Which Has Posed the Greatest Problem for Singaporean

In a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society like Singapore, there is a need to manage the racial and religious sensitivities and promote tolerance and harmony. In addition, there is also the need to build national identity by instilling a sense of belonging. Therefore, there is a need to identify the most important problem out of the three and then solve it. The first problem is managing the perceptions of different racial groups. There is a need to manage this problem as preconceived notions of biased treatment by the government against any racial group could lead to the outbreak of violence among the different communities.For example, in 1964, Singapore experienced race riots which resulted in 36 dead and 590 injured. Singapore was in Malaysia then, and the UMNO felt threatened when the PAP participated in the 1964 Federal elections. The UMNO then led an anti-PAP campaign in the medium using the Utusan Melayu, claiming that PAP’s rule disadvantaged the Malays and that Mala y Singaporeans remained poor under PAP’s rule. They also claimed that PAP was uprooting Malay families in resettlement projects. Some UMNO extremists even came to Singapore and made fiery speeches that angered many Singaporean Malays.In July 1964, during the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, a clash between a Chinese policeman and a group of Malay participants turned into a full-blown race riot over the next few days. This shows how the perceptions of unequal treatment towards the different races can cause suspicions, distrust and even hostility among Singaporeans, even if these perceptions are not based on facts. Therefore, this problem must be managed to prevent any outbreak of violence among citizens. The second problem is managing the perceptions of different religious groups.There is a need to do this as differences in religious beliefs and practices are issues that can create tension among people in Singapore, especially if it has been perceived that th e concerns of a certain religious community have not been considered. This is shown in the Maria Hertogh riot during 1950. Maria Hertogh, born to Dutch-Eurasian parents was adopted during the war by an Indonesian Muslim woman, Aminah, as her parents were interned by the Japanese. After the war, the Hertoghs launched a legal battle for the custody of their daughter. The custody battle attracted intense media attention worldwide.The judge ordered that Maria be placed temporarily in a Catholic convent while the trail was taking place. Photographs in newspaper of Maria, who was raised a Muslim, in a Catholic convent before a statue of Virgin Mary affected religious sensitivities and angered the Muslim Community as they felt that their religion was not respected at all. The British courts gave custody of Maria to her biological mother. Upon hearing the judgement, huge crowds outside the court rioted, convinced that the colonial laws, the courts and the legal system was prejudiced against the Muslims.The riots showed that if issues with religious implications are not handled in a sensitive manner, hostility and distrust could occur among people. The last problem is managing the threats from external forces. This also needs to be managed because transnational terrorist groups tend to exploit religious or race issues in order to achieve their political aims, suspicion and tension may arise among people in multi-ethnic societies like Singapore. For an example, the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) is a militant group which has been active in the Southeast Asia. Its aim is to set up an Islamic state in Asia.Some of its activities include fund-raising and purchasing materials for making bombs. From 2001-2002, 34 JI members were arrested under the Internal Security Act for their involvement in terrorist-related activities. Targets in Singapore included the US embassy and some government buildings. Following the arrests, there was some mixed reactions from Singaporeans who were prepar ed to do harm in the various ethnic communities. Shocked that there were Singaporeans who were prepared to do harm to innocent civilians, some members of the public expressed distrust towards members of certain communities.This shows that managing external threats poses a significant challenge, as it has potential to divide people along racial and religious lines. All in all, I feel that the problem that has posed the greatest threat for Singapore in ensuring social harmony is the threat of transnational terrorism. As it can cause distrust between both religions and races while the other two can only either cause distrust among religions or races. In addition, if they manage to overcome the threat from external forces, citizens will be able to trust each other and violence and distrust will not breakout.

Angel Broking Ltd.

ORGANISATION STUDY ON Angel Broking Ltd. Sigra, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh By Ashish Om (PB1104) & Jeswin George (PA1114) Group No. 53 Submitted to: UNIVERSITY OF MYSORE II SEMESTER INTERNSHIP – ORGANIZATIONAL STUDY BATCH OF 2011 – 2013 Through Contents Company Letter3 CERTIFICATE FROM THE GUIDE5 CERTIFICATE FROM THE GUIDE6 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS8 Chapter 19 Industry Profile9 CHAPTER 213 COMPANY PROFILE13 Business Branches of Angel Broking16 Angel Group Consists of:16 Our Vision20 Our Motto20 Our CRM Policy: Customer is King20 Business Philosophy @ Angel Broking20Quality Assurance Policy @ Angel Broking20 CHAPTER 321 ORGANISATIONAL HEIRARCHY21 CHAPTER 425 STUDY OF FUNCTIONAL DEPARTMENTS25 4. 1 HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT26 4. 2 IT and Media29 4. 3 Marketing Department30 4. 4 Finance Department31 CHAPTER 544 SWOT ANALYSIS44 CHAPTER 647 CONCLUSION & SUGGESTIONS47 CHAPTER 753 BIBLIOGRAPHY53 Company Letter Company Letter CERTIFICATE FROM THE GUIDE This is to certify that this Internsh ip Report on Organizational Study at Angel Broking Limited is a bonafide study of Ashish Om, carried out under my guidance and supervision. PLACE: BANGALORE DATE:Prof. Y.Poornima CERTIFICATE FROM THE GUIDE This is to certify that this Internship Report on Organizational Study at Angel Broking Limited is a bonafide study of Jeswin George, carried out under my guidance and supervision. PLACE: BANGALORE DATE:Prof. Y. Poornima DECLARATION We hereby declare that this Internship Report on Organizational Study at ANGEL BROKING LIMITED submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for II Semester MBA Degree examinations 2012 of University of Mysore through Ramaiah Institute of Management Studies is our original work and not submitted to any other university.This work has been done under the supervision of Dr Y. Poornima in Ramaiah Institute of Management Studies, Bangalore. Place: Bangalore Date: Ashish Om (11MB50 ) Jeswin George (11MB5071) ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS First of all, we would like to thank the Almighty God for blessing us with the strength, aptitude and patience for successfully completing my internship and this report. I would like to thank my Faculty Guide, Prof. Y. Poornima for giving me the opportunity to work with her during my period of internship.I have been able to compile and complete this report in a comprehensive manner due to the guidance, support and counselling that she has provided me with during this period. I have tried my best to implement her constructive suggestions while doing my report. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the management of Angel Broking. Ltd for providing the support to do this Internship. My sincere gratitude goes to Mr. G. N. Chowdry: Manager and Consultant Mines, Mr. Haroon Ahmed: In charge Mines, Mr. Arshad Ahmad: Deputy Chief Chemist, Mr.Farooq Ahmed: Electric Engineer and to Mr. Shakeel Ahmed: In Charge Cement Mill for giving me time from their busy schedule, providing me with information that was r equired to complete the report, and for guiding me properly throughout the period of my internship. I would also like to thank all the employees of Saifco Cements Pvt. Ltd. who have supported me and co-operated with me during my internship period. Finally my sincere thanks go to each and everyone who has helped and supported me significantly in different stages during the period of my internship. Chapter 1 Industry ProfileTo understand the equity market and maintain and cope up with the growing competition from the various online trading providers, Broking Company needs to find potential customer and also target the new investors. The project is being done to train the people about the whole procedure essential to open an online trading account couple with demat account. The project will help in exploring the area where there is the feasibility of acquiring more new investors. It would also help in knowing the various competitors of the industry and exploring the areas through which competitive advantage could be obtained. . 1 What is a Stock Market? A stock market or equity market is a public entity (a loose network of economic transactions, not a physical facility or discrete entity) for the trading of company stock (shares) and derivatives at an agreed price; these are securities listed on a stock exchange as well as those only traded privately. The size of the world stock market was estimated at about $36. 6  trillion at the beginning of October 2008. The total world derivatives market has been estimated at about $791  trillion face or nominal value, 11 times the size of the entire world economy.The value of the derivatives market, because it is stated in terms of notional values, cannot be directly compared to a stock or a fixed income security, which traditionally refers to an actual value. Moreover, the vast majority of derivatives ‘cancel' each other out (i. e. , a derivative ‘bet' on an event occurring is offset by a comparable derivat ive ‘bet' on the event not occurring). Many such relatively illiquid securities are valued as marked to model, rather than an actual market price.The stocks are listed and traded on stock exchanges which are entities of a corporation or mutual organization specialized in the business of bringing buyers and sellers of the organizations to a listing of stocks and securities together. The largest stock market in the United States, by market capitalization, is the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). In Canada, the largest stock market is the Toronto Stock Exchange. Major European examples of stock exchanges include the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, London Stock Exchange, Paris Bourse, and the Deutsche Borse (Frankfurt Stock Exchange).In Africa, examples include Nigerian Stock Exchange, JSE Limited, etc. Asian examples include the Singapore Exchange, the Tokyo Stock Exchange, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the Shanghai Stock Exchange, and the Bombay Stock Exchange. In Latin America, there a re such exchanges as the BM&F Bovespa and the BMV. Market participants include individual retail investors, institutional investors such as mutual funds, banks, insurance companies and hedge funds, and also publicly traded corporations trading in their own shares.Some studies have suggested that institutional investors and corporations trading in their own shares generally receive higher risk-adjusted returns than retail investors. 1. 