Examine the most recent issue of International Economic Trends, published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. The figures you see in the graphs are percent changes compared to the year before, in economic data for seven countries and the Euro Area. Your assignment is to compare indicators for the United States, Japan, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and form a view about their future.

International Economic Trends is found at this site:

http://research.stlouisfed

You must use this site for your base information but you are welcome to use one or more other sites to help you in your analysis.

When you click on the link above you come to a summary screen with several economic indicators for several different countries. You can click on the short or long-term charts for each individual country, but on the far right there is a cross country comparison that you can access, and this is best for the multiple country comparisons you will be doing. When using the cross country comparison first make sure you choose the graph that compares the US, Japan, Canada, and the United Kingdom, because other comparisons will also be shown.

Second, make sure you choose the correct chart because several will be displayed for each economic classification.

For each of the first four questions below, the macro-economic indicator you are asked to compare will be stated in two ways. First will be the title of the column on the left of the opening screen, as it is stated on the opening screen of the database. Second, in parenthesis, the title of the graph to look for after clicking on the cross country comparison.

Each of the 5 questions below require you to compare the United States, Japan, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Please repeat the questions below on the title page of your paper

Each of the first four comparisons below specify that you need to utilize the latest available information and that will include some 2011 data. It is extremely important that this data be included and essential for giving your analysis for question 5.

1. Compare the four countries in terms of Output and Growth (Real GDP). The analysis should only cover the period from the beginning of 2008 to the present, and make sure the most recent 2011 changes are addressed.

2. Compare the four countries in terms of Productivity (Output Per Worker). The analysis should only cover the period from the beginning of 2008 to the present, and make sure the most recent 2011 changes are addressed.

3. Compare the four countries with respect to Inflation and Prices (CPI). The analysis should only cover the period from the beginning of 2008 to the present, and make sure the most recent 2011 changes are addressed.

4. Compare the four countries regarding the Labor Market (Unemployment Rate). The analysis should only cover the period from the beginning of 2008 to the present, and make sure the most recent 2011 changes are addressed.

This is a difficult part because instead of reporting and ranking the indicators you must look at them as a whole, in an analytic manner to arrive at conclusions:

5. After reviewing the recent economic indicators for these countries, which is the country that currently has the strongest economic recovery at the present time. Make certain you confine your choice to only one country and give an explanation for your choice.

In the first 5 questions you examined the recent past and present of economic indicators that measure the health of an economy. Interest rates are also tied to that health and we will examine those with the next question.

6. The link below takes you to a site that shows you various Treasure security yields and how short and long-term yields differ. This is called the term structure of interest rates and when graphed it is called a yield curve. What is the relationship between short and long-term interest rates as the time to maturity of the debt increases? To be more specific, do yields increase, decrease, or stay the same as the time to maturity increases, and describe one or more reasons that cause the yield curve shape.

http://www.ustreas.gov/offices/domestic-finance/debt-management/interest-rate/yield.shtml

The following shows you the yields on all the maturities issued by the Treasury in the form of a table. You can also see a graph of the current yields, the yield curve, by clicking on the Data and Charts Center located on the left column of the page.

Be patient, it is slow to load.

http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/data-chart-center/interest-rates/Pages/TextView.aspx?data=yield

The following gives you a hypothetical yield curve (no0t based on current data) but the value is in the explanations that are below the curve.

http://www.investopedia.com/terms/y/yieldcurve.asp#axzz1VCSWJAY8

? The Fedeeraql Reserve has written an interesting article on yield curves as a leading economic indicator http://www.newyorkfed.org/research/capital_markets/ycfaq.html

? Economic Focus ## What goes around, The Economist, June 9, 2007, retrieved from the Proquest database, August 15, 2011:

http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1284761571&sid=1&Fmt=3&clientId=29440&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Case assignment expectations:

Use information from the modular background readings as well as any good quality resource you can find. Make sure you cite all resources you use and provide a reference list at the end of your paper.

LENGTH: 4 typed and double-spaced pages with 1 Inch Margins.

In addition to the overall quality, depth, grammar, and organization of the paper, the following will, in particular, be assessed:

1. Your ability to present comparative economic data in a clear and precise manner.

2. Your ability to analyze comparative economic performance to arrive at conclusions consistent with the facts.

3. Some in-text references to modular background readings (APA formatting not required).

"I do not need general introduction or conclusion of Wal-Mart Inc., I just need an essay all about economic trend of Wal-Mart." so I would say that just bullet points (essay) of Wal-Mart economic trend!!
(There are six segments of the general environment but all I need is economic trend of Wal-Mart. The objective you should have in evaluating this trend is to be able to predict the segment that you expect to have the most significant influence on Wal-Mart the next several years (say three to five years) and to explain your reasoning for your predictions.)

You need to follow the instructions provided below. Please notice that quality of this essay is very important.
and appropriate figures to back up your words (ex. Financial charts) have to be included, so "it has to be more than 3 pages including the figures." I would say one chart is fine if you think it is very important to back up your words, but more than one can be included. I ordered 5 resources needed, but you think 5 resources are not enough, you can use more. I thought that 5 is enough for 3 pages long.
please "quality" of this paper is very important.

economic trends:
interest rates, inflation rates, savngs rates, exchange rates, trade deficits, budget deficits.

Economic Factors
Economics factors are important to know the purchasing power of people, stability of economy. Fluctuation in economy impact prices of product and services organization offers to their customers. These issues are important in third world country because during recession and depression demand goes down.
Some examples of economic factors are
- Higher the interest rate lowers the investment.
- Economic growth in terms of GDP
- Inflation rate
- Exchange rates
These factors impact cost of capital, revenues and profits of the organization.

Economic factors - what are the interest rates for business financing?
- what is the inflation rate?
- what is the unemployment rate?
- what is the long term prospects for the company?
- is the gross domestic product (GDP) per capita increasing or decreasing.

again, "I do not need general introduction or conclusion of Wal-Mart Inc., I just need an essay all about economic trend of Wal-Mart." so I could say bullet points (essay) of Wal-Mart economic trend!!

t. Louis Federal Reserve National Economic Trends: This pdf data file illustrates national economic trends in six economic indicators for the past four years. Retrieved February 17, 2011.
http://research.stlouisfed.org/publications/net/page3.pdf

Look at the charts published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, by clicking on the first link above. The following are descriptions of each chart. You can also consult the optional resources in the background material for this module.

Real GDP Growth

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the dollar value of all goods and services produced in the U.S. economy in one year. The Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis measures the Gross Domestic Product by adding the spending in the consumer, investment (firms), government, and foreign (exports minus imports) sectors. While the current GDP can give us a good indication of current production, we must remove the effects of inflation from current GDP to compare the current figures to GDP numbers from other years. Real GDP is the current GDP divided by the GDP price deflator. The real GDP is one of the most important indicators of economic performance. A rise in real GDP indicates economic growth, while a fall in real GDP indicates economic decline.

Consumer Price Index (CPI)

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the change in the overall cost of a variety of consumer goods and services. The Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics measures the Consumer Price Index by creating a market basket of thousands of items purchased by consumers -- food, housing, clothing, transportation, medical care, recreation, education, communication, and energy. The prices of the specified products are measured each month, and the percentage change in price is reported as the Consumer Price Index. The Consumer Price Index generally increases during economic growth; during economic decline, the rate of price increase slows or prices may even decline.

Industrial Production

Industrial Production measures the output of American industry. The Federal Reserve Board of Governors measures Industrial Production by calculating the manufacturing output in the consumer goods, business equipment, construction supplies, materials, manufacturing, mining, and utility industries. Production is calculated in each sector monthly, and the percentage change in output is reported as Industrial Production. Durable goods, such as cars, appliances, and furniture, as well as construction supplies, tend to be more sensitive to economic changes than are other manufacturing products. Generally, Industrial Production increases during economic growth and falls during periods of economic decline. However, the 1999-2000 growth cycle suggests this is not always true. Interest Rates

Interest Rates

The Ten-Year Treasury Interest Rate measures the percentage return investors receive on U.S. Treasury bonds. The Federal Reserve Board of Governors measures Ten-Year Treasury Interest Rates, as determined daily in the bond market. Treasury Interest Rates can be indicative of changes in other long-term interest rates such as mortgages and long-term business loans. A decline in interest rates can precede increased investment spending to promote economic growth; high interest rates can lead to lower levels of investment and a decline in the rate of growth.

