September 25, 2015 nº 1,674 - Vol. 13
 

 "Always dream and shoot higher than you know you can do. Don't bother just to be better than your contemporaries or predecessors. Try to be better than yourself."

William Faulkner

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  • Top News

SEC gives ground on judges

The Securities and Exchange Commission said Thursday it will overhaul its in-house tribunal following months of escalating legal challenges and criticism of its increased use of its own judges. The move marks the first time the agency has publicly ceded ground to the swelling ranks of critics of its internal court, a group that includes federal judges, former SEC officials and business groups. The new rules, approved by a vote of the five commissioners who run the SEC, would give defendants in cases sent by the agency to its own judges more of the legal protections offered in federal court. Some critics say the changes don't go far enough. Among other things, the changes would ease the tight "rocket docket" deadlines for complicated cases, giving defendants up to eight months to prepare for trial, compared with the current four months.

Germany battles past ghosts as Merkel urges greater global role

Europe's dominant country is stepping out from its own shadow. Seventy years after Germany's defeat at the end of World War II, Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is signaling a willingness to assume a bigger role in tackling the world's crises without fear of offending allies like the US Germany's position as Europe's biggest economy allowed Merkel and her finance minister, Wolfgang Schaeuble, to assume a leading role during the euro-area debt crisis centered on Greece, but the change in focus to beyond Europe's borders is very much political. After decades of relying on industrial prowess -- now under international scrutiny as a result of the Volkswagen scandal -- globalization and the necessity to keep Europe relevant are opening up options for Merkel to make Germany a less reluctant hegemon. Merkel will address the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday as she and key members of her cabinet begin to leverage Germany's economic might and turn it into a force for global policy-making. "There is a rising awareness in the political class and even to some extent in the public that Germany has to assume more responsibility, especially in and around Europe." The goal is defending "European values," including upholding Europe's model of law, order and democracy, and expanding German export markets at a time of growing competition from China. Yet a quarter-century after reunification reinstated Germany as Europe's pivotal country, moving beyond mere manufacturing clout into geopolitical importance remains controversial for European partners, domestic voters and to some in her government.

Sharp drop in currency adds to growing list of woes in Brazil

The weakness in the real is causing companies to delay plans, and the market for initial public offerings has been effectively frozen.

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  • Crumbs

1 - Uber Introduces Carpooling Service for Commuters, Starting in China - click here.

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  • MiMIC Journal

China to announce climate pledge as Xi visits Washington

China's President Xi Jinping is set to unveil a landmark pledge on climate change and curbing harmful emissions. They also discussed Iran's nuclear program. The visit has been overshadowed by ongoing cyber security disagreements.

Boeing to open assembly plant in China

Boeing will open a plant in China in partnership with state-owned Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac). The new factory will focus on painting and assembling twin-engine 737 aircraft manufactured in the US. Chinese firms also agreed to buy 300 Boeing jets, in deals worth about $38bn.

China firms seek to pay down overseas debt early after Yuan drop

At least three Chinese companies have said this month that they're seeking to pay off overseas debt early, after the yuan's tumble pressured the nation's firms to do more to reduce foreign exchange risk.

  • Law Firm Marketing

Would you respond to your current marketing?
By Tom Trush

You've heard the saying before ...

People do business with people they know, like and trust.

During the marketing process, this concept especially rings true. The challenge you face, though, is your first introduction to someone often isn't in person. So your marketing materials -- in just a few seconds -- must begin to establish these feelings in your prospects' minds.

So how can you overcome this challenge?

Well, the first step is to understand what causes people to respond to marketing. The fact is ...

People take action on your marketing for their own reasons -- not yours.

Sure, this statement might seem like common sense. But it's worth stressing because the concept rarely gets enough consideration when business owners and entrepreneurs develop marketing materials.

Your reasons for marketing are to gather leads and generate sales. These objectives don't match your prospects' needs. All they want are solutions to their problems.

So instead of marketing your business, products or services, share information that targets your prospects' desires.

Understand the difference?

If you sell air conditioners and target homeowners with old units, you might give your prospects the warning signs that occur before a cooling system breaks down. After all, most homeowners want to keep their families comfortable and avoid costly repairs, right?

If you sell auto insurance and target drivers who overpay for coverage, you might share strategies for securing discounts and cutting costs.

You make yourself known, likeable and trustworthy when you give prospects information they can immediately use. You also create interest in your marketing, which attracts new prospects.

Resist the urge to only tell people about your business, products or services in your marketing. Most companies take this approach -- and it doesn't work.