2 What is Stock Broking? The process of investing in the share market, either individually or through a broker is known as stock broking, in simple terms. This is primarily done by opening a Demat account. If done through a broker, he opens an account, helping you to operate through online stock broking facility. Going ahead the broker suggests investment ideas and strategies suiting individual requirements and based on his objective of investment.Tenure of investment, the selected financial instruments and their respective companies, the schemes, the risk taking ability, the sum available for investment, all are considered while forming investment choices. After the amount is invested, the broker tracks and monitors the investments, changes or reinvests depending on the performance and generates reports for them. This entire process is known as stock broking. To understand the equity market and maintain and cope up with the growing competition from the various online trading providers, Broking company needs to find potential customer and also target the new investors.The project is being done to train the people about the whole procedure essential to open an online trading account couple with demat account. The project will help in exploring the area where there is the feasibility of acquiring more new investors. It would also help in knowing the various competitors of the industry and exploring the areas through which competitive advantage could be obtained. 1. 2 Who is a Stock Broker A stockbroker is a regulated professional i ndividual, usually associated with a brokerage firm or broker-dealer, who buys and sells shares and other ecurities for both retail and institutional clients, through a stock exchange or over the counter, in return for a fee or commission. Stockbrokers are known by numerous professional designations, depending on the license they hold, the type of securities they sell, or the services they provide. In the United States, a stockbroker must pass both the Series 7 and Series 63 exams in order to be licensed. In most English speaking venues, the two word term stock broker, like stock brokerage, normally applies to the brokerage firm, rather than to the individual. CHAPTER 2COMPANY PROFILE 2. 1 Angel Broking Limited Date of Establishment: 1987 Market Cap: Rs. 725 crore (January 27, 2006) Address: G-1, Akruti Trade Center, Road No -7, MIDC, Andheri (E), Mumbai – 400093 Branches: Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, New Delhi, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Na du, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal Angel Broking provides retail related services encompassing Ebroking, Investment Advisory, Portfolio Management Services, Wealth Management Services and Commodities Trading. It is a member of Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange.It is also a registered depository participant with CDSL. The company has a relaxed work atmosphere which thrives upon human values, co-operation, trust and respect. It ensures career growth to its employees with ample introduction to business practices. It has employee friendly HR policies which gives security and fair promotions. 2. 2 Insight into Angel Broking Angel Broking Limited is one of the leading and professionally managed stock broking firm involved in quality services and research. Angel Broking Limited is a corporate member of The Stock Exchange, Mumbai.The membership of the company with The Stock Exchange Mumbai was originally in the name of Mukesh R. Gandhi, which was eventually turned into a corp orate membership in the name of Angel Broking Limited. Angel Broking Limited is managed by Mr. Dinesh Thakkar and he is well supported by Mr. Mukesh Gandhi, a fifteen years veteran in the market. The group is well supported by a professional and qualified research team and efficient operations and back office team, which comprises of highly dedicated and qualified individuals. Angel has an in-house, state of art research department.Angel believes in reaching out to the customer at the farthest end rather than by reaching out to them. The company in its endeavour to give its client the best has opened up several branches all over Mumbai, which are efficiently integrated with the Head Office. Angel Broking Limited is primarily into retail stock broking, with a customer base of retail investors, which has been increasing at a compounded growth rate of 100% every year. The company has huge network sub-brokers in Mumbai and other places outside Mumbai, registered with SEBI, who act as ch anel partners for the company.The company presently has a total staff strength of around 150 employees who are spread accordingly across the head office and all the branches. Angel has empowered its physical presence throughout India through various strategies which it has been adopting efficiently and effectively over a period of time, like opening up of branches at various places, tie-ups with various agencies and sales agents, buy-outs of smaller regional outfits and appointment of sub-brokers and franchisees. Moreover Angel has been tapping and including high net-worth and self-employed individuals it its vast array of clients.Angel has always strived in the direction of delivering ultimate client satisfaction and developing stronger bonds with its customers and chose partners. Angel has a vision to introduce new and innovative products and services regularly. Moreover Angel has been one among the pioneers to introduce the latest technological innovations and integrate it effici ently within its business. Angel Broking's tryst with excellence in customer relations began in 1987. It has emerged as one of the most respected Stock-Broking and Wealth Management Companies in India.With its unique retail-focused stock trading business model, Angel is committed to providing ‘Real Value for Money’ to all its clients. The Angel Group is a member of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the two leading Commodity Exchanges in the country: NCDEX ; MCX. Angel is also registered as a Depository Participant with CDSL. Business Branches of Angel Broking * Equity Trading * Commodities * Portfolio Management Services * Mutual Funds * Life Insurance * IPO * Depository Services * Investment AdvisoryAngel Group Consists of: * Angel Broking Ltd. * Angel Commodities Broking Ltd. * Angel Securities Ltd. 2. 3 The Management @ Angel Broking Mr. Dinesh Thakkar –  Founder Chairman ; Managing Director The Angel Group of Companies was b rought to life by Mr. Dinesh Thakkar. He ventured into stock trading with an intention to raise capital for his own independent enterprise. However, he recognized the opportunity offered by the stock market to serve individual investors. Thus India’s first retail-focused stock-broking house was established in 1987.Under his leadership, Angel became the first broking house to embrace new technology for faster, more effective and affordable services to retail investors. Mr. Thakkar is valued for his understanding of the economy and the stock-market. The print and electronic media often seek his views on the market trend as well as investment strategies. Mr. Lalit Thakkar –  Director – Research Mr. Lalit Thakkar is the motivating force behind Angel’s highly acclaimed Research team. He’s been a part of the senior management team since the Angel Group’s inception.His technical and fundamental outlook has provided impetus to Angel’s marke t research team. Research-based ; personalized advisory services are Angel’s forte, and Mr. Lalit Thakkar has undoubtedly been the brain behind it. When it comes to analyzing the market, Mr. Lalit Thakkar is truly a genius. His hands-on experience and fundamental knowledge of the market can predict the market trend early. His views on the market trend are often quoted in the print and electronic media Mr. Amit Majumdar –  Chief Strategy Officer A chartered Accountant by qualification, Mr.Amit Majumdar is a key member of Angel’s strategic decision-making process. He has been with the group since August 2004. He has handled several functions of the group like finance and operations, to name a few. He has rich experience in finance, investment banking, treasury, consultancy and advisory services. Mr. Majumdar has led many successful initiatives for the group. Before joining the Angel Group, Mr. Majumdar has been associated with Rabo India Finance, Ambit Corporate Finance and Ernst ; Young. Mr. Sachin Joshi –  Executive Director ; CFO Mr.Sachin R Joshi brings with him over 19 years of experience handling strategic positions in Business Operations ; Finance. He also has hands-on experience in Resource Raising, Strategic Planning, Business Restructuring, Public Listing (Local/ International), etc A Chartered ; a Cost Accountant by qualification, Sachin is also a post graduate in Law and has completed a one year Certificate Program (BLP II) from IIM (Kolkatta). He has been associated with reputed firms such as Navneet Group of Companies, Lupin Laboratories Ltd and Infrastructure Leasing ; Financial Services Ltd. (IL;FS).His last assignment which spanned over 11 years was with IL;FS Invest smart Group where he worked in various capacities such as Chief Financial Officer, Executive Director- Finance ; Operations and Chief Operating Officer Mr. Vinay Agrawal –  Executive Director – Equity Broking Mr. Vinay Agrawal leads th e Equity Broking business at Angel, which comprises Business Development, Operations, Product Development and E-broking initiative. He is actively involved in exploring new ways to adopt technology for business enhancement.A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Mr. Agrawal began his career with the Angel Group as Finance and Operations Consultant, and since then he’s quickly climbed up the corporate ladder. Mr. Nikhil Daxini –  Executive Director – Sales and Marketing With an MBA in finance, Mr. Nikhil Daxini has been instrumental in introducing the concept of professional marketing of broking services at Angel. His area of focus is Business Development, Risk Management and Operations. Mr. Daxini has immense experience in the marketing of financial products and services. He has been associated with HDFC Bank Ltd. n the past. Mr. Mudit Kulshreshtha –   Executive Director – Business Intelligence ; Analytics Mr. Mudit Kulshreshtha heads the adva nce analytics and strategic business intelligence division at Angel. With a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and PhD in Economics, Mr. Mudit Kulshreshtha has more than 12 years experience in the field of strategy and business consulting. He has been associated with reputed consulting firms like Deloitte Consulting India, Ernst and Young, Arthur Andersen and WNS Global. He has advised several big clients in the U. S. and U. K.He is also a known speaker at public seminars and conferences organised by CII, NASSCOM, Indian School of Business and IIT. Mr. Santanu Syam –   Executive Director – Operations Mr. Syam brings with him over 18 years of experience in the field of Transaction Banking, Wholesale Banking, Treasury Banking, Consumer Banking and CBS. He started his career with ANZ Grindlays Bank and he was also associated with Standard Chartered Bank in India as Director Transactional Head Banking. Mr. Syam followed up his Engineering degree with an MBA. He has also attended Banking ; Technology seminars organised by SCB Singapore, BSE India ; Euro Finance. ———————————————— ————————————————- 2. 4 KEY DEVELOPMENTS FOR ANGEL BROKING LTD. Angel Broking Ltd. to Invest INR 300 Million in Financial Year 2010 Angel Broking Ltd. Announced that it is planning to invest around INR 300 million this financial year for expanding its branch network. The company is looking to invest around INR 250-300 million in this financial year for expanding its network by 50 branches. The investment is in line with expansion strategy which sees huge potential in the long term.Under its expansion plans, the company would focus on few areas in the northern and southern regions including Punjab, Haryana, New Delhi, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The firm is also eying to tap semi-urban pockets which have huge investment potential. Angel Broking In Talks To Raise Funds Angel Broking Ltd. plans to finalize INR 2 billion – INR 2. 