Change in Non-Farm Payrolls

The Change in Non-farm Payroll measures the number of people employed by companies and government. The Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics surveys approximately 390,000 establishments to count the number of people employed each month, and the change from the previous month in the number of employed people is reported as the Change in Non-farm Payrolls. Non-farm Payroll generally rises during economic growth and falls during economic decline.

Unemployment Rate

The Unemployment Rate measures the percentage of people in the labor force who were not working during the week of the survey, but had specifically looked for work within the previous four weeks (unless they were waiting to be recalled from layoff, in which case they need not have been looking for work to be counted as unemployed). The Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics surveys thousands of Americans each month to calculate the size of the labor force (those working plus those not working, but seeking work) and the unemployment rate (the unemployed divided by the labor force). The number of people unemployed as a percentage of the labor force is reported each month as the Unemployment Rate. The Unemployment Rate generally falls during economic growth and rises during economic decline. Use the chart above to see how the Unemployment Rate illustrates how our economy is performing. This chart was published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.

When these indicators are analyzed in concert, the developing pattern can help to illustrate current economic performance. Periods of economic growth are often fueled by increased demand for economic products. This increased demand often causes GDP to increase, while simultaneously causing prices to go up. Firms increase their production to meet that increased demand, and often hire additional workers, increasing the payroll and reducing the unemployment rate. The increased demand for products can also result in increased demand for loans to purchase products, increasing interest rates. Recessions, on the other hand, are often fueled by a reduction in demand for goods and services. Firms reduce production in response, lowering GDP, and prices. Production cutbacks lead firms to lay off workers, increasing the unemployment rate. Reduced demand for loans can result in lower interest rates, and the Federal Reserve may further reduce interest rates in an attempt to stimulate spending in the economy.

Use the charts published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis to see how our economy is performing and answer the following essay in a 4-5 page essay:

1. For EACH indicator, explain the following:

-current status

-change from last year

-any trends?? (i.e. falling, rising, etc.)

-What do these results and/or trends suggest for the health of the economy?

2. Imagine that you are the Chair of the President?s Council of Economic Advisors. You need to prepare a briefing for the president on the status of the economy. Based on the current performance of these indicators, write a 1-2 paragraph on how the economy is generally doing based on your answer to question #1. (for instance, determine if we are experiencing growth or decline)

3. Now imagine that the President wants to know what the economy?s performance will be next year at this time. Based on the current performance of these indicators, try to predict the economy?s performance next year.

*This lesson was adapted from the Council of Economic Education.

Case Assignment Expectations:

Use concepts from the modular background readings as well as any good quality resources you can find from the cyberlibrary or other internet search engines. Pleas be sure to cite all sources within the text and provide a reference list at the end of the paper.

Length: 4-5 pages double spaced and typed.

The following items will be assessed in particular:

Your ability to understand the economic indicators of our economy.

Some in-text references to the modular background material (APA formatting not required).

The essay should address each element of the assignment. Remember to support your answers with solid references including the case readings.

I request the writer Bolavens to do this assignment
How is the Economy Doing?

Required Reading:
St. Louis Federal Reserve National Economic Trends: This pdf data file illustrates national economic trends in six economic indicators for the past four years. Retrieved September 1, 2011.
http://research.stlouisfed.org/publications/net/page3.pdf

Look at the charts published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, by clicking on the first link above. The following are descriptions of each chart. You can also consult the optional resources in the background material for this module.

Real GDP Growth

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the dollar value of all goods and services produced in the U.S. economy in one year. The Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis measures the Gross Domestic Product by adding the spending in the consumer, investment (firms), government, and foreign (exports minus imports) sectors. While the current GDP can give us a good indication of current production, we must remove the effects of inflation from current GDP to compare the current figures to GDP numbers from other years. Real GDP is the current GDP divided by the GDP price deflator. The real GDP is one of the most important indicators of economic performance. A rise in real GDP indicates economic growth, while a fall in real GDP indicates economic decline.

Consumer Price Index (CPI)

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the change in the overall cost of a variety of consumer goods and services. The Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics measures the Consumer Price Index by creating a market basket of thousands of items purchased by consumers -- food, housing, clothing, transportation, medical care, recreation, education, communication, and energy. The prices of the specified products are measured each month, and the percentage change in price is reported as the Consumer Price Index. The Consumer Price Index generally increases during economic growth; during economic decline, the rate of price increase slows or prices may even decline.

Industrial Production

Industrial Production measures the output of American industry. The Federal Reserve Board of Governors measures Industrial Production by calculating the manufacturing output in the consumer goods, business equipment, construction supplies, materials, manufacturing, mining, and utility industries. Production is calculated in each sector monthly, and the percentage change in output is reported as Industrial Production. Durable goods, such as cars, appliances, and furniture, as well as construction supplies, tend to be more sensitive to economic changes than are other manufacturing products. Generally, Industrial Production increases during economic growth and falls during periods of economic decline. However, the 1999-2000 growth cycle suggests this is not always true. Interest Rates

Interest Rates

The Ten-Year Treasury Interest Rate measures the percentage return investors receive on U.S. Treasury bonds. The Federal Reserve Board of Governors measures Ten-Year Treasury Interest Rates, as determined daily in the bond market. Treasury Interest Rates can be indicative of changes in other long-term interest rates such as mortgages and long-term business loans. A decline in interest rates can precede increased investment spending to promote economic growth; high interest rates can lead to lower levels of investment and a decline in the rate of growth.

Change in Non-Farm Payrolls

The Change in Non-farm Payroll measures the number of people employed by companies and government. The Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics surveys approximately 390,000 establishments to count the number of people employed each month, and the change from the previous month in the number of employed people is reported as the Change in Non-farm Payrolls. Non-farm Payroll generally rises during economic growth and falls during economic decline.

Unemployment Rate

The Unemployment Rate measures the percentage of people in the labor force who were not working during the week of the survey, but had specifically looked for work within the previous four weeks (unless they were waiting to be recalled from layoff, in which case they need not have been looking for work to be counted as unemployed). The Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics surveys thousands of Americans each month to calculate the size of the labor force (those working plus those not working, but seeking work) and the unemployment rate (the unemployed divided by the labor force). The number of people unemployed as a percentage of the labor force is reported each month as the Unemployment Rate. The Unemployment Rate generally falls during economic growth and rises during economic decline. Use the chart above to see how the Unemployment Rate illustrates how our economy is performing. This chart was published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.

When these indicators are analyzed in concert, the developing pattern can help to illustrate current economic performance. Periods of economic growth are often fueled by increased demand for economic products. This increased demand often causes GDP to increase, while simultaneously causing prices to go up. Firms increase their production to meet that increased demand, and often hire additional workers, increasing the payroll and reducing the unemployment rate. The increased demand for products can also result in increased demand for loans to purchase products, increasing interest rates. Recessions, on the other hand, are often fueled by a reduction in demand for goods and services. Firms reduce production in response, lowering GDP, and prices. Production cutbacks lead firms to lay off workers, increasing the unemployment rate. Reduced demand for loans can result in lower interest rates, and the Federal Reserve may further reduce interest rates in an attempt to stimulate spending in the economy.

Use the charts published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis to see how our economy is performing and answer the following essay in a 4-5 page essay:

1. For EACH indicator, explain the following:

-current status

-change from last year

-any trends?? (i.e. falling, rising, etc.)

-What do these results and/or trends suggest for the health of the economy?

2. Imagine that you are the Chair of the President?s Council of Economic Advisors. You need to prepare a briefing for the president on the status of the economy. Based on the current performance of these indicators, write a 1-2 paragraph on how the economy is generally doing based on your answer to question #1. (for instance, determine if we are experiencing growth or decline)

3. Now imagine that the President wants to know what the economy?s performance will be next year at this time. Based on the current performance of these indicators, try to predict the economy?s performance next year.

*This lesson was adapted from the Council of Economic Education.

