Why do companies decide to invest overseas and to go multinational Assignment

Why do companies decide to invest overseas and to go multinational - Assignment Example Jepson (2002) explains the unprecedented flow of foreign direct investments during the last two decades has made spectacular contributions to the economic restoration of Europe and to the industrialization of many of the developing countries. Spectacular, too, have been the returns realized by the international corporations that undertook the investments. However, if we examine the conditions a host country must satisfy if it is to continue attracting foreign investments, quite distinct limits to a country's ability to keep its doors open to the foreign investor become apparent. A few basic facts will make the point. (McLaughlin Mitchell 2006). Barry (2002) defines that the most fundamental fact is this: A country's capacity to absorb foreign direct capital inflows is ultimately limited by its ability to service that capital, in terms of current account debits (e.g., dividends) and eventual repatriation of principal. In turn, a country's ability to service the stock of foreign-owned capital is tied to its ability to generate sufficiently large payments surpluses on other current account items. (Relying on a positive balance in the capital accounts is just putting off the day of reckoning.) These relationships are obviously more easily stated in the aggregate than conclusively sorted out in detail. The "current account" of a country's balance of payments has many components, and "foreign-exchange availabilities" come from many sources.

Term paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 1

Term Paper Example A firm would boost that it has succeeded in business if it has met its objectives. When the firm is designing its objectives, it has to consider factors that would influence the market entry approach of the firm, pricing and distribution. Many automotive motive organizations face stiff competition in the market. This would call for a marketing strategy that aim which would aid the firm to meet its set objectives. Information regarding products of the firm in the market is very important since it enables the business to identify areas, which need correction when designing marketing approach. Marketing survey is an important exercise to the firm since it will dictate the approach or entry behavior of the business in a particular segment. Marketing strategy is a tool that the automotive firm would use to make a calculative approach into the market. The strategy would influence issues such as pricing, distribution, and market share among others. Marketing of products require a strategic entry behavior into the market in order to meet the set target of the organization. Most automotive companies manufacture similar products and supply their products into the same markets. Competition among these companies requires a devised mechanism that would woo buyers to purchase specific products of a particular company. Branding of the company products and employing marketing tactics would help to woo buyers into buying the company products. Automotive firm needs to consider a number of factors before rolling its products into the marketing. These factors would influence the amount of sale the firm is able to make, the growth of the automotive firm and market share of the firm. This paper explores strategic marketing strategies for automotive company. Market survey helps in establishing taste and preferences of customers. Conducting a marketing research would help an automotive firm to develop products that would suit the interest of the consumers. The firm may

Through the Tunnel- Doris Lessing Essay Example for Free

Through the Tunnel- Doris Lessing Essay 1. The inner journey that the boy takes on his self-imposed physical rite of passage is his transition from childhood and emerging into young manhood. This transition is mostly symbolised in this short story by the Jerry’s experience of preparing to go through the tunnel after watching the other boys swim through the tunnel. Jerry practised holding his breath in order to get over the first barrier in achieving his desired destination, the light at the end of the tunnel which symbolises the beginning of his young manhood. This inner journey of growing up is also represented through the physical aspects of the journey when he went from staying with his mother on the safe beach to the dangerous, risky and rocky bay with the French boys. This maturing is also represented when he wanted to give up on his quest after suffering numerous nosebleeds and his fear of death in the tunnel. However he decides to complete the quest anyway based on impulse and by pushing through, he has found self confidence and maturity which is seen by his wanting to be independent of his mother. 2. Lessing conveys the elements of the inner journey that Jerry grows through by using extensive symbolism and metaphors in the story. This third person narration provides an omniscient view on the main theme in the story- the coming of age in Jerry. Her use of third person narration allows her to explore the characters stream of consciousness such as, â€Å"She was thinking, Of course hes old enough to be safe without me. Have I been keeping him too close? He mustnt feel he ought to be with me. I must be careful†. This sort of narration allows Lessing to give detailed descriptions of the surroundings such as the different colours on the beach and uses the colours to show the transition in Jerry from innocence to taking risks such as when Jerry is approaching the bay, where the rocks where just â€Å"red –brown† before becoming â€Å"rough, sharp†. The metaphors and symbolism is also visible when Jerry is swimming through the tunnel, there was a period of darkness before emerging in the light from the crack in the tunnel, symbolising the turmoil inside the child of wanting to be independent before emerging into young adulthood. The native boys also prove to be a strong motif in the story as Jerry used to look up to these boys and wanted to do what they did. â€Å"They were big boys- men, to Jerry†, quotes how Jerry yearned to be like them, men. He sees swimming though the tunnel as a rite of passage. However after being able to achieve what the boys had done, Jerry wanted nothing to do with them as he had symbolically emerged into adulthood, â€Å"He could see the local boys diving and playing half a mile away. He did not want them.†

Macroeconomic Analysis Of South Africa