5 billion fund raising plans between December 2009 and March 2010. Dinesh Thakkar, Angel Broking’s CMD said, â€Å"We are got active interest from the US and UK-based institutions. We are open to diluting a significant stake. He did not reveal the valuations, because discussions were still in a preliminary stage. Angel Broking Ltd. Announces Executive Appointments Angel Broking Ltd. announced four key-appointments for its domestic operations. Hitungshu Debnath has been appointed as the head of its distribution ; wealth management services while Mudit Kulshreshtha will take over as the head of strategic business intelligence and advanced analytics initiatives. The company has also named Adil Kasad as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Santanu Syam as head of retail operations across all busin ess verticals. 2. Angel Broking Credentials Our Vision To provide best value for money to investors through innovative products, trading/investments strategies, state of the art technology and personalized service. Our Motto To have complete harmony between quality-in-process and continuous improvement to deliver exceptional service that will delight our Customers and Clients. Our CRM Policy: Customer is King â€Å"A Customer is the most Important Visitor on our premises. He is not dependent on us, but we are dependent on him. He is not an interruption in our work. He is the purpose of it. He is not an outsider in our business.He is part of it. We are not doing him a favour by serving him. He is doing us a favour by giving us an opportunity to do so. † – Mahatma Gandhi Business Philosophy @ Angel Broking Ethical practices ; transparency in all our dealings Customers interest above our own Always deliver what we promise Effective cost management Quality Assurance Polic y @ Angel Broking We are committed to providing world-class products and services which exceed the expectations of our customers, achieved by teamwork and a process of continuous improvement.CHAPTER 3 ORGANISATIONAL HEIRARCHY 3. 1 ORGANISATIONAL CHART 3. 2 Product Profile A product profile is an outline of the description of a product. The amount of detail contained in it varies with the style of the information sheet. It is not a specification sheet. It is a general description of the various products and services offered by a particular company or firm. This one is rather detailed, but note the difference between this and the Specifications detail. The following products are offered by Angel Broking in the process of its functioning: * Equity Trading Commodity Trading * Mutual funds promotion * Depository services * Margin Financing * NRI-Desk Management proximity to stock exchanges and banks. Equity Trading: For the first time Angel Broking investing commodity the power to be ass ociated with the elite dealing rooms and freedom to execute trade on their own. That is one may trade from their branches or trade own over the net and with that expertise and assistance. Depository Services: Angel Broking is among the few major Depository Participants holding securities worth more than Rs. 6000 crore under its management .RSL provides depository services investors as a depository participant with NSDL and CDSL. 16 Commodity Trading: Commodities are a word originated from the French word ‘commodity’ means  benefit profit. Angel commodities Limited is a member of both the exchange (MCX ; NCDEX)that allows trading in all the commodities traded at both the exchange . At  present, trading in commodities is restricted to futures contracts only. Benefits of Commodity Trading: To investors: Investors always look for alternative investments avenues where they can diversify their funds to achieve their financial goals.In financial market, commodities have ra pidly emerged as a major investment tool as they help in diversifying investments and to hedge against inflation, greatest threat to any investor. MUTUAL FUNDS SERVICES: Angel Broking is also promoting mutual funds of all companies. CORPORATE ADVISORY GROUP: Corporate advisory group provides various solutions to corporate banks and financial institutions son the management of debit, equity and investments. The service extends from advising client to earn maximum profit by investing through selected papers like MF/PMF etc.PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: Portfolio management services manage client’s wealth more efficiently reduces risk by diversifying across assets, sectors and funds, and maximizing returns at managed levels of risk . This service could also be called as â€Å"transparent collective investments†. INVESTMENT BROKING DIVISION: Angel Broking provides innovative, integrated and best – fit solutions to their  corporate customers, it is continuous endeav our to provide value enhancement through diverse financial solution on an on-going basis, through products like corporate debt , private equity , IPO, ECB, FCCB, GDR/ADR etc.CHAPTER 4 STUDY OF FUNCTIONAL DEPARTMENTS ————————————————- 4. 1 HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT Work Culture At Angel, exploring of new paths to provide the best value to all our internal and external customers is carried out. Angel Broking considers people as their biggest asset and believes in creating long term relationships by nurturing talent from within. A fast-growing, forward-looking organization like Angel, demands HR to be a key responsibility area of our core management team.The HR team constantly explores ways to enhance and augment the knowledge base and productivity of all Angels by providing various learning and development Programs. The three tier Leadership Development program helps all sta r performers to grow and develop their managerial skills to become effective mentors for their teams and thereby take on the next level of responsibility effectively. Angel’s is a winning team of highly determined, motivated, and adaptable people, all working diligently to take Angel's exciting success story forward.HR Philosophy At Angel, People come first. Along with the customers, the employees are equally vital to the organization. The Business of HR is to foster an entrepreneurial spirit – whereby Angels can operate with ownership as an entrepreneur (profit center) within the confines of their job role and earn over and above their fixed salaries. Angel believes in inculcating a sense of responsibility and ownership in all Angels which brings out the entrepreneurial zeal to explore potential within as well as beyond job boundaries.Our HR Philosophy is to engage employees at professional, emotional and material levels: * We aim to create an environment conducive to both personal and professional development of the employees, leading to a productive and happy work force * Angel believes that people impact business and therefore each and every Angel is a key resource and a valuable asset * Our business philosophy of being transparent in all our dealings with our customers, is equally applicable in dealings with employees * We encourage initiative, provide professional freedom and empower Angels based on trust Employee EngagementTeam HR at Angel works effectively to create a work environment and performance culture that fosters team spirit and enhances employee productivity through motivation and positive ambition. * Our HR team is continually working to rationalize and restructure measures to ensure better employee relationship management, employee communications and relations, recruitment and training need analysis; program design and implementation, performance evaluation and other work-life initiatives. Performance Management Core essence of Performance Management SystemsThe core essence of PMS is to build and strengthen the team member’s ‘Connect’ with Angel Broking through: * Enrolling the team member to Angel’s vision * Meaningful engagement * Meaningful dialogue * Openness to give and receive feedback * Compliment achievements * Focus on the team member’s growth to enhance performance| | The whole focus of PMS is to look for goodness in a person. The onus is on the managers to look for that goodness, identify strengths and try to create a role around strengths rather than getting bogged down with weaknesses.The Performance Management System at Angel has reduced manual intervention to a minimal level. The fully integrated online system uses sophisticated tools such as national and regional stack ranking, performance bands and rank based recommendations. All this is supported through one-on-one interactive feedback & coaching session with team. Performance credits are received for ex ceeding expected targets and there are equal opportunities for all employees to earn rewards with no upper limits. Performance credit structures have been worked out differently for various categories of employees.Career Why you should anyone work with Angel Broking? * Fast paced, enriching career with exposure to best business practices * Fair compensation & opportunities for growth / promotion based on merit * Vibrant work culture and opportunities for training, recreation and social interaction * Progressive HR policies with an open door approach and proactive processes to maintain high morale * Security of employment, subject to minimum acceptable performance Leadership Academy Learning is a continuous process at Angel Broking.We identify the strengths of employees and design training programs to build their strong points and overcome their shortcomings. We prepare our employees for future positions with training and by encouraging the learning process. This helps them to move t owards their career objectives efficiently. We also employ various people development initiatives like E-learning opportunities for functional & behavioural skills through video conferences and through our employee portal. Our E Wise – Be wise Program provides every Angel with 24Ãâ€"7 access to all relevant information about Angel.This encourages employees at all levels to upgrade their knowledge constantly and apply their learning’s in the day to day work to achieve high productivity and customer satisfaction levels. 4. 2 IT and Media The rapid innovation in the field of information and communication technology has posed serious challenges for the stock broking industry in India. The use and application of information technology in wide variety of insurer’s operations has now become strategic in the sense that it has direct impact on the productivity of resources, and a sweeping impact on reducing the case of various activities.With the arrival of private brok ers, the competition has become more intense and an important role is being played by the stock broking sector. Angel Broking has been maintaining a proper Management Information System for the proper recording of the information of all types available to them. This helps them to assess the information and analyse it for any kind of priority requirements. For any technology related problems that needs to be fixed, Angel Broking takes a time span which is dependent on the severity of the problem. It takes around a day or a week’s time to get the technology fixed if it is a small problem.Employees at the IT department get it resolved at the earliest and avoid turbulence which enhances a smooth flow of activities in the organization. At Angel Broking, the impact of Information Technology can be seen in the other departments also: Marketing department: In this department IT has facilitated the marketing executives to up sale the business and meet the business delegates with new t echnology and features of the their business. Finance Department: Angel Broking uses computerized accounting system which has reinforced the department to work with accuracy and reliability. Human resource department:The human resource department at Angel Broking also uses information technology to maintain databases of information regarding the employees working in the organization and their details. Since Angel Broking is basically a stock broking firm, they mostly concentrate on Press releases, Events and very few TV commercial Ads. 4. 