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Why today's consumers create fewer leads
By Tom Trush

As the person responsible for marketing and generating leads for your company, you face serious challenges right now.

After all, have you ever stopped to consider how easy it is for prospects to find your competitors?

Today, more than ever, new and shifting technologies have made it effortless for prospects to find alternatives to your product or service. What's more, this competitive marketplace spans all industries and grows bigger every day.

Making your situation more challenging are consumers' increasingly stubborn expectations and demands.

If you've experienced a slowdown in leads, today's well-informed prospect is one place where you can pinpoint your problem.

It's no longer enough to "exceed expectations," "deliver excellent service," "offer customer-focused solutions," or "have an experienced team." Today's prospects demand you deliver value before they even consider doing business with you.

Few companies have adjusted their marketing to accommodate today's consumers -- and that leaves incredible opportunity for you.

Search online, open the newspaper, scan your mailbox, flip through the Yellow Pages, read a few emails. You'll see little difference in marketing approaches.

Not only do pushing products and slinging services remain the norm, but the same words get used over and over again.

So what's the solution?

Well, one way you can differentiate yourself in marketing is to make your prospects feel important.

Let me explain ...

Think back to the last time you met someone who made you feel special. The type of person who you instantly enjoyed being around. Someone who can spark a smile from just about anybody.

How did that person act when you met? What did he/she talk about? Who received most of the attention?

Most likely, that person made you feel important (and good about yourself) because the conversation centered around you.

Right?

Now consider how this approach carries over to marketing.

You see, most attention in marketing focuses on hyping a company or its product/services. I often compare this approach to the person at a party who only talks about himself, laughs at his own jokes and always has a story that tops whatever anyone else says.

People cringe when this person walks into a room. So imagine how your prospects feel when they see this same "strategy" used in your marketing.

If you want to generate more leads, shine the spotlight away from your company. Stop thinking about what you can get from your marketing and instead focus on what you can give.

Tom Trush is available at https://www.writewaysolutions.com

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© Trey Ryder
FREE LAWYER MARKETING ALERT: If you'd like to receive Trey Ryder's weekly Lawyer Marketing Alert, send an e-mail to [email protected]. Write "Subscribe LMA" in the subject line and write your name and e-mail address in the body of the message.

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  • Historia Verdadera

Google x deudores

En España, la reforma de la Ley General Tributaria, que el Gobierno ha llevado a cabo para poder publicar la lista de morosos con Hacienda, impedirá que este documento pueda ser publicado en motores de búsqueda de Internet como Google. (Presione aquí)

Minera x derrame

La justicia argentina levantó la medida que prohibía a la canadiense Barrick Gold añadir cianuro en su proceso de producción de oro de la mina Veladero, tras una fuga que generó fuertes protestas ambientalistas. (Presione aquí)

Patente

La Oficina de Patentes y Marcas de Estados Unidos (ESPTO) otorgó a EXSA la patente internacional de la Tecnología Quantex, la cual ha sido desarrollada por un equipo de expertos peruanos y que ha demostrado excelentes resultados a nivel financiero, técnico y ambiental en los principales proyectos mineros del país. (Presione aquí)

Multa

La Corte de Apelaciones de Antofagasta, chile condenó a la empresa Minera Escondida a pagar una multa de US$ 4,45 mlls. en beneficio de Servicio Nacional de Capacitación y Empleo (Sence), por prácticas antisindicales en contra de trabajadores que participaron en una paralización, en septiembre de 2014. (Presione aquí)

  • Brief News

European AG: transfer of EU user data violates privacy laws

The advocate general of the European Court of Justice proclaimed on Wednesday that the copious amount of EU user data transferred to the US by various technology companies violates EU's data protection and rights to privacy laws. The Luxembourg court's advocate general Yves Bot suggested that the court do away with the "Safe Harbor" rules that have spurred controversy in the wake of Edward Snowden's whistleblower situation from last year. US technology behemoths like Twitter, Facebook and Uber already have a huge presence in Europe so the amount of data being exchanged between the two constituencies is only increasing. The advocate general critiqued the commission for not uncovering how the Safe Harbor provisions were developed and for allowing data transfers to continue. The data transfers of EU citizen data to US mass surveillance systems goes against the EU's Charter of Fundamental Rights. The advocate general further exclaimed that the privileged status enjoyed by US companies should be abolished under the Safe Harbor policy. There are several pending cases, including one involving Max Schrems that may have a significant impact on EU-US diplomatic and trade relations.

