Most Influential Business Leader To Watch Out

LAOS: Discovering the Heart of Southeast Asia MICHAEL

Haunted by Disappointment: The Rise and Fall of BURGER KING'S Halloween Whopper

Most To Watch Out

INFLUENTIAL LEADERS In Business

An Astute Leader Synchronizing ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS with Market Evolution

RICHARD EDWIN CEO

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r o m E d i t o r ’ s D e s k

GreetingsfromTheEnterpriseWorld!

Inourlatestissue,titled we "MostInfluentialBusinessLeadersToWatchOut," embarkonanexhilaratingexplorationofthedynamiclandscapeofglobalbusiness leadership.Aswedelveintothestoriesofinfluentialleaderswhoaremakingwavesin theirrespectiveindustries,weinviteourreaderstojoinusonajourneyofinspiration, innovation,andinsight.

Intoday'sfast-pacedandever-evolvingbusinessworld,influentialleadersplayapivotal roleinshapingthefutureofindustries,drivinginnovation,andinspiringpositivechange. Frompioneeringnewtechnologiestoredefiningcorporatecultures,theleadersfeaturedin thisissuearetrailblazerswhoarepushingboundaries,challengingnorms,andsettingnew standardsforsuccess.

Throughin-depthinterviews,thought-provokingprofiles,andinsightfulanalysis,weoffer ourreadersaglimpseintothemindsandmotivationsoftheseinfluentialleaders.We exploretheirstrategies,philosophies,andtheuniquequalitiesthatsetthemapart, providingvaluableinsightsandinspirationforaspiringleadersandseasoned professionalsalike.

AtTheEnterpriseWorld,wearecommittedtocelebratingexcellenceandrecognizingthe achievementsofthosewhoaremakingasignificantimpactontheworldofbusiness.By shiningaspotlightonthemostinfluentialbusinessleaderstowatchoutfor,weaimto inspireourreaderstoreachnewheights,embraceinnovation,andleadwithpurposeand passion.

Thankyouforjoiningusonthisjourneyaswecelebratethe"MostInfluentialBusiness LeadersToWatchOut."Together,letusbeinspired,empowered,andmotivatedtocreate abrighterfutureforourselvesandtheworldaroundus.

Shalmali W.

Forthecoverreadabout-

Intoday’sfast-pacedmarketinglandscape,effectiveleadersmustnavigate challengeswithagility,embracingchangeandstayingattunedtoevolving trends.Successhingesonadaptability,asleadersmustadeptlysteerthrough adversitieswhilealigningstrategieswithdynamicmarketdemands.

Thrivinginthisenvironmentrequiresakeenunderstandingof contemporaryrequirementsandaproactiveapproachtoinnovation.The abilitytoswiftlyrespondtoshiftingtrendspositionsmodernbusiness leadersascatalystsfororganizationalgrowth,ensuringtheirteamsremain resilientandforward-thinkinginanever-changingbusinesslandscape.

Recognizedasadynamicentrepreneurandmanagementstrategist,Richard Edwin(CEOatErithGroup)isamodern-dayleaderwhowalkshand-inhandwiththeevolvingmarketneedsandtrends.ThankstoRichard’srich experienceandprowess,wearefeaturinghiminourlatestmagazineissue “MostInfluentialBusinessLeadersToWatchOutFor-

Richard S. Edwin 12

RICHARD EDWIN

Intoday'sfast-pacedmarketing

landscape,effectiveleaders mustnavigatechallengeswith agility,embracingchangeand stayingattunedtoevolvingtrends. Successhingesonadaptability,as leadersmustadeptlysteerthrough adversitieswhilealigningstrategies withdynamicmarketdemands.

Thrivinginthisenvironment requiresakeenunderstandingof contemporaryrequirementsanda proactiveapproachtoinnovation. Theabilitytoswiftlyrespondto shiftingtrendspositionsmodern businessleadersascatalystsfor organizationalgrowth,ensuring theirteamsremainresilientand forward-thinkinginaneverchangingbusinesslandscape.

Recognizedasadynamic entrepreneurandmanagement strategist,RichardEdwin(CEOat ErithGroup)isamodern-day leaderwhowalkshand-in-hand withtheevolvingmarketneedsand trends.ThankstoRichard'srich experienceandprowess,weare featuringhiminourlatestmagazine issue “Most Influential Business Leaders To Watch Out For-2023”

An Astute Leader Synchronizing Organizational Success with Market Evolution

AJourneyofEbbsandFlows

Anexperiencedprofessional,heinitiallyservedwithGPT/Garlock,asubsidiary ofENPRO,aremarkable130-yearoldlegacy,arenownedUS-basedcompany's division,foroveradecade.

EnproislistedontheNewYorkStockExchangewithaglobalpresencewith headquartersintheUSandmultiplelocationsworldwide.

In2016,Richardassumedapivotalrole,headingtheMiddleEastandAfrica division.HewasGeneralManagerinDubai,contributinghisexpertisefora commendablefive-yeartenure.

Inresponsetotheevolvinggloballandscapeandtheunprecedentedchallengesof theCOVID-19pandemic,EnproIndustriesimplementedastrategicshiftinits MiddleEastoperations.Thisinvolvedcarefullyreassessingtheirpresenceinthe regionandultimatelymakingadjustmentstoalignwiththecompany'slong-term goals.

DrivenbyadeepcommitmenttohisteamandapassionfortheMiddleEast operation,Richardseizedtheopportunitytochartanewcourse.Hepresenteda compellingproposaltoEnproIndustries,outlininghisvisionforestablishinga newcompanythatwouldcarrythetorchofGarlockMiddleEast'slegacy This move,fueledbyadesiretoensurethewell-beingandcontinuedsuccessofthe dedicatedemployees,resonatedstronglywithEnpro'sleadership.

