- Economic Trend: Trade War signifies millions of investment in Indonesia
- Source: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-01-25/indonesia-stands-to-gain-from-u-s-china-trade-war-lembong-says?srnd=economics-vp
- I believe there is an opportunity for development through jobs and international relations as the trade war between the US and China calls for the relocation of factories to primarily Indonesia and other southeast asian countries. This will allow for these nations to be responsible for one third of the worlds demand, and subsequently will boost their economies and employment rate.
- The prototypical customer in this situation would be the work force of these nations. Those unemployed and struggling with poverty will find opportunity with jobs and those employed will see the economy and welfare improve.
- I saw this opportunity because I've travelled to some of the southeast asian countries mentioned and they are primarily tourism driven economies with average economies. The relocation of Chinese factories would be a huge boom in terms of development.
- Economic Trend: Mexico, an attractive market
- Source: https://www.lanacion.com.ar/2213711-mexico-un-atractivo-mercado-que-esta-mas-cerca-de-lo-que-parece
- With the change of presidency in Mexico, investors were cautious as to how the economy would react. Being the 4th biggest economy in the Americas and the 15th economy in the world, many countries have been eyeing the Aztec nation. A new president means new politics, and that could always open up gates for new investments.
- As an Argentine, I believe the prototypical customer would be for Argentine exporters, particularly in areas such as wine and software. Our current economic situation sees the USD in AR$ decreasing, which is giving businesses confidence for exterior investment.
- I saw this opportunity as we (Argentina), recently received assistance by the FMI, and our currency is just starting to get stronger after years of it decreasing. Hopefully it will keep going in this direction and local businesses can start investing internationally.
- Regulatory Trend: Next country to legalize pot
- Source: https://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2018/10/18/country-legalize-pot-canada/
- The legalization of cannabis for either medical or recreational purposes is something that has taken boom in many different countries around the world. As countries surpass the stigma around legalizing weed and intake the potential economic gain, more and more countries are taking the leap.
- The prototypical customer for this would depend on whether the legalization is for medicinal or recreational purposes. In the case of medicinal the government would benefit tremendously. In the case of recreational purposes private enterprises would benefit from this opportunity.
- I saw this opportunity as I lived in California for two years and was introduced to the weed culture they have over there. In California private enterprises are gaining tremendously and creating profit with huge margins. I've noticed that California, Colorado and Canada were the first to take the leap and now other states and nations are becoming interested.
- Regulatory Trend: Mandatory solar panels on new homes, California.
- Source: http://fortune.com/2018/12/06/california-solar-panels-new-homes/
- California has passed a law obligating the inclusion of solar panels on newly built homes. The law is to be placed in effect as of Jan. 1, 2020.
- The prototypical customer for this would be both home owners who would benefit from renewable energy, and the companies that would provide this source of energy such as solar panel companies. Designers are also a potential customer as they can develop new ways to include solar panels.
- I was made aware of this law after leaving my stay in California, and I though it was really neat. It's an important step for becoming an eco-friendly state and hopefully will be followed by other states.
Saturday, January 26, 2019
6A – Identifying Opportunities in Economic & Regulatory Trends
Friday, January 25, 2019
5A – Identifying Local Opportunities
- "The next possible victims of the shutdown: Your food, flowers and toys" by Rob Wile, Miami Herald
- https://infoweb-newsbank-com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/apps/news/document-view?p=WORLDNEWS&t=pubname%3AMIHB%21Miami%2BHerald%252C%2BThe%2B%2528FL%2529/year%3A2019%212019/mody%3A0120%21January%2B20&f=advanced&action=browse&format=text&docref=news/171121A936B566D0
- This article, written on January 20th, describes the issue of delayed inspections of imports in Miami International Airport resulting from the government shutdown. Given that government employees are currently working without pay, and the uncertainty these employees are facing with regards to their next paycheck-- employees are not working with the same productivity, and many are absent on the job. The imports most affected by these delays are food products and flowers, as Miami International Airport receives 69% of perishables and 89% of all flowers entering the United States of America.
- Problem: The problem presented is that the products being imported are mostly perishable, and should be inspected within a certain time period. A delay in inspection means many of these products can no longer be accepted, thus the supply becomes limited. A limit in supply provokes a spike in prices, which according to the article, is negatively impacting the demand.
- Who has the problem: The problem falls on both sides of the coin, both retailer and consumer. Retailers are purchasing products from suppliers and not receiving the profit they would most usually expect. Also, they are paying for a certain quantity that might not be fulfilled depending on the potential delay of inspection in customs. Consumers on the other hand are having to deal with a spike in prices of agricultural products, which can affect them economically and in health terms if they purchase alternative, cheaper and less healthy items.