Macroeconomic Analysis Of South Africa Introduction The financial crisis, in fact, affects the global world since 2008. There is high inflation, increasing unemployment rate, low export, decreasing GDP and so on. In every country as well as in South Africa that also faces the macroeconomic problems, representing by the falling of the output, high inflation, and the microeconomic problems also affect to the economic market. Therefore, the objective of this report is to analyze and focus on the macroeconomic environment and formulate a strategy in responding to the Economic crisis in South Africa. The reason to know and analyze the macroeconomic in a country is, because the microeconomic, institutional changes are unlikely to be implemented if the economy is in a state of macroeconomic chaos-plummeting widespread unemployment and hyperinflation. Macroeconomic stabilization must and can precede the more fundamental microeconomic, institutional transformation. Macroeconomics in terms of business is dealing with the performance, structure and the behavior of national or regional economy as a whole. It is also a study about GDP, unemployment rates, national income, output, inflation, savings, investment, international trade and economic growth. Macroeconomic Background South Africa Located in base of the continent of Africa, South Africa is a diverse nation with an appealing mix of people, culture, faith and languages. Despite the people, South Africas physical state also has its own distinctive features. It has its own unique geological formations that aids in producing the mountains, plains and coasts. South Africa also has large amount of fertile land. Furthermore, a more extraordinary feature about South Africa is that it is home to the rarest species of wildlife and plant life. The nation has a total area of 1, 127 200 square kilometers and it is divided in four provinces, which are the Cape Province, the Transvaal, the Orange Free State and Natal. Being located in a subtropical area, South African generally enjoys warm weather all year round. Naturally, being located in Southern Hemisphere, winter is experienced during June and summer is experienced in December. Demographic South Africa has a population of 49 billion people (2009). It has particular demographic due to the heterogeneity in population base, apartheid, ethnic groups and emigration Table: Population % (Wikipedia, 2010) Basically the black people theyre the ethnic group like Zulu, Xhosa as well as immigrant form the other parts of Africa (mostly from Nigeria and Zimbabwe). The whites theyre the descendants of French, British or German settlers whom arrived to Cape Town from the late of 17th century. Some of them are from immigrants from Europe and Portuguese colonies left over. Coloureds are the descendants of earliest settlers, their slaves and indigenous people. The last part of racial population can be counted as Indian or Asian (Chinese) Table: Age structure % (Wikipedia, 2010) The average total fertility rate from 2001s to 2009s is 2.41 children born per woman. So thats why each family in South Africa usually has more than 2 children In the country they have around 11 official languages, the most spoken language of black people is 30.1% speak Zulu, 22.3% speak Xhosa while most the white residents speak Afrikaans at home (59.1%), 39.3 speak Englishà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Wikipedia, Demographics of South Africa, 2010) Political situation South Africa has multi-party system where the President Jacob Zuma is the head of government and the parliament. The African National Congress is the ruling party in the national legislature, which received 65.9% of the votes during the 2009 general elections and has 74.25% of total seats in the parliament. Democratic Alliance is the second major party that received only 16.66% of the votes and has 11.75% of total seats. All the other parties represent less than 20 %. From this huge gap between the ruling party and the democrats we can see that political situation is stable and will stay like that in near future. (Parliament monitoring group 2009); (Number of Political Party Seats: National Assembly May 2009 | Parliamentary Monitoring Group | Parliament of South Africa monitored) Laws regulations South Africa has progressive legal framework. The legal system is based on Roman-Dutch law and English common law. Commerce and labour legislation is well developed while laws relating to competition policy, copyright, patents, trademarks and disputes conform to international norms and conventions. South African commercial laws and company laws are similar to the laws of the United Kingdom. Sanctity of contract is protected under common law, and independent courts ensure respect for commercial rights and obligations. The independence of the judiciary is guaranteed by the Constitution. South Africas financial systems are sophisticated, robust and well regulated. Banking regulations rank with the best in the world, while the sector has long been rated among the top 10 globally. Foreign banks are well represented and electronic banking facilities are extensive. (South Africa info 2008); (South Africa: open for business SouthAfrica.info) South Africas economy South Africa is one of the most stable economies in the Arican continent. Its a middle-income country, emerging market with rich supply of natural resources. The country has fully developed infrastructure supporting efficient distribution of goods throughout the southern African region ,with well-developed financial, legal, energy, communications, a stock exchange ranked among the top 20 in the world. The primary sector, based on manufacturing, services, mining, and agriculture is well developed. Economic growth was strong from 2004 to 2008 due to macroeconomic stability and a global commodities boom. Because of world financial crisis in the second half of 2008 economy began to slow down. GDP was growing 5.1 % in 2007 and 3.1 % in 2008. In 2009 it fell nearly 2 %. Unemployment is high (24 % in 2009). Daunting economic problems remain like poverty (47 % in 2009 below poverty line), lack of economic empowerment among the disadvantaged groups. South African economic policies, which are focused on controlling inflation and attaining budget surplus, are efficient. Inflation rate in 2009 was 7.2 %. To welcome the foreign investment in South Africa, the government has made it clearly by investor- friendly policies. Corporate tax is 29%. VAT on hotels and retirement hostels are charged at 8.4%. South Africa has a huge potential as an investment destination, offering the first world developed infrastructure with a vital emerging market economy. It is also one of the most advanced and useful economies in Africa. (CIA World Factbook 2010); (CIA The World Factbook South Africa) Monetary Policy and Exchange Rate Monetary policy can be defined as the measures taken by the monetary authorities to influence the quantity of money or the rate of interest with a view to achieving stable prices, full employment and economic growth. The South African Reserve Bank conducts monetary policy in South Africa. (About SA Economy, 2009) Exchange rate: Rand (ZAR) per US dollar in 2009 (8.54), in 2008 (7.95); (About SA Economy, 2009) As we know the macroeconomic discussion focuses on monetary policies in the country. And any decision of the government can affect the business-cycle changes in output, inflation, exchange rate or employment. South Africa emerged out of a recession in Q3 2009. A pick up in capital inflows and support from expansionary monetary and fiscal policy is contributing towards its recovery: (Euromonitors Economic Review of Emerging Market Economies: January 2010) A rebound in the manufacturing sector and increased government spending on the construction of roads, railways and infrastructure for the 2010 World Cup helped stimulate growth. The manufacturing sector, which accounts for 15 % of GDP expanded by 7.6% over the previous quarter in Q3 2009; The South African rand appreciated to R7.48 per US$ in December 2009 from R9.97 per US$ in the same month of 2008, suggesting a gain of 25.0% in 2009. It has been one of the best performing emerging market currencies in 2009 attracting capital inflows due to rising liquidity and commodity prices. Nonetheless, this limits the recovery process