Ah, modern technology. Michael Geist points us to the story of a woman in Canada who is suing her mobile phone provider, Rogers, for supposedly “revealing” the fact that she was having an affair. Basically, she had a mobile phone account with Rogers under her maiden name, which she used to have long chats with someone she was having an affair with. Her husband had set up the family’s cable TV service, also from Rogers. At one point, he called Rogers to add internet and home phone service to the account, and Rogers then mailed a “global” bill that included all accounts. In looking over the bill, the husband noticed the long phone calls all to one number, and called it, and got the guy to admit to the affair. Following that, he left the wife.
Now the woman, whose husband walked out, is suing the communications giant for $600,000 for alleged invasion of privacy and breach of contract, the results of which she says have ruined her life.
I don’t know, but I’d have to say that, perhaps, having the affair was the key problem here, rather than the bill. Hell, the husband could have just as easily opened the original mobile phone bill which was sent to the same house. It doesn’t say so, but it seems likely that when the guy called to add services, Rogers asked if he wanted the bills consolidated and the guy just said yes.
Furthermore, the whole thing gets more bizarre later, when the story also claims that the “jilted third-party” later got access to the woman’s voicemail and “harassed” her and “taunted” her (ex-)husband. And, on top of that, the article later notes “the wrongdoing that occurred in 2007 reoccurred” because the phone was still being billed to her husband’s account in 2009. This part is left vague, but, it makes you wonder why two years after her husband had left her, she hadn’t set up separate phone service for herself.
I’m sure it sucks to have all that happen, but it seems like a pretty big stretch to blame your mobile phone provider for the affair you had that caused your spouse to leave you…
Photo Renderings: 2012 Volkswagen Beetle by David Cordoso
We’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the next-generation Volkswagen Beetle. While we wait, independent designer David Cordoso has drawn up these photo-renderings showing us his interpretation of what the Beetle successor could look like.
Cordoso says that he sees the next Beetle to be an emissions-free, fully electric vehicle.
It was recently reported that the successor to the current Beetle will get an upgraded chassis with wider tracks and longer wheelbase. There haven’t been any talks of a fully electric version of the Beetle but insiders have said that a hybrid version is under consideration.
Photo Renderings: 2012 Volkswagen Beetle by David Cordoso:
As for specific aspects of financial reform that concern her: pre-emption (rules that would allow banks to move to different states and take advantage of lower interest rates in some markets) and interchange fees regulation.
Specifically, she expects that interchange regulations will cream smaller banks to the benefit of the larger banks, hampering merchants’ access to capital.
As for the stock market: The second half will be “bleak.”
Why?
No end demand from consumers, and a double dip in housing.
Marketplace Senior Editor Paddy Hirsch is back at the Whiteboard with a brilliant new video that explains counterparty risk with regard to the ongoing European problems.
It’s an excellent example of what could happen should European banks start backing away from each other to reduce risks.
Toyota’s President and CEO, Akio Toyoda, said that he traces the automaker’s quality and financial woes to 2003, when the company began its ambitious global expansion. He said that winning over new customers in the wake of the company’s recall crisis will be a huge challenge.
Speaking to Automotive News over the weekend, the publicity-shy Toyoda said he wants to scale back on the incentives that have led to record U.S. sales this year and revive what he calls a “neglected” Scion brand (which we’re guessing is due to the fact that Scion hasn’t come in under any negative headlines).
“In 2003, we surpassed the 6 million sales mark, and after that the rate of increase kept growing,” Toyoda said. “We look at that as the turning point. When we hit the 6 million mark, we maybe couldn’t apply the Toyota Way as thoroughly as we should have”
Toyoda also said that its best-selling models like the Camry sedan are also facing pressure from Ford, GM and Hyundai, which now rival his company in performance.
Between the Fiat 500 and the Alfa MiTo (to say nothing of the Lancia Ypsilon), Italy’s got plenty of Mini rivals on the road. But it could gain another, if emerging reports prove accurate in the long run.
