June 2017 ~ Money is the way

Thursday, 29 June 2017

[No. 525] Forget money!

Save your soul!

And, uh, your soul[1], and square(s), kook(s) ... I have all the answers for YOU(!), believe it or not, ha![1], and, uh, your soul[2], and 'Whatever, Mikey!'[1], and square(s), kook(s) ... I have all the answers for YOU(!), believe it or not, ha![2], and a-ROUND here ... you don't need money, you don't even need your sanity, man[1], and 'Whatever, Mikey!'[2], and Jesus H. - !!![1], and a-ROUND here ... you don't need money, you don't even need your sanity, man[2], and I'm just, just ... asking you to SPIN(!) a little, you dig?[1], and Jesus H. - !!![2], and what do you want, you want money, it's money you want, that's what you're saying to fucking ME?!!![1], and I'm just, just ... asking you to SPIN(!) a little, you dig?[2], and God is watching / and so be careful![1], and what do you want, you want money, it's money you want, that's what you're saying to fucking ME?!!![2], and hell is in your eyes[1], and God is watching / and so be careful![2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... yes, it's time to get clean, my friend(s)[1], and hell is in your eyes[2], and don't be such a dead horrible monster inside, please![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... yes, it's time to get clean, my friend(s)[2], and your boss is sick in the head[1], and don't be such a dead horrible monster inside, please![2], and your wife/husband ... don't get me started![1], and your boss is sick in the head[2], and you don't own anything, sadly[1], and your wife/husband ... don't get me started![2], and you shouldn't be depressed, yeah, down underground, the sewer, hanging on to hope by your stupid thoughts[1], and you don't own anything, sadly[2], and feeling is one answer[1], and you shouldn't be depressed, yeah, down underground, the sewer, hanging on to hope by your stupid thoughts[2], and you want more because I know it all, and I understand your hero worship[1], and feeling is one answer[2], and the DIZZY(!) life is another answer ... / ... and you gotta, gotta, gotta get a-ROUND - !!![1], and you want more because I know it all, and I understand your hero worship[2], and smile a bit, too[1], and the DIZZY(!) life is another answer ... / ... and you gotta, gotta, gotta get a-ROUND - !!![2], and give me your money, son/daughter, I know what, I know ... what to do with it[1], and smile a bit, too[2], and I'll burn it[1], and give me your money, son/daughter, I know what, I know ... what to do with it[2], and I have NOTHING ... but I'm happy(ish) / and I fry different ... fish / and I'm poet - (no!)[1], and I'll burn it[2], and we have a lot of fun, don't we?[1], and I have NOTHING ... but I'm happy(ish) / and I fry different ... fish / and I'm poet - (no!)[2], and, uh, your soul[3], and we have a lot of fun, don't we?[2], and square(s), kook(s) ... I have all the answers for YOU(!), believe it or not, ha![3], and 'Whatever, Mikey!'[3], and a-ROUND here ... you don't need money, you don't even need your sanity, man[3], and Jesus H. - !!![3], and I'm just, just ... asking you to SPIN(!) a little, you dig?[3], and what do you want, you want money, it's money you want, that's what you're saying to fucking ME?!!![3], and God is watching / and so be careful![3], and hell is in your eyes[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... yes, it's time to get clean, my friend(s)[3], and don't be such a dead horrible monster inside, please![3], and your boss is sick in the head[3], and your wife/husband ... don't get me started![3], and you don't own anything, sadly[3], and you shouldn't be depressed, yeah, down underground, the sewer, hanging on to hope by your stupid thoughts[3], and feeling is one answer[3], and you want more because I know it all, and I understand your hero worship[3], and the DIZZY(!) life is another answer ... / ... and you gotta, gotta, gotta get a-ROUND - !!![3], and smile a bit, too[3], and give me your money, son/daughter, I know what, I know ... what to do with it[3], and I'll burn it[3], and I have NOTHING ... but I'm happy(ish) / and I fry different ... fish / and I'm poet - (no!)[3], and we have a lot of fun, don't we?[3], and

And, uh, your soul[1], and square(s), kook(s) ... I have all the answers for YOU(!), believe it or not, ha![1], and, uh, your soul[2], and 'Whatever, Mikey!'[1], and square(s), kook(s) ... I have all the answers for YOU(!), believe it or not, ha![2], and a-ROUND here ... you don't need money, you don't even need your sanity, man[1], and 'Whatever, Mikey!'[2], and Jesus H. - !!![1], and a-ROUND here ... you don't need money, you don't even need your sanity, man[2], and I'm just, just ... asking you to SPIN(!) a little, you dig?[1], and Jesus H. - !!![2], and what do you want, you want money, it's money you want, that's what you're saying to fucking ME?!!![1], and I'm just, just ... asking you to SPIN(!) a little, you dig?[2], and God is watching / and so be careful![1], and what do you want, you want money, it's money you want, that's what you're saying to fucking ME?!!![2], and hell is in your eyes[1], and God is watching / and so be careful![2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... yes, it's time to get clean, my friend(s)[1], and hell is in your eyes[2], and don't be such a dead horrible monster inside, please![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... yes, it's time to get clean, my friend(s)[2], and your boss is sick in the head[1], and don't be such a dead horrible monster inside, please![2], and your wife/husband ... don't get me started![1], and your boss is sick in the head[2], and you don't own anything, sadly[1], and your wife/husband ... don't get me started![2], and you shouldn't be depressed, yeah, down underground, the sewer, hanging on to hope by your stupid thoughts[1], and you don't own anything, sadly[2], and feeling is one answer[1], and you shouldn't be depressed, yeah, down underground, the sewer, hanging on to hope by your stupid thoughts[2], and you want more because I know it all, and I understand your hero worship[1], and feeling is one answer[2], and the DIZZY(!) life is another answer ... / ... and you gotta, gotta, gotta get a-ROUND - !!![1], and you want more because I know it all, and I understand your hero worship[2], and smile a bit, too[1], and the DIZZY(!) life is another answer ... / ... and you gotta, gotta, gotta get a-ROUND - !!![2], and give me your money, son/daughter, I know what, I know ... what to do with it[1], and smile a bit, too[2], and I'll burn it[1], and give me your money, son/daughter, I know what, I know ... what to do with it[2], and I have NOTHING ... but I'm happy(ish) / and I fry different ... fish / and I'm poet - (no!)[1], and I'll burn it[2], and we have a lot of fun, don't we?[1], and I have NOTHING ... but I'm happy(ish) / and I fry different ... fish / and I'm poet - (no!)[2], and, uh, your soul[3], and we have a lot of fun, don't we?[2], and square(s), kook(s) ... I have all the answers for YOU(!), believe it or not, ha![3], and 'Whatever, Mikey!'[3], and a-ROUND here ... you don't need money, you don't even need your sanity, man[3], and Jesus H. - !!![3], and I'm just, just ... asking you to SPIN(!) a little, you dig?[3], and what do you want, you want money, it's money you want, that's what you're saying to fucking ME?!!![3], and God is watching / and so be careful![3], and hell is in your eyes[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... yes, it's time to get clean, my friend(s)[3], and don't be such a dead horrible monster inside, please![3], and your boss is sick in the head[3], and your wife/husband ... don't get me started![3], and you don't own anything, sadly[3], and you shouldn't be depressed, yeah, down underground, the sewer, hanging on to hope by your stupid thoughts[3], and feeling is one answer[3], and you want more because I know it all, and I understand your hero worship[3], and the DIZZY(!) life is another answer ... / ... and you gotta, gotta, gotta get a-ROUND - !!![3], and smile a bit, too[3], and give me your money, son/daughter, I know what, I know ... what to do with it[3], and I'll burn it[3], and I have NOTHING ... but I'm happy(ish) / and I fry different ... fish / and I'm poet - (no!)[3], and we have a lot of fun, don't we?[3], and

Savers urge the government ...