as a stronger rand weakens exports. So far, the government has not intervened in the foreign currency markets to help curb the unprecedented rise in the rand; In November 2009, the annual rate of inflation eased for the ninth consecutive month to 5.8%, below the central banks target rate of 3.0-6.0% for 2009. The South African Reserve Bank is likely to keep its key interest rate (repo rate) unchanged at 7.0% in the beginning of 2010, despite calls from labour unions for an interest rate cut. Unemployment problem :Picture 1.png (South Africa Country Profile 2010, December) Year Unemployment rate Rank Percent Change Date of Information 2003 37.00 % 18 2001 est. 2004 31.00 % 24 -16.22 % 2003 est. 2005 26.20 % 161 -15.48 % 2004 est. 2006 26.60 % 168 1.53 % 2005 est. 2007 25.50 % 172 -4.14 % 2006 est. 2008 24.30 % 169 -4.71 % 2007 est. 2009 22.90 % 170 -5.76 % 2008 est. 2010 24.00 % 171 4.80 % 2009 est. (South Africa Country Profile 2010, December) The unemployment rate was 24% (2009 est.) and was highest among 15 to 24 year old, at 48.4 percent, and lowest among 55 to 64 years old, at 6.8 percent. Of South Africas estimated 49.3-million people, around 31-million people are between 15 and 24 years old. Today, the government gives some change for SAs unemployed who dont have education by create the training of unemployed project that aims to minimize the negative effects of the recession. The project trains people as electricians, boiler-markers, welders and mechanics, so when they are trained and easy to get the job and facing with the world with confidence. Inflation C:Documents and Settingshim.STUDENTMy DocumentsDownloadsSouth-Africa-Inflation-Rate-Chart-000002.png Market structure Automotive industry The country is one of the best performing automobile market in the world. In 2006, it brought around R118 billion of increasing to sales. In 2007, vehicle exports were about 170 thousand unit sales which were expected to jump up to 285 thousand in 2008. The vehicle market had a huge development when comparing to year 1997, the unit exported only 20 thousands. The sector is about 10% in account of manufacturing exports, 7.5% of contribution in GDP with the employment of around 36 thousand people. The government aims to increase the vehicle production to 1.2 million units by 2020 because of the definition of the automotive industry is a key growth sector Many of multinational companies such as Ford, Toyota, GMà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦use South Africa as source components and assemble vehicles for both the local and overseas markets. From 2000 to 2006, the investment in production and export infrastructure was multiplied by four, which was R1.5-billion to R6.2-billion. An R4-billion in investment was expected in 2008. Most of the investment came from foreign where the parent companies wanted to expend the local operations to improve product capacity, support export and infrastructure (Big Media Publishers, South Africas automotive industry, 2008) 690-1823-0-0_1464872.jpg Table: Automotive revenue (Big Media Publishers, 2008) Mining and mineral resources South Africa is well-known in the world by its wealthy in mineral resources. The wealthy of the country has been built on the countrys vast resources. There are various kinds such as: Platinum, Chrome (which the quality is the 1st in the world), Gold (1st largest producer), Diamond (4th largest producer)à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦but only crude oil and bauxite is those that the country doesnt have. Mining was an industry that contributed 21% total exports of goods in 2006 Gold was once the keystone of South Africa but it has been diminished in importance due to economys diversity. From 1970s to 1980s, the exports of gold were the predominant source of country foreign exchange earnings which made up a 14% of total value added in economy. In the year of 2007, this shifted to 5.8% contribution to country GDP of mining and quarrying. The mining industry is South African biggest employer. It attracts more than 860 thousand employees of labor force Currently, more than 70% of mining industrys labor force is black. Opposite of that number, its just only less than 5% of managerial positions belongs to black people. The mining sectors key issue is transformation. The target has been set by the government that an expect of 40% managerial positions would be held by South Africans in all mining companies (Big Media Publishers, 2008) 692-1827-2678-0_1452532.jpg Table: Mineral resources (Big Media Publishers, 2008) Agriculture South African agriculture isnt dominated by subsistent farming. In fact, it has both well developed commercial farming which is predominant and more subsistent influenced in deep areas. The country has more than enough output to export massive amounts of agricultural produce. Because of the variousness of climates, there are good conditions (such as mix farming in winter rain fall and in summer rain fall) for growing different crop production in South Africa. The diversity in climate, which is tropical, sub tropical and desert allows diversity in products either. South Africa also has advantages in marine resources which is 3000km of coastline that is appreciated to develop mariculture and aquaculture. The main agriculture export production can be listed as: maize (some southern African countries rely on this import), wine (South Africa is the 5th largest producer worldwide), fruits (grapes, pears, peachesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦), livestock farming (sheep, cattleà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦) Agricultural contribution represents less than 4% of GDP but 10% of total reported employment in accounts while farming is 8% of countrys total exports. The key agricultural trading partners of South Africa are America and some countries in EU. They gain the benefit from the market by exporting through number of trade agreements. The agriculture sector is highly protected and evolved to governments control. In 1996, the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act they closed agricultural marketing boards, eliminated subsidies and set the import tariffs to protect South African farming from unfair international competition. So the South African farmers and agribusiness could be placed themselves as players in a globally competitive environment. Nowadays there are still some factors that even though the government has tried to implement, these couldnt bring any efforts to the rest of the economy. For examples: most of indigenous people are subsistence farmers, subsidies from other developed countries, climate changeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦are reducing sector growth (Big Media Publishers, South African agriculture, 2008) (Wikipedia, 2010) Infrastructure Energy infrastructure Among the countries that have the lowest cost of electricity, however South Africa has to face its problem of the demand for power outstripping supply. The economy grows strongly, a lot of rapid industrialization development, the electrification programme is being mass led and distinct lack of investment are all the issues which cause the power supply crisis in South Africa. As a result, the state energy company Eskom and the government has come up with a projected ZAR 343 billions over five years to fund new power stations for energy increasing such as nuclear and electricity