The potential criminal consequences for Volkswagen

The question is how far up the corporate ladder prosecutors can go in seeking to hold individuals accountable for the company's misconduct.

Ukraine rebels order UN agencies to leave

The UN humanitarian aid chief has expressed alarm after UN agencies were ordered out of rebel-held parts of the Luhansk region in eastern Ukraine. The agencies have been told to leave by Friday, and several international non-governmental organizations (NGO) by Saturday. The Luhansk separatists had earlier banned 10 international humanitarian agencies citing "violations". Restrictions on humanitarian shipments had prevented delivery of some 16,000 tons of vital supplies.

UK business vote on EU 'up for grabs'

The business vote on whether to remain in the European Union is "still up for grabs", the British Chambers of Commerce has said. Of 2,000 business people it surveyed, 63% said they would vote to stay in the EU if asked now, with 27% voting "no". But 50% said their final view depended on the outcome of Prime Minister David Cameron's negotiations over EU reform. Meanwhile, a Business for Britain poll suggests small firms overwhelmingly think the EU hinders their business.

UN court to hear Bolivia sea dispute case

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), ruled on Thursday that it has jurisdiction to continue hearing a dispute between Bolivia and Chile. Bolivia lost 400km (240 miles) of coast to Chile in a 19th-Century war and has been landlocked ever since. In 2013, Bolivia asked the ICJ to order Chile to negotiate Bolivia's claim to be given access to the Pacific. Chile argued that the case did not fall under the jurisdiction of the ICJ, but the ICJ judges dismissed that argument. The two countries have had limited diplomatic relations since 1978, and previous attempts to negotiate the redrawing of the border have failed.

Volkswagen 'allowed torture' under Brazil military rule

A group of former Volkswagen employees in Brazil has filed a civil lawsuit against the German carmaker. The former employees accuse the firm of allowing its workers to be detained and tortured under Brazil's military rule from 1964 to 1985. Twelve former workers say they were arrested and tortured at Volkswagen's huge factory in Sao Bernardo do Campo. Volkswagen's subsidiary in Brazil has said that it is investigating the allegations.

Puerto Rico loophole utilized by UBS targeted by House lawmaker

A lawmaker in the US House of Representatives is seeking to close a legal loophole that's prevented 3.5 million residents of Puerto Rico from enjoying investor safeguards that have been in place in the mainland for 75 years. Representative Nydia Velazquez, a New York Democrat who sits on the House Financial Services Committee, plans to introduce a bill Friday that would eliminate Puerto Rico's exemption from the Investment Company Act of 1940, which regulates the conduct of mutual-fund companies. The limited reach of the law allowed UBS AG to steer Puerto Rico bonds that it underwrote into its mutual funds, which cost investors when the securities tumbled because of the island's worsening fiscal crisis. In 2008, when UBS underwrote $2.9 billion of bonds for the cash-strapped Employees Retirement System, funds managed by the bank bought about half the debt. That would have been barred by the Investment Company Act if the funds were sold on the mainland.

Hungary lawmakers approve use of non-lethal weapons on refugees

Hungary's National Assembly on Tuesday approved a law allowing the Hungarian army to use non-lethal weapons on refugees entering the country illegally. The new law allows the army to assist police in checking passports, controlling the flow of migrant traffic and detaining suspects. However, the law also permits the army to use non-lethal force, such as rubber bullets, for border control. The EU is holding and emergency summit Wednesday in order to determine the unified action of Europe to deal with the worst refugee crisis since World War II.

Millions of fingerprints stolen in US government hack

Hackers who breached US government networks stole more than 5.6 million fingerprint records were stolen from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). An initial investigation suggested only 1.1 million were lost. The OPM acts as the personnel office for the US government and keeps records on 21.5 million federal staff. The OPM attack was uncovered in April this year and saw attackers make off with ID and security clearance information about US government staff. Fingerprints are increasingly used as a guarantee of identity. Social security numbers, names, addresses, health, financial and biometric data were all taken.

Cyprus high court supports impeachment of deputy AG

The Supreme Court of Cyprus unanimously ruled Thursday that Deputy Attorney General Rikkos Erotokritou should be impeached for his inappropriate actions when he accused Attorney General Costas Clerides of bribery during a nationally televised press conference in April. The court concluded that publicly announcing these serious, criminal and unfounded allegations was "false, morally reprehensible, and unacceptable" and amounted to inappropriate behavior.