- "POLITICS STALLS STUDY OF CLIMATE CHANGE EFFECT" by Kirby Wilson, Tampa Bay Times.
- https://infoweb-newsbank-com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/apps/news/document-view?p=WORLDNEWS&t=pubname%3ASPTB%21Tampa%2BBay%2BTimes%2B%2528FL%2529/year%3A2019%212019/mody%3A0124%21January%2B24&f=advanced&action=browse&format=text&docref=news/17127B121AF38558
- This article, written January 24th, describes the stall in reviewing a proposal submitted by scientist Yasin Elshorbany to study the potential climate change effects of Arctic ice cap melting. The scientist has a deadline set on February 14th to submit a request for government funding, and the government shutdown has led to politics being the only obstacle in his course as politicians are legally forbidden from reviewing the proposal during the government shutdown.
- Problem: The problem faced is the delay of studying climate change effects, which I would argue to be the most important issue of our time. The United States has already rejected certain proposals such as the Paris Agreement looking to limit the rise in global temperature. The proposal, which could provide new and significant insight on what we will experience in the future, is not being given importance due to the government shutdown.
- Who has the problem: We, as a human race, are ultimately the ones facing this problem. If importance is not given to research proposals such as this one, we may not know how to deal with or limit the effects of certain events caused by climate change.
"FRANCHISEES DING MCDONALD’S WALL" by Bloomberg, Tampa Bay Times.
- This article, written January 24th, remarks a strife that is being created between the McDonalds Corporation with US Franchisees, given their investment plans to build a wall between cashiers and kitchens in all stores.
- Problem: The problem created is essentially economic. US Franchisees, who own over 90% of locations, regard this investment as practically useless, saying it will provide no return and will not improve customer service. The US Franchisees would rather invest in areas that provide return, such as kitchens and drive thru's.
- Who has the problem: The ones facing this problem are the US Franchisees and the McDonalds Corporation, given an expensive and "one size fits all" investment in all 90,000 locations that will essentially not provide a return would be devastating for McDonalds business.
"FLORIDIANS EXPECT BETTER" by Tampa Bay Times.
- This article basically explains the unmeet needs and expectations resulting from the government shutdown. Now expanding past the 4 week mark, the government shutdown has had a huge impact on state farms and state crops. As remarked in this article, "those concerned with the wall should be equally concerned with defending our state, people and interests."
- Problem: There are many problems that arise with a poor domestic farming situation. Essentially all domestic food products are not receiving the financing they need, which creates a huge impact on supply and prices.
- Who has the problem: The people of the United States are the ones who feel the impact of this problem. As stated in the article, it could also potentially affect federal school and breakfast programs, which are securely funded only until March-- after this local funding will have to be requested.
"SHUTDOWN STALLS RESEARCH" by Tampa Bay Times.
- This articles explains the impact of the government shutdown on funding for general research and societal advancements. With the government shutdown, research is essentially stalled.
- Problem: The problem is that researchers across the state and nation are now in a limbo as they cannot continue with their advancements. All research is stalled until the government shutdown is over, and thus thousands of important projects are at a stop.
- Who has the problem: At first hand this problem affects researchers and organizations that carry out research and have historically created some of the world's most important advancements such as NASA. The general population is the indirect sufferer of this problem, as we are the ones who benefit from research.
Friday, January 18, 2019
4A - Forming An Opportunity Belief
I believe there is a need for an application that would facilitate parking in the capital of Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires is a very populated city with many parts having been constructed with European architecture, leaving many narrow streets and few parking spots in the city. Private parking exists and is frequently used, though prices range and closing hours vary. If an application that marked all private parking locations, prices, and ratings was developed-- I believe it would facilitate the lives of many Argentines in their day-to-day lives. I would mark the percentage of this opportunity at an 80%.
#1: Businessman living in Greater Buenos Aires that travels to the city on a daily basis.
#1: Businessman living in Greater Buenos Aires that travels to the city on a daily basis.
- How often do you park in the city of Buenos Aires?
- I park in Buenos Aires from Monday to Friday, though I have an assured company parking spot so I don't have to worry about finding parking.
- How would you expect your situation (with regards to parking) to change if you didn't have a company parking spot.
- I would not enjoy it. Most likely I would find a private parking and pay them a weekly fee to have a spot always present.
- Do you drive to other parts of the cities for meetings, and if you do, how is the parking situation?