The rumors center around the revived De Tomaso. The dormant sportscar marque was recently acquired by one Gianmario Rossignolo, a former chief executive of Lancia who was previously linked to a take-over of Bertone. Rossignolo has some ambitious plans in place for his new company, acquiring a former Pininfarina factory in the Piedmont region of Italy, where he reportedly plans on building a line of sportscars, luxury sedans and sport-utes. Now reports suggest a premium hatchback to rival the Mini could be in the cards as well.
Any truth to it? Too soon to tell, but Rossignolo’s De Tomaso is expected to debut something new in Geneva next year, so if we sit tight, we just might find out.
How do you improve on an award-winner like Scribblenauts? Just makes it super. Initially reported to have a Fall 2010 release (qjnet/nintendo-ds/scribblenauts-sequel-targeting-fall-2010-release.html), the talked-about Scribblenauts sequel now has a name and a new release margin. From
Captain Kibble was the first of a whole lot of you to send in actor/comedian/writer/etc. Peter Serafinowicz’s explanation for why he downloads unauthorized copies of things… including his own movies. The basic answer is convenience, but also a shifting view on media consumption. He does pay for some stuff, but only when it’s equally convenient or, as many have called it, “better than free.” It’s worth reading the whole thing, but there are a few key snippets. He notes that there is definitely promotion value in having the content up on file sharing networks — and notes that with his own show, obscurity is a much bigger threat than “piracy”:
The visibility argument certainly makes sense for my short-lived BBC show. I’m revamping my website right now and my web team asked me if I would like them to hunt down and put and end to the torrents and RapidShare links to The Peter Serafinowicz Show, which was recently released in the UK on DVD. I said no because the show is still relatively unknown and I’d like as many people to see it as possible. In fact, I’ve used the torrents myself when I haven’t had a copy to hand.
Much of it is already up on YouTube. If people like it enough they’ll want to buy, to own, the DVD, which has lots of great extra stuff, but the DVD isn’t even sold in the USA. The freely available content serves as a calling card for me, and for the other cast members and writers, hopefully enabling us to produce more hilarious stuff for the world’s discerning comedy fans.
Another point he makes is that it’s often the content providers own fault in making it so ridiculous difficult to legally get the content he wants to watch. He lives in the UK and is frustrated about TV shows getting to the UK much later, or other content that he can’t legally reach at all from the UK. And sometimes, it makes no sense at all to him, so he just fires up BitTorrent instead:
I recently wanted to show my son Disney’s classic Jungle Book and intended to get it on iTunes. Unfortunately, it is currently incarcerated within The Disney Vault. So I’m afraid I simply DL’ed a pixel-clear pirate copy which arrived in seconds. My moral justification for this? I once bought the VHS. It’s your own vault, Disney!
He also sees how annoying the legally purchased versions of things can be:
“Ownership” is starting to change its meaning. If you buy a movie from iTunes you “own” the right to watch it on certain devices within certain constraints. When you “own” a DVD, you have the right to watch it whenever and wherever you want. However: you must watch ten minutes of promos, trailers and anti-piracy threats. I’ll take the download, please.
Along those lines, he gets frustrated at ridiculous and unnecessary restrictions when he does by content — restrictions that unauthorized copies don’t have:
I own a physical copy of Anthony Lane’s brilliant collection of New Yorker reviews, Nobody’s Perfect. It’s a heavy read (around 3 lbs.) and I wanted to get a copy for my iPad. I tracked down an ePub version of the book at the Barnes & Noble site, assuming, since iBooks also uses the format, that I could tranfer it to my iPad. Only the iPad doesn’t read Adobe-encoded ebooks, not now at least. With the help of some sympathetic Twitter followers I then spent around ten futile hours installing Xcode and obscure Python scripts (not the funny ones) on two different computers in what seems to be the only method one can use to illegally decrypt Adobe ebooks. My moral justification for this? I’ve paid for the book twice.
Finally, he also has run into the ridiculousness of the recording industry. Earlier this year, we noted how insanely short-sighted it was of EMI to prevent embedding of the band Ok Go’s viral music videos. Serafinowicz came across the same issue on a video he made for EMI, which he solved by releasing it in an unauthorized manner:
I recently directed the music video for Hot Chip’s “I Feel Better.” Contractually, the video had to be hosted on EMI’s official YouTube channel, which disabled non-UK users from viewing it, limiting its audience by around 80%. Frustrated, I put it up on my own YouTube channel with no region restrictions, and at time of writing is just shy of a million views. EMI then remotely disabled embedding on my version, thereby limiting its audience again. If you’re in the business of promoting a band, why would you want to stop people watching their promotional video?
