipper global classification for March was Equity US (+€4.7 bn), followed by Equity Global (+€3.8 bn) and Equity Sector Financials (+€1.9 bn).

Xtrackers was the best-selling ETF promoter in Europe for March (+€4.8 bn), ahead of iShares (+€4.2 bn) and Vanguard Group (+€2.0 bn).

Tomorrow.

The 10 best-selling funds gathered total net inflows of €9.3 bn for March.

The best-selling ETF for March, iShares Edge MSCI USA Val Factor UCITS ETF USD Acc, accounted for net inflows of €1.4 bn.

Everything seems to be all right then. 'Was does our Detlef say?' He says this -

Detlef Glow, Head of EMEA Research at Refinitiv Lipper, comments: "March 2021 marked the twelfth consecutive month with inflows into ETFs after the outflows caused by the outbreak of The Thing in March 2020. These inflows occurred in a positive market environment in which investor sentiment was still impacted by the increasing dynamics of The Thing in Europe and other parts of the world. The positive performance of the underlying markets led in combination with the estimated net inflows to increasing assets under management (from €1,034.4 bn as of February 28, 2021, to €1,095.8 bn at the end of March). The increase of €61.5 bn for March was driven by the estimated net sales (+€16.6 bn), while the performance of the underlying markets contributed €44.8 bn to the increase of the assets under management. It was not surprising equity funds (€775.2 bn) held the majority of assets, followed by bond funds (€273.4 bn), commodities products (€37.1 bn), alternative UCITS products (€5.6 bn), money market funds (€2.2 bn), mixed-assets funds (€2.2 bn), and 'other' funds (€0.1 bn)."

You see? 'Yeah.'

But is this the ends?

ENDS

Yes, it is. 'Until next time.' Ha! There's always a next time, Voice. We can rely on Detlef. He won't let us down.

So many of these PR emails come from people who are here today and gone tomorrow.

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow.

Oh, all things must pass ...

'Don't get depressed.'

I'm not getting depressed, silly!

Christ! The sun is shining, and I'm going out later. Today! Shopping! 'Yippee!'

...

Anything else? Music? I keep playing my rough recording of my new tune with gibberish lyrics. I really love it, man. I was trying to write something as great and commercial as Stella, BUT(!) ... I went beyond it! / I need a lyric now. 'You need a lyric for Life and Death, too.' I know, I know.

I'm getting anxiety again. Anxiety! I want people to hear my songs.

This will still be the demo though ...

This World Don't Mean a Thing

Nothing

Malibu

Stella

And if - for some strange reason - those songs don't have the impact I want ... I could always add the new song at a later date. But I'm hoping to avoid that. It's a good idea to hold stuff back, you dig?

Okay, okay ...

'Bye!'

Yeah. Bye, alligator(s)!