Followingconstructivenegotiations,amutually beneficialagreementwasreached.Richard's entrepreneurialspiritandunwaveringdedication totheteampavedthewayforaseamless transition,preservingthecorevaluesand expertisethatmadeGarlockMiddleEasta success.Thisboldventuremarkedtheexciting beginningofanewchapter,onefueledbyhuman connection,unwaveringcommitment,anda sharedpassionfortheregion.

However,thejourneydidnotunfoldwithoutits shareofchallenges.Theprevailingglobal circumstance,dominatedbytheimpactof COVID-19,posedsignificanthurdles.Fueledby anunwaveringentrepreneurialspirit,Richard spearheadedthecreationofErithGroup duringaperiodofglobaluncertainty. Withcreativityanddetermination, heandhisteamtackledthe intricatestartupcomplexities, pavingthewayforErith Group'ssuccessful journey.

Richard S. Edwin, CEO

RobustEmphasisonPeople Empowerment

Whenbalancingtheneedtoinnovate andtakeriskstomaintainstabilityand profitabilityintheindustry,Erith Groupemphasizespeople empowerment.Thecompany recognizesthestrengthwithinthe organization'stalentedindividualsand ensuresanalignmenttowarda commongoal.Moreover,regular communicationofitsvisionandethos enablesemployeeengagement,witha centraltenetbeingprioritizingboth employeesandcustomers.InRichard's opinion,maintainingadelicate equilibriuminriskmanagementposes aperpetualchallenge,asthelandscape ischaracterizedbynuancedshadesof grayratherthanstarkblack-and-white distinctions.Underhisleadership,the teamconsistentlyengagedinrisk mitigationstrategies,strivingto minimizetheimpactofuncertainties onErith'strajectory.

Essentially,oneofthemostcritical componentsinrisk-balancingis financialcontingency.Richardis keenlyawarethatnoplansshould unsettleErith'scurrentbusiness stability,whichextendsbeyondthe companyitself,consideringitsimpact ontheemployeesandtheirfamilies. Whileunderstandingthemarket dynamicsisvitalforeffectiverisk management,hecloselyobserveshow themarketreacts,identifies opportunities,andevaluatestheimpact ofclimatechange,sustainability,and localregulations.Erith'sapproach mostlyinvolvesstayinginnovativeand experimentalwhileavoidingcommon venturesandfocusingsolelyon advancedengineeringprojects. “Collaboratingwithspecialized engineeringpartnersglobally highlightsourcommitmentto groundbreakingsolutions,”says Richard.

Moreover,Erith'slong-termvision alignswithRichard'sstrategic approach,extendingtothebroader countryandregionalgoals.

Establishingofficesandmanufacturing intheUAEreflectsthecommitmentto in-countryvalue,withanadditional presenceinSaudiArabia,Egypt,and Algeriaforbettercustomer engagement.Inadditiontothese, Richardemphasizespeople empowerment,fosteringatransparent culturewhereemployeesunderstand risks.Hehighlightsthatbalancingrisks involvesstrategicassessments,robust financialplanning,andstayingattuned tomarketdynamics,reinforcingthe company'spositionasaforwardthinkingplayer

TheThreeC's:Clarity, Communication,&Consistency

Atthehelm,Richardensureshis leadershipphilosophyisimbibedinthe companycultureandreflected throughouttheorganization.Hefosters acultureofclearcommunicationand consistency.Indoingso,he emphasizestheimportanceofensuring everyonecomprehendstheirroles throughtransparentcommunication andempowerseachindividualwhile aligningthemwiththecompany's values.Afundamentalbeliefguides theirapproach:alwaysdoingtheright thing,evenwhenitprovestobethe mostchallengingcourseofaction.

Additionally,Richardfocuseson creatingacollectiveawarenessand alignmenttowardconsistentlymaking decisionsbasedonwhatismorallyand ethicallyright,evenwhenfacedwith difficulties.Althoughclear communicationandconsistencyare essential,emphasizingthattheright decisionisoftenchallenging.This philosophyguidestheteamin navigatingdifficultscenarioswithan unwaveringcommitmenttodoingwhat

isright.Essentially,Richard's leadershipfocusesonaligning individualswithcompanyvaluesand consistentlymakingethicallysound decisions.Reinforcingthese principlesdailycreatesawork environmentwhereemployees embraceasharedcommitmentto ethicaldecision-making,prioritizing doingtherightthinginall circumstances.

NurturingTalentandMentorshipforOverallOutcomes

NurturingtalentandmentorshiparevitalaspectsforRichard;hence,heactivelymanages teams,emphasizingfinancialoutcomesandindividualdevelopment.Hebelievesin universalgrowth,aligningwiththecompany'sdualbottom-linephilosophy,valuing financialresultsandpeopledevelopmentequally.

Withthatbeingsaid,Erithleveragesinternalandexternalresources,fosteringasupportive networkthroughmentorshipprograms.Thecompany'scommitmenttopeopledevelopment isevidentinitscorporateculture.Eachemployeebenefitsfrommentorship,prioritizing learningandgrowth.Richardrecognizesmentors'pivotalroleinguidingprofessional journeys.Asaleader,Richardunderstandsthateffectiveteammanagementgoesbeyond financialgoals.Itinvolvescreatinganenvironmentsupportingcontinuouslearning.

TechnologicalExcellence,Strategic Vision,andSustainabilityGoals

Propellingthecompanyforward involvesstrategicallyunderstanding itsidentityandaspirations.Reflecting onitsevolutionintoaglobal manufacturerintheMiddleEast. UnderRichard’sleadership,Erithis activelytransitioningfrombeing solelyaproductsupplycompanyto focusingonmanufacturing,leadingto theestablishmentofalocal manufacturinglocation.Thismarksa significantphase,expandingbeyond manufacturingtobecomea comprehensiveecosystem.Thegoalis toactivelyofferaseamless360degreeexperienceforclients,covering productsupply,efficientlocal manufacturing,andpersonalized services.Thisstrategicvisionactively positionsthecompanytoshapeits roleproactively,creatinganactive, dynamic,andcustomer-centric ecosystem.