It’s basically the same story over and over and over again. People understand what’s possible and what they can do with technology, and the industry keeps wanting to restrict what they can do, because the industry doesn’t know how to deal with it. But that’s never going to stop people. Once you understand what technology enables, why would you ever purposely limit yourself? The various content industries have so many chances to get this right, and every time they get it wrong — to the point that even the folks who make their living from these industries are beginning to question the strategic aptitude of those in charge.
Lexus is inviting customers to co-start in a new high-def interactive film called “Dark Ride,” which celebrates the launch of the new CT 200h. In the movie, the new hybrid hatchback from Lexus is piloted by Norman Reedus of the Boondock Saints.
While Reedus will be behind the wheels, he will be following direction of the person riding shotgun… you.
“With ‘Dark Ride’ we are creating a unique virtual test drive opportunity so consumers can experience this hybrid, that is like no other, months before it is available at dealerships in early 2011,” said Dave Nordstrom, Lexus vice president of marketing. “In it, consumers play a co-starring role as the fun-to-drive Lexus CT 200h is put through its paces. By guiding the driver and the CT through a series of adventures, customers will be exposed to ‘The Darker Side of Green,’ which is completely different than the way hybrids are usually portrayed.”
The film, which launches today at www.lexusdarkride.com today along with the trailer for the film, will appear in select movie theaters across the country.
Check out LexusDarkRide.com for more details along with the trailer for Dark Ride after the jump.
Refresher: Power for the Lexus CT 200h comes from a 1.8L VVT-i gasoline engine mated to a powerful electric-motor fueled by nickel-metal hydride batteries. Unlike a mild-hybrid system, the CT 200h has an EV (electric-vehicle) mode that allows it to run on only on its electric-motor for up to 1.2 miles at speeds of up to 28 mph.
2011 Lexus CT 200h:
2011 Lexus CT 200h:
Press Release:
Lexus Invites Consumers to Co-star in New ‘Dark Ride’ Interactive Film to Launch New CT 200h Hybrid
Torrance, Calif., May 14, 2010 — “Get in, buckle up and start talking.” Lexus customers will be calling the shots in a high-definition interactive film entitled “Dark Ride.” The film features Lexus’ newest hybrid, the CT 200h premium compact car, piloted by actor Norman Reedus (Boondock Saints franchise). Reedus is behind the wheel in this 12:30 action film, but he is following the directions of the person riding shotgun…the consumer.
The film releases online at www.lexusdarkride.com today along with the trailer for the film, which will appear in select movie theaters across the country. Visitors to the www.lexusdarkride.com site will get to insert themselves into the film, sitting beside “Tony” (Reedus), and navigating while he drives the CT 200h from the Nevada desert to a Los Angeles safehouse and protects it from a variety of enemies who wish to get their hands on the new prototype.
Consumers will use an array of interactive features in the film—allowing them to insert their own likeness (via a Webcam or profile pic), record their own dialogue lines, control the camera movement and POV, and make decisions that alter the path of the film so new situations arise each time.
The “Dark Ride” film is the next step in the launch of the Lexus CT 200h and demonstrates Lexus’ marketing theme, “The Darker Side of Green.” This theme, which shines a different light on this new breed of a fun-to-drive hybrid, debuted at a star-studded event prior to the CT 200h’s North American debut at the New York International Auto Show in April. This initiative will continue through the launch period with in-market custom events and a VIP marketing program that will give tech-savvy influencers access to an edited “Dark Ride” list of restaurants, clubs, bars and lifestyle brands. Brand partners include Duncan Quinn bespoke suits, VeeV Açaí Spirit, The James Hotel and Grand Hospitality for The Soho and Tribeca Grand Hotels.