- Yes I do. I usually attempt to leave with some time for leverage so as to find a private parking. The problem is not the quantity of private parking buildings but rather finding their locations.
- What is your experience with private parking?
- It is definitely the best option for safe parking, but obviously you pay a fee for this privilege. For those who work and utilize these services for the whole day most likely pay an expensive fee.
Reflection: Although this prototypical customer doesn't need this service, given he utilizes a company issued parking spot, I believe there could be opportunity for a service that indicates the locations and information of private parking buildings in the city.
#2: Early 20's male living in Greater Buenos Aires:
- How often do you park in the city of Buenos Aires?
- Not that often, only on certain nights out and to visit a couple of friends. I try to go to the capital by train or bus.
- When you go to the capital, where do you usually park?
- I hate parking in the city. I don't like to pay private parking so I usually park in the city, but it takes some time to find a spot. It's a hassle.
- What is your experience with private parking?
- I use it as my last option because I don't have that much money to spend and it can be expensive. But it's safe, and usually has space, so I would say good.
- Do you know by memory any private parking locations?
- No, I know there is one in Recoleta near the cemetery, but I'm not from the city so I wouldn't know. The times I've utilized private parking in the city I usually just drive around until I find one.
Reflection: This customer doesn't have the need to use this service as he doesn't go to the city that often. Also, if he were to go, he wouldn't utilize private parking due to the price. The price factor may apply to many, given parking on the street is, although difficult, is ultimately free.
#3: Mid 20's female living in the city of Buenos Aires.
- How often do you park in the city of Buenos Aires?
- If I leave in my car, then I most certainly park around the city. Though I like to use public transportation as much as possible. There are always strikes happening so traffic jams are very common.
- When you do use your car, where do you park?
- It all depends on the availability. If I can find something on the street, I will park on the street, but if there is no parking I will go to a private parking building. There are many curbs that have the yellow paint faded (yellow paint = no parking), and tow trucks don't have any mercy here. It's better to park in a private parking than risk getting towed.
- What is your experience with private parking?
- I don't mind it. There is usually space and the service is usually good. Of course I prefer parking in the street as it's free, but it's always a good alternative. Private parking is normally popular in not so good zones, where security isn't the best. If I were to go to a bad zone I would definitely park in private parking.
- Do you know by memory any private parking locations?
- Around my area yes, but not so much in other parts of the city. I usually just look around for the big 'E'.
Reflection: This prototypical customer could need the service, but under different circumstances. As she expressed, private parking is more popular in bad areas of the city, where one doesn't mind paying to keep their car untouched and safe.
Summary: After interviewing these people I've realized the need for this application is less than what I originally had foreseen, although I do honestly believe the original opportunity is there. Of the three prototypical customers, none used private parking on a regular basis, all due to different circumstances-- though two of the three wouldn't have a problem using it. Also, all three were not familiar with the locations of private parking buildings, meaning an application that marks this would be beneficial and save time. I definitely think an entrepreneur should adapt their ideas to the feedback of prototypical customers. After all, for a product/service to be successful, it has to appeal to the people. This was definitely a great learning experience.
3A – Your Entrepreneurship Story
In my first year of college, after meeting various contacts, I embarked on a project with three of my high school friends with the objective of creating an online clothing brand that shipped worldwide but with a base target in the Americas. We created an LLC in the state of Florida by the name of House of Aesthetic, examined various fulfillment centers in the US, and got certified by Alibaba for production of the clothing. For 6 months we were rigorously working, researching, and searching for investments to carry out this project. We ended up raising US$70,000 in investments and were on the verge of releasing our first season in September 2017, though we were faced with complications with regards to marketing and put the project on hold once the semester started.
It was a very enriching experience, and through many sleepless nights we were able to learn and intake more than any semester of college had up to that point. Though it didn't fall through, it was an exciting time and the adrenaline of working on something that meant something to oneself was truly amazing.
I am part of the UF online program and was advised to enroll in this class, though I do have an interest in entrepreneurship and am very much excited to intake as much as possible-- so as to have the possibility and applying the knowledge learned into potential future opportunities.
It was a very enriching experience, and through many sleepless nights we were able to learn and intake more than any semester of college had up to that point. Though it didn't fall through, it was an exciting time and the adrenaline of working on something that meant something to oneself was truly amazing.
I am part of the UF online program and was advised to enroll in this class, though I do have an interest in entrepreneurship and am very much excited to intake as much as possible-- so as to have the possibility and applying the knowledge learned into potential future opportunities.