storage. Eskom also aims to reduce the demand of electricity by 3 000 megawatts in 2012 and 5 000 megawatts more in 2025 Table: Energy Overview (Big Media Publishers, 2008) There are some thought about using natural energy as wind or solar. Despite South African sunny weather, the ideas havent really taken off and there are some concerns that the country somehow isnt appreciated with the wind energy. Energy contributes an amount of 15% country GDP. The country is 11st country in the world that has highest commercial primary energy intensities due to its large scale economy structure, mining industries and some benefit based on minerals activities which push the usage of energy above average (Big Media Publishers, South Africas energy supply, 2008) Source: EIA Transportation The transport network has been identified and highlighted as a competitive advantage in global market. The road system in South Africa has a total of 754 thousand km in which 9.6 thousand km is national road. 2.4 thousand km are toll roads. However the road infrastructure needs to be constructed due to overloading of heavy vehicles and volumes increasing of road freight vehicles. It has approximately 95% of country trading business are done by passing through the sea as well as the traffic from others countries like Europe, Asia, America and even Africa itself. The railway system is also one of the main transportation which is 10th longest in the world. It connects all the parts in the country together so it can be used for transporting goods or even tourism. The airline industry carries about 33 million passengers a year. There are a lot of airports such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban which are the 3 main international airport and the others at South Africa (ArriveAlive, 2010) ( Publishers, 2008) Technology sector Technology sector is well developed with modern manufacturing sectors like machinery, scientific equipment and motor vehicles. South Africa has strong technological research centers. South Africa has developed a number of leading technologies, principally in the fields of energy and fuels, steel production, mining, and telecommunications. There is all necessary technology for hospitality industry. (South Africa info 2008) Tourism in South Africa South Africas major attractions for tourists are mainly involved with nature. They are the large variety of game parks, nature parks and a magnificent scenic diversity of landscape varying from desert plains blooming with spring flowers to mountains overlooking vineyards, valleys and large farmlands, tribal communities and modern cities. The countrys coastline, which represents many names to our world today, such as; Africas southern most coastline and the base of the large continent, is 3000km long. This 3000km long coastline is nothing but serene sandy beaches with charismatic seaside resorts scattered along. Some of these locations are famous beaches and surfing areas. For animal lovers, there are other attractions that are available. For example, in Pretoria there are various botanical gardens, bird sanctuaries, aquariums and zoo. The National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria is ranked to be the top ten zoos in the world. Some examples of daytime activities are coach tours, ocean cruises, museums, art galleries and a wide range of sports. Other famous attractions in South Africa are the wines produced. South African wines are categorized under New World Wines. These wines are famous all over the world. South Africa is the worlds most known hunting destination. It offers hunting at large land areas that are protecte d under legislative laws and hunters can find many rare species. Hunting seasons are usually between May to July. And the Professional Hunters Other outdoors activities for tourists that are famous in South Africa are canoeing, river rafting, safaris, wilderness trails and rambling. Hiking as well has a rising popularity as the National Hiking Way has been developed and improved. All activities mentioned are easily accessible by the generally good infrastructure in South Africa. Overall, most tourist attractions in South Africa are not for the faint hearted and for nature lovers. According to some reports, international travel to South Africa has increased, in 1994 the year South Africas first democratic elections, only 3.9 million foreign tourists to the country. By 2004, the international visitors have more than doubled to 6.7 million. And in 2007 the total number of 9.07 million foreigners visited South Africa- 8.3% increase compared to 2006- as the country broke its annual tourist arrivals record for the third year running. In South Africa, nowadays, Cape Town has become an important retail and tourism centre, and attracts the largest number of foreign visitors come here for their holidays. (South Africas tourism industry SouthAfrica.info) International tourist arrivals (in millions) nternational tourist arrivals in South Africa (Source: Department of Tourism); (South Africas tourism industry SouthAfrica.info) Tourism is also one of the fastest growing sectors of economy in South Africa, and it contributed to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of country increasing from 4.6% in 1993 to 8.3% in 2006. Tax system Untitled.png Table: Paying taxes (IFC, 2010) SWOT analysis Strength South Africa has a world class infrastructure as their competitive input, like 3 deep water ports, 3 international airports, a network of roads and high ways, well developed cold chain facilities and a sophisticated financial sector. These infrastructures are even comparable to first world developed countries and its cost is favourable (the cost of electricity is still remain inexpensive and competitive in labour rates as well) (Big Media Publishers, South African agriculture, 2008) The free trade agreement and high technology, high infrastructure offering are the key values for international investment from America and European Union The strength includes the mineral resources as well as South Africa is considered as a major mining country. Its the world largest producer and exporter of gold and platinum. They also have a high level of technology (such as a ground-breaking process that converts low-grade superfine iron ore into high-quality iron units) and production expertise (the raw materials such as iron, carbon steelà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦were added more values before exporting) which make mining industry is one of the key sectors of the country Weakness South Africa has a high ratio of unemployment which is from 30% 40%. The education of the labour force is still very low, especially black people. A result showed us that just 22% of Black Africans have completed high school. When we do comparison, it has difference amount of 70.7% of Whites have completed high school More than 5.7 million South Africans are infected with HIV in which 350 thousand have already died of Aids with millions of South Africans have been victims of violent crime Opportunities The FIFA World Cup 2010 will be held at South Africa this summer so this will be not only the opportunities for the South Africa itself to increase their international images and reputations. Its a good change to advertise and promote the values of the country so itll attract more investment and partnership from foreign and internal either. For the FIFA World Cup 2010, South Africa has a