$38 per IPO share? Lose half of it in the Facebook despair

Facebook knew from the beginning they were taking a huge risk in making their shares available for public sale at $38 per share when the initial public offering (IPO) first came forth. Mark Zuckerburg didn't do his social media company much good by turning up to a meeting with high ranking investment bankers in a sweatshirt and jeans. 

Ever since launching the biggest ever IPO, shares have almost halved, currently at $19.48. http://www.nasdaq.com/symbol/fb Do not be surprised or shocked. Many financial experts predicted the slump would happen, although few expected it to happen so quickly. 

While Zuckerburg may continue to cash in financially-he's still a billionaire- there can be no denying the current activities of the Facebook are rather suspicious. Information which was promised to be kept private, including private messages has been littered all over peoples profiles. Conveniently too, the company has the capacity to track and monitor other webpages which are visited by its users, even after they have logged off.

Investors in the company are now left with the after effects of a false hope. The lessons from the financial crisis in 2008 seem to distant. Maybe this minor disaster will renew the skepticism at anyone coming forth claiming to be the messiah who can defy the odds of financial investments. 

Facebook shares would have done better at a karate school. Splitting thing in half can be achieved in one hit.

Where's the Milk?

One month ago, the supply chain manager from Fonterra came to speak at Massey university. In the lecture, he told everyone that milk prices in New Zealand were high because it is the world price per litre which is being paid. 

It seems rather perplexing that the 7th largest milk producer globally, of which Fonterra, the 5th largest dairy company, exports globally is somehow unable to provide lower prices. Russia, the world's largest oil producer charges a $0.95 (USD) per litre, the United States sells new American muscle cars for 20% less than overseas imports; or how about the cheap tourism packages which Thailand and Cambodia offer. http://www.indexmundi.com/agriculture/?commodity=milk&graph=production

Whilst the herded sheep may seem content with Fonterra's current milk price freeze, more pressure must be put on them and supermarkets to help New Zealand people enjoy all the great benefits milk has, without smashing Mr. Piggy to pay for it.

Why do the Maori tribal continually act like sulking high school teenagers that have been grounded? The claims which are being made on water and wind rights are as farcical as they sound. Water rights should not be privatised; tribal interests do not come before national interest. 

***There is still life in Matt Groening's brilliant television sitcom The Simpsons. Treehouse of Horror XXIII was full of humorous moments inter-weaved among each of the three segments. Although some of the heavy decline which has been around since season 10 appeared, it seems to have been vanquished by crisper writing.***

If anyone is looking for a new book to read, look for Son of Hamas, the story of Mosab Hasan Yousef. His father is one of the founders of the Hamas movement. In the book, he talks about growing up in a war heavy area, his time in jail, working with the Shin Bet and how a trip in Israel changed his life.

They should have arrested Harawira long ago

New Zealanders have a distinct type of personality. Normally quite modest about personal achievements, never quick to pass judgement about people of other cultures (due to multi-racialism), willing to help people who are in need for the long term greater good. Above all, New Zealand people are hard workers, often putting in long hours to make sure the job is done. 

So when Hone Harawira, a whining radical, a proud racist, a lazy man's advocate comes forth and tells New Zealanders that people whose lifestyle is funded by the taxpayer should not be subjected to drug testing, on account of it being selective and exclusive. Hard working people in factories have to pass mandatory drug tests before they are allowed into the workplace. The same rule applies for many other jobs. http://www.3news.co.nz/Drug-tests-for-more-beneficiaries-mooted/tabid/423/articleID/259464/Default.aspx The beneficiaries should feel every right to be afraid because their greatest admirer in parliament is not making much of a case in their defence. Saying politicians should be drug tested too neither passes or excuses the laziness of the people living off taxpayer money.

Using disgraceful words to classify other people is a matter of opinion. Freedom of speech gives them an entitlement to express these opinions. Mr. Harawira walks around to declare the Maori party as mere "house niggers." http://www.3news.co.nz/Turia-rejects-house-nrs-comment/tabid/1607/articleID/268284/Default.aspx. Many people seemed to miss the main message which the man was trying to deliver and that was the gleaming pride in which he takes from using such an expression.