2A - Bug List
1. Lack of bidets in public bathrooms in Argentina, and certain foreign countries including USA.
As for public bathrooms in Argentina, the barrier for having this available would certainly be the cost. Bidets are usually a separate device, meaning both price and space would be an issue when taking into account a stall in a public bathroom. As for foreign countries, I believe it would simply come down to culture. Bidets or variations of bidets are the most hygienic form of cleaning up and I believe it would certainly be applied if a society was introduced to it.
2. No available SAP on TV for foreign series/movies in Latin America.
I am from Argentina and many times have to watch programs, movies, and series from the US in Spanish instead of their original language. This 'bug' understandingly has to do with Spanish being the official language of Argentina, though it would be nice to always have the option to switch from the voice-over to the original.
3. Stoplights that don't count down.
In Buenos Aires the majority of stoplights count down, allowing you to calculate your speed. When I lived in the US (California) this wasn't the case. This 'bug' likely has to do with the cost of implementing these stoplights.
4. Difference of outlets/plugs across the world.
Most likely due to voltage differences in different nations. Extremely inconvenient for a traveler.
5. Traffic during rush hour in Avenida del Libertador headed towards San Isidro.
Due to a poorly thought-out renovation of the main avenue, which throughout the course of 5-6 kilometers suddenly narrows and widens constantly from 3 lanes to 2, creating an impressive jam and many cars avoiding incoming traffic on the other side of the road.
6. No free water/ water cups in restaurants in Argentina.
Most likely due to lack of clean water and societies distrust of self service.
7. Major flooding in Argentina during spring/summer.
Due to infrastructure and poor irrigation systems. Many people suffer because of this problem.
8. Power shortages in Argentina during summer.
Due to the heating of our electricity sources, many times they are switched off on purpose to allow cooling down. It would be a good idea to invest in better cooling devices.
9. No recycling in most of Zona Norte, Argentina.
This is most probably due to lack of resources and institutions for recycling to take place. Even when trash is separated, garbage trucks mix it together.
10. Small pieces of coal for Asados/BBQ.
Due to manufacturing of the coal, but inconvenient for starting the fire. Some stores sell special coal with nice, big pieces.
11. Parking in the city of Buenos Aires.
Parking in the city of Buenos Aires can be stressful. This 'bug' is due to a larger amount of cars and narrow streets with rules like "no parking on the left". Tow trucks are never sleeping and are extremely fast at towing. There are private parking buildings though they vary in regards to closing times and service.
12. Poor insulation of school building in Winter.
My high school in Argentina would be freezing in the winter and boiling in the summer. Most likely due to the infrastructure of the building and obviously the lack of heaters/ air conditioning.
13. Trash in coast of Rio de La Plata.
Due to lack of consideration and consciousness of pollution, also the lack of garbage cans and other trash disposal sites nearby.
14. Little brother spills all his food when he eats, especially yogurt.
Due to age, but also design/packaging of certain yogurts and foods that babies usually eat.
15. Length of government procedures (trámites).
Length is due to poor finance and organization of government institutes, and the lack of online services. It is common to complete government procedures at institutions when something formal is needed. These are stressful as they usually take numerous days of hours of waiting given systems always crash and the large amount of people.
16. Smog from cars in Buenos Aires.
Due to loose regulations. Though there are government regulations, many cars emit large amounts of smog. I recently had friends from the US visit and they pointed out the smell to me, now I can't forget it.
17. Public buses don't accept regular payment. Can only pay with a SUBE (public transportation card).
Due to the system implemented, assuring people pay. Though it would be convenient if slots were put in that accepted bills. Coins are accepted but due to inflation they are no longer worth much, so nobody carries coins. 1 peso = 1/38 of a US dollar.
18. Cigarette bud pollution in urban areas.
Due to the smoking culture and lack of awareness.
19. Congestion charges in certain parts of London.
I lived in London and from M-F 6AM to 7PM (I believe), people are charged up to 11 pounds for entering certain parts of Central London in their cars. Due to the high congestion of the city.
20. Renewal of Drivers License for Expats in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Expats in Buenos Aires have to renew their drivers license (including taking all tests) every time their document expires (usually once a year). This to me is ridiculous as driving is a skill that doesn't go away.
Reflection:
It was very difficult in my case to complete the list. I found myself staring into open space for large amounts of time attempting to think of something. What I found out is that the perspective of the world I live in isn't very critical, rather adaptive. There were many things that I though could've been a bug to someone else, but in my case they were completely normal-- I was used to it. This is something that I'd like to work on so as to stimulate the entrepreneurial side of me.