Case Assignment Expectations:

Use concepts from the modular background readings as well as any good quality resources you can find from the cyberlibrary or other internet search engines. Pleas be sure to cite all sources within the text and provide a reference list at the end of the paper.

Length: 4-5 pages double spaced and typed.

The following items will be assessed in particular:

Your ability to understand the economic indicators of our economy.

Some in-text references to the modular background material (APA formatting not required).

The essay should address each element of the assignment. Remember to support your answers with solid references including the case readings.

Please explain the following in the paper:

How recetn economic trends are influencing the business
strategies the company has used or could use for adapting to changin markets, such as an economic downturn or recession
Tactics the company has implemented or could implement to achieve their strategic goals
The role human resource management plays in helping the company achieve its business goals
If you would be willign to invest in this company as a mutal fund manager

Write a conclusion for the overall business analysis.

Format paper using APA guidelines.

Theme: Many macroeconomic signs indicate that we are at a watershed period for the United States economy. The final quarter of the 20th century was a period of profound change for the world, and as we closed out the 1990s, there was great confidence that a new economic era was dawning. But a combination of events ? including the end of a long bull market for stocks, a major shift in U.S. fiscal policy, and the startling events of 9/11 with their aftermath ? now make the economic future problematic, to put it mildly. What do economic fundamentals teach us about the issues and choices for the future? How can we analyze the statistics that will shape the economy for the coming five or more years? What will be consequences for the real estate industry?

In this class, we will ask each student to take one of the major elements that comprise the U.S. Gross Domestic Product, track the associated statistics to US economic trends and policy changes through the boom period of 1996-2000 and the downturn 2000-2004 (roughly 36 quarters of economic history), and relate these to the performance of the real estate industry. Students will then look to prepare an outlook for the economy and the property sector, using both the numbers and their judgments about the choices now before us.

Each student will select a component area of the GDP, which can simply be expressed by the formula: ?C + I + G + (X ? M)?, where C = consumption; I = investment; G = Government; and (X-M) represents World Trade, with ?X? standing for exports and ?M? for imports.

Some area's to cover:
Population Growth/Demographics

The Prime Rate: How changes in mortgage interest rates can change affordability of single-family homeownership

The rising gap between median incomes and median home prices.

Mortgage Lending: Technological advances


Future: effect of rising interest rates
New construction
Government actions

Make sure to CITE EVERYTHING, using footnotes throughout the entire paper. Please email me with any question that arise. [email protected]

There are a variety of strong statistic sources on single-family housing (including the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Home Builders). This property sector is exhaustively represented in the academic literature as well.

Be sure to show the links between housing and GDP: how it affects trends and cycles; how it relates to variables like interest rates, mortgage origination volumes, etc.
Try to quantify the multiplier effect of housing: look in the journal literature for good studies on housing linkages


In each paper, reference to U.S. economic background, (including monetary and fiscal policy changes, and major external events domestically and aboard) is appropriate. In each topic, the ?contribution to GDP? should be indicated and both ?forward? and ?backward? economic linkages identified Professional, objective research is expected. Use of primary and secondary source material appropriate to the Masters Degree level is required, and correct academic citation will be demanded in written reports.

Financial Feasibility for Development in Bull Run Virginia.
Will be used in a overall development plan.
Name of development: ? Pleasant Valley Estates
Must contain: Cash Flow Statement, Supply and Demand Equilibrium Statement and Pro Forma Profit and Loss Statement.

Back ground info:
FINANCIAL FEASIBILITY

Delineation of the market area:
? Employment-
1. Labor force = 79.3%
2. Employed = 76.4%
? Commuting rages
1. Driving in minutes = 3.2
? Public Transportation = 2.1%

Analysis of recent economic trends in the local market area:
? Demand for market = Strong demand due to proximity to good schools and job site.
? Economic Factors = 80% private wage and salary workers
? Occupied housing units = 95.6%
? Absorption rate = 21%

Determination of demand factors:
? Income = 50% between $35,000 ? $74,999
? Population = 11,337
? Household characteristics-
1. Lacking complete plumbing facilities = 3%
2. Lacking phone service = 2.4%

Analysis of potential supply:

With population increasing faster than development supply is under current demand for housing. Federal Government and private sector jobs projected to increase will lead to more immigration.

Possible competing projects:
? Pleasant Valley
? Bull Run

Financial Leverage:

California Teachers Union has agreed to purchase rental properties and provide debt financing for construction and purchase of land. This should also attract other investors if needed.

Conclusion:

Even with the economic down trend high demand and lower interest rates will continue to push demand for home sales and rentals.



http://www.hud.gov/

Related background:
CONSTRUCTION ANALYSIS

Under the Code of Virginia, any new construction must comply with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. A number of state required construction permits are also required. These permits are filed under the owner/developer name LadderMan Construction which include, building permit, electrical permit, mechanical permit, plumbing permit, VDOT, sewage and water supply construction permit. Currently, the review process has begun for our proposal in the residential planning district of Bull Run, Virginia. Land plot location: 43-3 located on State Highway 609, Pleasant Valley Road. The assessed value of the land is $210.960, per property.

Construction will include excavating and building single-family homes in a residential zone. This will include connecting water, sewer, electric, gas as well as lay utilities underground. Exterior landscaping will be needed. The streets are paved by the state of Virginia, however curbs, sidewalks as well as streetlights will need to be built, connected or erected.

The structural and architectural elements of a single-family residential dwelling are detailed along with construction costs. The architectural style of home is 2600-sq. ft., width 56?, Classic Colonial. The two story Colonial home will have 4 bedrooms, 2 ? baths, basement and will be build on 1 acre plots. The estimated building cost for each home will be $125,927.08 (see below). The retail value of the single-family residential dwelling will begin in the $260,000. This is based on the cost of $100 dollars per square foot.

The estimated construction costs for 2003 are:

Items: Estimated Costs:
Excavation: $ 5121.27
Concrete: 13.97 tons $ 10,070.03
Lumber: 13,127 board feet $ 11,788.35
Wood Flooring: 2,085 sq. ft. $ 7865.73
Millwork: 15 doors (interior &closet) $ 7052.13
Sheathing: 6,212 sq. ft $ 5058.87
Roofing: 3,100 sq. ft $ 12,470.59
Exterior siding: 2,325 sq. ft. $ 8604.00
Plaster & Drywall: 6,144 sq. ft $ 9350.35
Tile work: 2,085 sq. ft $ 5362.11
Windows: 15 framed $ 16,525.00
Heating: 120 linear ft. $ 4133.08
Insulation: 3,061 sq. ft. $ 5032.80
Hardware: (toilets, bathtubs) $ 8596.67
Appliances: (kitchen, laundry) $ 8896.41

Total Estimated Cost (excluding items*) for single-family dwelling: $ 125,927.08

The project control will be to manage costs within budget. All costs will either be financed through start-up capital or bank lending. The construction company will not manage the project or new homes, however the company will enter into a fiduciary agreement, which will require a property manager to secure the highest net return for each project.

MARKET ANALYSIS

New Units

In 2000, 36.2% units in structure were 10 o 19 units. Because of the likely economic downturn in the next few months, the number of home built will not exceed 19. Although we have purchased land to occupy 50 units and a country club facility, the forecast of units for building in 2003-2004 is 19.

Vacancy

In 2000, only 2.2% of the housing units are vacant, while 95.6% of the population make up occupied housing units.

Monthly Mortgage Costs

In 2000, 64.6% of the population pay mortgage ranging from $1000 to $1499. Our homes start at $260,000 (see Construction Analysis), with 20% down ($52,000), Consumers will be financing approximately $208,000 (80%) at an interest rate of 7% (a likely increased rate from the now down market of 5%-6%) for a 30 year fixed rate loan. This will put the consumer at a payment of approximately $1383.83 a month, placing our consumers in the largest percentage field of mortgage costs ranges.

Employment

In 2000, 79.3% of the population 16 years and over are in the labor force. The Civilian labor force includes 78.7% while the Armed Forces only make up approximately 7% of the labor force. The occupation of employed civilian labor force includes 38.7% in the management and professional occupations and 27.3% of the population is in sales and office occupations. This gives us 66% of the employed workforce that is labeled white-collar worker, which is the specific label we are targeting because of the country club atmosphere we are trying to present.

