A mathematical logic that attempts to solve problems by assigning values to an imprecise spectrum of data in order to arrive at the most accurate conclusion possible. Fuzzy logic is designed to solve problems in the same way that humans do: by considering all available information and making the best possible decision given the input. Fuzzy logic is often applied by advanced trading models/systems that are designed to react to changing markets. The goal of this type of system is to analyze thousands of securities in real time and to present the trader with the best available opportunity.
A temporary layoff, involuntary leave or other modification of normal working hours without pay for a specified duration. Furloughs are used in the military for soldiers whose new assignments have not yet been determined. For businesses, furloughs are used for a variety of reasons, like plant shut-downs, or in cases where a broad reorganization makes it unclear which employees will be retained. In contemporary business practice, a furlough is a less permanent solution to layoffs, and are useful in situations where the economic condition is deemed to be of short duration. It is also common in situations where a business disruption is deemed to be temporary.
A slang name for a mutual fund that has an investment strategy that focuses on high-risk securities in an attempt to capture above average returns. A go-go fund's aggressive approach usually involves holding large positions in growth stocks. Go-go funds entice investors by promising large, abnormal returns created from shifting portfolio weights around speculative information. While investors may experience superior profits, they are also bearing a great deal of risk. These types of mutual funds were highly valued in the 1960s, but became less popular after large downturns in their speculative holdings.
A combination of the words "globalization" and "localization" used to describe a product or service that is developed and distributed globally, but is also fashioned to accommodate the user or consumer in a local market. This means that the product or service may be tailored to conform with local laws, customs or consumer preferences. Products or services that are effectively "glocalized" are, by definition, going to be of much greater interest to the end user. Yahoo! is an example of a company that practices glocalization. It markets a portal that is viewed worldwide and offers different versions of its website (and related services) for different users. For example, it provides content and language variations in some 25 countries including China, Russia and Canada. It also customizes content to appeal to individuals in those locations. A number of both public and private companies currently practice glocalization in an effort to build their customer bases and grow revenues.
The differences found between members of different generations. More specifically, a generation gap can be used to describe the differences in actions, beliefs, tastes, etc. between members of younger generations when compared to members of older generations. While generation gaps have been prevalent throughout all periods of history, the width (differences) of these gaps have widened in the 20th and 21st centuries. Generation gaps play a big role in business, as companies must find a way to balance the needs and views of individuals from differing age groups (not to mention diferents sexes, races and cultures). Also, these businesses must be aware of the changing demographics of their client base, as gender gaps can have drastic effects on not only their business but the overall business cycle as well.
An indicator based on the theory that the performance of U.S. automaker General Motors (GM) is a pre-cursor to the performance of the U.S. economy and stock market. The GM Indicator relies on the assumption that when people are confident and making money one of the first things they would do is buy a new car. There is still some talk behind this strategy as there is a correlation between auto sales and the overall economic standing of individuals. But this theory had more weight in the 1970s-80s when GM was by far the largest carmaker in North America. Since then GM's importance to the U.S. economy has declined due to greater competition. During the financial crisis of 2007/2008, GM saw sales decline due to a decrease in demand for their "less" fuel efficient vehicles, and a decrease in available funds for financing due to credit restrictions. Their stock price dropped over 70% compared with a general market decline of around 30%. Although a correlation exists, the overall market and economy relies less on the performance of one automaker than it did in the 1970s.
When a buyer reduces his or her bid for a property before the transaction has been signed and finalized. If the real estate market is crashing, a buyer might offer less because he or she knows that the seller desperately wants to sell the property.
A situation in which the price for real estate or land is raised to a higher price than what was previously verbally agreed upon. Basically, raising the price just before the papers are signed and the deal is delivered.