Study Group: eBay Inc. Experts

GLG News^SM Analyses by this Study Group's Leading Experts(?)

The 5Cs of Credit, P2P Lending, Social Lending, Self-Directed Lending

November 11, 2009

Analysis by:Ronald Ingram, Director of Product Management,

Analysis of:BlackRock's Fink: Forget 'Bubble' | online.wsj.com

Laurence Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock Inc. in response to questions about bank failures and economic conditions suggested today that; “…the financial system needs to be a lot more responsive to society and make sure this doesn't happen again. Risk has to be a lot more transparent to investors. I think that is happening."; and, “the financial system needs change, including increased disclosure, more derivatives trading on exchanges and regulatory change…". But what about the 5Cs of credit?

Financial Services Innovation and New Credit Sources Impeded by Regulation in the US

April 5, 2009

Analysis by:Ronald Ingram, Director of Product Management,

Analysis of:Where Credit Still Flows | www.forbes.com

Demand for credit has never been stronger. With government support P2P or "Social Lending" has the potential to improve the efficiency of credit markets and demonstrate US leadership in financial services innovation. The US is behind the curve in P2P lending innovation and losing ground due to the distraction and high cost of regulatory compliance. At a time when billions are being pumped into ailing banks government needs to find a way to encourage social lending.   Improved regulation may unlock a wave of new credit options and provide economic stimulus at the grass root level. Conceptually Social Lending and P2P financial models makes sense for consumers, business and the greater economic good of nations;  however, the effort to wedge P2P loan models into existing regulatory frameworks continues to impede American financial innovation.

Communicate, Add Value, and Improve Service

December 16, 2008

Analysis by:Pat Saign, Franchise Marketing Director,

Analysis of:More restaurants serve up promotions for these lean times | www.orlandosentinel.com

As traffic slows down in Q1 due to the economy, 2009 diets, and increased competition, restaurants have to execute three basic marketing tactics.  First they have to build up a database of email addresses and then communicate and keep their brand in the guests face twice a month via email blasts, offers, and specials.  A birthday club is the most efficient method of gleaning email addresses.  Second, owners should be adding value rather than just discounting.  Every guest should receive a bounce back certificate with their check encouraging a quick return visit for a free bottle of wine, appetizer, dessert, or family special.  And finally, operators should improve their customer service by 50% through training, suggestive selling, and incentives.  Today's consumers want great service first and will return only if the service, price/value, and experience are outstanding.  It is far easier and more efficient to get an existing guest to return than it is to generate a new customer visit.

What dead?

December 8, 2008

Analysis by:Scott Holcomb, Chief Executive Officer,

Analysis of:Open Source: The Model is Broken | www.businessweek.com

Novell product vs. profit

What VCs Should Invest In ... In this Economy

November 24, 2008

Analysis by:Kenneth Eisner, Managing Director, OE Ventures,

Analysis of:What Should Investors Do Now? | online.wsj.com

Consumers aren't in a buying mood this holiday, but there are opportunities for new companies.  I don't recommend the hi-tech plays that won't actualize for another decade, but rather look at some opportunities that should spark demand in a 1-3 year time frame.  Anyway, it is the holiday season, and nothing goes better under the Christmas tree than a fresh bowl of optimism.

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