Christ! Oh, loads of people urge the government. It does no good, son. You need to - 'Who the hell are you talking to, boss?!' Er, no one in particular, Voice. 'Just yourself, like.' Shut up!

Savers urge the government to take action against poor rates!

Average monthly savings deposits have decreased by 14% over the last 12 months.

Six in ten haven't moved their funds in the last five years, but there is a growing appetite to save and many are prepared to sacrifice luxuries.

The government should also improve incentives for saving regularly and act upon high street banks offering low rates, claim savers.

You see? Sacrifice luxuries, too. 'Yeah, it sounds serious. PR email, I presume. Who from?' Hang on. Uh, RCI Bank. I think. Or the firm working for them. 'And why do they care?' I don't know, man. They're a bank. They want people's money, I suppose.

Following the General Election, RCI Bank asked savers what they would like the new government to prioritize. Almost a fifth (17%) called for them to take stronger action against the high street banks offering poor savings rates, and 16% want more benefits for those who save regularly.

The cost of living has risen over the last year - consumer inflation hit 2.6% in June - meaning the amount savers are managing to put away has fallen. In June 2016, they saved £277 every month, whereas this year the average fell 14% to £239.

Londoners experienced the highest year-on-year drop in the amount they save; in June 2016 the average deposit was £664 a month, but in June 2017 this fell 31% to £461 - a difference of £2032. In contrast, those in the East of England save more every month - a 21% increase year-on-year.

Okay, okay. I tell you, it's all politics, man. Political uncertainty. But one thing you can be certain about: The government don't care!

The rising cost of living, macro-economic environment and political uncertainty play important roles in the nation's ability to save. RCI Bank asked consumers how they thought the General Election result would affect their ability to save, with a quarter (26%) expecting it to have a negative impact. Only a tenth (11%) think it will have a positive impact and a third (31%) claim their confidence in the savings market over the next 12 months will decrease as a result.

No one's got no money! 'You spend all your money on chips.' Shut up, idiot! / Right. Let's hear from Jean-Louis! 'Who?!' Jean-Louis Labauge. 'Never heard of him!' Ha!

Jean-Louis Labauge, CEO, RCI Bank, said: "Although engagement in the savings market is low, there is a real appetite to save; as a nation, we understand the importance of putting money away and saving for a rainy day. The fact that people are willing to give up luxuries says it all. The financial crash of 2007/08 has had a lasting impact on this. Our research shows that just over a tenth (12%) now spend less every month, and 10% feel that they need to save more every month. However, the current savings landscape does not feed this appetite - and customers are calling for more action to be taken to encourage saving. In order to achieve good financial health, savers need to be more at the heart of monetary policy. An end to quantitative easing, as has been exercised in the US, is just one of the many ways that the Bank of England could set out to increase interest rates again and improve the market."

Luxuries again. Says it all, doesn't it? / And, well ... - Ends ... - !!! As they say in the business.

...

Anything else? No. Well, No. 525 later. Laters.

Wednesday, 28 June 2017

Nothing in particular

I'm writing about nothing in particular, dear reader(s). Maybe it won't be so bad. It might be an improvement. 'Why, boss? Why?!' Because, Voice, I can't get an internet connection. 'Oh. / How on earth will you publish this post then?' Well, I'm going to wait until I have got an internet connection, silly. 'Oh. / You're so clever!' Yes, I know.

Of course, I could use my smart phone. But I've got to copy and paste some PR shit. I can't do it with the phone. I'll leave that post until tomorrow, anyway. It's no big deal, man.

I suppose I could write about Brexit. 'Ha!' Yeah, I'm sick of it though. With every passing day it looks an even bigger mistake. 'It's going to be an absolute disaster, boss.' Well, obviously. We have a brilliant deal with the EU. So we want to leave now and get a worse deal? It's insane. And we want to trade with countries on the other side of the world that probably ain't even interested? It's totally insane! / However, I don't want to write about it ...

Music? I don't want to write about music either. I don't know if you've noticed, dear reader(s), but this is a finance blog, yeah? If you want to read about music there are plenty of other places you can go to, FFS! Try the NME.

The weather? Well, at least the summer is over now. That's a relief. No more sun. Bring on the snow!

Right. I don't know what else to say. 'Try the connection again.' No. I'll leave it. I can't be bothered.

Uh. Okay. Does anyone know any jokes? 'Er ... who's anyone?' Well, me, and you. 'Do you know any jokes?' No. 'Well, I don't know any jokes either, boss.' Ha! Okay.

My guitar playing is getting better. 'You always say that.' That's because it's always getting better, man.

Lunch? I haven't written about my lunch for ages. I'll be having a cheese and tomato sandwich today. And salt and vinegar crisps. And a peach yoghurt. 'And a can of Coke.' No. I'll be having a glass of water. 'Water?!' Yes. I'm getting healthy, son.

Oh, here we go!

Tuesday, 27 June 2017

Autotalks' investment thing with Toyota's arm

I think. I don't know. It's a PR email. 'Why don't you email them back, boss, to find out?' Find out what, Voice?! 'More information, man.' No, I'm all right.

Hagai Zyss, Autotalks' CEO: "The funding round will allow Autotalks to prepare and expand its operations for the upcoming start of mass productions as well as continue to develop communication solutions for both connected and autonomous cars."

Yeah. Something to do with cars. 'Makes sense, if Toyota is involved.' Well, let's find out more ...

Kfar Netter, Israel, June 26th, 2017 - Autotalks, the global leader in V2X (Vehicle to Everything) communication chipsets, announced today an extension to its recent funding round. Autotalks completed its Series D round with about $40 million in investments, an oversubscription of $10 million. The increased investment amount is a result of new investments from investors such as Mirai Creation Investment Fund, of which the principal investors are Toyota Motor Corporation and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, and is managed by SPARX Group. Additionally, current Autotalks' investors increased their investment in the company.

Okay, okay. Chipsets, uh ... is that the same as a bag of chips? 'You buy a bag of chips every night, boss, but, no, I don't think so.' Bloody hell! I shouldn't have started this.

Autotalks is a leading player in the booming global V2X market. One of the market's key drivers is the rush of automotive OEMs and Tier1s to mass market V2X systems in vehicles. As the USDOT issued NPRM (Notice for Proposed Rule Making) will soon be in effect, leading global automotive companies are ahead of regulation. Therefore, after several design wins, Autotalks is quickly preparing for mass production starting in 2019.

Oh, it's obviously computer stuff. I hate computers. 'But you love chips!' Yeah, I thought it was something to do with chips. What an idiot!

"The funding round represents a real vote of confidence both in the V2V market and in Autotalks," said Hagai Zyss, Autotalks' CEO. "Having such respectable investors, who are worldwide leaders in the automotive industry, oversubscribing this current financial round, is a wonderful addition."

Okay. 'And did our Hagai conclude, boss?' Ha! You bet your ass he did! -

Zyss concluded: "The funding round will allow Autotalks to prepare and expand its operations for the upcoming start of mass productions as well as continue to develop communication solutions for both connected and autonomous cars. As a result, Autotalks will continue to stay a step or two ahead of its competition as has been the case since the company's inception."

Okay. He's repeating himself a bit. No harm in that. He's a man after my own heart. / And, er, Shuhei Abe, had something to say as well, but we won't bother with him. 'Who is he?' The CEO of SPARX Group. 'Okay.' Yeah. Never mind.

...

Anything else? Politics? The magic money tree? Yeah, Theresa May has got one. 'You mean Jeremy Corbyn, boss.' No I don't, Voice. May has had one all along. She was keeping quiet about it, but now everyone knows. 'Amazing!' Will wonders never cease?