AccordingtoRichard,Erith'ssuccess issteeredbyitsclearvision,a steadfastcommitmenttosustainable high-endtechnology,andanemphasis onempoweringitsworkforce.This uniquecombinationdistinguishesthe companyinthemarketplaceandlays arobustfoundationforitsprosperous, collectivefuture.Moreover,the companyacknowledgesthe importanceoftechnologyinpivoting forward,especiallyinenhancing customerexperiences.Hence,it ensuresanalignedfocuswiththe futuretrajectory,characterizedbya drivetowardslowemissions.Erith alsotakesprideinmanufacturing productswithloworzeroemissions, achievedthroughcollaborationswith globalentities.Thisstrategicapproach respondstocurrentmarketdemands andpositionsErithasaproactive contributortoasustainablefuture.

Aconcreteillustrationoftheimpactof Erith'stechnologyliesincritical applicationssuchasoilfields.These environmentsoftenharborhazardous substances,withevenminute percentagesofelementslikeH2S posingsevereriskstohumanhealth. Certainoilfieldscontainsubstantial proportions—30to40%,oreven 50%—ofH2S,whichcanbefatal. Erith'sproductsandtechnologyplaya pivotalroleinmitigatingand sometimeseliminatingtheriskof leakageintheseaggressivecritical applications.

Inaddition,Erith'scommitmentto technologicalexcellencenotonly alignswithmarkettrendsbutalso addressespressingchallengesinhighrisksectors.Thecompanyisan industryleaderinprovidingsafeand sustainablesolutionsforcritical applicationsbyproactivelyengaging withglobalpartnersandleveraging cutting-edgesolutions.Asitlooks towardsthefuture,integrating innovativetechnologyremainsakey factorinensuringboththecompany's andstakeholders'presentandfuture success.

Giventheincreasingconcernstowards climatechangeandsustainability, Richardacknowledgestheglobalshift towardssustainabilityandreduced emissionsduetohumanityconsuming resources1.5timesfasterthanthe Earthcanreplenish.Inhisopinion,the needforinnovativestrategiesaligning withmarketandcustomerdemandsis morecrucialthanever.Currently,the markettrendisfocusedon sustainability,athemeechoedatCOP 28inDubai.Withthatbeingsaid,Erith activelydevelopsproductsaligning withmarketdynamicsandthe country'svisionforsustainability.The companyemploysadualstrategy, investingininternalinnovationand collaboratingwithglobalfirms,

notablyfromtheUS.Thisapproach integratescutting-edgeproducts, aligningwiththeleadership'svision andadaptingtomarkettrends.Italso avoidscommodity-drivenpractices, tailoringproductstomeetcustomers' uniqueneeds.Thiscustomer-centric strategydifferentiatesthecompany, offeringsolutionscraftedforspecific andevolvingcustomerrequirements.

Work-LifeBalanceasaStrategic Investment

Whenitcomestostrikingaperfect balancebetweenworkandlife, Richardsaysitsimperativefor organizationstoofferandcreatea workplacethatprioritizeswork-life balanceandperceivesitasastrategic investmentinthehealth,happiness, andproductivityoftheworkforce.By championingtheseinitiatives,Erith seekstoestablishaculturewhere employeesfeelvalued,supported,and empoweredtomaintainequilibriumin theirprofessionalandpersonallives. Whileensuringahealthywork-life balanceisatoppriorityforRichard andthecompany,recognizingits pivotalroleinenhancingefficiencyand productivityisalsonecessary.Asa result,hesetsanexamplebystrictly

adheringtotheprinciplethatworkrelatedcallsshouldnotencroach uponfamilytimeunlessthere'san emergency.Unlessexigencies demandotherwise,weekdaysare designedwithflexibletimings, allowingemployeesthelatitudeto adjusttheirschedules,especially consideringcommutingchallenges.

Inadditiontoflexibleworkhours, ErithhasauniqueWellnessDay initiativethatinvolvesactively nudgingemployeestotakeadayoff everymonthdedicatedsolelytotheir well-being.Richardenvisages expandingthisconcept,possibly extendingittotwoorevenfourdays, convenientlyaligningwithweekends atthebeginningorendforamore extendedrejuvenationperiod.The underlyingphilosophyisto emphasizetheimportanceofmental health.Richardfirmlybelievesthat dedicatingtimetofocusonmental well-beingcontributestoahealthier workforceandheightened productivityandoverallhappiness amongemployees.Thecompanyis committedtofosteringan environmentwhereindividualsare notjustemployeesbutalso individualswithholisticwell-being.

InspiringPeersandDrawingInspirationfromSeniors

Collaborating with specialized engineering partners globally highlights our commitment to groundbreaking solutions.

Richardcontinuestocreateaninfluentialpersonaamonghispeersasaseasonedleader.He motivatesthemwithhisleadershipcharismaandideologytosteersuccessconsistently throughouttheorganization.Moreover,hedrawsinspirationfromseveralpeoplearoundhim andcontinuesfosteringtheselearningsinhiseverydayrolesandresponsibilities.Accrediting thenumberofpeoplewhohaveinspiredhim,hebelievesbooksarehisbiggestsourceof inspiration.Onesuchbook,'TheArtofWar',hashelpedRichardwithhisstrategies.Healso enliststhepeoplewhohavehelpedwithhiscareer,startingwithhisparentsandcolleagues, whoareveryimportanttohim.OnesuchimportantfigureinhislifeisMikeFaulkner,hisexbossandagreatfriend.“IjustpickupthephoneandcallhimifIneedjusttopassarounda thoughtordiscussanythingthat'sreallychallengingformeorevengetaconfirmationsortof perseifIneedsomesupport,youknow.Sopeopleoverbooksformethat'svery inspirational,”concludesRichard.

Richard S. Edwin, CEO

Discovering The Heart Of Southeast Asia

LaosislikeahiddentreasureinSoutheastAsia,a placefullofstoriesandbeautifulsights.Aplace withgreenmountains,fieldsofriceonhills,and theMekongRiverthatflowsgently,sharingits tales.InLaos,ancientcustomsmixwiththespirit ofitsculture,creatingawarmwelcomefor anyonewhocomestoexploreanddiscoverthe hiddenwondersofthisland.