DIRECT FILM VIEWING LINK: www.lexusdarkride.com
CAMPAIGN LINK: www.darkersideofgreen.com
TRAILER LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0KhesoAZcI
The all-new CT 200h premium compact hybrid will go on sale in the U.S. in early 2011 as the first dedicated hybrid vehicle in the premium compact segment. Expected to lead its class in fuel economy, the stylish, sporty five-door also delivers a dynamic, fun-to-drive experience. The CT is powered by a 1.8L Atkinson cycle four-cylinder gas engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and Lexus Hybrid Drive technology. The CT will be equipped with four drive-modes: Normal, Eco, Sport and EV.
With its reputation for high-quality products and exemplary customer service from its 228 dealers, Lexus has been the top-selling luxury automaker in the U.S. for ten years in a row. In addition, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader, now offering four hybrids, with a fifth on the way, that provide the best in innovative technology and first-class luxury. When Lexus was established in 1989, it offered two models of vehicles. Now, more than 20 years later, Lexus offers variations of 11 vehicles, from the entry-level IS 250 to its first V10 supercar, the LFA.
Note: Lexus Dark Ride is viewable with Internet Explorer (Versions 6 and most optimally, 7), Google Chrome, Safari and Mozilla Firefox. Your computer must be equipped with Adobe Flash Player Version 10, found here: http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/
24 Hours of Nurburging – Click above for high-res image gallery
The 24 Hours of Nürburgring took place this weekend with an enormous starting field of over 200 cars. The enduro features a huge array of classes, including GT2, GT3 and touring cars, with everything from Honda Civics to Aston Martin Vantages and even a Porsche 911 GT3 hybrid battling through the Green Hell through the day and night. The race is run over a combined course of the legendary Nordschliefe and the modern Grand Prix circuit for a total of 15.8 miles, and with only 36 pits available, up to eight cars must share each pit, so plenty of coordination is needed. Read on after the jump to read what happened after the green flag fell.
This week it is more of the same: great news from the U.S. economy but a flagging stock market as Europe continues to struggle and the euro erodes.
Views on the Dollar Change on a Dime Just a few months ago the popular press was filled with articles about how to hedge one’s exposure to the U.S. dollar. I have long believed that higher productivity, more favorable demographics, and greater labor flexibility would make for a stronger dollar in the years ahead. However, I had no idea that the cracks in the European system would be exposed this quickly and that the dollar would rebound this strongly.
European Leaders Fail to Find a Common Voice The euro has now fallen from a high of EUR 1.6 per $1 to EUR 1.24 per $1–which is where it was way back in 2008. Despite excitement over the European bailout plan earlier in the week, enthusiasm quickly faded as individual countries fretted about implementing austerity plans and politicians began to more openly worry about the euro’s demise. There was even a rumor (later denied) that French president Sarkozy threatened to take France off the euro. It certainly didn’t help that the chief executive of Deutsche Bank (DB) publicly questioned Greece’s ability to repay its debts in a televised comment.
Eurozone politicians are in many ways sabotaging themselves with the lack of a common story line and a single voice–a benefit that was certainly instrumental in helping the Federal Reserve bring the U.S. out of its mess.
The Biggest Problem with a Weak Europe: the U.S. Banking System An indirect risk to the U.S. economy from the European debacle is related to the various European banks that hold a lot of government (sovereign) debt. These banks do business with U.S. banks and are counterparties in many transactions. If banks start distrusting each other again, that could cause additional problems in the U.S. banking system. This time around, however, the U.S. banking system is better capitalized than before the subprime fiasco in this country.
European Exports Represent Just 2%-3% of U.S. GDP The direct effects of a weaker Europe on the U.S. are less clear. Total U.S. exports account for only 12% of total U.S. gross domestic products, making us one of the most self-contained countries among developed nations (in contrast, Germany derives almost 40% of its GDP from exports).
Breaking that down even further, the eurozone constituted just 20% or so of U.S. exports in 2009. So even if U.S. sales to the eurozone immediately and permanently dropped to zero, the effect on the U.S. GDP would be just over 2%.
As bad as things may get, I don’t think we are going to reach zero sales to Europe anytime soon.
Europe Will Be More Competitive, Companies With Large European Exposures Will Be Hurt Unfortunately, a softening euro will create other problems. A weaker euro will make some European products more competitive in other world markets, although sky-high productivity in the U.S. will erode some of that advantage. Individual companies with large European exposures, such as consumer goods companies, could also see their profits cut short as sales in euros translate back to fewer dollars of U.S. profits. The dollar tailwind of late 2009 is in the process of turning into a headwind.