Like many actions, his voters and admirers will excuse this bad behaviour come the next election. Can you begin to understand why this man is such loathsome human being? Repeatedly insistent on causing a stir, there's always a grey storm cloud above his head. With a recent arrest by police at a demonstration, hopefully Mr. Harawira will settle down and realise he isn't exempt from following the law; often, it seems he thinks that is the case.

Nearly killed four people, but still receives sympathy

No sympathy should be spared for the girl who nearly killed herself and three other people whilst driving intoxicated. http://www.hawkesbaytoday.co.nz/news/drag-race-crash/1581451/

Police have begun an investigation into what has happened. "From the marks we can assume that there were two vehicles racing, what happened was that one of them started to lose control, it's gone into the drain, hit a concrete abutment at very high speed and catapulted into the air, disintegrated, and come to a halt about 30m to 40m away." 

If it weren't for the heroic effort of paramedics, who managed to revive the heart of one boy who was in the car, he would have been another victim of New Zealand's roadkill. 

How people can have sympathy for a young women who knowingly drives drunk remains a mystery. Forgiveness should be given to her if she apologises; but sympathy should be spared for more deserving people. More advertisement campaigns than ever are going, warning people about driving under the influence of alcohol. Groups,  movements, graphics television segments all being played. Yet the stupid generation who ignore every warning sign about alcohol, also seem to ignore all the warnings about driving drunk. Sadly, in these situations, there are no winners.

What upset?

Yahoo news is displaying a sports article which mentions South Africa and Australia's Rugby sevens teams "pull off upsets." 

Something which the writer of the article forgets is that South Africa are quite an accomplished sevens team, as are Australia. South Africa won the 2008/2009 Sevens series and Australia have been two time runners up. 

Each time is very competitive and professional. It shouldn't surprise anyone they reigned victorious over Fiji and New Zealand respectively. Both are skillful, quick and clever, something which they share with their rivals. On the day, one team wanted it more and it was shown on the scoreboard.

***Russell Norman needs to take a trip to Zimbabwe and the United States and see for himself the ludicrous idea he is proposing. The United States, a country where interests rates are next to zero, enable the country to print more money, without risking high inflation. Zimbabwe meanwhile, had interest rates similar to New Zealand in the late 1990's and began printing money to pay off its debts. In 2009, a 100 trillion dollar bill came out. Although New Zealand is a completely different country, the country would suffer economically, from additional money floating around.***

Do not be surprised if a myriad of Greek and Spanish people flock the shores of foreign countries soon. Unemployment in both country is around 25%. The European Union has left both economies in a nightmarish state. If only the countries still in it realise that membership is a poisonous trap, rather than a privilege.

Don't blame the store for selling butane, blame the girl who inhaled it

Personal responsibility is a foreign term in many people's vocabularies today. Politicians can never admit to making a mistake, drug and alcohol abusers love to say someone else made them do it, in addition to people too lazy to work, squandering taxpayers money to fund their lazy lifestyles. Such an icky term for modern use but why not? Many people do not want to take account of their actions, happy to place the blame on someone else. Subsequently, it comes as not surprise a One News journalist went to hunt down the convenience store which had Butane on display in the store window. Strung together by political correctness, she passively twisted the store attendants arm enough to make him remove the bottles from any passerby glances. Sadly, she missed the point of who really lies at fault.

The 17 year old girl who was stupid enough to start huffing Butane killed herself. It could not be said more simply. She knowingly brought a product from a convenience store (Dairy), before proceeding to an area in Riccarton, Christchurch with the butane canisters. Each girl then took turns in sniffing the awful substance, before one of them began to suffer from grogginess. Despite the best efforts of Ambulance medics and local residents, the girl was unable to survive.