Inthissecrethaven,timetakesitstime,letting youenjoyeachmomentlikethelocalluxuries. Whetheryou'recruisingdowntheMekongor exploringthemountainsinthenorthofLaos, everysteprevealsthewondersofthisuntouched land.Aplacewhereculture,nature,and spiritualitycometogether,let'sknowmoreabout itthroughthisarticle.

CulturalLandscape:

Itisacountrywithabout7millionpeopleanditisalsohometo68 differentgroupsofpeople.ThesegroupsliveinvariouspartsofLaos, likelowlands,midlands,andhighlands.Mostpeople,around68%, liveneartheMekongRiverinthelowlands.Furthermore,22%ofthe populationresidesinthemountains,and9%inthehighlands. Additionally,thereisa1%minoritycomprisingindividualsof VietnameseorChineseorigin.

MostpeoplespeakLao,butsomeinruralareasspeakotherlanguages likeKhmuandHmong.TheyalsolearnFrenchinschool.Buddhism isthemainreligion,andit'sessentialindailylife.Ithassomesocial rules,likegreetingswithagesturecalled"nop"orasmileandbow Peopleavoidthingslikebackslappingandpublicdisplaysof affection.Buddhismalsoinfluencesthingslikerespectingelders,not touchingheads,andremovingshoesbeforeenteringhomesor temples.

GeographicalRange:

LaosisalandlockedcountryinSoutheastAsia,borderedby severalneighboringcountries.Itissituatedtothenorthwestof Vietnam,westofCambodia,southofChina,eastofThailand, andnorthofMyanmar(Burma).TheMekongRiverrunsalong itswesternborder,servingasanaturalboundarywithThailand. Laoshasadiversetopography,withmountainousregions, plateaus,andthefertileMekongRivervalley.Thecountry's geographicalrangeencompassesavarietyoflandscapes, contributingtoitsrichbiodiversityandculturalheritage.

Spicy Flavorful Journey:

Climate:

Laosexperiencesatropicalclimatewithdistinctwet anddryseasons.Thebesttimetovisitdependson personalpreferences,withthecool,dryseasonfrom NovembertoFebruarybeingthemostpopular This periodofferspleasanttemperatures,makingitidealfor exploringthecountrywithoutheavyrainfall.Thewet season,fromMaytoOctober,bringslushgreen landscapesbutischaracterizedbyfrequentrain showers.

Ithasdeliciousfoodwithuniqueflavorsinfluenced bynearbycountries.Must-trydishesinclude:

Kaipen:Kaipen,orkaipaen,isaLaotiansnackmadefromgreenalgaefoundinthe MekongRiverinnorthernLaos.Afterwashing,thealgaeispressedintothinsheetsand seasonedwithgarlicandsesameseedsbeforebeinglefttodryinthesun.Thebestway toenjoykaipenistofrythesheetsuntiltheybecomecrispy.Itisoftenpairedwithjaew bong,adippingsaucemadefromroastedchiliandthinpiecesofbuffaloskin.This combinationcreatesatastyandflavorfultreatthatrepresentsLaotianculinarytradition.

Khaopoon:Khaopoonisabelovedcomfortlocalfood,featuringricevermicellinoodles inaflavorful,spicysoup.Thesoupiscraftedbysimmeringpoundedmeat(chicken,fish, orpork)withingredientslikefishsauce,garlic,shallots,chilies,limeleaves,galangal,and perillaleavesToenhancethedish,varioustoppingsareadded,includingshredded cabbage,shallots,springonion,coriander,mintleaves,andstringbeans.Thiscombination createsadeliciousandsatisfyingmealenjoyedbymanyinLaos.

Laospho:Laospho,originatingfromVietnam,isabelovedsoupenjoyedbymany locals.Ithasthinslicesofbeef,pork,orchicken,alongwithtripe,meatballs,and sometimesinnardslikeheart,liver,ortongue.Youcanpickwhetheryouwantitwithflat orthinricenoodles.Peopleoftenaddtoppingslikechilioil,limejuice,beansprouts, longbeans,holybasil,andcilantrotomakeitevenmoredelicious.

Orlam:OrlamisakindofthickandmildlyspicystewfromLuangPrabanginLaos.It hasbeans,eggplant,lemongrass,basil,chilies,woodearmushrooms,cilantro,andgreen onion.Aspecialthinginthisstewismaisakaan,alocallygrownvinethatyou'renot supposedtoeat(justchewandspititout).Orlamalsohasdriedbuffalomeat,beef,or chickenmeatinit.

Places You Must Explore

Ÿ LuangPrabang:LuangPrabangisaspecialcityinLaos.It'saUNESCOWorldHeritagesitebecauseofitsancient templesandthedailyceremonywheremonkscollectfood.Riverssurroundthecity,offeringapicturesqueviewfrom MountPhouSi.LuangPrabang,withitsrichhistoryandserenebeauty,isworthavisit,featuringattractionssuchasthe stunningKuangSiwaterfalls.

Ÿ Vientiane:VientianeisLaos'capitalcitybytheMekongRiver,nearThailand.IthasplaceslikePhaThatLuangandHaw PhraKaew TheseplacesshowLaos'historyandmixofFrenchinfluence.Vientianehasbeenimportantforalongtime, fromancientkingdomstoFrenchrule,andnowasamoderncitywithoveramillionpeople.It'sacitywhereoldtemples andnewthingscometogether,tellingthestoryofthisplace.

Ÿ PlainofJars:InLaos,there'saspecialplacecalledthePlainofJars.Here,numerouslargestonejarsarescatteredacross thelandscape.Discoveredin1930,thesejarsarebelievedtobeassociatedwithancientburialcustoms.Thejarsvaryin sizeandareoftenarrangedinclusters.Theyhaveasignificantage,datingbacktoaperiodbetween1240and660BC, makingthissitecrucialtoSoutheastAsianhistory.Despitefacingheavybombingduringthewar,ongoingeffortsare beingmadetoensureitssafetyforvisitors.In2019,thePlainofJarsachievedUNESCOWorldHeritageSitestatus.