Income Level

We are targeting families with an income ranging $35,000 - $99,000. This target proves to be successful, because it makes up the largest number in the household income. In 1999, families with income ranging $35,000 - $49,999 made up 14.8% of the population. In 1999, families with income ranging $50,000 - $74,999 made up 28.6% of the population, and in 1999, families with income ranging $75,000 - $99,000 made up 18.2% of the population. This gives us 61.6% of the population.





Profile of Selected Characteristics in 2000: U.S. Bureau of the Census, Census 2000; Geographic area: Bull Run CDP, Virginia


SALES ANALYSIS

Purpose:

To manage the community at Bull Run efficiently with the objective of securing the highest net return for the property owner over the property?s useful life.

Marketing:

Our community will be marketed more toward young single professional''s as well as young families. We are focusing on families who, combined, are making $80,000 to $100,000 annually as well as individuals who are in the $50,000 + range. Our community provides many resources that appeal to this market segment. We have created our community to cater to these individuals. In order to get the attention of the public we start an advertising campaign that will include newspaper ads, neighborhood flyers, bulletin boards, Internet sites, signs on the property and ?open houses? on the weekends. With the addition of a world class golf course we hope to attract filthy old rich people. We are projecting that the current population size of this area will increase in the coming years. We also believe that the average incomes of the professionals in this area will also increase. We are attempting to introduce a new way of life for the people of this area and also attract people live in more congested areas but still pay the same for rent of for their houses.

Property Dues:

Property dues are those dues for service provided by the country club. These dues pay for the employment of staff. The payment of dues include the uses of:

? 9 Hole Golf Course (25% of dues)
? Community Swimming Pool (25% of dues)
? 2 Tennis Courts (1 indoor and 1 outdoor) (25% of dues)
? Country Club Dining (25% of dues)

Monthly dues are $145 during the winter season
Monthly dues are $245 during the spring, summer and fall seasons
Plus an initial fee when home is purchased $5000 (includes first year of dues)

Overall operation of the property:

A property maintenance staff will be needed for regular up keep of the community. Our community will employ a continuing maintenance program, which will include landscaping, redecorating and other general maintenance items. We also plan for renovations every five years to keep our community on the cutting edge. Property dues will be the responsibility of the property manager. When payment is overdue the issue will be addressed with the head of household to determine when due will be paid. If no further positive action is made termination of community services will occur for that particular household.

Finish your business analysis using the McDonald's Corp.
Write a paper of 3,000 words reviewing the strategic initiatives taken by the company relative to organizational and operational adaptation to changing markets.

Explain the following in your paper:

How recent economic trends are influencing the business
Strategies the company has used or could use for adapting to changing markets, such as an economic downturn or recession
Tactics the company has implemented or could implement to achieve their strategic goals
The role human resource management plays in helping the company achieve its business goals
If you would be willing to invest in this company as a mutual fund manager

Write a conclusion for your overall business analysis. Be sure to support your conclusion with information you have gathered from parts one and two of your business analysis.

Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.

There are faxes for this order.

Customer is requesting that
There are faxes for this order.

Customer is requesting that (amber111) completes this order.

Write a paper reviewing the strategic initiatives taken by Bank of America relative to organizational and operational adaptation to changing markets.

Explain the following in paper:

?How recent economic trends are influencing the business
?Strategies the company has used or could use for adapting to changing markets, such as an economic downturn or recession
?Tactics the company has implemented or could implement to achieve their strategic goals
?The role human resource management plays in helping the company achieve its business goals

Budgeting is an important internal activity. Preparing budgets involves forecasting sales and estimating costs. For this SLP, you will prepare a flexible budget for next year for the company of your choice. The budget needs to be realistic and based on corporate and economic trends.

Companies prepare budgets based on absorption and/or variable costing. Due to lack of information, we're limiting our budgeting to the absorption approach. Don't forget that the presentation of the information is important.

Set up the flexible budget showing three different growth rates. Use the financial statements and do research on the company of your choice to determine growth trends. Explain your estimates and prepare a flexible budget showing the low, the average, and the high revenues and adjust all other line items in the income statement to reflect the revised revenue assumptions.
?What is the growth rate in sales for the past three years?
?Are revenues and expenses growing at the same rate? What was the experience in the past few years?
?What is the current growth rate in the economy?
?How are the competitiors doing?
?Current interest rates and tax burdens.

Discuss the implications of the information after you have completed the flexible budget.

?How does the flexible budget differ from a static budget?
?Budgets are used for planning and control. Discuss how you can use the information derived for these two purposes?
?Comment on using this information for performance evaluations.



Modular SLP Assignment Expectations

Always include the name of the organization(s), time period covered and source of information. It is important to answer the questions as posed. The document should be from 2 to 4 pages and written in a clear and concise manner. Don't forget to include tables as required. Support your discussion or tables with references in APA format. You are encouraged to use Excel or other compatible spreadsheet when computations are involved. You can turn in the spreadsheet instead of the Word document. The content should be equivalent to the page length suggested for a word processing document

Please use reference and citation

This second assignment asks you 1) to inform an audience of educated business readers about an essential economic trend or business issue, and 2) persuade the audience to respond in a specific fashion to the trend or issue. Both research and analysis will be critical to your paper?s effectiveness.


CONTEXT

Here are examples of the kind of trends and issues that you might consider (and these are only examples):

If I had assigned my students this same writing project five-to-seven years ago, some of them would have researched BlackBerries and their effect on the business world in terms of mobile phone/Web access/calendaring applications. Further, if I had asked them to comment on what competition they envisioned arising to challenge BlackBerry and its parent corporation, Research in Motion, in the near future, few would have foreseen any credible threat to Blackberry?s domination of this market. In just the last several months, however, RIM has lost tremendous market share (and stock value) to newer-generation technologies represented by fourth-generation smart phones and their manufacturers, so much so that RIM had begun to consult with outside financial advisors regarding the possibility of being acquired by a more competitive company. Still, in just the last few months, RIM has released the Blackberry 10, changed its name to Blackberry, and launched a concerted effort to regain its lost market share. As you view the short-term future, where are Blackberry and mobile telecommunications industry in general going?

Exploring another recent development, online learning environments?distance education?mark a trend that many schools are now seriously discussing, including USC Marshall. Are we close to an era when brick-and-mortar campuses like ours will be rendered obsolete and physical classrooms will be a thing of the past? Why might this occur? Why not? What would we gain and lose if this were to happen?

Also very apparent over the last several years has been the inexorable run up in the price of crude oil on world markets. (Just how volatile this market is has been is shown by the rise in price to an all-time high of $147 + per barrel and then several up-and-down reversals of that. As I write this, the price is in the mid-$90s/barrel and threatening to rise yet again.) Much of what is driving this escalation has been increased competition between the US, China, and India to secure large shares of the world?s limited petroleum reserves. Will this competition force many nations to seek in accelerated fashion alternate sources of energy? If so, what alternative sources may be developed in concerted fashion? Will this help solve the dilemma for many industrialized nations of too-expensive, environmentally-harmful energy?


TASKS

Here are the essential points to develop in your memo:

1) Define the trend explicitly for an audience that is business-savvy but unaware of the specifics of the issue that you are addressing.

2) Clearly establish the trend?s existence.
(over)
3) Lay out precisely why it is significant.

4) Recommend in a compelling manner how your audience ought to respond and how it can best prepare to deal with the issue.

This paper has to be written in three-four-page, single-spaced, blocked-paragraph paper. Further, I have to incorporate at least 5 substantive, credible, scholarly sources. Also include visuals/graphics as you deem appropriate for clarification and persuasion.
----------------

Note to the writer:

For this assignment, I want to write a paper on business trends in the fitness world. I'm interested in the fitness DVD production business and how it has changed the fitness market. I have found a few sources that may be beneficial, but my instructor requires that I use at least 5 credible sources (from research) to support my argument.

Please let me know which sources you have found and will be using before writing. Thank you.

Budgeting is an important internal activity. Preparing budgets involves forecasting sales and estimating costs. For this SLP, you will prepare a flexible budget for next year for the company of your choice. The budget needs to be realistic and based on corporate and economic trends.