There has been an unsettling movement in western culture to never take personal accountability. When something bad is done, such as huffing butane, it is the storekeeper's fault for "preying on vulnerable teenagers." Although people may derive short term satisfaction for slamming a casual shopkeeper,  harder questions will be pressed on by those who are brave enough to voice them. Why was that girl huffing butane? Shouldn't she have been taught better than to engage in such an activity? How come responsible users of butane are about to be suffer on account of a cockeyed teenager misbehaving? One news journalists, as politically correct as they may be, ought to have been pressing the parents hard on the matter; rather than pestering a shop keeper, who is selling a very useful flammable gas.

Parents need to be educating their college students against the very real dangers of illicit drugs, alcohol abuse, and huffing or sniffing toxic substances. Try as hard as some might, eventually the body will collapse under the abuse of these activities. And that is nobody's fault except that person.

Shane Jones, Lotto winners and Mike Tyson

Landing low blows on a political opponent is nothing surprising, or something which many serious voters should take seriously. When Labour MP Shane Jones,-infamous former minister of immigration- opens his mouth, nothing more is needed to conclude that it was all just one big melodrama. Owen Glenn, hinted in a speech of his plans to form a coalition with National or Labour, as an independent party http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10838912. Step up Shane Jones, who had the following to say. "It is crazy because at the moment there are three rich people: Owen Glenn chancing his arm; a fat rich ugly guy who is humiliating the country called Dotcom; and a rich guy running, and unfortunately, ruining the country, who is the PM. Who knows what will happen with [Glenn's] wealth?" The trouble with Mr. Jones conclusions, is that every description he gives of the three men, fits himself perfectly. He's always chanced his arm at every opportunity possible, using his ministerial credit card for personal use, including the use of private charter jets and 'renting' out pornographic films at hotels . Like Dotcom, he humiliated the country, albeit, in a rather different manner. He granted William Yan New Zealand citizenship, despite much of his application containing false declarations. New Zealand is very fortunate indeed Mr. Jones is only ruining the country, with stupid outlandish comments nowadays. The international exposure which the man gained, ruined New Zealand's credibility as one of the least corrupt political structures in the world. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1285495/Ex-minister-Shane-Jones-spent-taxpayer-cash-20-porn-films-expenses-scandal.html


Love for easy money

Week after week, month after month, year after year, it is the same old story. People lining up for lotto tickets at the hope of escaping their miserable jobs, hiding all worries in a fancy house, all under the false illusion it will change their lives for the better. No more need to work, you'll be able to buy whatever your heart desires and there will be no more misery. Lotto (or lottery) has a majestic way of creating illusions which many people get deceived into believing is general truth. So much of the revenue stream it generates comes from low income earners who are desperate to escape this life of toil and hard work.

Many people do not hear about those people who have pocketed large sums of money, by turning in their piece of paper full of numbers. The statistics are frightening, even for a lotto (lottery) addict. 44% of winners had spent everything they had won within five years, 48% still have the same job which they held before winning, and only 55% who won say they are happier. Like the roulette wheel or slot machines in a Casino, 68% still play Lotto (lottery) on a weekly basis. As for the stories of those who lost it all (many which are truly saddening), one can find page upon page of these testimonies all over the internet.

Lotto (lottery) players beware. Chances are you'll still be playing, even if you win that huge purse.

***New Zealand does not accept rapists into the country. Many have been denied the right to visit the country, long before former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson tried to get in. Mr. Tyson is now doing a marvelous impression of a young child throwing a tantrum. Keep him out the country. He has to live with the consequences of his action."***

Romney vs Obama. America, you get what you vote for.

There is nothing exciting about incumbent President Barack Obama, which suggests he will make much of difference on the American economy in the next four years. With that said, his Republican Rival, Mitt Romney does not fare much better either. One is a good public speaker and writer. The other, a successful businessman and investor. If a moderate political commentator were to critically analyse each of the policies the men puts forth, barely anything distinguishes them (taxes and government size aside). Americans have emphasised a need to have radical change to rescue a struggling economy. Neither Romney or Obama are capable of reviving the United States. You get what you vote for America. Remove all this 'personality' nonsense, which has plagued the political ideology ever since Bill Clinton appeared. Start searching hard and fast for someone capable of providing a real boost, politically, economically, socially.