plan to include a Bus Rapid Transit system which will promote the use of public transportation between host cities as Cape Town, Durban with other cities. They also received an amount of R9 billion investments and an incentive from FIFA to improve the infrastructure in the nine host cities due to the expected massive visitors. It means a lot of upgrades to countrys airports and general transportation including taxi system, passenger trail and bus (Osec, 2010) Threat Because South Africa is an export led economy, its very easy to be influenced by global demand. The depreciation in price of commodities which go deeper to very low levels could be resulted to job losses The power supply crisis leads to needs of diversity in energy mix including natural gas, nuclear power and various forms of renewable energy as well. The indigenous source of energy is coal which use to produce electricity and its one of the causes of greenhouse gases. The activity to increase electricity by using coal can pollute the environment and it requires the government have to have plans to prevent global warming The roads system needs to be constructed because of massive traffic and transportation. An official report said that it would be cost around R65 billion for urgent repair. Otherwise the cost for a year due to overloading will be surpassed R650 million in destruction to roads (Osec, 2010) Future development When South Africa decides to invest into other countries of Africa, they are helping to diversify African economies and reduce the dependent on primary sector industries. South Africa doesnt focus only on oil and gas, but they concentrate about telecommunicating, banking service, mining also. They enter the African market, but creating them as well by building infrastructure, transferring technology and knowledge, encouraging the foreign country to enforce laws and strengthen democratic institutions. For examples: South Africa exported to the rest of Africa a R43 billion worthy, most of involved import related to oil from Nigeria which was R5 billion. That number show an imbalance in South African goods and services with African consumers. The countrys companies also try to integrate themselves with the local economies by hiring local staff or buying materials from local procedures. In return, South Africa received the favour by investment from the other African countries which is go od for South African own domestic economy. Thats why South African engine is very important for economic development across the African continent (Leon, 2004) In 2009, the government spent a total amount of R787 billion on public infrastructures over the next 3 years which would push the countrys budget deficit to 3.8% of GDP in 2009. They explained that it was necessary to borrow the funds to finance planned public infrastructure projects due to the decreased demand for South African commodities and lower output. In the R787 billion: R390 billion would be spent on state owned enterprises R25 billion for Rail Computer Corporation R12 billion for the Bus Rapid Transit system R1.6 billion South African Airways Conclusion After we analyzed the economy of South Africa and predict the future of the country, we realize that South Africa has potential to invest money in this country which can create profit for us as entrepreneurs as well as for the countrys economy. South Africa has many strong sectors but we decide to invest our money in health care sector which is currently not strong in this country. We believe this is the right decision which will bring to us return on investment and profit for the future.

Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice Essay -- Jane Austen Sen

Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice Jane Austen's characters always undergo an event that morally changes their being. In Sense and Sensibility this moral change is obvious in Elinor and Marianne. The development of these adolescents into mature, reasonable adults is a gradual transformation seen in Sense and Sensibility. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy begin Pride and Prejudice as arrogant and biased adults and end the story as liberal minded individuals.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚      In Sense and Sensibility the family has been forced to move from the plush lap of luxury into a more modest setting. Mr. Dashwood has just passed away. Since this was a patrilineal society, the eldest son, John Dashwood, inherits all of Mr. Dashwood's estate. John planned to live at Norland with his wife, Fanny Dashwood. Mrs. Dashwood and her three daughters needed to relocate. This is a significant adjustment for everyone involved. In addition to the move to Barton Cottage, the family is also experiencing a decline in their income and thus must live a more middle class existence.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Marianne was Mrs. Dashwood's middle daughter. She was sensible and clever, but eager in everything; her sorrows, her joys, could have no moderation. She was generous, amiable, interesting: she was everything but prudent.'; (Austen, pg5). Marianne was only seventeen and behaved as such. She was unable to hold back her feelings even in a social setting with friends. Mrs. Dashwood's disposition was similar to Marianne's. They were similar in the expression of emotions. After Henry Dashwood died Marianne and Mrs. Dashwood, 'encouraged each other now in the violence of their affliction.'; (Austen, pg 5). The phrase misery loves company comes to mind to explain how they would commiserate with each other.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Marianne was full of emotions and thoughts that she would not conceal. Her personality was the extreme opposite of Elinor's The moral development in Marianne has its roots in Willoughby, a young gentleman that rescues her from a fall on a mountainside near their new home. It was a very romantic scene when Willoughby, 'took her up in his arms without further delay, and carried her down the hill'; (Austen, p21). Marianne was excited at the whole situation especially since ;his manly beauty and more than common gracefulness were instantly the theme of general admiration'; (Austen, p21). Willoughby wa... ... the highest kind'; (Austen, p296). Mr. Darcy has completely forgiven Elizabeth and is attempting to prove her opinion wrong. Elizabeth has broken her prejudice and realizes her fault. Darcy comes to Longbourn and Elizabeth's mother comments on him, 'but else I must say that I hate the very sight of him'; (Austen, 333). Elizabeth has overcome her bad opinion of Darcy, but the rest of the family has not. After Elizabeth tells her mother of Darcy's proposal she says, 'We all know him to be a proud, unpleasant sort of man; but this would be nothing, if you really like him'; (Austen, p354). Her family is willing to allow the marriage to proceed, mostly for financial reasons. These books show a maturation of character through the trials and tribulations that life grants. In each of these stories there are parallel worlds, one of upper class and one of the middle to lower class. They show that even though two people come from different worlds and have different financial positions, love will conquer all. Works Cited: Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. London: Penguin Books, 1996. Austen, Jane. Sense and Sensibility. Ed. Margaret Anne Doody. Oxford: Oxford UP, 1990.