There’s $17 trillion worth of leverage in the financial system, and if just a few hedge funds get margin calls, the whole thing will come tumbling down.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk was Jon Favreau and Robert Downey Jr.'s inspiration for Tony Stark
We’re hoping that by now most of you have seen Iron Man 2. Of course, if you’re an auto enthusiast then the 10 second cameo by Tesla Co-founder, CEO and Chairman Elon Musk probably had you pretty excited. You were probably sitting next to your significant other going “Hey, it’s Elon Musk from Tesla!,” after which she totally ignored you because she’s never heard the words Elon, Musk or Tesla. Maybe Musk, but not in the same context we think of it.
Either way, if you’re wondering why Musk was in the movie for 10 seconds it’s because Jon Favreau, director of the Iron Man movies, describes in his article in “Time Magazine’s 100 people who most affect the world in 2010″ how Musk was his and Robert Downey Jr.’s inspiration for genius billionaire Tony Stark.
Also, The SpaceX factory was used as a shooting location for Iron Man 2. It was the location for Whiplash’s (aka Ivan Vanko) factory in the movie.
Rajiv Dube – Former President of Tata Motors' Passenger Car Business Unit
Tata Motors announced today that its President of the Passenger Car Business Unit, Rajiv Dube, has resigned from the company “to pursue other interests outside the Tata Group.”
“Mr. Dube has played an instrumental role in the growth of the company’s passenger car business, since the formation of the division in 1998,” Tata said in a statement, “Tata Motors acknowledges his contribution to the company, and wishes him all success in his future career.”
Dube joined Tata Group in 1983 and began his career in Tata Motors in 1998, when the passenger car division was formed.
Tata said S. Krishnan, who currently looks after the sales, marketing and support functions for commercial vehicles, will take on additional charge of the premier car division.
Sandvik presents the MT520 Tunneling Roadheader – a novel construction roadheader in the 100-ton class
The Sandvik MT520 is a novel construction roadheader in the 100-ton class. The machine concept is based on easily exchangeable optional modules, enabling the MT 520 basic machine to be adapted to a wide variety of applications. The machine’s eight-meter cutting height module means that it is highly suitable for large road tunnels.
The main focus in the development of this new machine was increased productivity and safety. For example, the driver enjoys a fully air-conditioned cabin with ergonomic controls, mounted on shock-absorbers. Active stabilization of the machine during cutting minimizes vibrations.
Easily exchangeable modules form the basis for cost-effective tunneling in cutting conditions up to a compressive strength of approximately 100 MPa (UCS), where the ICUTROCTM hard-rock cutting capability is not required.
For maximum cutting performance in soft ground, the cutter head can be exchanged within less than a shift. The full cutter motor power of 315 kW is available both on the transverse and on the in-line cutter head model.
An integrated dust-extraction system ensures a healthy work environment for the tunneling team.
Main dimensions
Total weight 110 – 115 tons
Cutter head: 315 KW
Cutting height, max. 7.1 m (8.0 m with extension module)
Cutting width, max. 10.3 m (10.8 m with extension module)
Options
The optional modules available include: Eight-meter cutting height module, In-line cutter head, easily interchanged with a standard transverse cutter head, On-board diesel power pack for quick and easy relocation, Slewing belt conveyor for truck loading, Water hose and cable reel, High-pressure water spray ring system for efficient dust suppression and pick cooling, Automatic fire suppression, Directional control system, Profile Control and visualization.
For further information, please contact:
Hanno Bertignoll, Communication & Marketing Support, Underground Mining
Tel. +43 3577 755 551 E-mail: [email protected]
Sandvik is a global industrial group with advanced products and world-leading positions in selected areas – tools for metal cutting, equipment and tools for the mining and construction industries, stainless materials, special alloys, metallic and ceramic resistance materials as well as process systems. In 2009, the Group had about 44,000 employees and representation in 130 countries, with annual sales of nearly SEK 72,000 M.