Richie is Limping again...Surprise, surprise...not!

A lot of people had convinced themselves Richie McCaw was some sort of bullet proof dynamo, incapable of ever succumbing to the brutal knocks, he has suffered in his career. A small section last week on the blog outlined how he won't make it to the next world cup as a player was dismissed as mere guesswork. Indeed it might but this view is not just an opinion that has started here. New Zealand Herald writer Wynne Gray says he believes McCaw, won't be able to hold up for much longer. Wise words from somebody who has watched his career very closely. Hearing that McCaw had to leave training early, as a result of a bruised thigh, suggests last week's sentiments hold some rationale.


The stupid smartphone war does a Hollywood

Samsung is taking legal action against Apple. No specifics have yet been given, but it is likely over the new design of the phone. The more people who buy into the smartphone cult, the more this largely tedious nonsense will dominate headlines. Both companies will get publicity, moving forth with a Slurpee smile. Encouraging them on brings nothing but anti-social behaviour, lousy news headlines and mass amounts of debt. Resist this cult, while its still possible.



***A church in Kenya has been attacked by a terrorist cell, believed to be a Somalian Islamic radical group. Hopefully, now is the time for leaders of Islamic nations, to express their moral outrage over this immature conduct.***

Final comment- Young New Zealanders ought to know, that people who hold University degrees, don't fare too much better than those without one. Entrance into these academic institutions ought to become tougher, so any clueless, forced or lost prospects are culled at the processing stage.

Let us help the children.

It has become an worrying trend. Ever since David Shearer announced a breakfast in school plan, something seemed out of place. Not neccessarily Labour proposing such a high spending, half constructed idea or National's ability to swiftly dismiss it as "not our fault." The idea of children going to school without breakfast in New Zealand-for all its socialist policies-is absolutely outrageous. Solely blaming parents for not managing personal finances properly cannot be the cause. Every year, statistics released point to more children arriving at school hungry and in need of a satiating meal. Her majesty Michael Cullen invented a tax system which crucified their contingency of voters; Princess Simon English has succeeded the Cullen critter by inventing an even more ridiculous tax system which continues to penalise lower income families with a higher level of GST, across the board. Meanwhile, Helen and John continue to smile as if everything is alright, when it isn't. 270,000 New Zealand children currently sit in poverty. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10835462



The biggest hurdle which prevents many families from properly addressing their financial strains is having such a repulsive tax system, creating a large dependency on handouts, or food parcels for those who cannot feed their families on what's given to them. Lower income earner currently pay 12.2 cents (including ACC levy) for every $1 of income earned up to $14,000. http://www.ird.govt.nz/how-to/taxrates-codes/itaxsalaryandwage-incometaxrates.html Assuming somebody is working for such a paltry salary, it equates to $1708 of income put into hands of politicians who inform you that to get it back, you must register for Working for families. A complete nightmare, Working for Families currently costs $2,600,000,000 (fully typed just to give you an indication), of hard working New Zealanders income, much of which is returned to the taxpayer themselves. Instead of keeping that extra $1708 of income, each person must fill out a large amount of paperwork, as well as standing in line, to receive a handout which ought not to be handed out. Labour enjoy exercising authoritarian measures when in power. National has followed on in a similar way, saying they'll give people more personal responsibility. Many parents would prefer having an extra $32 in their pocket, which is satisfactory enough to buy food to feed hungry children. Weet-Bix is $4.99 for 1kg at Countdown; Bananas $3 per kg; Homebrand jam $3.09; some Signature brand toast to put it on, $3. Young  kiwi children will never go hungry at breakfast with these basic food items in the pantry. So why doesn't Labour admit they got it wrong in overtaxing, or National admit they made a mistake in their tax system? Try put it to them. Especially Helen, John, Michael and William.