Ÿ KuangSiFalls:KuangSiFalls,isamagicalspotinthemiddleofnature.Thefallshavelotsoflayers,likestepsmadeof water Thewaterisastunningbluecolor,anditmakespoolswhereyoucangoforacoolswim.TogettoKuangSiFalls, youwalkthroughtheforest,enjoyingalltheplantsandanimals.It'sapeacefuljourney,andwhenyouarrive,thebig waterfallisreallyimpressive.YoucanevenexploretheKuangSiButterflyParknearby,wherecolorfulbutterflieslive freely.KuangSiFallsisaspecialpartofLaos,showingoffthebeautyofuntouchednature.It'saperfectplaceforpeople wholovebeingoutdoorsandwanttoseesomethingamazing.

Things to Do in Laos:

VisiticonictempleslikeWatXieng Thong,WatSisaket,andWatPhufor aspiritualexperienceinLaos.

Explore Temples

Mekong RiverCruises

Enjoyascenicjourneyalongthe MekongRiver,witnessingrurallife andpicturesquelandscapes.

Bolaven Plateau

Hikethroughlushhillsandvalleys, discoveringethnicminorityvillages andbreathtakingvistas.

Trekkingin NorthernLaos

ExplorethehighlandsofsouthernLaos, knownforcoffeeplantations,stunning waterfalls,andindigenouscommunities.

Supportlocalartisansbypurchasing handmadetextiles,ceramics,andwood carvingsfromtraditionalmarketsand workshops.

TraditionalArts andCrafts

Best Time to Visit:

TomakethemostofyourLaosexperience,consider planningyourvisitduringthedryseason.The monthsofNovembertoFebruaryoffercool temperatures,makingitcomfortableforexploring culturalsitesandoutdooractivities.However,those seekingadifferentperspectivemayoptforthewet seasonwhennatureflourishes,providingaunique andverdantbackdrop.

Itisaplacewithitsculturalrichness,diverse landscapes,andwarmhospitality,providesan extraordinarytravelexperience.Whetheryou seekspiritualserenity,outdooradventures,ora tasteofauthenticSoutheastAsiancuisine,Laos welcomesyouwithopenarms.Asyouexplore thishiddengem,you'lldiscoveralandwhere timeseemstoslowdown,allowingyoutoenjoy thebeautyandcalmnessthatdefinetheheartof Laos.

Investingisnoteveryone’scupoftea,andtherehavebeenfarlesssuccessful

stories.Naturally,whenitcomestoinvesting,youcan’thelpbutdraw inspirationfromMichaelBurry.Justayoungboy,tryingouthishandin investingwhileinmedicalschool,MichaelBurrycaughtthespotlight,wherehis nameevenreachedhighlyregardedcompanieslikeVanguard.

MichaelBurrythenwentontoshortthehousingmarket,wherehemaderoughlya $100million.HewasalsooneofthemaincharactersinanOscar-winningmovie–TheBigShort.Now,ifyouhaveseenthemovie,youmusthavewonderedwhatit wouldtaketoinvestlike‘the’MichaelBurry Whileitmaynotbeaseasyasit seems,letustakealookathisportfolioandhisuniqueapproachtoinvesting.

Where is Michael Burry Investing?

5. Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA)

ScionCapital’sQ32023Investment:$4.3million

AlibabaGroupHoldingLimited(NYSE:BABA)isabigonlinesellerandtech companyworldwide.It'sratedStrongBuyandanalyststhinkitsshareprice couldgoupby$57,aimingforanaveragesharepricetargetof$140.

InJune2023,outof910hedgefunds,112ownedsharesofAlibabaGroup HoldingLimited(NYSE:BABA).ThelargestofthesewasDavidTepper’s AppaloosaManagementLP,withasignificantinvestmentworth$372million.

4. Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG)

ScionCapital’sQ32023Investment:$4.6million

BookingHoldingsInc.(NASDAQ:BKNG)isacompanythatprovidestravel services.It'sinterestingtonotethatMichaelBurryhada$4.6million investmentinthecompanyasofSeptember2023,buthealsohadputoptions worth$7.7million.ThissuggeststhatBurrymightbeanticipatingadropinthe stockpriceandhastakenstepstoprotecthisinvestments.AlongsideAlibaba andJD,BookingHoldingsInc.wasanewadditiontoScion’sinvestment portfolioinQ3.

InQ22023,78outof910hedgefundshadinvestedinBookingHoldingsInc. (NASDAQ:BKNG).ThelargestshareholderatthattimewasArrowstreet Capital,ledbyPeterRathjens,BruceClarke,andJohnCampbell.Theyowned 511,104sharesvaluedat$1.3billion.

3. Star Bulk Carriers Corp. (NASDAQ:SBLK)

ScionCapital’sQ32023Investment:$4.8million

StarBulkCarriersCorp.(NASDAQ:SBLK)isaGreekcompanythatshipsdry bulkcargo.Itssuccessistiedtoastrongglobaleconomy,andanalyststhinkits sharesareaStrongBuyonaverage,withanaveragepricetargetof$23.97.

IntheJunequarterof2023,portfoliosof910hedgefundswereanalyzed, revealingthat15hadpurchasedsharesofStarBulkCarriersCorp. (NASDAQ:SBLK).HowardMarks’OaktreeCapitalManagementemergedas thelargestinvestoramongthem,withsharesvaluedat$461million.

2. Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:NXST)

ScionCapital’sQ32023Investment:$6.9million

NexstarMediaGroup,Inc.(NASDAQ:NXST)isanAmericancompanythat focusesontelevisionandbroadcasting.Dr.Burryhadasignificantincreasein hisinvestmentinthecompanyduringthethirdquarter,boostinghisholdingsby 225%,whichwasoneofthelargestjumpsseen.Additionally,analystsratethe company'ssharesasaStrongBuy,withanexpectedaveragepriceincreaseof around$55.