Congo president announces referendum to extend age and term limits

Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of the Republic of the Congo, announced on Tuesday that he is moving forward with a national constitutional referendum, in what many call a ploy to extend his presidency. The referendum will concern issues such as raising the maximum age for presidential candidates and eliminating the two-term limit for presidents. Sassou Nguesso has served as president of the Republic of the Congo for the past 31 years.

São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are expected to ban Uber

The mayors of the cities will decide whether to sign or veto bills banning the service. Uber's prospects are not looking good.

Judges should know law beyond US shores

Supreme Court Justice Stephen G. Breyer this week challenged America's tradition of isolationism, saying concepts such as globalization and interdependence have transformed how the law should work. He said what used to be rare is becoming business as usual: Some 15 to 20 percent of cases on the docket require the justices "to know something about law or practices beyond our own shores." "The basic values we have — that's what makes us Americans in large part," said Breyer. "But I think the way to keep those values is not to ignore what happens elsewhere but, rather, to participate because if we don't participate, that world in all these different areas is going on without us."

Pope's Ttny Fiat surrounded by giant law enforcement SUVs

When Pope Francis arrived for his first visit to New York, he again slipped into the backseat of a tiny Fiat 500L and was ferried away amid gas-guzzling SUVs and police cars. There were dozens of vehicles: motorcycles, Chevrolet Suburbans and the pope's car followed by more large SUVs and police patrol cars. Francis has made a point of using particularly modest cars, part of his emphasis on simplicity, conservatism and rejection of a consumerist lifestyle. He uses a Ford Focus to get around the Vatican. During his visit to South Korea, he used a Kia. His modest choice Thursday was in stark contrast with those of the US security agents guarding him and their souped-up vehicles.

  • Daily Press Review

SodaStream factory shows Palestinian Bedouins' plight
Al Jazeera, Doha, Qatar

Pilgrims may not have followed instructions prior to deadly stampede, Saudi minister says
Haaretz, Liberal daily, Tel Aviv, Israel

Saudi king orders Hajj safety review
BBC News, Centrist newscaster, London, England

More than 700 dead as Mecca pilgrims crushed in stampede
CNN International, London, England

Leigh-Anne Pinnock goes commando in dress with dangerously high split as she joins bandmates at Selena Gomez gig
Daily Mail, Conservative daily, London, England

Experts reveal why it's proof you end up with the face you deserve†
Daily Mail, Conservative daily, London, England

Is Europe a place where dreams can come true for refugees?
EuroNews, International news, Ecully Cedex, France

Iran says Saudi Arabia to blame for hajj stampede tragedy
France 24, Issy-les-Moulineaux, France

Giant amphoras unearthed in Kültepe
Hurriyet Daily News, (Liberal, English-language), Istanbul, Turkey

California man fights off hammerhead shark with a paddle after it attacks his kayak
Independent The, London, England

Pictures of the day: 25 September 2015
Telegraph The, Conservative daily, London, England

Cycling to couture: meet the people who started their careers at university
Telegraph The, Celebrity news, London, England

Interest rate is lowered for 1st time in 6 years
China Post, English-language daily, Taipei, Taiwan

Korea's Fighter Jet Project Up in the Air Again
Chosun Ilbo, Conservative daily, Seoul, South Korea

Pope Francis makes historic first US visit
Hindustan Times, New Delhi, India

Russian lawmaker who stood up to Kremlin is stripped of his post
Japan Times, Independent centrist, Tokyo, Japan

Fordham, Marquette rescind honorary degrees they gave Cosby
New Zealand Herald, Conservative daily, Auckland, New Zealand

Ukraine President cancels trip over protests in eastern Ukraine
Straits Times, Pro-government, Singapore

Beat the post holiday blues
Sydney Morning Herald, Centrist daily, Sydney, Australia

Indonesia pledges 29 per cent emissions cut by 2030
The Economic Times, Business, Mumbai, India

Magnitude 6.6 earthquake hits off east Indonesia, injuring 39 people and damaging buildings
Globe and Mail The, Centrist daily, Toronto, Canada

Liberty Reserve Brought Down By 'Joe Bogus': How The Feds Arrested Arthur Budovsky
International Business Times, Business news organization, New York, U.S

Oil prices rise as firm Chinese seasonal demand offsets weak Japan data
Reuters, Business News, New York, U.S

At a castle in Austria, villagers and refugees celebrate Eid al-Adha
Reuters, World News, New York, U.S

Party leaders clash over niqab in French-language debate
Toronto Star, Toronto, Ontario

Hundreds killed in Saudi Hajj stampede
BBC News, Centrist newscaster, London, England

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