If breakfast in schools is to remain a common policy, there is nothing wrong with that. One has to take into account that many young children have parents who are largely neglectful of basic personal needs their children have. Launching the breakfast in schools plan is a sensible idea, provided each parent is paying for their child's meal, rather than the sugar daddy sitting in the hot tub. It once again comes down to personal responsibility. Many young New Zealand families struggle financially and nobody who is well off can point the finger at Pacific Islander and Maori families and say they've got is easy. Many of them work long hours on minimum wage, barely generating enough to pay for the absolute necessities in life. Providing a breakfast in schools program on a scheme which automatically deducts $10 a week from a parents income enables a child to eat a proper breakfast and gives parents a sense of empowerment that they are providing for their offspring. After all, "if kids are hungry they can't learn." http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/east-bays-courier/7736157/Providing-balance

While it is tempting to rant about the useless job the politicians, this would be a deterrent from the main focus- helping to properly nourish the future generation of New Zealand. One of the simplest ways to help is going dumpster diving. Many supermarkets, bakeries, even coffee shops throw away large amounts of good food. Much of what is retrieved can be donated towards any schools who have hungry children. For someone who is looking to be part of a more established, practical source, look no further. A brilliant scheme created by Di Celliers, has people going to backyards and orchards and picking any excess fruit which is growing on the trees. So much fruit has been collected, schools currently on the roster have been overwhelmed by how many apples, mandarins, or grapefruits they receive. The Community Fruit Harvesting, which Celliers runs, also produces an array of jams; great for the morning slice of toast. Their Facebook page can be found in the following linkhttps://www.facebook.com/pickfruit?ref=ts&fref=ts. For the more discreet, of course there are donations which can be made. Be very suspicious of any government funded plan though.

It should never have come to this. Children do not deserve to go to school hungry on account of a shambolic tax system and neglectful parents. With some steady help and an outreach from the community, the future of New Zealand will continue to enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Keep any United States Army base off New Zealand soil

There is an increasing air of frustration coming from New Zealand people, as their small government repeatedly bends over backwards and submit themselves to being the lap dogs to a dying superpower. Now, with a recent interview on Q+A, interest has been expressed by US Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta to have United States troops based in New Zealand. The time has come for Mr. Slippery to say "thanks but no thanks."

New Zealand ought to think very carefully before considering any sort of offer from the United States, however honey soaked it may be. Economically, North Africa and the Middle East will start becoming suspicious of such a relationship, which will likely impact on the level of trade which happens. As it is, the economy is very dependent on exports as a source of GDP; losing business here would be a strike out.

Terrorist threat levels will also climb. Review the current countries which have suffered from terrorist attacks since September 11, 2001, and an emerging pattern begins to become clearer. Each country has close ties, in some way, with the United States. Placing an Army base anywhere in New Zealand is a threat to the peace the island nation currently enjoys. Being a remote, distant country means nothing to radical terrorist cells, who will take on the challenge. They will have a target, a reason to attack, as well as a well constructed plan to carry it all out. Stand up and resist it. New Zealand people are tired of Americans pushing them around; they want to be able to get back to living life, without being under siege.

Another Day, another death sentence

Once again, New Zealand's finest young men and women depart to continue fighting a stupid foreign war. 140 personnel are part of the final operation to Afghanistan, for weird reasons only George Bush could ever understand properly in his utopia mindset. Almost everything being done by the troops is largely peacekeeping; handing out food parcels, giving away blankets, teaching young Afghan children to read and write. Politicians ought to go and do that. It'd be a far greater contribution to the nation then the stupid shouting sessions done down at the beehive.

Do not be surprised to hear about further deaths, prior to all troops are withdrawn next year in April. It is no longer a matter of "if it will happen," but rather "how long until it happens."

McCaw will make it to the next World Cup...as a commentator

Yes, this might surprise a few people who marvel at Richard McCaw (or Saint Richie for the cult of followers). A prolonged break away from rugby will not prolong his career enough to get him through to the next world cup. Unlike Brad Thorn, who has never suffered a major injury setback, McCaw has been plagued by a fair few, especially in the latter parts of his career. There is hope he will make it to London, as a commentator. Hobbling around against South Africa in Dunedin provided an indicator that the legendary flanker's body is now operating on sheer willpower.