Multiple Personality Disorder: No Excuse for Criminal Activity :: Argumentative Essay

Kenneth Bianchi, a man who has murdered many women, now claims that he has Multiple Personality Disorder. Can we possibly decide that it is reasonable to convict an individual of a crime if that individual suffers from Multiple Personality Disorder? This psychological malady, known as Multiple Personality Disorder, or sometimes as Multiple Dissociative Identity, is a mental illness in which a person develops two or more distinct identities that control the patient’s behavior. If an aberrant personality takes over, the individual no longer has control over one’s actions. The cause of this disorder is unknown; however, 97% of the patients with this disorder have been abused during childhood. Throughout time, the issue of a person having conflicting personalities inside, like Jekyll and Hyde, has been very controversial. Some authorities believe that this disorder does not exist, and some believe that it does. In a number of cases, criminals have used Multiple Personality Disorder as a defense for their criminal deviance. Should an individual who has committed a crime be sentenced to prison when he/she has no control over oneself? In my opinion an individual who commits a crime and suffers from Multiple Personality Disorder should be held responsible for his/her actions. As punishment, this convicted person should be sent to an asylum. In many criminal cases it is hard to believe that the defendant has multiple personalities because the defendant could be trying to deceive the jury. Statistics have proven that people with Multiple Personality Disorder usually refer to other personalities as â€Å"I.† A perfect example is Kenneth Bianchi who was on trial for murder and convinced his attorney that he had multiple personalities inside. Bianchi had the jury almost convinced that Steve Walker, Bianchi’s other personality, was responsible for the murders. Bianchi’s defense showed the first sign of unraveling when he started to refer to Steve Walker as â€Å"he† instead of â€Å"I.† Dr. Marti Torne, an authority in hypnosis, tested Bianchi. According to Dr. Torne, a person suffering from Multiple Personality Disorder will house three or more personalities. Bianchi failed this hypnosis test because he only presented two personalities. After Bianchi’s testimony, Bianchi started to m ake up a new personality, named Billy. However, the jury remained suspicious, and eventually Kenneth Bianchi was found guilty. In effect, his defense, depending on a claim of Multiple Personality Disorder, was deemed unconvincing. Kenneth Bianchi almost got away with murder. Multiple Personality Disorder: No Excuse for Criminal Activity :: Argumentative Essay Kenneth Bianchi, a man who has murdered many women, now claims that he has Multiple Personality Disorder. Can we possibly decide that it is reasonable to convict an individual of a crime if that individual suffers from Multiple Personality Disorder? This psychological malady, known as Multiple Personality Disorder, or sometimes as Multiple Dissociative Identity, is a mental illness in which a person develops two or more distinct identities that control the patient’s behavior. If an aberrant personality takes over, the individual no longer has control over one’s actions. The cause of this disorder is unknown; however, 97% of the patients with this disorder have been abused during childhood. Throughout time, the issue of a person having conflicting personalities inside, like Jekyll and Hyde, has been very controversial. Some authorities believe that this disorder does not exist, and some believe that it does. In a number of cases, criminals have used Multiple Personality Disorder as a defense for their criminal deviance. Should an individual who has committed a crime be sentenced to prison when he/she has no control over oneself? In my opinion an individual who commits a crime and suffers from Multiple Personality Disorder should be held responsible for his/her actions. As punishment, this convicted person should be sent to an asylum. In many criminal cases it is hard to believe that the defendant has multiple personalities because the defendant could be trying to deceive the jury. Statistics have proven that people with Multiple Personality Disorder usually refer to other personalities as â€Å"I.† A perfect example is Kenneth Bianchi who was on trial for murder and convinced his attorney that he had multiple personalities inside. Bianchi had the jury almost convinced that Steve Walker, Bianchi’s other personality, was responsible for the murders. Bianchi’s defense showed the first sign of unraveling when he started to refer to Steve Walker as â€Å"he† instead of â€Å"I.† Dr. Marti Torne, an authority in hypnosis, tested Bianchi. According to Dr. Torne, a person suffering from Multiple Personality Disorder will house three or more personalities. Bianchi failed this hypnosis test because he only presented two personalities. After Bianchi’s testimony, Bianchi started to m ake up a new personality, named Billy. However, the jury remained suspicious, and eventually Kenneth Bianchi was found guilty. In effect, his defense, depending on a claim of Multiple Personality Disorder, was deemed unconvincing. Kenneth Bianchi almost got away with murder.