Monday, 26 June 2017

[No. 524] Rise of the shamans

Well, me, anyway.

And, uh ... can a robot do this - ?![1], and not really "rise" but ... / I mean, we've been a-ROUND a long time, you dig? / and we're not going NOWHERE[1], and, uh ... can a robot do this - ?![2], and we're going somewhere, obviously[1], and not really "rise" but ... / I mean, we've been a-ROUND a long time, you dig? / and we're not going NOWHERE[2], and here ... is the place where all our dreams will come true / and do you believe?[1], and we're going somewhere, obviously[2], and there are many kinds of shamans / and do you, by any chance, know my mentor, Mr Jim Morrison?[1], and here ... is the place where all our dreams will come true / and do you believe?[2], and I'm switching disciplines, man[1], and there are many kinds of shamans / and do you, by any chance, know my mentor, Mr Jim Morrison?[2], and, yes, yes, YES(!) ... I will be rocking and rolling at some point in the near future[1], and I'm switching disciplines, man[2], and in the free world, too! 'Nice!'[1], and, yes, yes, YES(!) ... I will be rocking and rolling at some point in the near future[2], and you've got to feel sorry for the traders who can't do it without a machine ... #SoSad[1], and in the free world, too! 'Nice!'[2], and it's fucked up, I know[1], and you've got to feel sorry for the traders who can't do it without a machine ... #SoSad[2], and not in the Tottenham Court Road, obviously, ha![1], and it's fucked up, I know[2], and when the robots come ... I'll just tell them to piss off / No, I won't be scared[1], and not in the Tottenham Court Road, obviously, ha![2], and if they think they're hard enough ...[1], and when the robots come ... I'll just tell them to piss off / No, I won't be scared[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here NOW(!) ... truth is, a machine could only imitate it[1], and if they think they're hard enough ...[2], and the people who love the robots are sick in the head, seriously[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here NOW(!) ... truth is, a machine could only imitate it[2], and I've got a soul / Oh, have you?[1], and the people who love the robots are sick in the head, seriously[2], and getting so DIZZY(!) ... !!! ... is what I live for / and only God can judge me[1], and I've got a soul / Oh, have you?[2], and ... / 'But Mikey -'[1], and getting so DIZZY(!) ... !!! ... is what I live for / and only God can judge me[2], and their noughts and ones don't impress me, son / Oh, I got ones, and twos, and ...[1], and ... / 'But Mikey -'[2], and YOU(!) ... know where I'm going with that ... yes, beyond![1], and their noughts and ones don't impress me, son / Oh, I got ones, and twos, and ...[2], and, ah, one day ...[1], and YOU(!) ... know where I'm going with that ... yes, beyond![2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... ha! / ... it's a beautiful feeling with thought[1], and, ah, one day ...[2], and shamans gonna live forever![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... ha! / ... it's a beautiful feeling with thought[2], and, uh ... can a robot do this - ?![3], and shamans gonna live forever![2], and not really "rise" but ... / I mean, we've been a-ROUND a long time, you dig? / and we're not going NOWHERE[3], and we're going somewhere, obviously[3], and here ... is the place where all our dreams will come true / and do you believe?[3], and there are many kinds of shamans / and do you, by any chance, know my mentor, Mr Jim Morrison?[3], and I'm switching disciplines, man[3], and, yes, yes, YES(!) ... I will be rocking and rolling at some point in the near future[3], and in the free world, too! 'Nice!'[3], and you've got to feel sorry for the traders who can't do it without a machine ... #SoSad[3], and it's fucked up, I know[3], and not in the Tottenham Court Road, obviously, ha![3], and when the robots come ... I'll just tell them to piss off / No, I won't be scared[3], and if they think they're hard enough ...[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here NOW(!) ... truth is, a machine could only imitate it[3], and the people who love the robots are sick in the head, seriously[3], and I've got a soul / Oh, have you?[3], and getting so DIZZY(!) ... !!! ... is what I live for / and only God can judge me[3], and ... / 'But Mikey -'[3], and their noughts and ones don't impress me, son / Oh, I got ones, and twos, and ...[3], and YOU(!) ... know where I'm going with that ... yes, beyond![3], and, ah, one day ...[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... ha! / ... it's a beautiful feeling with thought[3], and shamans gonna live forever![3], and

And, uh ... can a robot do this - ?![1], and not really "rise" but ... / I mean, we've been a-ROUND a long time, you dig? / and we're not going NOWHERE[1], and, uh ... can a robot do this - ?![2], and we're going somewhere, obviously[1], and not really "rise" but ... / I mean, we've been a-ROUND a long time, you dig? / and we're not going NOWHERE[2], and here ... is the place where all our dreams will come true / and do you believe?[1], and we're going somewhere, obviously[2], and there are many kinds of shamans / and do you, by any chance, know my mentor, Mr Jim Morrison?[1], and here ... is the place where all our dreams will come true / and do you believe?[2], and I'm switching disciplines, man[1], and there are many kinds of shamans / and do you, by any chance, know my mentor, Mr Jim Morrison?[2], and, yes, yes, YES(!) ... I will be rocking and rolling at some point in the near future[1], and I'm switching disciplines, man[2], and in the free world, too! 'Nice!'[1], and, yes, yes, YES(!) ... I will be rocking and rolling at some point in the near future[2], and you've got to feel sorry for the traders who can't do it without a machine ... #SoSad[1], and in the free world, too! 'Nice!'[2], and it's fucked up, I know[1], and you've got to feel sorry for the traders who can't do it without a machine ... #SoSad[2], and not in the Tottenham Court Road, obviously, ha![1], and it's fucked up, I know[2], and when the robots come ... I'll just tell them to piss off / No, I won't be scared[1], and not in the Tottenham Court Road, obviously, ha![2], and if they think they're hard enough ...[1], and when the robots come ... I'll just tell them to piss off / No, I won't be scared[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here NOW(!) ... truth is, a machine could only imitate it[1], and if they think they're hard enough ...[2], and the people who love the robots are sick in the head, seriously[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here NOW(!) ... truth is, a machine could only imitate it[2], and I've got a soul / Oh, have you?[1], and the people who love the robots are sick in the head, seriously[2], and getting so DIZZY(!) ... !!! ... is what I live for / and only God can judge me[1], and I've got a soul / Oh, have you?[2], and ... / 'But Mikey -'[1], and getting so DIZZY(!) ... !!! ... is what I live for / and only God can judge me[2], and their noughts and ones don't impress me, son / Oh, I got ones, and twos, and ...[1], and ... / 'But Mikey -'[2], and YOU(!) ... know where I'm going with that ... yes, beyond![1], and their noughts and ones don't impress me, son / Oh, I got ones, and twos, and ...[2], and, ah, one day ...[1], and YOU(!) ... know where I'm going with that ... yes, beyond![2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... ha! / ... it's a beautiful feeling with thought[1], and, ah, one day ...[2], and shamans gonna live forever![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... ha! / ... it's a beautiful feeling with thought[2], and, uh ... can a robot do this - ?![3], and shamans gonna live forever![2], and not really "rise" but ... / I mean, we've been a-ROUND a long time, you dig? / and we're not going NOWHERE[3], and we're going somewhere, obviously[3], and here ... is the place where all our dreams will come true / and do you believe?[3], and there are many kinds of shamans / and do you, by any chance, know my mentor, Mr Jim Morrison?[3], and I'm switching disciplines, man[3], and, yes, yes, YES(!) ... I will be rocking and rolling at some point in the near future[3], and in the free world, too! 'Nice!'[3], and you've got to feel sorry for the traders who can't do it without a machine ... #SoSad[3], and it's fucked up, I know[3], and not in the Tottenham Court Road, obviously, ha![3], and when the robots come ... I'll just tell them to piss off / No, I won't be scared[3], and if they think they're hard enough ...[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here NOW(!) ... truth is, a machine could only imitate it[3], and the people who love the robots are sick in the head, seriously[3], and I've got a soul / Oh, have you?[3], and getting so DIZZY(!) ... !!! ... is what I live for / and only God can judge me[3], and ... / 'But Mikey -'[3], and their noughts and ones don't impress me, son / Oh, I got ones, and twos, and ...[3], and YOU(!) ... know where I'm going with that ... yes, beyond![3], and, ah, one day ...[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... ha! / ... it's a beautiful feeling with thought[3], and shamans gonna live forever![3], and