3 Marketing Department The meaning of marketing has changed with the passage of time. In the modern times, the concept of marketing has been changed entirely due to cutthroat competition. Markets are no longer local but they have become national as well as international in character.In the past marketing was often referred as selling but now it has been realized that marketing is different from selling. Marketing department takes care of the market ing of all the products of the company. It helps in the increase of the business. It plays the major role in making the people aware of their product. It concentrates on making the strategies of how to increase the sales of the products. How they can segment the market to tap out its maximum potential profits. It also works on sales promotion to increase the sales of company. According to J. F.Pyle, â€Å"Marketing is that phase of business activity through which human wants are satisfied by exchange of goods and services†. Also marketing is the process of discovering and translating consumer wants into products and services specifications. Marketing differs in between products and service based organizations. As in manufacturing firms there is a product but in service-based organization the marketing has to be done of an intangible thing. In the Marketing department, we were given the opportunity to learn new things by observing and interacting with the Marketing team of   the company.I was involved with creating Product Invoice, recording and tracking the sales call from the distribution channel, analysing some sales figures of the company, and taking feedback and complaints from the customers via telephone and e-mail while working in the Customer Service Department. 4. 4 Finance Department This department keeps the proper track record of all the transactions taking place. It maintains the record of all the broking being carried out in our office. Ratio analysis of financial statements It is a systematic use of ratios to interpret/ assess the performance and status of the firm. A ratio expresses a mathematical relation between two quantities. * Ratios are tools providing us which clues and symptoms of underlying conditions. Ratios can help us to identify areas requiring further investigation. * The usefulness of ratio depends on the quality of the numbers in their calculation. That is our ability to draw useful insights and make valid intercompany co mparisons is enhanced by our skill in adjusting reported numbers prior to inclusion in these analyses. * Ratios are interpretable only in comparison with 1) Prior ratios 2) Predetermined standards. 3) Ratios of competitors.Ratio analysis of a firm’s financial statements is of interest to shareholders, creditors, and the firm’s management. Stockholders are interested in the firm’s current and future level of risk and return, which directly affect the stock price. The firm’s creditors are primarily interested in the short-term liquidity of the company and in its ability to make interest and principal payments. Internal management is concerned with all aspects of the firm’s financial performance. Therefore, they attempt to produce financial ratios that will be considered favorable to both owners and creditors.Additionally, management uses ratios to monitor the firm’s performance from period to period. Unexpected changes or variances are identif ied to isolate developing problem areas. IMPORTANCE OF RATIO ANALYSIS Ratio analysis does two things, immediately. The first thing is it allows the company to compare itself with other like companies. If management feels things aren't going well, they can help pinpoint the problem through comparing their ratios with other companies. They may have several ratios that are comparable, but a couple which are way off. That might be where the problem is.Also, ratio analysis may help by comparing your company with prior periods. If a particular ratio is declining when it would be better if it were staying the same or increasing, then again looking at the ratios are important to find out where the problem lies. Ratios are important to spot trends easily. Types of ratios: Ratios can be classified into six broad groups: 1. Liquidity ratios 2. Capital structure/ leverage ratios 3. Profitability ratios 4. Activity/ efficiency ratios 5. Integrated analysis of ratios 6. Growth ratios. 1. Liquidit y Ratios: It is the ability of a firm to satisfy its short- term obligations as they become due.The importance of adequate liquidity in the sense of the ability of a firm to meet current / short –term obligations when they become due for payment can hardly be overstressed. a) Current Ratio: Current Ratio is the ratio between Current Assets and Current Liabilities. It calculated by dividing Current Assets by Current Liabilities. Current assets include all assets, which can convert easily into near money within a year. Current assets include cash in hand, cash at bank, debtors, stock, and money at short or call notice etc. Current liabilities are the sum of all hort-term payables within a year, which include Sundry Creditors, Bills payable, Bank overdraft, Expenses outstanding etc. the current ratio of a firm measures its short term solvency that is, its ability to meet short-term obligations. As a measure of short-term current financial liquidity, it indicates the amount of cu rrent assets available for each amount of current liability. Formula for finding current ratio is given below. Current Ratio = Current Assets/Current Liabilities Current Ratio = Current Assets/Current Liabilities Significance of the ratio Current ratio provides a margin of safety to the creditors.In a sound business, a current ratio of 2:1 is considered an ideal one. Current ratio indicates firm’s ability to pay its current liabilities, i. e. day-to-day financial obligation. Current ratio is an index of the firm’s financial stability i. e. , an index of technical solvency and an index of the strength of working capital, which means excess of current assets over current liabilities. Higher ratio more than 2:1 indicates sound solvency position. Lower ratio less then 2:1 indicates inadequate working capital. b) Quick ratio: Quick ratio is also known as liquid ratio or Acid test ratio.Quick ratio shows the liquidity of the business. Quick ratio is the ratio between quick a ssets and quick liabilities. The term quick asset refers to current assets, which can be converted into, cash immediately or at a short notice without diminution of value. Quick assets comprise of all current assets minus stock and pre paid expenses. The formula to find quick ratio is as follows. Quick Assets = Current assets – (Stock + Prepaid expenses) Quick Assets = Current assets – (Stock + Prepaid expenses) Quick liabilities comprises of all current liabilities minus Bank over draft.Quick Ratio = Quick assets / Quick Liabilities Quick Ratio = Quick assets / Quick Liabilities The formula is shown below: Quick Ratio = Quick assets/Current Liabilities Quick Ratio = Quick assets/Current Liabilities Significance of the ratio It is the true test of business solvency. Generally an acid test ratio of 1:1 considered as satisfactory, by that a firm can easily meet all current claims. Higher ratio more than 1:1 indicates sound and good financial position. If the ratio is les s then 1:1, that is, liquid assets are less than current liabilities, the financial position of the concern shall be deemed to be unsound.This ratio gives a picture of firm’s ability to meet its short-term debts out of short-term assets. If less the quick ratio, higher the incidence of inventory in inflating the current ratio and higher is quick ratio, the incidence of inventory in inflating the current ratio is less. c) Net working capital: Working capital is the lifeblood of the business. Working capital refers to that part of the firm’s capital, which is used for financing short term or current assets, such as, cash, marketable securities, debtors, inventories, bills receivables etc. n a narrow sense, the term working capital refers to the net working capital. Net working capital is the excess of current assets over current liabilities. Net working capital = Current assets – Current liabilities Net working capital = Current assets – Current liabilities d) Turnover ratios: It measures the speed with which various accounts /assets are converted into sales or cash. It is concerned with measuring the efficiency in asset management. These ratios are also called efficiency ratios or asset utilization ratios. The liquidity ratios mentioned above are related to the liquidity of a firm as a whole.Another way of examining the liquidity is to determine how quickly certain current assets are converted into cash. The ratios to measure these are referred to as turnover ratio. The three relevant turnover ratios are, 1. Inventory turnover ratio: This ratio is also known as stock velocity. This ratio calculated to consider the adequacy of the quantum of capital and its justification for investing in inventory. A firm must have reasonable stock in comparison to sales. It is the ratio of cost of sales and average inventory. This ratio helps the finance manager to evaluate inventory policy.This ratio reveals the number of times finished Inventory tu rnover Ratio = Cost of sales/Average inventory Inventory turnover Ratio = Cost of sales/Average inventory 2. Debtors’ turnover ratio: Debtor’s turnover ratio is also called ‘Debtors velocity’ or ‘Receivables turnover’. A firm sells goods on credit and basis. When the firm extends its customers, book debts are created in the firms account. Debtors are expected to convert into cash over a short period, so it included in current assets. Debtors include the amount of bills receivables and book debts at the end of accounting period.It is a test to understand the reasonable quantitative relationship between outstanding receivables and sales. Financial analysts employ two ratios to judge the quality or liquidity of the Debtors turnover and Average collection period. Debtor’s turnover is found by dividing total sales by sundry debtors. Formula to find debtors turnover ratio is given below Debtors turnover = Total sales/Sundry debtors Debtors tu rnover = Total sales/Sundry debtors 3. Creditors’ turnover ratio: It is a ratio between net credit purchases and the average amount of creditors outstanding during the year.It is calculated as follows: Creditors turnover ratio= net credit purchases / average creditors Creditors turnover ratio= net credit purchases / average creditors Net credit purchases= gross credit purchases – returns to suppliers Net credit purchases= gross credit purchases – returns to suppliers Average creditors= average of creditors (including bills payable) outstanding at the beginning and at the end of the year Average creditors= average of creditors (including bills payable) outstanding at the beginning and at the end of the yearA low turnover ratio reflects liberal credit terms granted by suppliers, while a high ratio shows that accounts are to be settled rapidly. The creditor’s turnover ratio is an important tool of analysis as a firm can reduce its requirement of current asse ts by relying on supplier’s credit. The extent to which trade creditors are willing to wait for payment can be approximated by the creditor’s turnover ratio. Defensive – Interval Ratios: It is the ratio between quick assets and projected daily cash requirement. Defensive – interval ratios = Liquid assets /projected daily cash requirementDefensive – interval ratios = Liquid assets /projected daily cash requirement Projected daily cash requirement=projected cash operating expenditure/number of days in a year Projected daily cash requirement=projected cash operating expenditure/number of days in a year Cash Flow From Operations Ratio: Cash flow from operations ratio= Cash flow from operations/ current liabilities Cash flow from operations ratio= Cash flow from operations/ current liabilities This ratio measures liquidity of a firm by comparing actual cash flows from operations with current liability. It is calculated as per equationBeing a cash measur e, the ratio does not encounter the problems of actual convertibility of current assets and the need for maintaining minimum levels of these assets. In general, the higher the ratio, the better is a firm from the point of view of liquidity. 