Sandvik Mining and Construction is a business area within the Sandvik Group and a leading global supplier of equipment, cemented-carbide tools, service and technical solutions for the excavation and sizing of rock and minerals in the mining and construction industries. Annual sales in 2009 amounted to about SEK 32,600 M, with approximately 14,400 employees.
V6 Sports Car Comparison – Click above for high-res image gallery
This comparison test couldn’t have happened just a few short months ago. Sure, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has been around since 2009. And not counting a seven-year walkabout, the Datsun/Nissan Z has been with us in one form or another since the first moon landing. Want to talk old? The Ford Mustang dates back to the invention of the wheel. At least it seems that way.
So why no comparison until now? Because until quite recently, Ford’s entry level V6-powered Mustang was never really a sports car. The heavy, near impotent Cologne iron-block V6 was a joke, fit for little more than rental car duty, and it wasn’t even terribly adept at that. But the non-V8 pony car has undergone some significant changes for 2011 – the biggest being its all-aluminum V6 producing 305 horsepower and 280 pound feet of torque – allowing it to finally hang with these two V6-powered competitors from across the Pacific.
At least on paper.
Read on to find out which V6-powered sports car reigns supreme. If you can’t wait, skip right to the results.
The Communist Party of Greece (KKE) was a key force behind the austerity riots that exploded around Athens. The Communists are gaining in popularity, as 10% of Greeks support KKE and 50% support the establishment of a coalition government.
That is also why the working class should not be trapped in a discussion about bonds or interest rates, the simple reason being that it has nothing to gain from this discussion. The international loans will end up in the capital’s pockets, not the working class. The Greeks have suffered when the rates were down, they suffer now that the rates are up. We do not intend to share the capital’s ‘anxiety’ about the bourse, because it is becoming clearer every day that if plutocracy does not go bankrupt, then the people will.
Margara defends early retirement and other socialist aspects the Greek state. The problem here isn’t government, she says, but the contradictions of capitalism that are driving Greece (and the rest of Europe) toward a miserable future:
Massive and drastic cuts to public and private sector salaries and pensions, further cuts of benefits, reduced overtime payments, increase of the VAT up to 23%, increase of the indirect taxes, abolishment of collective labour agreements, massive redundancies to public services and merges, right of unrestricted redundancies to private companies, and increases to the retirement age: Huge masses will be condemned to unemployment and extreme poverty. Health and Education will become a privilege only for a small minority. The recovery phase will lead to new concentration of wealth to the capital, to an increase in the degree of exploitation. The recovery, when it happens, will not have a positive impact on the people on one hand, and will lead relatively soon to a new crisis on the other. That is why we oppose the measures.
Sources say that BMW will offer its X6 vehicle with an optional third row. Currently, the BMW X6 is fitted with a pair of rear bucket seats that are divided by the center console that runs all the way to the back – making the X6 a 4-passenger vehicle.
According to sources that spoke with BMWBlog, this has been one of the major complaints from X6 owners that say a longer-journey in the X6 can be very uncomfortable.
The third-row option in the X6 will most likely be offered when BMW gives the X6 a facelift when the vehicle reaches its mid-way into the production cycle.
Of course, we’re wondering how this will be possible since the rear seats of the X6 are already cramped and give little head-room due to the sloping roofline of the crossover.
General Motors announced today that it has returned to profitability in the first quarter of 2010 with revenue of $31.5 billion and operating income of $1.2 billion. Net income attributable to common stockholders was $0.9 billion, resulting in earnings per share on a diluted basis of $1.66. The automaker made a total of $865 million during the first three months of the year.
The profit is its first since 2007 and the first since it emerged from bankruptcy last year. GM reported losses in the two previous quarters after coming out of bankruptcy.
“We’re pleased with our first quarter performance, in particular achieving profitability,” said Chris Liddell, vice chairman and chief financial officer. “In North America we are adding production to keep up with strong demand for new products in our four brands. We’re also steadily growing in emerging markets, keeping our costs under control, generating positive cash flow and maintaining a strong balance sheet. These are all important steps as we lay the foundation for a successful GM.”
A year ago, GM lost nearly $6 billion on revenue of only $22.4 billion, as sales plunged and the company hurdled toward bankruptcy.
Make the jump for the press release.