Jeff Gundlach says the machines won't take over finance

Well, that's good news, ain't it? 'How does he know, boss?' Jeff knows, Voice, because it's just common sense. These robots don't have souls. They'll never have souls. They don't have the spark of genius. They'll never replace financial shamans, like me. There's nothing to worry about, son. 'As long as I'll still have a job.' Yeah. Er ... what job is that? 'Your intern.' Oh, yes. Of course. Ha!

Okay, okay. For those of you who don't know, Jeff Gundlach is the founder and CEO of DoubleLine Capital. He's a billionaire, and he's a truth fan. 'Great band!' What? 'They're a great band, boss.' They're not a band, Voice. (As far as I know.) Our Jeff is a fan of truth. I mean, he likes the truth, you dig? 'Oh.' That's what it says on his Twitter bio anyway. He's an art fan, too. And he's a bills, fan. 'What on earth is a bills fan?!' I haven't the faintest idea, Voice. Maybe, uh ... I suppose Jeff is one of these guys who enjoys paying his bills on time. You know, to keep everything neat and tidy. 'Yeah. Interesting.' Well, it could mean that. How would I know?

Oh, by the way, dear reader(s), the best way to beat the machines is ... ? Come on! 'Er ... with a baseball bat?' No, not quite. Our Jeff says you need to work hard. 'Ha! Because the robots are lazy bastards? Is that his thinking?' Christ! I don't know, man. I'm just reporting what he said recently, to Bloomberg. 'Oh, not them!' I don't actually think he's an expert on artificial intelligence or anything. He's just one of these guys who has been able to get himself into a powerful position in life, and now he wants to tell everyone what he thinks about stuff. 'Oh.' There's no harm in it, much.

...

Anything else? No, no. Uh. It's, uh ... Monday morning. I've got a slight headache. More of a slight eyeache, really, from using my smart phone too much yesterday. 'That's not smart, Mikey. You should cut down.' Yes, thank you, Voice.

So, laters, yeah?

Thursday, 22 June 2017

[No. 523] I can do magic

Tragical? No! I'm magical!

And, yes, seriously[1], and, yes, magic, magic, magic ... / I can do magic, baby![1], and, yes, seriously[2], and my soul is a disco[1], and, yes, magic, magic, magic ... / I can do magic, baby![2], and if your consciousness ness is broken in two, uh, I'll make shit far worse for YOU(!)[1], and my soul is a disco[2], and, ha, I meant better, of course, yes[1], and if your consciousness ness is broken in two, uh, I'll make shit far worse for YOU(!)[2], and sha, sha, sha ... man! / You dig?[1], and, ha, I meant better, of course, yes[2], and call my name in your darkest night, and I'll enter your dreams in no time at all - my personal guarantee[1], and sha, sha, sha ... man! / You dig?[2], and if your life needs changing ...[1], and call my name in your darkest night, and I'll enter your dreams in no time at all - my personal guarantee[2], and do you often feel powerless?[1], and if your life needs changing ...[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here, honey ... so gone NOW(!), all of us / and does it get any better?[1], and do you often feel powerless?[2], and more are joining every day ...[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here, honey ... so gone NOW(!), all of us / and does it get any better?[2], and I see you, and you're doing great[1], and more are joining every day ...[2], and, me, me, me ... see how I'm spinning, like a master / oh, and ... feel the need in me[1], and I see you, and you're doing great[2], and if you're from the "real" world ....[1], and, me, me, me ... see how I'm spinning, like a master / oh, and ... feel the need in me[2], and don't beat yourself up if you can't match me / Do you know I'm the world's foremost financial shaman?[1], and if you're from the "real" world ....[2], and be square there, or cool here[1], and don't beat yourself up if you can't match me / Do you know I'm the world's foremost financial shaman?[2], and, uh, soon ... I'll be in the rock and roll game / Jimmy, my mentor, says it's all right[1], and be square there, or cool here[2], and not disco, Christ![1], and, uh, soon ... I'll be in the rock and roll game / Jimmy, my mentor, says it's all right[2], and, hello, he loves you, etc[1], and not disco, Christ![2], and this ... here ... man, it's better than apple pie! / Don't you think? Don't you? Oh![1], and, hello, he loves you, etc[2], and I shouldn't ask ...[1], and this ... here ... man, it's better than apple pie! / Don't you think? Don't you? Oh![2], and, uh, uh, uh, yes, I know, you've got feelings now, nothing more than feelings - well done![1], and I shouldn't ask ...[2], and, so, so, so ... it's coming a-ROUND again[1], and, uh, uh, uh, yes, I know, you've got feelings now, nothing more than feelings - well done![2], and - ha![1], and, so, so, so ... it's coming a-ROUND again[2], and let's get right back to where we started from![1], and - ha![2], and, yes, seriously[3], and let's get right back to where we started from![2], and, yes, magic, magic, magic ... / I can do magic, baby![3], and my soul is a disco[3], and if your consciousness ness is broken in two, uh, I'll make shit far worse for YOU(!)[3], and, ha, I meant better, of course, yes[3], and sha, sha, sha ... man! / You dig?[3], and call my name in your darkest night, and I'll enter your dreams in no time at all - my personal guarantee[3], and if your life needs changing ...[3], and do you often feel powerless?[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here, honey ... so gone NOW(!), all of us / and does it get any better?[3], and more are joining every day ...[3], and I see you, and you're doing great[3], and, me, me, me ... see how I'm spinning, like a master / oh, and ... feel the need in me[3], and if you're from the "real" world ....[3], and don't beat yourself up if you can't match me / Do you know I'm the world's foremost financial shaman?[3], and be square there, or cool here[3], and, uh, soon ... I'll be in the rock and roll game / Jimmy, my mentor, says it's all right[3], and not disco, Christ![3], and, hello, he loves you, etc[3], and this ... here ... man, it's better than apple pie! / Don't you think? Don't you? Oh![3], and I shouldn't ask ...[3], and, uh, uh, uh, yes, I know, you've got feelings now, nothing more than feelings - well done![3], and, so, so, so ... it's coming a-ROUND again[3], and - ha![3], and let's get right back to where we started from![3], and