2. CAPITAL STRUCTURE /LEVERAGE RATIOS: The long term lenders/creditors would judge the soundness of a firm on the basis of the long term financial strength measured in terms of its ability to pay the interest regularly as well as repay the installment of the principal on due dates or in one lump sum at the time of maturity.The long term solvency of a firm can be examined by using leverage or capital structure ratios. It may be defined as financial ratios which throw light on the long term solvency of a firm as reflected in its ability to assure the long term lenders with regard to (1) Periodic payment of interest during the period of the loan and (2) Repayment of principal on maturity or in predetermined installments at due dates Ratios based on relationship between borrowed funds and owner’ capital: A. Debt –equity ratio:The financing of total assets of a business concern is done by owner’s equity as well as outsider’s debts. The relationship between borrowed funds and owner’s capital is a popular measure of long-term financial solvency of a firm. The relationship is shown by the debt equity ratio. This ratio indicates the relative proportions of debts and equity in financing the assets of a firm the formula we use is Total long-term debts by Shareholders fund. Total long-term debts include mortgage loans, long term loans; debentures etc. hare holders fund includes Preference share holders, Equity share holders, capital reserve, revenue reserve etc. Debt equity ratio = Total long term funds/Share holders fund Debt equity ratio = Total long term funds/Share holders fund Significance of the ratio: Acceptable norm for this ratio is considered to be 2:1. A higher debt-equity ratio is allowed in the case of capital-intensive industries, a norm of 4:1 is used for fertilizer and cement units and a norm of 6:1 is used for shipping units. A high ratio shows that the claims of creditors are greater han that of owners. A very high ratio is unfavourable from the firm’s point of view. A high debt company, also known as highly leveraged or geared, is able to borrow funds on very restrictive terms and conditions. A low debt-equity ratio implies greater claim of owners then creditors. From the point of view of creditors, it represents a satisfactory capital structure of the business since a high proportion of equity provides a larger margin of safety for them. This ratio shows the extent to which debt financing is used in the business. Debt –assets ratio:Another approach to calculating the debt to capital ratio is to relate the total debt to the total assets of the firm. The total debt of the firm comprises long- term debt plus current liabilities. The total assets co nsist of permanent capital plus current liabilities. Thus, Debt to total assets/capital ratio= total debt/ total assets Debt to total assets/capital ratio= total debt/ total assets c) Equity assets ratio: Still another variant of the debt/equity ratio is to relate the owner’s/proprietor’s funds with total assets. This is called the proprietary ratio.The ratio indicates the proportion of total assets financed by owners. Symbolically, it is equal to: Proprietary ratio = Proprietor’s funds / total assets x 100 Proprietary ratio = Proprietor’s funds / total assets x 100 Proprietary Fund to Fixed Assets Proprietary ratio relates shareholders’ funds to total assets. It is a variant of debt equity ratio. This ratio shows long term or future of the business. It calculated by dividing shareholders funds by the total assets. Proprietary ratio = shareholders funds/ Fixed assets Proprietary ratio = shareholders funds/ Fixed assets Preference share capital and equity share capital plus all reserves and surplus items are called shareholders fund. Total assets include all assets including goodwill. Significance of the ratio: The acceptable norm for the ratio is 1: 3. The ratio shows the general strength of the company. It is very important to creditors as it helps to find out the proportion of shareholders funds in the total assets used in the business. Higher ratio indicates a secured position to creditors and a low ratio indicates greater risk to creditors. Proprietary ratio is also analysis in the following manner Ratio of current assets to proprietor’s funds:It shows the relationship between current assets and Shareholders funds. The purpose of this ratio is to calculate the percentage of shareholders funds invested in current assets. It found by dividing current assets by proprietors funds. Significance of the ratio This ratio can be expressed in percentage or as a proportion. Different industries are using different norms and h ence the ratio should be carefully used. c) Coverage ratios: It measures the firm’s ability to pay certain fixed charges. These ratios are computed from information available in the profit and loss account.For a normal firm, in the ordinary course of business, the claims of creditors are not met out of the sale proceeds of the permanent assets of the firm. The obligations of a firm are normally met out of the earning or operating profits. 1. Interest coverage ratio: It measures the firm’s ability to make contractual interest payments. Interest coverage = EBIT / interest Interest coverage = EBIT / interest It is also known as ‘time-interest- earned ratio’. This ratio measures the debt servicing capacity of a firm insofar as fixed interest on long term loan is concerned.It is determined by dividing the operating profits or earnings before interest and taxes by the fixed interest charges on loans. 2. Dividend coverage ratio: It measures the ability of a firm to pay dividend on preference shares which carry a stated rate of return. This ratio is the ratio of net profits after taxes and the amount of preference dividend. Thus, Dividend coverage ratio = EAT/ PREFERENCE DIVIDEND Dividend coverage ratio = EAT/ PREFERENCE DIVIDEND 3. Total fixed charges coverage ratio: It measures the firm’s ability to meet all fixed payment obligations.The total coverage ratio has a wider scope and takes into account all the committed fixed obligations of a firm, that is, 1) Interest on loan 2) Preference dividend 3) Lease payments 4) Repayment of principal Symbolically, Total fixed charges coverage ratio = EBIT + Lease payment/ interest + lease payment + (preference dividend + installment of principal) / (1-t) Total fixed charges coverage ratio = EBIT + Lease payment/ interest + lease payment + (preference dividend + installment of principal) / (1-t) . Cash flow coverage ratio: Total cash flow coverage = EBIT+ lease payments + depreciation + non-cash expenses / lease payment + interest + (principal repayment)/(1-t) + (preference dividend)/ (1-t) Total cash flow coverage = EBIT+ lease payments + depreciation + non-cash expenses / lease payment + interest + (principal repayment)/(1-t) + (preference dividend)/ (1-t) The overall ability of a firm to service outside liabilities is truly reflected in the total cash flow coverage ratio: the higher the coverage, the better is the ability 5. Debt services coverage ratio:Debt service capability is the ability of a firm to make the contractual payments required on a scheduled basis over the life of the debt. It is considered a more comprehensive and apt measure to compute debt service capacity of a business firm. It provides the value in terms of the number of times the total debt service obligations consisting of interest and repayment of principal in installments are covered by the total operating funds available after the payment of taxes: Earnings after taxes, EAT + interest + depreci ation + other non – cash expenditure like amortization. 3.Profitability ratios: The profitability of a firm can be measured by its profitability ratio. Apart from the creditors, both short-term and long terms, also interested in the financial soundness of a firm are the owners and the management or the company itself. The management of the firm is naturally eager to measure its operating efficiency. Similarly the owners invest their funds in the expectation of reasonable returns. The operating efficiency of a firm and its ability to ensure adequate returns to its shareholders/ owners depends ultimately on the profits earned by it. a) Gross Profit Ratio:Gross profit is the result of the relationship between prices, sales volume and costs. It measures the percentage of each sales rupee remaining after the firm has paid for its goods. A change in the gross margin can be brought about by changes in any of these factors. The gross margin represents the limit beyond which fall in s ales prices are outside the tolerance limit. Further, the gross profit ratio/ margin can also be used in determining the extent of loss caused by theft, spoilage, damage, and so on in the case of these firms which follow the policy of fixed gross profit margin in pricing their products.A high ratio of gross profit to sales is a sign of good management as it implies that the cost of production of the firm is relatively low. It may also be indicative of a higher sales price without a corresponding increase in the cost of goods sold. It is also likely that cost of sales might have declined without a corresponding decline in sales price. A relatively low gross margin is definitely a danger signal, warranting and careful and detailed analysis of the factors responsible for it. Gross profit ratio= gross profit x 100 Sales Gross profit ratio= gross profit x 100Sales Net profit ratio: It measures the percentage of each sales rupee remaining after all costs and expenses including interest an d taxes have been deducted. The net profit margin is indicative of management’s ability to operate the business with sufficient success not only to recover from revenues of the period, the cost of merchandise or services, the expenses of operating the business (including depreciation) and the cost of the borrowed funds, but also to leave a margin of reasonable compensation to the owners for providing their capital at risk.The ratios of net profit (after interest and taxes) to sales essentially express the cost price effectiveness of the operation. A high net profit margin would ensures adequate return to the owners as well as enable a firm to withstand adverse economic conditions when selling price is declining, cost of production is rising and demand for the product is falling. A low net profit margin has the opposite implications. Net profit ratio = Net profit x 100 Sales Net profit ratio = Net profit x 100 Sales a. Return on capital employed: The ROCE is the second type of ROI.Here the profits are related to the total capital employed. The term capital employed refers to long- term funds supplied by the lenders and owners of the firm. It can be computed in two ways. First, it is equal to non –current liabilities (long term liabilities) plus owners’ equity. Return on capital employed= Net profit x100 Capital employed Return on capital employed= Net profit x100 Capital employed SUMMARY OF FINDINGSRatio analysis is an important tool for financial statement analysis. Here we studied various ratios relating to measurement of the financial performance such as current ratio, quick ratio, debt equity ratio, proprietary ratio, gross profit ratio etc. In the previous chapter we made a detailed analysis of the Angel Broking Limited from 2005 to 2009. The major findings are given below * The study shows there is a continuous changes in the current ratio and also it is not satisfactory when compare to actual standard of 2:1. * Current ratio in the year 2005, it is showing 1. 5% and later on it went on increasing way i. e. in 2006 – 1. 44%, 2007 – 1. 36, 2008-1. 37%. * Current ratio in past three years it was getting to meet the standard, but in the year of 2009 again it went down to 1. 07%. * The quick ratio for this company is same as mentioned in the above table. Because as there is no inventory and prepaid expenses to deduct in this company as it is insurance company we cannot find inventory. * The study shows that the net working capital in the company is Rs. 52,669,000 in 2005, Rs. 1,182,432,000 in 2006, in 2007 – Rs. ,420,039,000, in 2008 – Rs. 2,324,559,000 and in 2009 again it decreased to Rs. 614,591,000. * The study shows that the debt equity ratio is satisfactory from the creditors point of view that is in the year 2005 the percentage of ratio is 2. 