Companies prepare budgets based on absorption and/or variable costing. Due to lack of information, we're limiting our budgeting to the absorption approach. Don't forget that the presentation of the information is important.

Set up the flexible budget showing three different growth rates. Use the financial statements and do research on the company of your choice to determine growth trends. Explain your estimates and prepare a flexible budget showing the low, the average, and the high revenues and adjust all other line items in the income statement to reflect the revised revenue assumptions.
?What is the growth rate in sales for the past three years?
?Are revenues and expenses growing at the same rate? What was the experience in the past few years?
?What is the current growth rate in the economy?
?How are the competitiors doing?
?Current interest rates and tax burdens.

Discuss the implications of the information after you have completed the flexible budget.

?How does the flexible budget differ from a static budget?
?Budgets are used for planning and control. Discuss how you can use the information derived for these two purposes?
?Comment on using this information for performance evaluations.



Modular SLP Assignment Expectations

Always include the name of the organization(s), time period covered and source of information. It is important to answer the questions as posed. The document should be from 2 to 4 pages and written in a clear and concise manner. Don't forget to include tables as required. Support your discussion or tables with references in APA format. You are encouraged to use Excel or other compatible spreadsheet when computations are involved. You can turn in the spreadsheet instead of the Word document. The content should be equivalent to the page length suggested for a word processing document.

Requirement:

Budgeting is an important internal activity. Preparing budgets involve forecasting sales and estimating costs. For this SLP, you will prepare a flexible budget for next year for a company of your choice (Starbucks, preferrably). The budget needs to be realistic and based on corporate and economic trends.

Set up the flexible budget at three levels for the income statement. Companies prepare budgets based on absorption and/or variable costing. Due to lack of information, we're limiting our budgeting to the absorption approach. You still need to estimate cost behavior based on trends.

Information to consider in determining the three levels.

What is the growth rate in sales for the past three years?
What is the current growth rate in the economy?
How are the competitiors doing?
Current interest rates and tax burdens.

Discuss the implications of the information after you have completed the flexible budget.

What did you learn ; and
How can you use this information as a manger?

Modular SLP Expectations

Always include the name or the organization(s), time period covered and source of information. It is important to answer the questions as posed. The discussion should be two to four pages and written in a clear and concise manner. Support your discussion with references in APA format. You are encouraged to use Excel or other compatible spreadsheet when computations are involved.

Please write answering each question in the below listing.

Economic Issues: Consider production, consumption, costs, variables of supply-demand, corporations, private enterprise, impact on the nation?s economy (employment, displacement, outsourcing).
Are certain industries impacted more than others?
Look up financial projections?expectations for growth, startup companies, the stock exchange, etc.?anything related to business and the U.S. and global economy. Who are the chief players in the business environment, and what is their role?
How much has been invested in research and development? How will the price fluctuate?
What economic trends are to be observed? Who will make money from the technology?
Who is funding the research and development? Who controls the purse strings, and why?
Look at foundations and charitable organizations, the outcomes and the nature of consumers.

Be sure to use charts and tables and quantitative data in this section. Tables, figures, and data and statistics must be current, valid and used appropriately.

Discuss the interaction between fiscal and monetary policy and their effect on macroeconomic factors such as GDP, unemployment, inflation, and interest rates. In addition, examine how the Consumer Price Index changes in relation to any industry.



a. Describe the actions organizations in your chosen industry have taken to maintain profitability in times of economic downturn. Develop a list of best practices being used by organizations in your chosen industry to respond to changes in macroeconomic factors such as GDP, unemployment, inflation, and interest rates.

b. Identify three best practices being used by organizations in other industries to respond to changes in macroeconomic factors such as GDP, unemployment, inflation, and interest rates. Explain the extent to which economic trends and forecasts affect organizational choices.

c. Identify how these best practices could be applied to solve a specific problem for organizations in your chosen industry.

There are faxes for this order.

Using the same multinational company that was chosen in the Assignment 1 prepare an analysis that will examine key strategic risks and a financial strategy for your supervisor to consider for possible expansion into this new international market.
Write a 6-8 page paper in which you:
Examine possible risks of foreign currency exposure for your company and prepare a strategy for how each of these risks can be managed. Please be specific and consider all possible implications to your company.
Evaluate the basic functions of the international banking system and financial market (such as bonds, equity, and money markets) and provide a plan for using these financial markets to finance your global operations.
Present a financial strategy to support long-term financing of operations for possible expansion of your MNC (taking into consideration portfolio management, capital budgeting and foreign direct investment decisions).
Provide final recommendations based on both your findings and your initial assessment of opportunities and risks on the three dimensions of international finance, economic trends of the country, impact of globalization, and the monetary system.
Use at least three (3) quality references. Note: Wikipedia and other Websites do not quality as academic resources
Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements:
Be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides; references must follow APA or school-specific format. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.
Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the student?s name, the professor?s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page and the reference page are not included in the required page length.

I need a cutomer paper on the following topic.
I am an undergraduate student. My english knowledge is very
poor. So please write the paper in simple English. So that the instructor will not catch me.

Topic:
=========================================================
The Wall Street Journal is an excellent source of such articles. Other sources are Business
Week, The Economist, Investors' Daily, etc. (Avoid articles from Barron's, unless you wish
to do considerably more work than what will be required.) Articles Papers should be of
sufficient length so that you can achieve the following:

A summary of the article in 1-2 paragraphs and identification of its purpose. Is this
strictly a news article reporting an event, announcement, or the like? Is this some
analysis and/or prediction of economic trends or events? If so, the author will be clearly
identified and may use the first person singular in the article; as a piece analysis, it will
usually have a political or ideological slant. Is this an opinion piece? If so, the author will
again be clearly identified. There will be clear political or ideological bias. Given the
space limits, however, the author will assume much knowledge on the part of the reader..

A one-paragraph explanation of how the article reflects a macroeconomic concept or
theme. For example, the article could be discussing Federal Reserve System policy
decisions; Japan's stimulus package; IMF policies towards Russia; progress on a common
European currency; deficit/surplus projections for the U.S. Federal government; inflation
reports; etc.

Your observations on the content of the article in terms of significance to the U.S.
economy or another nation's economy. For example, if the article dealt with Alan
Greenspan's testimony before a congressional committee, you could discuss the actual or
potential effects on the stock market, bond market, interest rates, etc. Note that the
publication you choose will often print its own views on the importance or impact of the
event, person or situation. Feel free to discuss, agree or disagree with those views.
Total length of the summary should be approximately 250-500 words.

============================================



Example (copied from one of the student):
==================================================
The article I chose to summarize was a piece on the rise of health care costs affecting
the hiring processes of Middleby Corporation, an oven factory in Illinois. The author was
David Saito-Chung, a reporter with Investor?s Business Daily. Mr. Saito-Chung shows
how even though a corporation can have significant profit and sales, the rapidly rising
costs of healthcare have stunted hiring by companies.

The article reflects a macroeconomic concept by showing how business cycles, in this
case, positive fluctuations, can somehow have negative effects. Middleby is in the middle
of a growth spurt but regardless, healthcare costs are affecting how many people they
hire.

According to Mr. Saito-Chung, labor costs have been rising faster than inflation and that
could force companies to start firing to cut costs from higher premiums. He goes on to
mention how Navigant Consulting, an adviser company for the construction, energy,
money management, and legal industries has fought back against rising premiums by
offering its employees more than one healthcare option. It offers three healthcare
options to offer its employees flexibility. Resulting from that, higher paid employees chip
in a bigger share of premium costs, releasing some pressure from lower paid employees.

All in all, Mr. Saito-Chung presents good points throughout the article. One statement I
would like to point out is the statement he made on the unemployment rate. He
mentions that labor is so expensive due to the fact that unemployment is at its lowest
point in 30 years. I tend to disagree with that. Unemployment rates show the amount of
people employed, not necessarily the wage they are earning. I think that labor starts to
get expensive once people get more experienced and companies sales are not up to
what they expected. Having an overabundance of employees with low sales is what
makes labor so expensive. Other than that point, Mr. Saito-Chung was right on target.