And, yes, seriously[1], and, yes, magic, magic, magic ... / I can do magic, baby![1], and, yes, seriously[2], and my soul is a disco[1], and, yes, magic, magic, magic ... / I can do magic, baby![2], and if your consciousness ness is broken in two, uh, I'll make shit far worse for YOU(!)[1], and my soul is a disco[2], and, ha, I meant better, of course, yes[1], and if your consciousness ness is broken in two, uh, I'll make shit far worse for YOU(!)[2], and sha, sha, sha ... man! / You dig?[1], and, ha, I meant better, of course, yes[2], and call my name in your darkest night, and I'll enter your dreams in no time at all - my personal guarantee[1], and sha, sha, sha ... man! / You dig?[2], and if your life needs changing ...[1], and call my name in your darkest night, and I'll enter your dreams in no time at all - my personal guarantee[2], and do you often feel powerless?[1], and if your life needs changing ...[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here, honey ... so gone NOW(!), all of us / and does it get any better?[1], and do you often feel powerless?[2], and more are joining every day ...[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here, honey ... so gone NOW(!), all of us / and does it get any better?[2], and I see you, and you're doing great[1], and more are joining every day ...[2], and, me, me, me ... see how I'm spinning, like a master / oh, and ... feel the need in me[1], and I see you, and you're doing great[2], and if you're from the "real" world ....[1], and, me, me, me ... see how I'm spinning, like a master / oh, and ... feel the need in me[2], and don't beat yourself up if you can't match me / Do you know I'm the world's foremost financial shaman?[1], and if you're from the "real" world ....[2], and be square there, or cool here[1], and don't beat yourself up if you can't match me / Do you know I'm the world's foremost financial shaman?[2], and, uh, soon ... I'll be in the rock and roll game / Jimmy, my mentor, says it's all right[1], and be square there, or cool here[2], and not disco, Christ![1], and, uh, soon ... I'll be in the rock and roll game / Jimmy, my mentor, says it's all right[2], and, hello, he loves you, etc[1], and not disco, Christ![2], and this ... here ... man, it's better than apple pie! / Don't you think? Don't you? Oh![1], and, hello, he loves you, etc[2], and I shouldn't ask ...[1], and this ... here ... man, it's better than apple pie! / Don't you think? Don't you? Oh![2], and, uh, uh, uh, yes, I know, you've got feelings now, nothing more than feelings - well done![1], and I shouldn't ask ...[2], and, so, so, so ... it's coming a-ROUND again[1], and, uh, uh, uh, yes, I know, you've got feelings now, nothing more than feelings - well done![2], and - ha![1], and, so, so, so ... it's coming a-ROUND again[2], and let's get right back to where we started from![1], and - ha![2], and, yes, seriously[3], and let's get right back to where we started from![2], and, yes, magic, magic, magic ... / I can do magic, baby![3], and my soul is a disco[3], and if your consciousness ness is broken in two, uh, I'll make shit far worse for YOU(!)[3], and, ha, I meant better, of course, yes[3], and sha, sha, sha ... man! / You dig?[3], and call my name in your darkest night, and I'll enter your dreams in no time at all - my personal guarantee[3], and if your life needs changing ...[3], and do you often feel powerless?[3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here, honey ... so gone NOW(!), all of us / and does it get any better?[3], and more are joining every day ...[3], and I see you, and you're doing great[3], and, me, me, me ... see how I'm spinning, like a master / oh, and ... feel the need in me[3], and if you're from the "real" world ....[3], and don't beat yourself up if you can't match me / Do you know I'm the world's foremost financial shaman?[3], and be square there, or cool here[3], and, uh, soon ... I'll be in the rock and roll game / Jimmy, my mentor, says it's all right[3], and not disco, Christ![3], and, hello, he loves you, etc[3], and this ... here ... man, it's better than apple pie! / Don't you think? Don't you? Oh![3], and I shouldn't ask ...[3], and, uh, uh, uh, yes, I know, you've got feelings now, nothing more than feelings - well done![3], and, so, so, so ... it's coming a-ROUND again[3], and - ha![3], and let's get right back to where we started from![3], and

Equiteq named boutique investment banking firm of the year

Nice one! It's about time they got some recognition. 'Is it, boss?' Yes, Voice, it is. 'Oh. Who are they then?' Er ... hang on.

Equiteq is a global sector-focused M&A and strategic advisory firm. The company works with the shareholders of knowledge-intensive business services firms, helping them to achieve their business and exit objectives. Equiteq's services are designed to deliver great returns for its clients by accelerating revenue, profit, equity value, and realizing that value in a transaction.

You see? 'Yeah. And you knew all this before, did you?' Before what, man? 'Before you received the PR email yesterday.' Well ... not really, no. I mean ... / Christ! Never mind. Does it matter? I'm happy for them, Equiteq, that's the main thing. It doesn't matter who they are. Just as long as they're doing well, you dig? / And this is how well -

Equiteq, the consulting and IT services sector M&A specialist, is pleased to have won the Boutique Investment Banking Firm of the Year at the 9th Annual International M&A Advisor Awards. The award was announced at the gala award ceremony in New York on 12 June.

Very nice. It's a great achievement. / I think we need to hear from David Jorgenson ...

Commenting upon the award, David Jorgenson, CEO of Equiteq said "I'm thrilled that for the second year in a row, an independent judging committee of top M&A industry experts determined that Equiteq should receive another highly acclaimed award. Equiteq has built a unique global boutique model that is 100% focused on helping owners of knowledge-intensive business services firms achieve their exit goals through sale preparation and transaction execution. We are very proud that our individuality and expertise has set us apart."

Thrilled. Proud. 'Great!' / Now David Fergusson ... 'Who?!' Shut up!

David Fergusson, Co-CEO and President of The M&A Advisor said "Since the introduction of the International M&A Awards in 2009, we have continued to witness the growth of cross-border M&A outpace that of domestic dealmaking volume. And we attribute this to the new generation of global M&A experts whose intimate knowledge and expertise in the cultural, financial and legal arenas are redefining our industry. The 2017 International M&A Award winners represent the best of international M&A industry in 2016 who earned these honors by standing out in a group of very impressive finalists."

That's who! 'He doesn't sound too thrilled or proud.' Leave him alone!

...

Well, that's it, and that's enough. It's too hot for finance, dear reader(s). 'It's a bit cooler today, boss.' A bit.

Anything else? 'Politics?' Uh. Do we have to? All right. Boris Johnson had an interview with Eddie Mair yesterday on BBC Radio 4. Talk about a car crash! 'Ha!' It was like Ben Swain being interviewed by Jeremy Paxman in The Thick of It. 'He spelt just with four Js!' Boris was like a chicken, an enormous chicken.

Music? Well, I hope we have wintry weather by the weekend because I want to record my two songs. I can't keep rehearsing them. I've almost rehearsed them to death. 'A bit like the Karate Kid, Mikey!' Exactly like the Karate Kid, Voice! 'And he played guitar too, didn't he?' Eh? Oh yeah. In that other film.

Wednesday, 21 June 2017

Global Maritime Fund II

What's that?! You might be wondering, dear reader(s). 'Not if they work at J.P. Morgan, boss. They'll already know.' Well, thank you, Voice. Thank you for spoiling the surprise. 'Sorry.' Idiot!

Okay. Er, this Global Maritime Fund II is a new fund from J.P. Morgan Global Alternatives, which is an arm of J.P. Morgan Asset Management. Anyway, $480 million has been raised for this new fund. '$80 million more than they wanted.' I know. And the question is: Why couldn't they go for the cool half a billion?

Never mind. I guess some people in this world aren't all that ambitious. We shouldn't judge them, dear reader(s).

Oh, oh ... as the title suggests, the name of the fund suggests, it's going to invest in shipping. They want to take advantage of the downturn in the shipping market, apparently. 'Obviously someone at the firm fancies being the new Aristotle Onassis, boss.' Probably, Voice. But will they be able to sail in high winds? 'What?' You know, man: We must free ourselves of the hope that the sea will ever rest. We must learn to sail in high winds. 'Oh, of course. The wisdom of Onassis.' Yes.

...

Anything else? Austerity? 'Eh?' Austerity. 'Oh.' Yes. Oh, this might be the best article I've read on austerity.

Music? My music? There's not much going on at the moment. It's too hot to record. Unless I want the sound of a fan in the background. 'You've got a fan, Mikey?! Great!' Yes, Voice. To keep me cool in the summer months. 'Oh, that sort of fan.' What?

