Asia remains strong so far. Hong Kong is up almost 6%. Japan is up over 2%. Globex NASD futures are up 9.00. Things change, but so far so good.
And, Sector, you are right about the strength of vendor-vendee relationships. The same things happens in a service business as well, like law. There relationships we have with our clients are strong. We constantly work to prove ourselves, but there is a certain credibility that develops, and a disinterest (by the client) in reinventing the wheel by turning to other firms. Likewise, though we may have a better "product" (i.e., skill-set) in a specific area, it is extremely difficult for us to break up a relationship between a new, prospective client and its existing law firm. Typically, you have to prove yourself with a small, "test" matter (like a test product). Then, if you have the right stuff, you can take it from there, over time.
Gary Korn |