==================================================

Writers

This a continuation of the last research paper where you discussed Verve energy budget and issues with the company finances by examining their financial statements.
Here are 3 different research papers (A, B and C) about the same topic written by three different people. You are to write a response to each paper by discussing what you agree or disagree with them and may be giving your opinion about what they said and add something you think is important.
Each response is no more than 100 words and all response have to be different, i.e, response to A is different than that to B and B is different than C. So total is 1 page.
Regards
Ahmed

Below are the three papers:

A: M. Sheehan
The Budget Process

Verve Energy would:
1. forecast the demand for electricity using historical data and then amend that model by taking into account any factors likely to have an effect on demand (population growth, economic trends, any intended price increases, weather trends, changes in legislation that might allow competitors to enter the regulated market) and based on that estimated demand calculate the likely revenue (Forecast);
2. from the Forecast create operational budgets for all of the activities necessary to allow Verve Energy to supply the forecast demand such as labour budgets for operation and maintenance personnel, fuel for the power plants, overhead, any necessary capital acquisition etc;
3. taking into account 1 and 2 above generate a budget balance sheet, an income statement and statement of cash flows.

Background

Improved operational performance saw Verve Energy achieve a better than forecast financial position for 2009. That said, the result was a net loss after tax of $171 million compared with a forecasted loss of $288 million. The material impediment to Verve Energy improving its financial performance is the agreements that vested from Western Power when it was disaggregated as part of the State Government energy market reforms. Those agreements and the current market rules prevent Verve Energy from charging cost reflective tariffs. Verve Energy is forecasting an improved financial performance during 2010 as the additional revenue from the 25% increase to the tariffs in 2009 are realised but still faces material issues in the short to medium term to achieving and maintaining a profitable position.(Verve Energy 2009)

Issues
The following are the material external factors that are likely to
1. influence demand for electricity in the next 10 years; and/or
2. prevent Verve Energy from realising an improved position with respect to profit.

Political
1. An inability to respond quickly to demand because Verve Energys capacity is capped to encourage others to build generating plant (Verve Energy 2009).
2. Increased operating costs through compliance with the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (Verve Energy 2009).
3. Compliance with the Renewable Energy Target is likely to require additional investment in renewable forms of energy (Office of the Renewable Energy Regulator 2009).

Micro Economics

1. Elasticity of demand may mean that the increases in tariffs do not result in increased tariffs (McTaggart, Findlay, and Parkin 2007).

Social Cultural

1. Increasing reluctance to use electricity generated from fossil fuels.
2. Population growth likely to continue (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2009).

Commercial

1. Only two customers so possible one or the other defaulting is likely to have a material effect on revenue (Verve Energy 2009).
2. Additional competition in the market may result in less market share and reduced revenues (Verve Energy 2009).


Conclusion


Given that the material external factors identified above are largely not within the control of Verve Energy it is a matter of monitoring and to the influencing matter to the extent possible. In respect to the matters under the political heading Verve Energy will continue to lobby the relevant regulators to ensure that its interests and issues are well understood. In addition and in relation to the remaining items Verve Energy will undertake a series of financial planning models to obtain a better understanding of the affect the profitability of the company. Part of those financial planning models will include cost-volume-profit analysis to better understand the break even based on a series of assumptions.



B: S. Barr

1. In compiling its budget, Verve Energy needs to first set a strategic direction. This strategic direction would then be communicated throughout the organisation allowing scenario development to take place (usually a best and worst case scenario as well as a mid case, a business as usual scenario). The development of these scenarios must include any big events or risks and ensure everything is included and will include sales forecasting. This scenario will then require each of the business units or departments within Verve to cost out their expenses and contribute to the overall budget, and allow the preparation of financial statements showing the financial position of Verve, which can then be communicated throughout the organisation.
2.
Background
Verve Energy is a state owned company which formed as a result of a restructure of Western Power in 2006. To encourage private investment, Verve has a 3000 MW limit placed on it, however is required to cover any shortfalls in the electricity supply market (eg. Varanus incident). This has in part led Verve to run at a considerable loss over recent years, and a $171 million loss in the last financial year.
Issues
Main Issue Probable Cause Probable Consequence
Political Supply cap Government imposed cap of how much electricity can be produced (3000 MW) Verve not running an entirely efficient power generation business
Economic Balance Sheet position Increased liabilities such as Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme and Community Service Obligation payments Generating insufficient income to cover current liabilities
Economic Annual Losses Being the supplier of last resort requiring the turning on of old and out dated plant Continuing to run at a loss and being subsidised by the government (this will be offset by the removal of the 10 year freeze on Tariffs)
Socio-cultural poor safety and environmental performance Lack of attention to safety systems Significant management time being consumed on improving safety performance
Technological new turbine installations Timely installation of these turbines with the ability to stop/start as required Reduction in costs
Legal Vesting contract with Synergy Not realising cost reflective tariffs Revenue generation not at its peak
Environmental Carbon footprint Possible introduction of Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme, and need to increase percentage of renewable energy (eg. Wind farms, etc.) Increased operating costs in an effort to reduce carbon emissions

Conclusion
Verve Energy has been constrained by a number of factors in recent times including the government capping its production output, and a variety of contractual and supply issues. Whilst some of these will be removed in the near future, it can be expected that if the government wants to rely on Verve to plug the gap in electricity supply, that some issues will remain. This coupled with an ageing plant and requirement to reduce Carbon Emissions will vary the profit or loss significantly. This opens the door for an opportunity to implement Target Costing with a change in plant, contracts and removal of the 10 year freeze on Tariffs. In conjunction with the findings of the Oates Report (Verve Energy Annual Report, 2009), Verve will then be well positioned to show significant improvement in its profitability, and better understand its financial position over the coming years.

C: T NASH

Compile the Budget:
A budget assists in planning, coordination, communication, accountability/responsibility, control, authorisation & motivation (Bazley and Hancock 2006 ,636). The definition of budgeting should include allocation of resources and performance evaluation (Hilton 2009 ,348), and this full definition outlines the requirements of Verve Energy.
The preparation of budget starts with an overall strategy, leading to corporate objectives, which then communicates to, controls, guides and evaluates the individual (departmental) functional budgets.
Verves sales revenue budget then forecasts demand - the expected units of energy required to be produced. This subsequently develops the Operational Budget, outlining how demand will be delivered in terms of material, labour and overhead.

Business Performance:
Background -
Verves combination of State Government ownership and private enterprise corporate structure makes for a complex mix of vision & strategy, where it is required to both be profitable & competitive although exist under tight governmental controls forcing it to give way to competition under limits, controls, vesting contracts and tight environment and social compliance, whilst experiencing dynamic fuel/supply issues and tariff limitations.
The resulting financial struggle is not surprising, although, the competition also face similar challenges. Verve is respected as a reliable energy supplier despite the dire financial status.
(Chairman & MD - Verve Energy 2008) (Chairman & MD - Verve Energy 2007-8) (Chairman & MD - Verve Energy 2008)

Issues Cause and Consequence identifiable through PESTLE evaluation as follows (focus on issues):
Issue Category Direct Cause Consequence to Verve
POLITICAL
(Trade Restrictions / Tariffs) 3000MW Cap
Energy Tariff Freeze - Cannot increase production or price to maintain effective cost/price ratio
ECONOMIC
(Price of Fuel)
(Price of Energy)
(Financial Issues) Dynamic (& high) cost of liquid fuel.
Cost/Price ratio of Energy is not adequate
Increasing Current Liability - struggles to maintain output within fuel cost margin
- Profit margin negative
- Inability to reduce debt = inability to commission efficient plant
SOCIAL
(Safety / Employment) Poor Safety at Work
Employment Cuts - Fluctuating Reputation
- Affecting customer perception
TECHNOLOGICAL
(Cost of Maintenance & Efficiency Gains) Maintaining Old Plant to satisfy demand.
Cost of New Plant - Sunk Costs maintaining old plant
- New Plant increases Liability due to negative cash flow
LEGAL
(Market)
(Legislation) Vesting Contracts
Unfair competitive legislation stifles market - Commercially unsustainable
- Lost Competitive Advantage
ENVIRONMENTAL
(Water Usage)
(Emissions Constraints) Water Restrictions
Carbon Foot Print
Pressure for Renewable - High cost of environmentally acceptable solutions hits bottom line.