What's he going on about? Never mind. / Politics? I'm thinking that the election result was perfect. Absolutely perfect. The government, such as it is, owns the Brexit shambles, but ... doesn't really have the power to do much now. 'Nice, boss.' Yes, Voice, it is. / And God knows what will happen today! 'You better ask Him. He's your mate.' Yeah, right.

Tuesday, 20 June 2017

Dickie Hodges is worried about Brexit

Well, we're all worried, son. Those of us with more than one brain cell, anyway. 'Boss.' What? What, Voice? 'Who the hell is Dickie Hodges?! Please.' Ha! Christ! Dickie Hodges, my little invisible friend, is a fund manager. 'Oh.' He manages the Nomura Global Dynamic Bond fund at, uh ... Nomura, I suppose. And he's a head of something, too. 'Oh. Nice. And what does Bloomberg say about him?' Ha! I couldn't find anything. However -

This person is connected to 0 Board Members in 0 different organizations across 0 different industries

... is the normal thing. We all know that. / So, Brexit. It's going to be an absolute disaster for the economy. Soft or hard. It doesn't matter, really. Just because some mentals want this "sovereignty" and "control" shit that don't even exist to be frank. 'Outside of their fevered imaginations, boss.' Of course. It's utter madness. / Well, Fund Web or Strategy Thing have got the story, article thing. 'Eh? What story?' Go and have a look, Voice, the website. What Dickie says about it, Brexit.

Jesus H. - !!! I mean ... / And to make matters worse, David Davis has already submitted to the EU's demands about the timetable for negotiations, divorce bill, etc. We were told by our rulers that they would be strong and - 'Stable, boss.' Shut up! We were told they would kick ass, basically. But they can't. The UK is in a weak position. We will get whatever crumbs the EU decides to give us. 'And yet -' And yet, if we stay in, Voice, we can continue to grow and be friends with everyone like a normal civilized nation. 'Not -' Not like a bunch of freaks, man, on some weird little island, cut off from the world. 'Yeah.' Fuckin' A, yeah! I'm already talking American, you see? 'You've always used phrases like that, boss.' Okay, Voice, okay. That's a fair point.

But you see what I mean, dear reader(s), don't you?

Monday, 19 June 2017

[No. 522] Rock star or nothing

I kinda like NOTHING ...

And again, it seems ...[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and I can still taste the egg sandwich, such luxury[1], and again, it seems ...[2], and I won't go cheap[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and I can still taste the egg sandwich, such luxury[2], and I fell off a cliff of REAL LIFE, asleep after lunch, and I woke up, and here I am, again - oh, hello, kook(s)![1], and I won't go cheap[2], and there's music playing ... it's not me[1], and I fell off a cliff of REAL LIFE, asleep after lunch, and I woke up, and here I am, again - oh, hello, kook(s)![2], and I ain't got the energy to strum no guitar / and typing is hard enough, you dig?[1], and there's music playing ... it's not me[2], and let me go back to sleep ...[1], and I ain't got the energy to strum no guitar / and typing is hard enough, you dig?[2], and someone tell me, please, why I'm listening to ... uh, Boz Scaggs now / uh, please![1], and let me go back to sleep ...[2], and half hour's kip does funny things to a man ...[1], and someone tell me, please, why I'm listening to ... uh, Boz Scaggs now / uh, please![2], and it's hot outside / and it's hot in here / and my eyes are glued shut, for fuck's sake![1], and half hour's kip does funny things to a man ...[2], and when I get my shit together ...[1], and it's hot outside / and it's hot in here / and my eyes are glued shut, for fuck's sake![2], and it's a miracle I can write this / and I'm barely thinking, which is just great, yes, no complaints![1], and when I get my shit together ...[2], and a-ROUND with some feeling, so ...[1], and it's a miracle I can write this / and I'm barely thinking, which is just great, yes, no complaints![2], and, yes, yes, yes, I'm gonna get my mind and soul and body together soon, fully functioning[1], and a-ROUND with some feeling, so ...[2], and it could be worse: I could be a total robot[1], and, yes, yes, yes, I'm gonna get my mind and soul and body together soon, fully functioning[2], and they've really got nothing, man, just the buzzing of NOTHING / it can't be much fun ...[1], and it could be worse: I could be a total robot[2], and ... YOU(!) dig? Ha![1], and they've really got nothing, man, just the buzzing of NOTHING / it can't be much fun ...[2], and fucking prove it!!! / Yes, I'm angry[1], and ... YOU(!) dig? Ha![2], and hold me, hold me, come on[1], and fucking prove it!!! / Yes, I'm angry[2], and, Christ! ... my consciousness ness is all over the place / Jesus H. - !, it's just pouring out[1], and hold me, hold me, come on[2], and, yes, DIZZY(!)[1], and, Christ! ... my consciousness ness is all over the place / Jesus H. - !, it's just pouring out[2], and I'll get back on the straight line / and you won't catch me flying off to Pluto[1], and, yes, DIZZY(!)[2], and rock star, rock star, rock star ...[1], and I'll get back on the straight line / and you won't catch me flying off to Pluto[2], and again, it seems ...[3], and rock star, rock star, rock star ...[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and I can still taste the egg sandwich, such luxury[3], and I won't go cheap[3], and I fell off a cliff of REAL LIFE, asleep after lunch, and I woke up, and here I am, again - oh, hello, kook(s)![3], and there's music playing ... it's not me[3], and I ain't got the energy to strum no guitar / and typing is hard enough, you dig?[3], and let me go back to sleep ...[3], and someone tell me, please, why I'm listening to ... uh, Boz Scaggs now / uh, please![3], and half hour's kip does funny things to a man ...[3], and it's hot outside / and it's hot in here / and my eyes are glued shut, for fuck's sake![3], and when I get my shit together ...[3], and it's a miracle I can write this / and I'm barely thinking, which is just great, yes, no complaints![3], and a-ROUND with some feeling, so ...[3], and, yes, yes, yes, I'm gonna get my mind and soul and body together soon, fully functioning[3], and it could be worse: I could be a total robot[3], and they've really got nothing, man, just the buzzing of NOTHING / it can't be much fun ...[3], and ... YOU(!) dig? Ha![3], and fucking prove it!!! / Yes, I'm angry[3], and hold me, hold me, come on[3], and, Christ! ... my consciousness ness is all over the place / Jesus H. - !, it's just pouring out[3], and, yes, DIZZY(!)[3], and I'll get back on the straight line / and you won't catch me flying off to Pluto[3], and rock star, rock star, rock star ...[3], and