65%, in 2006 – 3. 73%, in the year 2007 – 5. 50%, in 2008- 6. 33% and in 2009 it is 5. 29%. * The study shows that the propri etary ratio to fixed assets is 2005- 4. 37%, 2006- 10. 53%, 2007- 11. 36%, 2008- 9. 96%, 2009- 12. 73%. * The study shows that the proprietary ratio to current ratio is in 2005-2. 79%, 2006- 1. 64%, 2007- 1. 5%, 2008- 1. 55%, 2009- 1. 91%. * The study shows that gross profit ratio of the company was went on decreasing but it is recovering from more loss to less loss and the percentage of ratio is, in the year 2005 is -0. 13%, in 2006 it is -0. 08%, in 2007 it is -0. 04%, in 2008 it is -0. 05%, in 2009 it is -0. 09% * The study shows that the net loss was went on decreasing from the year 2005 to 2008. But in the year 2009 it has incurred more loss than 2006, 2007, and 2008 but less than 2005 (i. e. 2005 = -0. 27, 2006= -. 20, 2007= -. 16, 2008= -0. 14, 2009= -0. 2) * The study shows that the return on capital employed is not good because every year it is earning negative returns and also the percentage of negative returns went on increasing way (i. e. 2005= -58. 80%, 2006= -49. 99%, 2007= -52. 88%, 2008= -51. 90%, 2009= -64. 62%. CHAPTER 5 SWOT ANALYSIS 5. 1 Strengths * It is a pioneer in online trading with a turn over of Rs. 220. 5 billion and Over 6810 sub-Brokers ; Business Associates. * Angel Broking provides multi-channel access to all its customers through a strong online presence with www. angelbroking. om,144 share shops in all over India and a call-center based Dial-n-Trade facility. Nation-wide network of 21 Regional Hubs Presence in 124 cities. * Above 6th lakh client in all over India * 100+ member research ; advisory team comprises of experienced fundamental and technical analyst, sector specialist, derivative strategists. * Angel Broking has dedicated research teams for fundamental and technical research, which constantly track the pulse of the market and provide timely investment advice free of cost to its clients which has a strike rate of 70-80%. Angel Broking Ltd. Announced that it is planning to invest around INR 300 million this financial y ear for expanding its branch network. The company is looking to invest around INR 250-300 million in this financial year for expanding its network by 50 branches. * The company has been increasing at a compounded growth rate of 100% every year. 5. 2 Weakness * Localized presence due to insufficient investments for countrywide expansion. * Lack of awareness among customers because of non-aggressive promotional strategies (print media, newspapers, etc). Lesser emphasis on customer retention. * Focuses more on HNIs than retail investors which results in meager market-share as compared to close competitors. * Not listed in stock exchange. 5. 3 Opportunities * With the booming capital market it can successfully launch new services and raise its client’s base. * It can easily tap the retail investors with small saving through promotional channels like print media, electronic media, etc. * As interest on fixed deposits with post office and banks are all time low, more and more small investors are entering into stock market. Abolition of long-term capital gain tax on shares and reduction in short term capital gain is making stock market as hot destination for investment among small investors. * Angel Stock Broking Ltd. plans to finalize INR 2 billion – INR 2. 5 billion fund raising plans between December 2009 and March 2010. Dinesh Thakkar, Angel Broking’s CMD said, â€Å"We are got active interest from the US and UK-based institutions. We are open to diluting a significant stake. † * Increasing usage of Internet through broadband connectivity may boost a whole new breed of investors for trading in securities. . 4 Threats * Aggressive promotional strategies by close competitors may hamper Angel Broking’s acceptance by new clients. * Lack of sufficient branch-offices for speedy delivery of services. * More and more players are venturing into this domain, which can further reduce the earnings of Angel Stock Broking Ltd. CHAPTER 6 CONCL USION ; SUGGESTIONS 6. 1 Conclusion On the basis of the study it is found that Angel Broking Ltd. is better services provider than the other stockbrokers because of their timely research and personalized advice on what stocks to buy and sell.Angel Broking Ltd. provides the facility of Trade tiger as well as relationship manager facility for encouragement and protects the interest of the investors. It also provides the information through the internet and mobile alerts that what IPO’s are coming in the market and it also provides its research on the future prospect of the IPO. Study also concludes that people are not much aware of commodity market and while it’s going to be biggest market in India.From the above survey and observation it is found that most of the people who are trading in share market belongs to the employee group, next comes the business men and other class of income people. As the share market value goes on increasing day by day the investor who wants to invest in shares also increasing. But investing in shares is as risky as earning yield. Trading in online trading firm is easy as it all delivered with internet and within a few minutes the customer can buy and sell shares which save time as well as reduction of paper work.Hence trading in share market is increasing day by day and investors are ready to invest their investment in share market only. I got the knowledge about the customer’s needs and their references for having a particular product. The need of customers differs from person to person, area, locality and occupation. Customer always wants more service by paying less. They expect all the information such less rates, less brokerages, highly returns and better service level without delay. W

French Philosopher Sartre on Consciousness Essay

French Philosopher Sartre on Consciousness - Essay Example Articles about him ranged from speculations about the trauma which led to his philosophies in later life to what some refer to as his "God problem." His importance lies, however, in the defence of his stand on the absolute right of humans to freedom and responsibility. (O'Donohoe, 2005) Sartre wrote about many things, mainly the essence of what it is to be human. Later on in his life, he became interested in political philosophy and dabbled in the teachings of Marxism. However, among his earliest concepts and for which he based his theory of "existentialism" involved the structure and nature of human consciousness, which he eventually attempted to explain in what is considered his masterpiece, "Being or Nothingness." (Onof, 2006) In the text, he discloses that consciousness is always contained within a physical structure. (O'Donohoe) It cannot be free-floating not can it exist after its physical structure ceases to be. This is the point in which he posits that there is no Supreme Being who created man and is the source of all moral values. Since he claims that consciousness exists for only as long as its physical structure, there is no afterlife in which the soul will return to this Supreme Being after death and receive its just rewards. Sartre defended this position of physical finality with varying success throughout his career. Without an object to define itself, consciousness would not be possible It is always positive and transparent, not to be confined within limits of perceptions of what it should be or what it had been or what it is not. The essence of consciousness relies solely on its existence, as it is and simply as is. The appearance of consciousness is at the same time as its essence. There are no hidden meanings or ambiguities. Clearly, this correlates to the identification of what it is not, for if it is a constantly changing process, how can it be defined for what it is Just as an example to further explain his view, think of water changing form from liquid to gas to solid and so on. Consciousness is not the water nor is it the different forms it takes but rather the process from one state to the next. If we follow this reasoning, logically the essence being is continuously in flux, always in the process of becoming not what it had been. Consciousness is not a state of being but an activity, a process of going towards something. It is the activity that defines consciousness, not consciousness in itself. Sarte explains that it is not the end result if there ever will be one that denotes consciousness, nor is it the present state of a being. Rather, consciousness is the constant process that takes place within one's self. In which situation, it is safe to say that based on his concept, consciousness is fluid, and cannot be fixed or placed in a state of inertia. Let us explain further that by a process we do not mean a single procedure repetitively done but an ever-changing process, and always by choice. This is another important concept Sartre maintains throughout his life, that humans are free to choose.  The awareness presents the being with choices at every turn and each choice carries a corresponding consequence.  Ã‚  

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Final Exam Educational Leadership - Research Paper Example According to Teachers Tenure Act (TTA), any tenured teacher may be dismissed due to his or her performance (Clem, Clay & Calhoun, 2006). The school system has the obligation of informing teachers about their performance inadequateness in order to give them opportunities for improvement. Grounds of inadequate performance can be used to support the dismissal of teachers on the objective of evaluations leading to a conclusion of inadequate performance. In addition, this ground also applies to both the control of the student and the teaching method of a teacher. The act reveals that before a teacher is dismissed for inadequate performance, he or she should be allowed to understand what is expected of him or her. This gives teachers adequate information of what performance inadequacies are in order to overcome them (School Employment Law, 2002). Subjective evaluation of inadequate performance in a teacher is evidenced by poor performance of the students and shortcomings of their progress. This is as a result of poor organization of classrooms and failure of the teacher to show applicable initiatives in finding effective means of attaining their objectives. In addition, poor performance can also be as a result of teachers’ inability to maintain good order in classrooms. ... In case the board receives two consecutive substantial evidence of poor performance of a teacher through written findings, dismissal is recommended (Clem, Clay & Calhoun, 2006). Neglect of duty According to Teachers Tenure Act, a tenured teacher can be dismissed due to his or her neglect of duty. Prior to dismissing teachers for neglect of duty, they should be given a chance to understand their duties in school. This is because neglect of duty is determined by references of duties that exist. Neglect of duty is mainly identified by failure of a teacher to show up for work without an excuse. In addition, it is also identified by failure of the teacher to control good order and discipline among students. Based on these grounds, a teacher can be dismissed if he or she fails to fulfill responsibilities and duties imposed upon him or her. The board of education should, therefore, have conclusive proof and evidence that the teacher is adequately neglecting his or her duties before recommen ding their dismissal (School Employment Law, 2002). Insubordination Insubordination, as revealed from Teachers Tenure Act, can also lead to the dismissal of a tenured teacher. Insubordination constitutes use of an inappropriate language, toleration of illegal games in school, and use of inappropriate physical correction to students. Prior to holding teachers responsible for insubordination, they should be allowed to understand rules governing the school. This will allow teachers to rectify their behaviors in schools. Principals should, therefore, have proper evidence that teachers have engaged in misconducts before recommending dismissal. A clear proof of insubordination gives a proper ground of a teacher to be dismissed (Clem, Clay & Calhoun, 2006). Failure to comply