Conclusions
Partnership with government should be leveraged providing a business performance perspective to the review of cap levels, vesting contracts, national emissions trading scheme, tariff setting and subsidy for fuel/water and increased output at peak times in order to provide a commercially sustainable energy market.
Identification of variable cost drivers and non-value adding activities, with respect to individual plants, would indicate the high fuel & environmental costs (for non-renewable) but also indicate each plants profitability through the implementation of a process view/cost assignment ABC Model.
A reduction in overall plant based on this profitability study would better meet the cap limit through the generation of higher efficiency (low variable cost) energy, reduced overhead and emissions concerns and provide a release on Verves output requirements by objective analysis of financial performance, resource allocation & cost/price ratio to provide energy.
High setup costs of renewable energy would outweigh the ongoing variable costs and negate emissions cost, however significant subsidy would be required due to Verves financial status.
Objective evaluation of performance through cost analysis should provide the leverage for Verve to be freed to operate as a profitable business in the long run rather than fighting incompatible strategic initiatives of governmental protection and private enterprise competitive advantage.
Writers

This a continuation of the last research paper where you discussed Verve energy budget and issues with the company finances by examining their financial statements.
Here are 3 different research papers (A, B and C) about the same topic written by three different people. You are to write a response to each paper by discussing what you agree or disagree with them and may be giving your opinion about what they said and add something you think is important.
Each response is no more than 100 words and all response have to be different, i.e, response to A is different than that to B and B is different than C. So total is 1 page.
Regards
Ahmed

Below are the three papers:

A: M. Sheehan
The Budget Process

Verve Energy would:
1. forecast the demand for electricity using historical data and then amend that model by taking into account any factors likely to have an effect on demand (population growth, economic trends, any intended price increases, weather trends, changes in legislation that might allow competitors to enter the regulated market) and based on that estimated demand calculate the likely revenue (Forecast);
2. from the Forecast create operational budgets for all of the activities necessary to allow Verve Energy to supply the forecast demand such as labour budgets for operation and maintenance personnel, fuel for the power plants, overhead, any necessary capital acquisition etc;
3. taking into account 1 and 2 above generate a budget balance sheet, an income statement and statement of cash flows.

Background

Improved operational performance saw Verve Energy achieve a better than forecast financial position for 2009. That said, the result was a net loss after tax of $171 million compared with a forecasted loss of $288 million. The material impediment to Verve Energy improving its financial performance is the agreements that vested from Western Power when it was disaggregated as part of the State Government energy market reforms. Those agreements and the current market rules prevent Verve Energy from charging cost reflective tariffs. Verve Energy is forecasting an improved financial performance during 2010 as the additional revenue from the 25% increase to the tariffs in 2009 are realised but still faces material issues in the short to medium term to achieving and maintaining a profitable position.(Verve Energy 2009)

Issues
The following are the material external factors that are likely to
1. influence demand for electricity in the next 10 years; and/or
2. prevent Verve Energy from realising an improved position with respect to profit.

Political
1. An inability to respond quickly to demand because Verve Energys capacity is capped to encourage others to build generating plant (Verve Energy 2009).
2. Increased operating costs through compliance with the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (Verve Energy 2009).
3. Compliance with the Renewable Energy Target is likely to require additional investment in renewable forms of energy (Office of the Renewable Energy Regulator 2009).

Micro Economics

1. Elasticity of demand may mean that the increases in tariffs do not result in increased tariffs (McTaggart, Findlay, and Parkin 2007).

Social Cultural

1. Increasing reluctance to use electricity generated from fossil fuels.
2. Population growth likely to continue (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2009).

Commercial

1. Only two customers so possible one or the other defaulting is likely to have a material effect on revenue (Verve Energy 2009).
2. Additional competition in the market may result in less market share and reduced revenues (Verve Energy 2009).


Conclusion


Given that the material external factors identified above are largely not within the control of Verve Energy it is a matter of monitoring and to the influencing matter to the extent possible. n respect to the matters under the political heading Verve Energy will continue to lobby the relevant regulators to ensure that its interests and issues are well understood. In addition and in relation to the remaining items Verve Energy will undertake a series of financial planning models to obtain a better understanding of the affect the profitability of the company. Part of those financial planning models will include cost-volume-profit analysis to better understand the break even based on a series of assumptions.



B: S. Barr

1. In compiling its budget, Verve Energy needs to first set a strategic direction. This strategic direction would then be communicated throughout the organisation allowing scenario development to take place (usually a best and worst case scenario as well as a mid case, a business as usual scenario). The development of these scenarios must include any big events or risks and ensure everything is included and will include sales forecasting. This scenario will then require each of the business units or departments within Verve to cost out their expenses and contribute to the overall budget, and allow the preparation of financial statements showing the financial position of Verve, which can then be communicated throughout the organisation.
2.
Background
Verve Energy is a state owned company which formed as a result of a restructure of Western Power in 2006. To encourage private investment, Verve has a 3000 MW limit placed on it, however is required to cover any shortfalls in the electricity supply market (eg. Varanus incident). This has in part led Verve to run at a considerable loss over recent years, and a $171 million loss in the last financial year.
Issues
Main Issue Probable Cause Probable Consequence
Political Supply cap Government imposed cap of how much electricity can be produced (3000 MW) Verve not running an entirely efficient power generation business
Economic Balance Sheet position Increased liabilities such as Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme and Community Service Obligation payments Generating insufficient income to cover current liabilities
Economic Annual Losses Being the supplier of last resort requiring the turning on of old and out dated plant Continuing to run at a loss and being subsidised by the government (this will be offset by the removal of the 10 year freeze on Tariffs)
Socio-cultural poor safety and environmental performance Lack of attention to safety systems Significant management time being consumed on improving safety performance
Technological new turbine installations Timely installation of these turbines with the ability to stop/start as required Reduction in costs
Legal Vesting contract with Synergy Not realising cost reflective tariffs Revenue generation not at its peak
Environmental Carbon footprint Possible introduction of Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme, and need to increase percentage of renewable energy (eg. Wind farms, etc.) Increased operating costs in an effort to reduce carbon emissions

Conclusion
Verve Energy has been constrained by a number of factors in recent times including the government capping its production output, and a variety of contractual and supply issues. Whilst some of these will be removed in the near future, it can be expected that if the government wants to rely on Verve to plug the gap in electricity supply, that some issues will remain. This coupled with an ageing plant and requirement to reduce Carbon Emissions will vary the profit or loss significantly. This opens the door for an opportunity to implement Target Costing with a change in plant, contracts and removal of the 10 year freeze on Tariffs. In conjunction with the findings of the Oates Report (Verve Energy Annual Report, 2009), Verve will then be well positioned to show significant improvement in its profitability, and better understand its financial position over the coming years.

C: T NASH

Compile the Budget:
A budget assists in planning, coordination, communication, accountability/responsibility, control, authorisation & motivation (Bazley and Hancock 2006 ,636). The definition of budgeting should include allocation of resources and performance evaluation (Hilton 2009 ,348), and this full definition outlines the requirements of Verve Energy.
The preparation of budget starts with an overall strategy, leading to corporate objectives, which then communicates to, controls, guides and evaluates the individual (departmental) functional budgets.
Verves sales revenue budget then forecasts demand - the expected units of energy required to be produced. This subsequently develops the Operational Budget, outlining how demand will be delivered in terms of material, labour and overhead.