And again, it seems ...[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and I can still taste the egg sandwich, such luxury[1], and again, it seems ...[2], and I won't go cheap[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and I can still taste the egg sandwich, such luxury[2], and I fell off a cliff of REAL LIFE, asleep after lunch, and I woke up, and here I am, again - oh, hello, kook(s)![1], and I won't go cheap[2], and there's music playing ... it's not me[1], and I fell off a cliff of REAL LIFE, asleep after lunch, and I woke up, and here I am, again - oh, hello, kook(s)![2], and I ain't got the energy to strum no guitar / and typing is hard enough, you dig?[1], and there's music playing ... it's not me[2], and let me go back to sleep ...[1], and I ain't got the energy to strum no guitar / and typing is hard enough, you dig?[2], and someone tell me, please, why I'm listening to ... uh, Boz Scaggs now / uh, please![1], and let me go back to sleep ...[2], and half hour's kip does funny things to a man ...[1], and someone tell me, please, why I'm listening to ... uh, Boz Scaggs now / uh, please![2], and it's hot outside / and it's hot in here / and my eyes are glued shut, for fuck's sake![1], and half hour's kip does funny things to a man ...[2], and when I get my shit together ...[1], and it's hot outside / and it's hot in here / and my eyes are glued shut, for fuck's sake![2], and it's a miracle I can write this / and I'm barely thinking, which is just great, yes, no complaints![1], and when I get my shit together ...[2], and a-ROUND with some feeling, so ...[1], and it's a miracle I can write this / and I'm barely thinking, which is just great, yes, no complaints![2], and, yes, yes, yes, I'm gonna get my mind and soul and body together soon, fully functioning[1], and a-ROUND with some feeling, so ...[2], and it could be worse: I could be a total robot[1], and, yes, yes, yes, I'm gonna get my mind and soul and body together soon, fully functioning[2], and they've really got nothing, man, just the buzzing of NOTHING / it can't be much fun ...[1], and it could be worse: I could be a total robot[2], and ... YOU(!) dig? Ha![1], and they've really got nothing, man, just the buzzing of NOTHING / it can't be much fun ...[2], and fucking prove it!!! / Yes, I'm angry[1], and ... YOU(!) dig? Ha![2], and hold me, hold me, come on[1], and fucking prove it!!! / Yes, I'm angry[2], and, Christ! ... my consciousness ness is all over the place / Jesus H. - !, it's just pouring out[1], and hold me, hold me, come on[2], and, yes, DIZZY(!)[1], and, Christ! ... my consciousness ness is all over the place / Jesus H. - !, it's just pouring out[2], and I'll get back on the straight line / and you won't catch me flying off to Pluto[1], and, yes, DIZZY(!)[2], and rock star, rock star, rock star ...[1], and I'll get back on the straight line / and you won't catch me flying off to Pluto[2], and again, it seems ...[3], and rock star, rock star, rock star ...[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND ... / ... and I can still taste the egg sandwich, such luxury[3], and I won't go cheap[3], and I fell off a cliff of REAL LIFE, asleep after lunch, and I woke up, and here I am, again - oh, hello, kook(s)![3], and there's music playing ... it's not me[3], and I ain't got the energy to strum no guitar / and typing is hard enough, you dig?[3], and let me go back to sleep ...[3], and someone tell me, please, why I'm listening to ... uh, Boz Scaggs now / uh, please![3], and half hour's kip does funny things to a man ...[3], and it's hot outside / and it's hot in here / and my eyes are glued shut, for fuck's sake![3], and when I get my shit together ...[3], and it's a miracle I can write this / and I'm barely thinking, which is just great, yes, no complaints![3], and a-ROUND with some feeling, so ...[3], and, yes, yes, yes, I'm gonna get my mind and soul and body together soon, fully functioning[3], and it could be worse: I could be a total robot[3], and they've really got nothing, man, just the buzzing of NOTHING / it can't be much fun ...[3], and ... YOU(!) dig? Ha![3], and fucking prove it!!! / Yes, I'm angry[3], and hold me, hold me, come on[3], and, Christ! ... my consciousness ness is all over the place / Jesus H. - !, it's just pouring out[3], and, yes, DIZZY(!)[3], and I'll get back on the straight line / and you won't catch me flying off to Pluto[3], and rock star, rock star, rock star ...[3], and

Mustavaaran Kaivos raises 9.7 M€ ...

What?! Yeah. That's what I said, dear reader(s), when I got the email. Firstly, I've no idea who or what this Mustavaaran Kaivos Oy is. 'Oy?!' Yes, Voice, Oy. Read further down the email. They've added an "Oy" now. 'Madness, boss!' Secondly, what is this ME currency? 'Maybe it's a bitcoin thing.' Well ...

Mustavaaran Kaivos Oy (MKOy) is pleased to announce an arrangement of 9.7 M€ funding for the completion of a bankable feasibility study on its vanadium plant project. The funding has been made possible through contributions by local investor Osuuskunta PPO and Tesi (Finnish Industry Investment Ltd), as well as existing main shareholders of MKOy, being Tamares Mining Group B.V., Akkerman Exploration B.V. and Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company.

I'm none the wiser, me. 'Someone's talking about a slag here. Some rotten slag.' What?!

Recycling slag from steel industry.

Eh? Slag? Are they serious? 'Did Danny Dyer send you this email, boss?' No. Not unless he's Finnish now. This comes from Finland, reader(s). 'I suppose they've been watching too many of his films. Is Dyer a big star in Finland?' I really have no idea, Voice.

The project involves the construction of a processing plant at the port of Raahe which will recycle steel slags from SSAB to extract vanadium and iron leaving a slag which can be used in the construction and cement industries.

Er ...

MKOy's end product of the plant will be ferrovanadium (FeV80). Ferrovanadium is mostly used in the steel industry as a strengthening alloy to produce high strength steel and tool steels. Such special steels are used in the construction industry and for aerospace applications. Global steel company SSAB will supply the vanadium containing slag from Finland and Sweden based on a long-term supply agreement. The new innovative and cost-effective process solution will be contributing to a circular economy.

Well, okay. Steel slag. Construction. Cement. Whatever. / Some voices now ...

"This 9.7 M€ financing is a major achievement for our company thanks to the collective effort of our employees, the owners and the support by PPO and TESI. It strengthens our determination to jointly move forward towards the realization of this promising project to the benefit of all stakeholders including the Raahe community" says Jan H. Akkerman, chairman of the board.

'Ha! Not as good as me.'

"MKOy is a significant Finnish circular economy project. Growing demand for stronger and lighter steel will increase vanadium consumption globally. Especially steel consumption growth in emerging markets will positively affect the vanadium industry", comments Tesi's director Kimmo Viertola.

'Ha! They'll never replace me.' Shut up, man!

"MKOy's vanadium production plant will have a long-term positive effect on employment and economic activity in the Raahe area. It is impressive how determinedly the company has worked towards the production phase by comprehensive planning and mutual co-operation with SSAB and the local community. We are pleased to take part in this project", comments Osuuskunta PPO's managing director Kati Peltomaa.

Okay, okay, okay. Thank you, Jan, Kimmo, and Kati. If you ever want a job, I'm looking for a new voice ... 'There's no vacancy, guys!'

...

Right. Anything else? The weather? Well, this heat is unbearable. I wonder how the Aviva Investors mob will be coping today. 'I should imagine they'll stay in the shade, boss. Under a tree, like.' Yes. If they've got any sense ...

Wednesday, 14 June 2017

[No. 521] Stories are nonsense

No stories, man. I just spin with words that are sounds only. Great vision. Intense emotion. What else do you need?

