Xero cops the flak – but is doing things well

I really hope there is only one or two trolls behind the despicable comments on the recent NBR article on Xero results. Healthy debate and skepticism can be good but, this series simply shows that tall poppy syndrome is alive and well in NZ. And that’s sad as Xero is poised to be a genuine …

Minister Joyce’s five benefits of UFB

Speaking at TUANZ Telcoday11 Stephen Joyce said the time nigh  to move from focusing on building the pipes to delivering the benefits. His top five areas, which will be captured in a action plan titled “Benefits of Broadband”  are: 1: eEducation. 99.7% of students will have UFB access within 5 years. The Ministry of Education …

The US internet policy document for us

Who calls it Cyberspace anymore? Apparently the US Government does, and aside from the title their new International Strategy for Cyberspace paper is very well written. Three quick take-aways for me: 1: A refreshing commitment to a right to access Reliable Access: States should not arbitrarily deprive or disrupt individuals’ access to the Internet or …

Why Mastercard’s RWC decision is stupid

Mastercard are banning other credit cards from Rugby World Cup venues, and insisting on only a pre-pay Mastercard or cash as acceptable forms of payments. The prepay card costs “$5-$10”, can have up to $1000 deposited into it and cannot be recharged. It uses ‘tap and go’ technology to accept payment of up to $80. …

Fiat’s deal to buy into Chrysler

Jeff Bennett at the WSJ writes that Fiat just increased its stake in Chrsler from 25% to 30%. The terms of that deal are fascinating, and very well crafted. The original stake Fiat was given was 20%, as part of bankruptcy organisaiton and alliance. Then they get given 5% more for each of the performance …