Business Performance:
Background -
Verves combination of State Government ownership and private enterprise corporate structure makes for a complex mix of vision & strategy, where it is required to both be profitable & competitive although exist under tight governmental controls forcing it to give way to competition under limits, controls, vesting contracts and tight environment and social compliance, whilst experiencing dynamic fuel/supply issues and tariff limitations.
The resulting financial struggle is not surprising, although, the competition also face similar challenges. Verve is respected as a reliable energy supplier despite the dire financial status.
(Chairman & MD - Verve Energy 2008) (Chairman & MD - Verve Energy 2007-8) (Chairman & MD - Verve Energy 2008)

Issues Cause and Consequence identifiable through PESTLE evaluation as follows (focus on issues):
Issue Category Direct Cause Consequence to Verve
POLITICAL
(Trade Restrictions / Tariffs) 3000MW Cap
Energy Tariff Freeze - Cannot increase production or price to maintain effective cost/price ratio
ECONOMIC
(Price of Fuel)
(Price of Energy)
(Financial Issues) Dynamic (& high) cost of liquid fuel.
Cost/Price ratio of Energy is not adequate
Increasing Current Liability - struggles to maintain output within fuel cost margin
- Profit margin negative
- Inability to reduce debt = inability to commission efficient plant
SOCIAL
(Safety / Employment) Poor Safety at Work
Employment Cuts - Fluctuating Reputation
- Affecting customer perception
TECHNOLOGICAL
(Cost of Maintenance & Efficiency Gains) Maintaining Old Plant to satisfy demand.
Cost of New Plant - Sunk Costs maintaining old plant
- New Plant increases Liability due to negative cash flow
LEGAL
(Market)
(Legislation) Vesting Contracts
Unfair competitive legislation stifles market - Commercially unsustainable
- Lost Competitive Advantage
ENVIRONMENTAL
(Water Usage)
(Emissions Constraints) Water Restrictions
Carbon Foot Print
Pressure for Renewable - High cost of environmentally acceptable solutions hits bottom line.

Conclusions
Partnership with government should be leveraged providing a business performance perspective to the review of cap levels, vesting contracts, national emissions trading scheme, tariff setting and subsidy for fuel/water and increased output at peak times in order to provide a commercially sustainable energy market.
Identification of variable cost drivers and non-value adding activities, with respect to individual plants, would indicate the high fuel & environmental costs (for non-renewable) but also indicate each plants profitability through the implementation of a process view/cost assignment ABC Model.
A reduction in overall plant based on this profitability study would better meet the cap limit through the generation of higher efficiency (low variable cost) energy, reduced overhead and emissions concerns and provide a release on Verves output requirements by objective analysis of financial performance, resource allocation & cost/price ratio to provide energy.
High setup costs of renewable energy would outweigh the ongoing variable costs and negate emissions cost, however significant subsidy would be requird due to Verves financial status.
Objective evaluation of performance through cost analysis should provide the leverage for Verve to be freed to operate as a profitable business in the long run rather than fighting incompatible strategic initiatives of governmental protection and private enterprise competitive advantage.

-The relationship between tourism and economic sustainability.
-General overview of economic trend in Japan
-General trend of tourism in Japan.
-Definition and types of sustainability
-Economic impacts of tourism in Japan (ex, GDP contribution, increment of jobs,,,etc)

-25 diffrent sources of information

I would like to request user Excellencio, to complete this assignment. This current assigment collection of the four previous assignment completed earlier. Below are the assignment numbers.

Order ID A2069663
Order ID A2070082
Order ID A2071449
Order ID A2071451

In this final assignment, you will compile the previous four (4) assignments, as well as adding the marketing strategies.

1. Write an executive summary of your marketing plan.
2. Provide the companys mission statement and company introduction.
3. Provide the companys branding, pricing, and distribution plan.
4. Provide the IMC and customer satisfaction plan.
5. Provide the following information about the marketing strategies:
a. Discuss the companys competitors, and its strengths and weaknesses.
b. Determine the differentiation strategy in relation to the closest competitor.
c. Explain whether the companys intention is to be a leader or follower within the industry.
d. Assess the macro-environmental issues (legal, technological, social, and economic) trends with which the company must operate.
e. Identify the most significant trend to impact the business and discuss how the company intends to minimize or capitalize on this trend.
6. Support your marketing plan with at least ten (10) reference sources that discuss the nature of the assignment.

Budgeting is an important internal activity. Preparing budgets involves forecasting sales and estimating costs. For this SLP, you will prepare a flexible budget for next year for the company of your choice. The budget needs to be realistic and based on corporate and economic trends.
Companies prepare budgets based on absorption and/or variable costing. Due to lack of information, we're limiting our budgeting to the absorption approach. Don't forget that the presentation of the information is important.
Set up the flexible budget showing three different growth rates. Use the financial statements and do research on the company of your choice to determine growth trends. Explain your estimates and prepare a flexible budget showing the low, the average, and the high revenues and adjust all other line items in the income statement to reflect the revised revenue assumptions.
? What is the growth rate in sales for the past three years?
? Are revenues and expenses growing at the same rate? What was the experience in the past few years?
? What is the current growth rate in the economy?
? How are the competitiors doing?
? Current interest rates and tax burdens.
Discuss the implications of the information after you have completed the flexible budget.
? How does the flexible budget differ from a static budget?
? Budgets are used for planning and control. Discuss how you can use the information derived for these two purposes?
? Comment on using this information for performance evaluations.
SLP Assignment Expectations
Always include the name of the organization(s), time period covered, and source of information. It is important to answer the questions as posed. The document should be 2 to 4 pages and written in a clear and concise manner. Don't forget to include tables as required. Support your discussion or tables with references in APA format. You are encouraged to use Excel or other compatible spreadsheet when computations are involved. You can turn in the spreadsheet instead of the Word document. The content should be equivalent to the page length suggested for a word processing document.

Request Writer?s: moriks58
continue A2037419

Finish your business analysis using the company you selected in Week Four.

Write a paper reviewing the strategic initiatives taken by the company relative to organizational and operational adaptation to changing markets.

Explain the following in your paper:

? How recent economic trends are influencing the business
? Strategies the company has used or could use for adapting to changing markets, such as an economic downturn or recession
? Tactics the company has implemented or could implement to achieve their strategic goals
? The role human resource management plays in helping the company achieve its business goals

Write a conclusion for your overall business analysis in which you determine if you would be willing to invest in this company as a mutual fund manager. Be sure to support your conclusion with information you have gathered from parts one and two of your business analysis.

Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.

Industry: AutoMobile Industry or Ford Motor Company

In this assignment you will research and evaluate social, political or economic issues that may impact your industry or organizations current market position. More specifically, you will provide a strategic analysis that identifies social trends that may provide opportunities for your industry/organization as well as potential threats.

TASK
Select an industry sector that you are particularly interested in
Research how national and/or global political, social and economic trends and developments are impacting that sectors outlook
Identify trends that might provide both opportunities for and threats to the industry
Provide a well-researched analysis that discusses the opportunities and threats that you identified

PROCESS
Your proposal should develop around the following points:

1. Conduct research to identify economic (at the global or national level), political and social trends and developments that might positively as well as negatively impact your industry/company.
2. Rank order them in order of importance.
3. Identify the biggest opportunity and the biggest threat and discuss their implications. These implications should focus on how these issues may demand adjustments of company goals; for example, a change in marketing strategies, a change in product or service lines, a change in production or distribution methods, etc. This should be based on research and not only on what you assume will be popular.
4. If appropriate, you may provide a recommendation to the industry based upon your analysis.

There are faxes for this order.

I need the following explained in the paper; how recent economic trends are influencing the business, strategies the company has used or could use for adapting to changing markets, such as an economic downturn or recession, tactics the company has implemented or could implement to achieve their strategic goals, the role human resources management plays in helping the company achieve its business goals, and if you would be willing to invest in this company as a mutal fund manager.

Write a conclusion for the overall business analysis.

Paper needs to formated consistent with APA guidelines.

In this paper you will compile the previous four (4) assignments and write an eighteen page paper in which you will include:

1. Write an executive summary of your marketing plan.
2 Provide the companys mission statement and company introduction.
3. Provide the companys branding, pricing, and distribution plan.
4. Provide the IMC and customer satisfaction plan.
5. Provide the following information about the marketing strategies:
a. Discuss the companys competitors, and its strengths and weaknesses.
b. Determine the differentiation strategy in relation to the closest competitor.
c. Explain whether the companys intention is to be a leader or follower within the industry.
d. Assess the macro-environmental issues (legal, technological, social, and economic) trends with which the company must operate.
e. Identify the most significant trend to impact the business and discuss how the company intends to minimize or capitalize on this trend.
6. Support your marketing plan with at least ten (10) reference sources that discuss the nature of the paper.



Be double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides; citations and references must follow APA rules
Customer is requesting that (paulsolo3414) completes this order.