AsoftheendoftheJunequarterin2023,30outof910hedgefundswere investorsinNexstarMediaGroup,Inc.Thelargesthedgefundshareholderat thattimewasAmyMinella’sCardinalCapital,withholdingsvaluedat$129 million.

1. Stellantis N.V. (NYSE:STLA)

ScionCapital’sQ32023Investment:$7.6million

StellantisN.V.(NYSE:STLA)isamongthelargestcarmakersglobally Currently,thecompanyisaddressingtheaftermathofsignificantunionstrikes intheUnitedStates.Tomanagethis,it'sofferingbuyoutoptionstoworkers, aimingtocreatefinancialroomforproducingelectricvehicleswhilealso honoringunionagreements.

Inthesecondquarterof2023,27outof910hedgefundshadinvestmentsin StellantisN.V.(NYSE:STLA).Thelargeststakeamongthesewasheldby ArrowstreetCapital,ledbyPeterRathjens,BruceClarke,andJohnCampbell, valuedat$420million.

The Investment Approach of Michael Burry

MichaelBurry,avalueinvestor,followstheprinciplesoutlinedinthebookSecurity AnalysisbyBenjaminGrahamandDavidDodd.Hefocusesonakeyideacalledthe "marginofsafety."Thismeanshelooksforcompanieswhosestockpriceislowerthan whatthey'reactuallyworth.Burrybelievesthatinvestinginsuchcompaniesissafe becausetheirstockpricesarelikelytoincreaseovertimetomatchtheirtruevalue.

Manyinvestorsuseavalueinvestingstrategy,butBurryhassomeuniquemethodsthat sethimapartandcontributetohissuccess.Here'swhatmakeshisapproachdifferent:

Hesearchesforvalueeverywhere,saying,"IfIsee valueinit,it'sapotentialportfoliocandidate.”

Hismostfamousinvestmentwasn'tastock,butcredit defaultswapsthatheusedtobetagainstthehousingmarket.

Hemakesdecisionsbasedonhisownanalysis, notinfluencedbyothersormarketemotions.

Burryiswillingtotakeadifferentstancefrom thecrowdandreliesonhisownresearch.

Heofteninvestsinunpopularsectors,believingit'sachance tobuystrongcompaniesduringtimesofirrationalselling.

Burryisknownforbeingselectiveinhisinvestments.Atthecloseof2022, ScionAssetManagementheldonlyninestocks,reflectingBurry'spreference forqualityoverquantity.Heoptsforstocksthatoffergoodvalueanda marginofsafety,ratherthanspreadinghisinvestmentsacrossnumerous companies.Thisapproachcontrastswiththestrategyofinvestinginmany companieswiththehopethatafewwillyieldsignificantreturns,asBurry aimstomakeeachinvestmentcount.

“Youarewhatyoueat..”isabeliefthatmade Kellogg’soneofthemostpopularchoicesfor Americansinthebreakfast.SetupbybrothersWill KeithKelloggandDrJohnHarveyKellogginyear 1870’s,Kelloggdiscovereddifferentwaystotocook andcrushwheatandmadeitmorepalatablewithout losingitsnutritionalvalue.Thebrandprovedthat makingcerealandfeedingittomillionsofpeopleis notatalldifficultthingtoexecute.Thecompany decidedtogoonestepaheadbyproducingBreakfast Matesforbusyfamiliesinwhichthereareworking parentsandsavetheirtime.However,thecompany failedmiserablyandturnedouttobeadisaster.Do youwanttoknowthestorybehindthis?Explorethe sameinthisarticle.

OverviewoftheProduct:

TheHalloweenWhopperwasalimited-timeburgerintroducedbyBurgerKingspecificallyfortheHalloweenseason.What madeitstandoutwasitsblackbun,leavingthetypicalbrownbunsfoundonmostburgers.Theblackcolorwasachievedby incorporatingA.1.Steaksauceintothedough,givingthebunadistinctflavorandaspookylook,whichwasfittingforthe Halloweentheme.Thisnoveltyfactorattractedalotofattention,andmanypeoplewereeagertotryitduetoitsuniqueness comparedtoregularburgers.

TraditionalAdvertising, Social Media, Digital Marketing, Influencer Marketing, In-Store Promotions, Public Relations

TheHalloweenWhopperwascreatedbyBurgerKingin2015tojoininthe Halloweenfestivitiesandattractmorecustomers.Itmadetheburgerspecial bygivingitablackbunflavoredwithA.1.Steaksauce,makingitlook spooky.Itwantedtoexcitepeoplewithauniquemenuitemthatmatchedthe Halloweenvibe.Byofferingthislimited-timeburger,thecompanywanted peopletotalkanddrawattentiontotheirbrandduringtheholidayseason.

TheHalloweenWhopperwasn'tjustaboutsellingburgersduringHalloween. ItwasalsoBurgerKing'swayofstandingoutfromotherfast-foodplaces.By makingaburgerwithablackbun,itwantedtocatchpeople'sattentionand showthebrandiscreativeanddifferent.

Plus,thespookyburgerwasperfectforsocialmedia.Peoplelovedsharing picturesofitonline,whichhelpedspreadthewordaboutBurgerKingeven more.So,besidesboostingsales,theHalloweenWhopperwasawayforitto connectwithcustomersandgeteveryoneexcitedaboutHalloween.

TheHalloweenWhopper,introducedbyBurgerKinginOctober2015,wasalimitedtimeofferingdesignedtocelebratetheHalloweenseason.Itskeyfeaturesinclude:

BlackBun:

Themostwell-knownfeatureoftheHalloweenWhopperwasitsblackbun, whichwasfilledwithA.1.Steaksauce.Thisuniqueandvisuallyoutstanding bungavetheburgeraspookyappearance,perfectforHalloween.