Exporting and importing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Exporting and importing - Essay Example Table of Contents Abstract 2 Table of Contents 3 Introduction 4 Government’s role for firms in gaining international competitiveness 4 Goods being damaged or lost in an export and import transaction 8 Managing the losses and risk 9 Challenges faced by exporters & importers by E-commerce and Internet Marketing 10 Conclusion 12 References 14 Exporting and Importing Introduction Globalization is a very important element for consideration by majority of the organizations. In the present era all firms are striving for becoming a global firm so that they can gain a maximum level of competitive advantage and allow their firm to gain more success and profitability. International trade is a common practice by organizations so that they can gain their status of having a global presence. Export and import therefore is becoming common in the organizations, organizations go for export activities to explore new markets and gain more profits. Organizations also go for import activities to be come a cost effective business and also provide consumers with high quality products (Zhu and Trefler 2005). The following discussion focuses on the role that governments play in making their organizations competitive in the international market. The advantages that are pertaining with the import and export transactions are also discussed. ... The laws and regulatory framework of any country is extremely important for any organization so that they can successfully conduct their export and import business. Governments need to protect the domestic interest of their country as well as give consideration to the international competitive market. It is usually an argument that is imposed by the governments of any country that they have to give protection to the organizations that have recently established in the country from the foreign competition and that are why they restrict the import of some products in the country for certain time duration. In these cases, the government tends to prohibit or reduce the level of imported products so that protection can be given to the new emerging industries. Also the governments at times tend to introduce quotas or allow the imported products to become more expensive and the tariffs must be imposed as well (Zhu and Trefler 2005). This policy of protecting the new industries in the country can be a danger to the economic level because the domestic products may not be having that quality and the consumers of the society may not be benefitted by this. There are chances of economic stagnation being observed in the country. It is the utmost responsibility of the government of any country to make sure that their economy is running efficiently and competitive level products are being provided to their society. The government therefore also a bear in mind that international competitiveness needs to be enhanced for their industries and therefore this alternative is kept available apart from the protection policies being implemented by the government. The governments of any country are highly concerned about

Case Study #1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Case Study #1 - Essay Example Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by abnormalities in hemoglobin synthesis leading to small red blood cells that have had a little hemoglobin. The reduced hemoglobin negatively affects the cells effectiveness in carrying oxygen to various body parts. According to Cook (2002), adolescents are highly predisposed to anemia because of body requirements to support rapid growth. Females lose an average of 20mg of iron every month during menstruation and thus require high iron content to maintain normal body functioning. Symptoms of iron deficiency include fatigue, dizziness, lethargy, shortness of breath, restless leg syndrome, brittle nails, blue sclera, pale conjunctivae, glossitis and pica. Depending on its severity, iron deficiency has several consequences for patients. Decreased physical activity , diminishing endurance, abnormal temperature regulation, vulnerability to infections, compromised growth and development, increased lead and cadmium absorption hence a high probability of lead poisoning, pregnancy complications like premature birth and growth retardation of the fetus. Although there is no specific test to indicate iron deficiency in anemic patients, tests of iron status can be used to determine whether an individual has sufficient iron or not. For instance, hemoglobin tests are used to determine the level of iron-containing protein in red blood cells. Hematrocit indicates the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Thus, use of the hemoglobin test is more direct and efficient in diagnosing iron deficiency in individuals. When the erythrocyte count is less than 2%, it shows that the blood has insufficient reticulocyte to enable the bone marrow to replace the worn out hemoglobin hence leading to deficiencies. The presence of hypochromic microcytic red blood cells in a blood smear is an indication of a deficiency in hemoglobin synthesis (Beard, 2001). Shortness of breath can be attributed to a reduced oxygen supply to

The Mexican Revolution Essay Example for Free

The Mexican Revolution Essay In the Mexican Revolution multiple ideologies were involved at once, all competing with each other. None of them was clearly associated with an image of triumph or defeat, which downplays the image of ideology associated with this process, or rather, has made a nebulous identification of them. Catholics and those clericals who were related to the church, clashed against the property of land and against the traditional oligarchy (francisized and bourgeois), often addicted to Porfirio Diaz. This process commonly describes the oligarchy as the big loser and victim of the process of modernization caused by the revolution. For instance, the current level of popularity of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the number of times that the Pope (John Paul II) visited one of the largest Catholic nation on earth. Mexico remains perhaps, today in the XXI century, as Catholic as on early twentieth century. Another ideology that starred in the revolutionary process, and possibly suffered the biggest defeat was the positivist thinking. Dominant in Mexico since the second half of the nineteenth century, it served to provide of theoretical grounds to the extensive dictatorship (more than three decades) of Porfirio Diaz, and helped to justify (with its racist determinism) the inferiority of the natives and the mestizoes, or the Mexican. In fact, Porfirio considered the people of Mexico as immature for democracy, which was another argument for his more convenient and permanent re-election. Positivism was also tied to the landowner oligarchy, but more to the urban and conservative bourgeoisie, which was a permanent aspirant to social advancement. It was common to find their exponents in the huge state apparatus loyal to Diaz, in the universities and in the army. This thought often decanted in other ideology that is liberalism, also dragged from the nineteenth century, but which takes a great strength in the new urban middle classes and in part of the bourgeoisie that was jaded of the eternal dictators regime, it is liberalism which articulates the initial criticism to the Porfiriato, being hostile to the excessive exploitation by which the Mexican countryside was being submitted. It is this ideology that accelerates, according to general opinion, the revolutionary process. It is from this speech that, after the dialogue had failed, the mass was led to rise against the tyranny of the dictator, an invocation which proved to be for the sole purpose of the use of force and rage of the people, because it didn’t empathize with the demands of the peasants (most of the Mexican population of the time) or those of the emerging urban industrial working class or of the mining class in the province (usually linked to oil). With a marked influence of American liberalism (as opposed to European positivist ideas), liberalism enables to articulate and launch the first serious calls for uprising (for example, the San Luis Plan was launched by Madero from his exile in San Antonio, Texas). In addition there was a presence of anarchist ideology and to a lesser extent of socialism, which in some way guided the illiterate peasant forces, without actually entering them (there were only sketches of these ideologies in the proposed policies and actions of the major peasant leaders, namely Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata). Anarchism and socialism, sometimes separately, and many other times combined, strongly caught on the working class of Mexico City and other industrial centers of the country, they helped enormously in the turmoil of the pre-revolutionary process of 1910, usually operating from exile (for instance, associations of anarchists in California and socialists in Mississippi) and then vaguely reflected in the agreements of the Convention of Aguascalientes, which approved the Ayala Plan, a cornerstone of the subsequent Mexican agrarian reform. And finally we can define a last ideological factor, often ignored or downplayed, always misunderstood from the classical analysis, this is the native-peasant thought that is present throughout the whole history of Mexico and is the main foundation of the current Mexican nation. Many believe that without the discontent of these masses, accumulated over centuries of exploitation and absolute subjugation, the outbreak would not have occurred with the magnitude that it had. Most of the military conflict was made up of disgruntled peasants (in the case of the rebels) or peasants enlisted by the drafts (federal army). The main slogan of the armies led by Zapata and Villa is the division of land, not by ambition, but for their attachment to it. It is the awareness that all is owed to it, the place to which they have always belonged to, that has always been in the atavistic memory of the community, and is also the land which gives the fruit, which represents the yoke of slavery, that ties to the employer, to work for others. The land represents the entire universe of native peasants; everything good and bad that can happen to them is linked to it. But if we must define the ideology of revolution, or the one that has mobilized and convinced the masses to revolt, to slaughter, to fight, and often to death (1,000,000 approximately), this is not definable, even non-existent for many. Because the Mexican peasantry faithfully and blindly followed to warlords, who were not clear how to design a speech or an organization to legitimize their demands. This is reflected in the attitude of Zapata and Villa to take and occupy Mexico City, when they have taken hold of the city they don’t know what to do, they do not locate in that place that represents the power and therefore appoint a lawyer as president, which was Gutierrez, to enact laws to carry out their demands. But the peasants followed their leaders with almost messianic devotion, without a clear ideological conscience. It can be said that there was not a revolution in Mexican politics. There was a rearrangement, a modernization, but the resulting political system merely replicated and deepened, in a more sophisticated way, the old monopoly of power that was criticized to Porfirio Diaz. The PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party) ruled the country for nearly seventy years, and as its name suggests, it proclaims by itself the institutionalization of the revolutionary process. During the lengthy period of years that this party dominated, there were countless electoral manipulations for the sole purpose of