Climate Change, Deforestation and the Media Essay

Various factors exist that are causing a negative impact and damaging the natural ecosystem. Various emissions from motor vehicles and different industries and chemical plants, processes like deforestation and various other activities continuously contribute to the deterioration of the well-being and livelihood of individuals and the ecosystem. Various researches conducted worldwide have detected various changes in the terrestrial ecosystems marked with the various activities propagated by the actions of human beings towards the environment (Midori, 2014, p 105). The alterations that exist have been attributed to climate change as opposed to any other types of activities and factors that may have arisen. There are various marked causes and effects of climate change towards the natural terrestrial organisms and all the other substances that consti0tute to the natural ecosystem. For instance, different animal, plant and biomes ranges have undergone shifting. The different timings in which various organisms and plants take to perform various activities such as flowering have been altered (Maxwell, 2013, p 779). The migration of animals has also been shifted since the prediction of the climate which facilitates there movement has significantly been altered. There have been instances in which the scotching sun has led to the development of various wild fires. Moreover, various amphibians, for instance seventy-five different frog species have been driven to extinction because of the climate change. Projections and various statistics have it that the various greenhouse emissions may lead to an overwhelming supply of various poisonous gases into the atmosphere hence altering the natural adaptive mechanisms of various organisms in the ecosystem. If the situation were left unmonitored and uncontrolled, vast areas would turn into ASALS thereby contributing to the alterations of the biochemical cycles that are experienced worldwide (Maxwell, 2011, p 779). Aquatic Ecosystems The aquatic ecosystems form a very functional and important role in the interrelation and existence of the global environment. Apart from playing a key and functional role in the ecological productivity and their contribution towards biodiversity, they play a very important role to the human beings. However, they face direct threats from the activities of human beings either in a direct or indirect manner. Climate change has an impact on the aquatic environment in the sense that an increase in the temperature of water significantly alters the basic ecological process facilitated by the marine life and the aquatic life species geographical distribution. The marine life may show tendencies of migration to various suitable habitants but various human activities may hinder their respective migration (Brulle et al, 2012, p 182). They may be unable to migrate thereby leading to their extinction of the various treasured species. Climate change influences the precipitation patterns. Moreover , the surface run off may have been contaminated by various gases that exist in the atmosphere thereby influencing marine life. Agriculture Agriculture forms a vital component of many economies. Agriculture is a composition of various cash crops, domestic livestock and various aquatic fish species, which are consumed or reared for commercial and consumption purposes. Climatic conditions highly influence the existence of fish and various agricultural produce. The effect of climate change on agriculture can be viewed from various dimensions since various factors exist that favor the process of agriculture while some hinder growth and production (Christensen et al, 2012, p 201). The excess existence of temperature and release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere contribute to increase in productivity and synthesis of various crops. However, for these conditions to have a positive impact on the various crops, various other factors such as the correct soil pH, the availability of water, moisture content of the soil, and other factors must be met. Massive periods of droughts and excess floods are always a challenge to various farmers. Moreover, when the temperature of water that harbors the aquatic life becomes warmer, the fish may migrate or die hence influencing the ecosystem (Corner et al, 2012, p 470). Crops are influenced by warm temperatures. They hasten the growth levels but reduce on the quantity of the yields produced. Moreover, an increase for carbon dioxide in the atmosphere also increases the amount of yield that is expected from a given type of crop. The growth process of crops is hindered by the existence and presence of extreme occurrences of rain and temperatures. The occurrence of drought and foods hinder crop growth since the crops become washed away and wither (Doherty et al, 2011, p 265). Human Health Human beings are affected by the occurrence of various climate change processes. These effects vary from the influence and diverse effects of heat waves, extreme weather events, air quality and occurrences of climate-sensitive diseases. Instances of hydration and the occurrences of heat strokes are prevalent and major causative agents of weather-related ailments and deaths. The impact would be a shift in the population patterns. Weather events, which are extreme, may contribute to various challenges that may be faced by human beings (Dotson et al, 2012, p 69). For instance, there would be a general reduction of water supplies and food in various parts of the country. Various health care services and communication utilities may be interrupted. Storms and various other factors may contribute to the excess concentration of carbon monoxide gas, which is poisonous to the human life. Climate change can therefore be seen to have various diverse effects on the natural ecosystem and if not pr operly controlled can lead to the extinction of various life forms and species. Mitigation of climate change Mitigation of climate change refers to the various actions adopted with the aim of reducing the affect of the natural ecosystem. Framing Issues The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change consists of a numerous enrolment of countries that have united to adopt various measures and practices to curb climate change. The principle aim of UNFCCC is to ensure the stabilization of various concentrations of atmospheric gases as a block of various human related activities that would contribute to the interference of the atmosphere (Fahey et al, 2013, p 134). Some of the main activities involve the control of emission of green house gases into the atmosphere. There was a universal consensus to the fact that the level of green house emissions should be limited to 1.5 to 2.0 degrees and below. Governmental and intergovernmental action Majority of the countries are adopting various policies proposed by various organizations such as the Green Belt Movement to extensively use clean technologies in their daily business operations. The mitigation process is promoted by the action that may be adopted by the various firms. Many countries aim at reducing carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere (Hajer et al, 2012, p 300). The government aim is to ensure reduction and minimization of emissions containing carbon into the atmosphere, the utilization of renewable energy and a boost in the efficiency of energy that is being consumed in the industry. The adverse effects of climate change are always felt greatest in nations, which have a low economic status. There exists the Commitment to Development Index, which analyses the various policies adopted to curb rising instances of emission of gases to the atmosphere. There are various activities that majority of the countries engage in that may be seen to contribute to the emis sion of gases in top the atmosphere. Activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and various emissions always influence the emissions. Therefore, the effective regulation of the particular emissions facilitates control of the climate change. Various strategies have been formulated with the main aim of curbing the spread of the adverse effects of climate change. These