Press Release:
GM Reports First Quarter 2010 Results
GM achieves net income of $0.9 billion and EPS of $1.66
DETROIT, Mich. – General Motors Company today announced its first quarter 2010 results, marked by revenue of $31.5 billion and operating income of $1.2 billion. Net income attributable to common stockholders was $0.9 billion, resulting in earnings per share on a diluted basis of $1.66.
GM’s first quarter adjusted earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) was $1.7 billion, after adjusting for the favorable impact of the sale of the Saab brand.
GM North America had EBIT in the first quarter 2010 of $1.2 billion, up from a loss of $3.4 billion in the fourth quarter 2009. GM Europe had a loss before interest and taxes of $0.5 billion; an improvement of $0.3 billion from the fourth quarter. GM International Operations posted EBIT of $1.2 billion, up $0.5 billion from the fourth quarter.
Cash flow from operating activities was $1.7 billion and after adjusting for capital expenditures of $0.7 billion, free cash flow was $1.0 billion. GM ended the first quarter with $35.7 billion in cash and marketable securities, including funds in escrow.
The MPAA and Hollywood in general have been very, very strong supporters of stricter and more restrictive copyright laws pretty much as far as they can go. Jack Valenti, for many years the head of the MPAA, has famously declared both that, if it were up to him, copyright would last “forever minus a day” and that fair use was not part of the law. But, of course, time and time again, we see that strongest defenders of copyright law often find that they get a bit upset when it constrains them as well. Eriq Gardner has the story of the rise in lawsuits over Hollywood remakes from the estates (or others who purchased the copyrights later) of authors claiming infringement over movies. The main case that resulted in the article is really quite impressive in the number of layers deep that the whole thing goes.
Basically, Viacom (of course, a very strong defender of copyright) is being sued by an outfit called the American Rights Management Company, which claims to hold the copyright on a Damon Runyon story, Madame La Gimp, that was written in 1929. That story was later made into the movie Lady for a Day directed by Frank Capra. A few years later, Capra made yet another movie, also based on the same Runyon story, but this time, the movie was Pocketful of Miracles. About a decade ago, Jackie Chan made a remake, which was just called Miracles, which resulted in a lawsuit and a settlement. The issue now is another movie, which does appear to be either “loosely based on” or “inspired” by one or more of those predecessors, but made for an Indian audience in Bollywood, called Sing is Kinng. Follow all that? Here’s the lawsuit:
The complaint lays out the similarities in the story structure and plot — though, notably not the actual dialogue. If copyright really were about the expression and not the idea, then it’s difficult to see how this is infringing, but as we’ve learned, when it comes to stories, courts seem to only pay lip service to that whole idea/expression dichotomy (despite it supposedly being a key element in keeping copyright law from violating the First Amendment).
While I do feel that Viacom should absolutely be free to make this movie (and others should be free to make their remakes as well), I do have to admit it’s rather amusing to see Viacom and its strong pro-copyright stance potentially come back to bite the company.
Oh, and separately, it should be noted how ridiculous it is that the original Runyon work is still under copyright. When the copyright was registered — as was required in 1929 — the maximum the copyright could have lasted would have been 56 years. That was the “deal” that the US government made in exchange for the monopoly right, the work would go into the public domain by 1986, at the latest. By any measure, the work should be in the public domain. Of course, as we know, in 1976 we got ourselves a new copyright law and in 1998 copyright was extended again — ridiculously applied retroactively. This is a breach of the agreement originally made, which had the deal extended without any benefit to the other side (the public). Oh yeah, and while copyright law today says copyright law is “life plus 70 years,” you might think that this means Runyon’s work should be in the public domain. After all, the man died in 1946 — some 74 years ago. But, you’d be wrong. Because his works were published between 1923 and 1963 (and the copyright was renewed), it gets 95 years of protection from the publication date… meaning it doesn’t go into the public domain until 2025 (assuming — and it’s probably a big assumption — that there are no more copyright extensions).
Hmm. So if the MPAA hadn’t fought so damn hard for copyright law changes and copyright extension, this particular work would have been in the public domain decades ago. But, thanks to the MPAA’s efforts — and Viacom is a major player in the MPAA — it’s covered by copyright for at least another 15 years. Oops.