As for public bathrooms in Argentina, the barrier for having this available would certainly be the cost. Bidets are usually a separate device, meaning both price and space would be an issue when taking into account a stall in a public bathroom. As for foreign countries, I believe it would simply come down to culture. Bidets or variations of bidets are the most hygienic form of cleaning up and I believe it would certainly be applied if a society was introduced to it.
2. No available SAP on TV for foreign series/movies in Latin America.
I am from Argentina and many times have to watch programs, movies, and series from the US in Spanish instead of their original language. This 'bug' understandingly has to do with Spanish being the official language of Argentina, though it would be nice to always have the option to switch from the voice-over to the original.
3. Stoplights that don't count down.
In Buenos Aires the majority of stoplights count down, allowing you to calculate your speed. When I lived in the US (California) this wasn't the case. This 'bug' likely has to do with the cost of implementing these stoplights.
4. Difference of outlets/plugs across the world.
Most likely due to voltage differences in different nations. Extremely inconvenient for a traveler.
5. Traffic during rush hour in Avenida del Libertador headed towards San Isidro.
Due to a poorly thought-out renovation of the main avenue, which throughout the course of 5-6 kilometers suddenly narrows and widens constantly from 3 lanes to 2, creating an impressive jam and many cars avoiding incoming traffic on the other side of the road.
6. No free water/ water cups in restaurants in Argentina.
Most likely due to lack of clean water and societies distrust of self service.
7. Major flooding in Argentina during spring/summer.
Due to infrastructure and poor irrigation systems. Many people suffer because of this problem.
8. Power shortages in Argentina during summer.
Due to the heating of our electricity sources, many times they are switched off on purpose to allow cooling down. It would be a good idea to invest in better cooling devices.
9. No recycling in most of Zona Norte, Argentina.
This is most probably due to lack of resources and institutions for recycling to take place. Even when trash is separated, garbage trucks mix it together.
10. Small pieces of coal for Asados/BBQ.
Due to manufacturing of the coal, but inconvenient for starting the fire. Some stores sell special coal with nice, big pieces.
11. Parking in the city of Buenos Aires.
Parking in the city of Buenos Aires can be stressful. This 'bug' is due to a larger amount of cars and narrow streets with rules like "no parking on the left". Tow trucks are never sleeping and are extremely fast at towing. There are private parking buildings though they vary in regards to closing times and service.
12. Poor insulation of school building in Winter.
My high school in Argentina would be freezing in the winter and boiling in the summer. Most likely due to the infrastructure of the building and obviously the lack of heaters/ air conditioning.
13. Trash in coast of Rio de La Plata.
Due to lack of consideration and consciousness of pollution, also the lack of garbage cans and other trash disposal sites nearby.
14. Little brother spills all his food when he eats, especially yogurt.
Due to age, but also design/packaging of certain yogurts and foods that babies usually eat.
15. Length of government procedures (trámites).
Length is due to poor finance and organization of government institutes, and the lack of online services. It is common to complete government procedures at institutions when something formal is needed. These are stressful as they usually take numerous days of hours of waiting given systems always crash and the large amount of people.
16. Smog from cars in Buenos Aires.
Due to loose regulations. Though there are government regulations, many cars emit large amounts of smog. I recently had friends from the US visit and they pointed out the smell to me, now I can't forget it.
17. Public buses don't accept regular payment. Can only pay with a SUBE (public transportation card).
Due to the system implemented, assuring people pay. Though it would be convenient if slots were put in that accepted bills. Coins are accepted but due to inflation they are no longer worth much, so nobody carries coins. 1 peso = 1/38 of a US dollar.
18. Cigarette bud pollution in urban areas.
Due to the smoking culture and lack of awareness.
19. Congestion charges in certain parts of London.
I lived in London and from M-F 6AM to 7PM (I believe), people are charged up to 11 pounds for entering certain parts of Central London in their cars. Due to the high congestion of the city.
20. Renewal of Drivers License for Expats in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Expats in Buenos Aires have to renew their drivers license (including taking all tests) every time their document expires (usually once a year). This to me is ridiculous as driving is a skill that doesn't go away.
Reflection:
It was very difficult in my case to complete the list. I found myself staring into open space for large amounts of time attempting to think of something. What I found out is that the perspective of the world I live in isn't very critical, rather adaptive. There were many things that I though could've been a bug to someone else, but in my case they were completely normal-- I was used to it. This is something that I'd like to work on so as to stimulate the entrepreneurial side of me.
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