strategies include the Kyoto protocol, which remains to be the existent international agreement with the sole purpose of curbing climate change. Non-governmental policies These refer to policies that are aimed at reducing the extents of climate change through the effective funding from private investors and other business entities. They may also take the form of various environmental groups, which are seen to promote personal initiative when it comes to the process of fighting crime (Christensen et al, 2013, p 12). The non-governmental bodies also thrive through the encouragement of various personalities to adopt various effective means of using energy for instance the lowering of cooling usage and house heating, the effective use of renewable energy sources, minimization of exhaust fumes from vehicles through finding of means of transaction and operations that do not involve mobility with a vehicle. Apart from the road transport, various researchers have also expressed concern about the emissions produced by the air travel (Dotson et al, 2012, p 76). Various emissions are produced by the air travel, which may influence the atmospheric balance and the resultant ecosystem. The non-governmental bodies therefore aim at finding methods and means through which the emissions can be minimized to maintain an eco balance to the environment. Implications of climate change for sustainable development in rural areas. Rural areas have been known to hold and be a major backbone when it comes to agricultural production. The main occupation of majority of the people who reside in these regions is farming. Majority of the climate alterations because of climate change are diverse in urban areas, which are populated by industries. Rural areas experience constant and predictable rainfall patterns (Fahey et al, 2013, p 143). However, the effect of climate change resulting from various emissions to the atmosphere can easily alter the weather and climate patterns of a vast area of land. It therefore becomes important to note the fact that the sustainable development of rural areas whose people’s livelihood is dependent on the main economic activity which is agriculture. Rural areas are known to consist of vegetation that regulates the atmospheric gases in the atmosphere. They play an important part in balancing the ecosystem (Takahashi, 2011, p 249). Therefore, the efficient regulation of climate change may result to increase in various product output with a rise in production due to the occurrence of precipitation and adequate rainfall to facilitate growth of crops and the existence of livestock and fisheries. Coverage of Climate Change by the Media The media has played a pivotal and vital role in the influence of international, personal and national actions and efforts to address the issue of climate change. The mass reporting off climate change has been predominant in the United States of America and the United Kingdom. The level and extent of climate change is hugely attributed to the massive reports and collaborations with the Scientific Consensus on Climate Change. The media hit the sky during the early 2007 when featuring the Al Gore documentary and the Fourth Assessment Report on Climate change (Sheppard et al, 2012, p 235). Media reporting was also heightened in the year 2009 when the world held a conference on climate change organized by the United Nations. It was referred to as the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Consequently, another forum was referred to as the Climatic Research Unit email controversy that had been held earlier in November. Besides the USA and the UK, various other countries have shown massive efforts in the reporting of climatic changes and sensitizing the world on better policies to be adopted to minimize the effect and extent of the climate change. Countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, Sweden, New Zealand and India have shown particular interest in climate change and this has been made possible through the media coverage that is received (Segerberg et al, 2011, p 201). The media has also been though t to attribute the findings of climate change to the public opinion and politics. Through the reporting, various governments have held numerous sittings with the aim of coming up with climate policies that various industries such as transport and manufacturing industries should adopt with the principle purpose of maintaining the ecosystem. The media has largely contributed towards the sensitization of the public to be able to know what happens when industrial chemicals and toxins are thrust into the sky (Olausson, 2011, p 290). For instance, a survey conducted indicates that when people were asked about the urgency of control of climate change and whether it was a problem or not, the following responses were obtained: It is not a problem 8% It is a future problem 14% It is a present problem 41% It is an immediate problem 36% I do not know 1% Climate change remains to be an eminent threat to the existence of natural and human beings. Campaigns by all media types and other institutions should be encouraged. The governments should come up with stringent climate change policies to curb the spread of acidic rain, drought, floods and any other extreme weather conditions (Dotson et al, 2012, p 80) References Aoyagi, Midori. â€Å"Climate Change Governance and Media: Media Exposure, Public Opinion and â€Å"the Most Important Issues,† By the Japanese Public.† In XVIII ISA World Congress of Sociology (July 13-19, 2014). Isaconf, 2014.Boykoff, Maxwell T. â€Å"Public enemy no. 1? Understanding media representations of outlier views on climate change.† American behavioral scientist 57, no. 6 (2013): 796-817. Boykoff, Maxwell T. Who speaks for the climate?: Making sense of media reporting on climate change. Cambridge University Press, 2011.Brulle, Robert J., Jason Carmichael, and J. Craig Jenkins. â€Å"Shifting public opinion on climate change: an empirical assessment of factors influencing concern over climate change in the US, 2002–2010.† Climatic change 114, no. 2 (2012): 169-188. Christensen, Miyase, Annika E. Nilsson, and Nina Wormbs. â€Å"Globalization, Climate Change and the Media: An Introduction.† Media and the Politics of Arctic Climate Change: When the Ice Breaks (2013): 1. Christensen, Miyase, Annika E. Nilsson, Nina Wormbs, Sverker Sà ¶rlin, Dag Avango, Per Hà ¶gselius, Henry Huntington, and Ralf Dà ¶scher. â€Å"When the Ice Breaks: Globalization, Climate Change and the Media.† (2012). Corner, Adam, Lorraine Whitmarsh, and Dimitrios Xenias. â€Å"Uncertainty, scepticism and attitudes towards climate change: biased assimilation and attitude polarisation.† Climatic change 114, no. 3-4 (2012): 463-478. Doherty, Thomas J., and Susan Clayton. â€Å"The psychological impacts of global climate change.† American Psychologist 66, no. 4 (2011): 265. Dotson, Devin M., Susan K. Jacobson, Lynda Lee Kaid, and J. Stuart Carlton. â€Å"Media coverage of climate change in Chile: A content analysis of conservative and liberal newspapers.† Environmental Communication: A Journal of Nature and Culture 6, no. 1 (2012): 64-81. Fahey, Dan, Paras Patel, John Rawlins, and Meiko Peng. â€Å"Climate Change Podcast Series-The Media and Climate Change.† (2013). Hajer, Maarten, and Bart Strengers. â€Å"Who speaks for the climate: making sense of media reporting on climate change.† Cambridge Review of International Affairs 25, no. 2 (2012): 298-300. Olausson, Ulrika. â€Å"â€Å"We’re the ones to blame†: Citizens’ representations of climate change and the role of the media.† Environmental Communication: A Journal of Nature and Culture 5, no. 3 (2011): 281-299. Segerberg, Alexandra, and W. Lance Bennett. â€Å"Social media and the organization of collective action: Using Twitter to explore the ecologies of two climate change protests.† The Communication Review 14, no. 3 (2011): 197-215. Sheppard, Stephen Richard John. Visualizing climate change: a guide to visual communication of climate change and developing local solutions. Routledge, 2012.Takahashi, Bruno. â€Å"Framing and sources: a study of mass media coverage of climate change in Peru during the V ALCUE.† Public Understanding of Science 20, no. 4 (2011): 543-557. Source document