A.1.Flavor:

TheblackbunoftheHalloweenWhopperwasn'tjustforshow; italsoaddedaboldandsavoryflavortotheburger Thisextra flavormadetheHalloweenWhoppertasteevenbetterandmade itdifferentfromotherthingsyoucaneatatBurgerKing.

Limited-TimeAvailability:

Likemanyseasonalofferings,theHalloweenWhopper wasavailableforalimitedtimeonlyinOctober This madepeoplefeelliketheyhadtotrytheburgerquickly beforeitwasgonefromthemenu,whichgotthem excitedandeagertotasteit.

PromotionalCampaign:

BurgerKing'sHalloweenWhopperwaspart ofapromotionalcampaignaimedatprofiting fromtheHalloweenholiday Theburger's uniqueappearanceandflavorwere highlightedinadvertisingandmarketing materialsattractingcustomerstotrythe limited-timeoffering.

EngagementonSocialMedia:

ThecoollookoftheHalloweenWhopper madepeoplewanttoshareitonsocialmedia. Theytookpicturesandwrotereviewsaboutit online,spreadingthewordevenmoreand bringingfansofthebrandtogether

Overall,theHalloweenWhopperwasacreativeand attention-grabbingadditiontoBurgerKing'smenu, designedtocelebratetheHalloweenseasonand engagecustomerswithitsuniquefeaturesandflavors.

TheconsumerreactiontoBurgerKing'sHalloweenWhopperwasmixed,withsomecustomersintriguedbyitsunique appearanceandflavor,whileothersfounditoff-putting.

CuriosityandIntrigue:LotsofpeoplewereinterestedintryingtheHalloweenWhopperbecauseithadauniqueblack bunandspecialA.1.Steaksauceinside.Theburger'sdifferentlookcaughtpeople'sattentionandmadethemcurious totasteit.

MixedReviewsonFlavor:SomepeoplelikedthetasteoftheHalloweenWhopperbecauseoftheA.1.Steaksauce flavorinthebun.ThecompanythoughtitaddedsomethingspecialtotheclassicWhoppertaste.Butforothers,the flavorwastoodifferentorstrong,sotheydidn'tenjoyitasmuch.

VisualAppeal:TheHalloweenWhopperlookedcoolwithitsblackbun,solotsofpeoplesharedpicturesofitonsocial media.Thismadeeveryonetalkaboutitandgotpeopleexcitedtotryit.

Limited-TimeAvailability:Justlikeotherspecialmenuitemsthatcomeandgo,theHalloweenWhopperwasonly aroundforashorttime.Thismadesomepeoplewanttotryitquicklybeforeitwasgone,butitmighthavemade othershesitatebecausetheyknewitwouldn'tbeavailableforlong.

MarketingandPromotion:BurgerKing'smarketingandpromotionoftheHalloweenWhopperplayedamajorrole inshapingconsumerviews.Theburgerwasheavilypromotedthroughadvertising,socialmedia,andin-storedisplays, creatingexcitementanddrivingsalesduringtheHalloweenseason.

TheHalloweenWhopperwascreatedbyBurgerKingin2015tojoinin theHalloweenfestivitiesandattractmorecustomers.Itmadetheburger specialbygivingitablackbunflavoredwithA.1.Steaksauce,makingit lookspooky.Itwantedtoexcitepeoplewithauniquemenuitemthat matchedtheHalloweenvibe.Byofferingthislimited-timeburger,the companywantedpeopletotalkanddrawattentiontotheirbrandduring theholidayseason.

TheHalloweenWhopperwasn'tjustaboutsellingburgersduring Halloween.ItwasalsoBurgerKing'swayofstandingoutfromotherfastfoodplaces.Bymakingaburgerwithablackbun,itwantedtocatch people'sattentionandshowthebrandiscreativeanddifferent.

Plus,thespookyburgerwasperfectforsocialmedia.Peoplelovedsharing picturesofitonline,whichhelpedspreadthewordaboutBurgerKing evenmore.So,besidesboostingsales,theHalloweenWhopperwasaway forittoconnectwithcustomersandgeteveryoneexcitedabout Halloween.

TheBurgerKingHalloween Whopperfacedseveralchallengesandcriticismsthatcontributedtoitsperceivedfailure:

UnusualAppearance:

Theblackbunmadesomepeoplewaryaboutitssafetyand unappetizingtotry.

TasteandFlavor:

ThestrongtasteofA.1.Steaksaucedidn'tsitwellwith everyone,leavingsomedisappointedwiththeburger.

HealthConcerns:

Usingfoodcoloringtomakethebunblackraisedhealth worries,especiallyforthosewithdietaryrestrictions.

LimitedAvailability:

BeingavailableonlyduringHalloweenrestricteditsreachand preventeditfrombecomingapopularitem.

MarketingMissteps:

BurgerKing'smarketingfailedtoaddressconcernsorhighlight theburger'sappeal,leadingtouncertaintyamongcustomers.

Ÿ BalanceUniquenesswithTaste: Havingsomethingnewanddifferentcangrabpeople'sinterest,butwhatmattersisifit tastesgood.Evenifsomethinglookscool,ifitdoesn'ttastegreat,peoplewon'tlikeit.So,makingsureaproductis deliciousissuperimportantforitssuccess.

Ÿ ConsiderConsumerPreferences:Understandingconsumerpreferencesandtastesisessentialwhenintroducingnew menuitems.Conductingmarketresearchandgatheringfeedbackcanhelpidentifypotentialconcernsorreservationsthat consumersmayhaveabouttheproduct.

Ÿ CommunicateClearly:Clearandtransparentcommunicationisessential,especiallywhenintroducingunusualor innovativeproducts.Addressinganyconcernsorquestionshonestlycanhelpeaseconsumerhesitationsandbuildtrustin thebrand.

Ÿ ManageExpectations: Makesuretotellcustomersexactlywhattheycanexpectfromtheproductinadvertisementsand promotions.It'simportantnottomakeitsoundbetterthanitisbecausethencustomersmightbedisappointedwhenthey tryit.Justbehonestaboutwhattheproductislike,socustomersknowwhatthey'regetting.