And, well, well[1], and the squares are still telling their wretched stories like it's the fucking nineteenth century / Ignore them![1], and, well, well[2], and Dickens, Tolstoy? / Do me a favour![1], and the squares are still telling their wretched stories like it's the fucking nineteenth century / Ignore them![2], and No. 521? ... - ! / Oh, I haven't come this far for a laugh, son, uh, daughter[1], and Dickens, Tolstoy? / Do me a favour![2], and believe me, I'm serious[1], and No. 521? ... - ! / Oh, I haven't come this far for a laugh, son, uh, daughter[2], and Joyce, Beckett? / Great guys, obviously ... yes, they knew the party was coming to an end[1], and believe me, I'm serious[2], and DIZZY(!) yet?[1], and Joyce, Beckett? / Great guys, obviously ... yes, they knew the party was coming to an end[2], and I'll always be indebted to Marcel Duchamp ... / Oh, the man was a giant! / What vision![1], and DIZZY(!) yet?[2], and a-ROUND, kook(s)! / Use your mind, your soul[1], and I'll always be indebted to Marcel Duchamp ... / Oh, the man was a giant! / What vision![2], and Kafka? He's separate[1], and a-ROUND, kook(s)! / Use your mind, your soul[2], and, well, well ... yes, yes, YES! / COME ON - !!![1], and Kafka? He's separate[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / How do you feel? / Actually, do you feel?[1], and, well, well ... yes, yes, YES! / COME ON - !!![2], and I know there's a big elephant in the room ... 'Where?!' / Over there, Voice![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / How do you feel? / Actually, do you feel?[2], and ... 'Oh, that, yeah, I know'[1], and I know there's a big elephant in the room ... 'Where?!' / Over there, Voice![2], and this is nice enough, eh? I mean ... / 'We want more!'[1], and ... 'Oh, that, yeah, I know'[2], and, uh, uh, uh, BEYOND(!) ... yes, but, Christ![1], and this is nice enough, eh? I mean ... / 'We want more!'[2], and, please ... let's just enjoy the spinning without any complications or danger, you dig?[1], and, uh, uh, uh, BEYOND(!) ... yes, but, Christ![2], and ... 'Mikey, we need it!'[1], and, please ... let's just enjoy the spinning without any complications or danger, you dig?[2], and, uh ... the THREE - ?! - ?! - ?! ... / Ha, ha, ha ... this might be the place, but NOW(!) ain't the time[1], and ... 'Mikey, we need it!'[2], and it will happen, one day / Be patient![1], and, uh ... the THREE - ?! - ?! - ?! ... / Ha, ha, ha ... this might be the place, but NOW(!) ain't the time[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / ... and we should thank the cosmos, seriously[1], and it will happen, one day / Be patient![2], and, so ...[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / ... and we should thank the cosmos, seriously[2], and are we looking for a new salvation ... or just the latest thrill?[1], and, so ...[2], and, well, well[3], and are we looking for a new salvation ... or just the latest thrill?[2], and the squares are still telling their wretched stories like it's the fucking nineteenth century / Ignore them![3], and Dickens, Tolstoy? / Do me a favour![3], and No. 521? ... - ! / Oh, I haven't come this far for a laugh, son, uh, daughter[3], and believe me, I'm serious[3], and Joyce, Beckett? / Great guys, obviously ... yes, they knew the party was coming to an end[3], and DIZZY(!) yet?[3], and I'll always be indebted to Marcel Duchamp ... / Oh, the man was a giant! / What vision![3], and a-ROUND, kook(s)! / Use your mind, your soul[3], and Kafka? He's separate[3], and, well, well ... yes, yes, YES! / COME ON - !!![3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / How do you feel? / Actually, do you feel?[3], and I know there's a big elephant in the room ... 'Where?!' / Over there, Voice![3], and ... 'Oh, that, yeah, I know'[3], and this is nice enough, eh? I mean ... / 'We want more!'[3], and, uh, uh, uh, BEYOND(!) ... yes, but, Christ![3], and, please ... let's just enjoy the spinning without any complications or danger, you dig?[3], and ... 'Mikey, we need it!'[3], and, uh ... the THREE - ?! - ?! - ?! ... / Ha, ha, ha ... this might be the place, but NOW(!) ain't the time[3], and it will happen, one day / Be patient![3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / ... and we should thank the cosmos, seriously[3], and, so ...[3], and are we looking for a new salvation ... or just the latest thrill?[3], and

And, well, well[1], and the squares are still telling their wretched stories like it's the fucking nineteenth century / Ignore them![1], and, well, well[2], and Dickens, Tolstoy? / Do me a favour![1], and the squares are still telling their wretched stories like it's the fucking nineteenth century / Ignore them![2], and No. 521? ... - ! / Oh, I haven't come this far for a laugh, son, uh, daughter[1], and Dickens, Tolstoy? / Do me a favour![2], and believe me, I'm serious[1], and No. 521? ... - ! / Oh, I haven't come this far for a laugh, son, uh, daughter[2], and Joyce, Beckett? / Great guys, obviously ... yes, they knew the party was coming to an end[1], and believe me, I'm serious[2], and DIZZY(!) yet?[1], and Joyce, Beckett? / Great guys, obviously ... yes, they knew the party was coming to an end[2], and I'll always be indebted to Marcel Duchamp ... / Oh, the man was a giant! / What vision![1], and DIZZY(!) yet?[2], and a-ROUND, kook(s)! / Use your mind, your soul[1], and I'll always be indebted to Marcel Duchamp ... / Oh, the man was a giant! / What vision![2], and Kafka? He's separate[1], and a-ROUND, kook(s)! / Use your mind, your soul[2], and, well, well ... yes, yes, YES! / COME ON - !!![1], and Kafka? He's separate[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / How do you feel? / Actually, do you feel?[1], and, well, well ... yes, yes, YES! / COME ON - !!![2], and I know there's a big elephant in the room ... 'Where?!' / Over there, Voice![1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / How do you feel? / Actually, do you feel?[2], and ... 'Oh, that, yeah, I know'[1], and I know there's a big elephant in the room ... 'Where?!' / Over there, Voice![2], and this is nice enough, eh? I mean ... / 'We want more!'[1], and ... 'Oh, that, yeah, I know'[2], and, uh, uh, uh, BEYOND(!) ... yes, but, Christ![1], and this is nice enough, eh? I mean ... / 'We want more!'[2], and, please ... let's just enjoy the spinning without any complications or danger, you dig?[1], and, uh, uh, uh, BEYOND(!) ... yes, but, Christ![2], and ... 'Mikey, we need it!'[1], and, please ... let's just enjoy the spinning without any complications or danger, you dig?[2], and, uh ... the THREE - ?! - ?! - ?! ... / Ha, ha, ha ... this might be the place, but NOW(!) ain't the time[1], and ... 'Mikey, we need it!'[2], and it will happen, one day / Be patient![1], and, uh ... the THREE - ?! - ?! - ?! ... / Ha, ha, ha ... this might be the place, but NOW(!) ain't the time[2], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / ... and we should thank the cosmos, seriously[1], and it will happen, one day / Be patient![2], and, so ...[1], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / ... and we should thank the cosmos, seriously[2], and are we looking for a new salvation ... or just the latest thrill?[1], and, so ...[2], and, well, well[3], and are we looking for a new salvation ... or just the latest thrill?[2], and the squares are still telling their wretched stories like it's the fucking nineteenth century / Ignore them![3], and Dickens, Tolstoy? / Do me a favour![3], and No. 521? ... - ! / Oh, I haven't come this far for a laugh, son, uh, daughter[3], and believe me, I'm serious[3], and Joyce, Beckett? / Great guys, obviously ... yes, they knew the party was coming to an end[3], and DIZZY(!) yet?[3], and I'll always be indebted to Marcel Duchamp ... / Oh, the man was a giant! / What vision![3], and a-ROUND, kook(s)! / Use your mind, your soul[3], and Kafka? He's separate[3], and, well, well ... yes, yes, YES! / COME ON - !!![3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / How do you feel? / Actually, do you feel?[3], and I know there's a big elephant in the room ... 'Where?!' / Over there, Voice![3], and ... 'Oh, that, yeah, I know'[3], and this is nice enough, eh? I mean ... / 'We want more!'[3], and, uh, uh, uh, BEYOND(!) ... yes, but, Christ![3], and, please ... let's just enjoy the spinning without any complications or danger, you dig?[3], and ... 'Mikey, we need it!'[3], and, uh ... the THREE - ?! - ?! - ?! ... / Ha, ha, ha ... this might be the place, but NOW(!) ain't the time[3], and it will happen, one day / Be patient![3], and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND, and a-ROUND here ... / ... and we should thank the cosmos, seriously[3], and, so ...[3], and are we looking for a new salvation ... or just the latest thrill?[3], and

Money is the way