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Just my thoughts #0299

Paradoxically, one of the reasons for Rome’s demise was that it kept winning wars. Victories expanded the empire’s territory, and the risks increased proportionally. Men, primarily middle-class men, volunteered as soldiers; the larger the territory, the longer the wars lasted, and the longer it took for them to return home. The women who remained at home were forced to borrow labor and became indebted to the nobility. Eventually, the women were sold into slavery, and by the time the men returned, their families had disintegrated. People don’t betray because they’re evil, but because it increases their risk. If the territory you’re in grows, you might reconsider your loyalties to the organization. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Just my thoughts #0208

Tesla earns revenue through car sales, but its real profits come from other sources. Although Hyundai-Kia Motors sells more cars annually than Tesla, it does not have the same profit structure, which is unique to Tesla. Tesla capitalizes on environmental assets by selling carbon credits each year. While the company experiences overall losses in car sales, the sale of these carbon credits results in surplus income, positively affecting its stock price. Traditional automakers contribute to Tesla’s profitability by purchasing cars and paying fines for carbon emissions. This dynamic is also a key reason why Tesla establishes operations in regions with strict pollution regulations. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Just my thoughts #0207

There are two types of businesses in this world when approached through the value of time and divided by the kinds of business: a business that requires discounting future value and a business that needs a surcharge. The bundle discount is a “future value discount business,” while the loan business is a “future value premium business.” Currently, it is unnecessary, but a bundle of sales is a business that offers customers incentives called “discounts” when they buy what they want in advance. The principal is not returned now in the loan business but must be returned in the future, providing the present incentive as a “delay repayment” in advance. Future discounts and surcharges can exist simultaneously in a business or a product; some enterprises will be ruined by mixing them if they change positions. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Just my thoughts #0206

As the chef gained fame through broadcasting, restaurant profits actually fell. One would expect higher profits with increased fame; yet, the opposite occurred. The restaurant’s original profit model relied on multi-course meals, but the broadcasts focused on just one or two popular dishes. While customer numbers surged, the average price per order decreased. Additionally, costs associated with running a restaurant have risen due to the influx of patrons. The influence of social media is leading to an increasing number of celebrities; yet, their true feelings can be quite complex. Achieving fame can be surprisingly detrimental. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Just my thoughts #0205

A newborn baby instinctively sucks its mother’s milk for survival, regardless of whether it learns this behavior. Chewing is also instinctual. The product that aligns with this chewing instinct is “gum.” While it involves chewing, it doesn’t equate to eating. Producing gum is a simple way to generate profit, given its common and low-cost nature. Therefore, the price of gum reflects the cost of chewing, differing from the prices of drinks and food. Since these items are consumed together, they exist in separate markets. The defining factor that separates these markets is “price.” Even if the products are similar, they operate within entirely different markets. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Just my thoughts #0204

There are two key meanings in the world: abstract meaning and conceptual meaning. Abstract meaning relates to values and philosophy, while conceptual meaning pertains to methodology. A successful businessman effectively understands abstract meaning in a conceptual context. Some businessmen struggle to grasp abstract meaning, whereas others have difficulty with conceptual meaning. It is essential to enhance understanding by collaborating with external experts, regardless of whether it involves developing internal organizations. Businessmen should excel at creating both abstract and conceptual representations. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Just my thoughts #0203

In business, a “transaction” is essential. This transaction focuses on addressing human needs. To fulfill these needs, one must choose methods that align with one’s moral values while also recognizing the limitations in addressing them. Therefore, businesses should satisfy these needs within the bounds of morality. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Just my thoughts #0202

In some cases, US real estate agents suggest that homeowners bake bread before potential buyers arrive for a showing. For many Americans, the aroma of fresh bread evokes a sense of family value. When the scent permeates the home, it creates an impression of a joyful household. Real estate brokers aren’t merely selling properties; they are in the business of selling “family love.” Their focus is on conveying “meanings” rather than selling mere products. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”