Ÿ TestandIterate:Testingtheproductthoroughlybeforeit'savailabletoeveryonecanhelpfixanyproblemsbeforethey becomebiggerissues.Gettingfeedbackfromsmallgroupsofpeoplewhotrytheproductfirstcangiveimportant informationaboutwhatneedstobechangedorimproved.

Ÿ TimingandAvailability:Considerthetimingandavailabilityoftheproductlaunchcarefully.Takeadvantageof seasonalorevent-basedopportunities,butensurethat,theproduct'savailabilityalignswithconsumerdemandand preferences.

Ÿ AdaptabilityandFlexibility:Bepreparedtoadaptandadjustmarketingstrategiesbasedonconsumerfeedbackand markettrends.Flexibilityandresponsivenessarecriticalfordirectingunexpectedchallengesoraddressingchanging consumerpreferences.

Intheend,BurgerKing'sHalloweenWhopperdidn'ttaste goodtoeveryone,eventhoughitlookedinteresting.This remindsusthatwhilebeingdifferentisneat,havinggoodtaste iscrucial.BurgerKingandothercompaniescanlearnfrom thisbypayingattentiontowhatcustomersenjoyandbeing honestabouttheirproducts.EventhoughtheHalloween Whopperdidn'tdogreat,ittaughtvaluablelessonsabout creatingthingspeopleenjoy.

SEISMIC Product

• Establishment Year: 2010

• Founder: Doug Winter

• Headquartered: San Diego, California, United States

• No. of Employees: 1500

• Website: https://seismic.com/

Overview:

Seismicisatopcompanyworldwide,helpingbusinessesconnectwithcustomers,empowerteams,and boostsales.TheirSeismicEnablementCloud™isaleadingplatformthatgivesteamsthetoolsand knowledgetheyneedtosucceed.Over2,200organizations,bigandsmall,relyonSeismicfortheir needs.HeadquarteredinSanDiego,SeismicalsohasofficesacrossNorthAmerica,Europe,and Australia.

Seismic'sStorytellingPlatformoffersnewwaysformarketerstosharecontentacrossallchannels,and forsalespeopletoconnectwithpotentialbuyersengaginglythroughoutthebuyingprocess.Over700big companieslikeIBMandAmericanExpressuseSeismicforsalessupport.TheSeismicStorytelling PlatformworksseamlesslywithimportantbusinesstoolslikeMicrosoft,Salesforce,Google,andAdobe.

SEISMIC oduct Review

Features

API

Access

Controls/Permissions

Approval Process Control

Archiving & Retention

Audit Management

Audit Trail

Automated Publishing

Batch Processing

Campaign Management

Cataloging/Categorization

Change Management

Collaboration Tools

Commenting/Notes

Communication Management

Compliance Management

Compliance Tracking

Content Delivery

Content Discovery

Content Library

Content Management

Content Publishing

Options

Contract/License Management

Customizable Templates

Data Import/Export

Data Synchronization

Digital Asset Management

Discussions/Forums

Document Automation

Document Capture

Image Editing

Information Governance

Knowledge Management

Lead Engagement

Meeting Management

Mobile Access

Multiple Output Formats

Ofine Access

Performance Metrics

Personalization

Pre-Approved Content

Library

Presentation Tools

Process/Workow Automation

Proposal Management

Comparison:

• Top-notch CRM tool visually tracks lead and opportunity growth.

• Pipedrive's free plan lets you try it out at no cost.

• Limited customization compared to enterprise platforms

• Lack of clear support contacts during downtime

• The lead section was perceived as ineffective

• Top-notch CRM tool visually tracks lead and opportunity growth.

• Pipedrive's free plan lets you try it out at no cost.

• No Salesforce integration, hindering ROI tracking

• Difficult navigation compared to competitors

Benets of using Seismic:

StreamlinedAutomation:Seismicempowersmarketingteamstoeffortlesslycreatecustomizabletemplatesthatguide sellersthroughgeneratingon-brand,personalizedpresentationdecks,proposals,andmore.Updatesacrossnumerous documentscanbeswiftlyimplementedviaSeismic'sdashboard.

AdvancedAnalytics&Insights:Seismic'srobustanalyticssuiteprovidessalesandmarketingteamswithacomprehensive viewofhowcontentimpactsrevenuegrowth.Predictivecontenttoolssimplifycontentselectionforsellers,expeditingthe salesprocess.

CentralizedContentRepository:Actingasasinglesourceoftruth,Seismicconsolidatesallmarketingandsalescontent, ensuringsellershaveinstantaccesstomaterialstailoredtoeachprospect.

FlexiblePersonalization:TransformstaticdocumentsintodynamicpresentationswithSeismic,allowingforreal-time personalizationusinglivedataseamlesslyintegratedacrossvariousplatforms.

Customer Testimonials:

1. “I love Seismic and the use of the ease of the platform. You can save the favorites that you share within your library for easy access. This platform allows you to share valuable information with your clients and provides a matrix for each piece of material that you have sent. Seismic is a great tool for anyone who shares content and wants to keep a record of who views the material sent to help gauge their audience.” - Breea H.

2. “I think the best part of this software was the user interface. I felt that it was super easy to navigate and find exactly what I was looking for.”

- Bryson N.

FAQs:

1. What level of support does Seismic offer?

3. “Seismic was an upgrade for our organization and it has been a huge improvement. Especially helpful is the intelligent search feature that makes it extremely easy to find documents.” - Ian N.

Seismicoffersthefollowingsupportoptions:Email/HelpDesk,PhoneSupport,KnowledgeBase,Chat

2. Does Seismic offer an API?

Yes,SeismichasanAPIavailableforuse.

3. Who are the typical users of Seismic?

Seismichasthefollowingtypicalcustomers:LargeEnterprises,MidSizeBusinesses,Non-Profit,PublicAdministrations

4. What mobile devices does Seismic support?

Seismicsupportsthefollowingdevices:Android,iPad,iPhone