retaining power. It is true that land reform was carried out, but access to the command remained restricted to many and split between a few. Peasants did not access to this apparatus of power, and they were who, basically, carried out the revolution (after their leaders Francisco Villa and Emiliano Zapata). The Mexican politics did not follow the expansive course usually followed after a revolutionary victory, to put it briefly; there was not even an attempt to export the revolution. In fact, Mexico remained in the relative seclusion in which it was. Society, in contrast, showed a little better this revolution. Peasants agreed, but not throughout the country, to own the land for which they fought and yearned for so long. The modernization is evident in several aspects, the country gradually loses the image of rural indigenous nation that traditionally held, and becomes one of the most modern in Latin America, not yet being clear whether this is because of the magnitude of its population, or due to a real modern vocation of Mexican society. Mexico is a society of contradictions and polarizations, where indigenous communities coexist with rich ancient traditions (perhaps prosperous) with developed urban communities, which in turn contrast with very poor and extensive slums, which often receive indigenous and mestizo peasants from uprooted and impoverished communities. But it is doubtful to believe that the Mexican society and its political expression did assimilate the revolution, or inherited a tradition of this. Mexico is a fairly conservative country in many respects, being perhaps its ultimate expression the passivity with which it accepted and took over half a century of institutional revolutionaries in power, but very early it became clear that these â€Å"revolutionaries† only reproduced the political corruption that was previous to the revolutionary period. Mexicans seemed to assume with usual indifference the electoral manipulations and political gatopardisms. The revolution seems to be more an expression of a highly curbed energy, which springs from the bowels of the earth after centuries, a release that does not mostly renew the landscape, which covers with its centenary magma, but it gives to it more vigor in the germination of an order within the apparent chaos that is the Mexican society. Mexico did not change radically its political and social order, as in other post-revolutionary societies. What actually happened is that Mexican society shocked its dust off (during the revolution) in order to fully receive the coming century, leaving behind those most unpleasant elements inherited from the colony. The Mexican Revolution was a conservative revolution, which really did not intend to renew the Mexican society, as they didn’t know clearly what they were fighting for, or more simply, there was no clarity about general goals.

Education Key to Success Essay Example for Free

Education Key to Success Essay In the 21st century technology should replace traditional teaching methods in order to stimulate student engagement. As social networking becomes more and more famous and teachers have to compete with something they Just dont have the right tools to fight them with the fight is Just unfair. With all the modern technology that todays students are surrounded with their attention spans have drastically decreased and with entertainment at the touch of a button away from them it becomes very hard to keep a class of 30 students entertained for an hour and as time passes by this will gradually get more and more orse. I am personally a very geeky technical person to me computers are like real life people who talk to you and guide you as long as you ask them right questions. I have started depending so much on computers that whenever I need help rather than asking my teacher I look it up on google because it is so much faster and easier to do but that information is not always true. I think the solution to this problem isnt to completely get rid of todays teaching methods or not allow students to use their technological devices at all I think the solution is a medium between these two paths o that the teachers have an easier time teaching and students find it more enjoyable to learn education materials. I think todays use of power points in lectures makes it so much more easier for teachers to make their lesson plans and for students to access them later on whenever they need it. But for a couple of years that is where its been stuck it power points get more and more fancier but they arent necessarily helping the students engage into the material that they are learning in class. I think school district should have a set amount of money put aside for labs and competitions where students can ruly discover their talents. I think science classes in high schools are kind of pointless where students never actually get to experience how it truly feels like to be a scientist that thrill of having succeeded in performing a lab right is Just a fantasy to them which rather than doing it themselves they watch others do in their science class on the projectors. Parent support is also necessary for these type of activities they are always worried about keeping their children safe and not exposing them to dangerous things but the truth of the situation is that the world is unpredictable and hat isnt necessarily good or bad but they also have to encourage students as well as teachers to be creative with their work. One of the rising problems the education system is facing today is the low standards set in math classes. Students have such a hard time in math today and rather than pushing themselves to try and work harder students take out the easy way and only fulfill the required math classes that they need to take some even avoid taking math classes if possible and pursue careers where they dont have to do any math at all I am not an expert but Just from personal experience I think math after pre-calculus ust becomes so abstract that I stopped seeing the real life applications of pre- used to love math when I was in elementary and middle school but that all changed once I took pre-calculus what once used to be my best friend was now my sworn enemy I would do anything to avoid doing math homework I understood the concepts that was never the problem but I always knew where it would end everyday me sitting in front of that same smart board everyday seeing the teacher solve problems and asking him every day where in real life I could apply it to use and the answer would always be the same Oh you need this for higher level hysics or Oh you use this in engineering I had grown so bored of these redundant answers that I completely shut myself down in my math class. I knew the math I was learning in class was to be appreciated it was Just ingenious but I never understood its purpose in MY life so I never bothered with it. And I am sure that I am not the only one my friends would complain about the amount of math homework they had to do each day and how much they regretted having taken a math class that year but I think it can all be changed if the students were Just given something more tangible to nderstand not some strange concepts that brilliant mathematicians had worked their lives on using proofs and theorems that I cant even begin to pronounce. Another problem in todays education system is the need for results everyone wants higher test scores no matter what and scientific research has proven that tests dont necessarily show if you understand the concept or not its Just how good of a test taker you are. This is causing a lot of psychological issues in todays students they are all awfully stressed out right before a major exam or test and that stress later on leads to medical conditions. I think we need to rethink our approach to tests they dont fulfill their purpose yet they are valued so much. I think I might have a simple solution for that problem rather than wasting money on standardized tests schools across the nations should have and end of the year project varying from subject to subject which would actually show how much of the material that they have actually learned and how much of it have they retained. Tests today are Just unfair to most of the kids they are not only timed they are State Standardized so whatever material that your teachers didnt go over is also put in the test it can result in loss of onfidence early on in the test totally ruining the students test scores. Last but not least the final problem I want to address in this essay is the motivation that the students lack which can either be the result of teaching material or teaching method either way resulting in a loss of years and years of education. Students all around the world already know what they want to become the second they leave high school they have been exposed to all the subjects enough but in U. S we barely scrape the top of the iceberg over 80% of college bound students go undecided into college t isnt necessarily bad but they waste years doing something that though they liked in high school but end up changing their major I think students can reach their potential faster if the standards in high school are increased every year or so. The more the students are exposed to different kinds of learning materials the easier it is for them to find what they truly like once they leave high school. it is used that might make it look that way but if technology were to combine with education the results would open up unbelievable opportunities for teachers and students.

How Effective is the Internet for Meeting People?

How Effective is the Internet for Meeting People? How effective is the internet as a means of meeting new people? Examine the successes and failures of internet dating. Background History: In recent years ‘internet dating’ has become very popular for a number of reasons, mainly due to its ease and convenience. In a world where single people often have little time to socialise and find it hard to meet like minded people the internet has provided a link to the world of dating and romance. The scope of people it appeals to is far reaching with men and women of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicities interested. The number of internet dating sites is continually growing and has become a very successful and effective business. It is estimated that around 6 million people in Britain belong to an internet dating site. Certainly the stigma which was attached to internet dating a few years ago seems to have passed. (University of Bath Study, 2005) Statistics show that internet dating is big business with leading sites such as Yahoo Personals and Match.com drawing in 4.9 million visitors and 4.2 million visitors respectively in January 2004 alone. (Blazier, 2004) Research: So just how successful is internet dating as a means of meeting new people?   Leading internet dating company match.com was launched in 1995 and estimates that through their site hundreds of thousands of relationships have been formed. Moreover, match.com estimates that over 200,000 members found the person they were seeking through the site. (match.com, 2005) In 2004 a survey was set up by the Weddingchannel.com with results again indicating high success rates for internet dating. The study found that 12% of the 4743 couples registered had met on dating websites. The study also discovered than over 70% of those who had met their partners through internet dating sites were happy to openly admit this to friends and would recommend internet dating to the people around them. (match.com, 2005) Furthermore, a recent and crucially, an independent research study has also concluded that internet dating is officially a successful way of meeting new people and forming friendships or romance attachments and summarises that online dating can indeed be a success for many people. The University of Bath in conjunction with Dr Gavin, Dr Scott and Dr Duffield, carried out an online survey of 229 people aged between 18-65 who had previously used internet dating sites.   The study   (2005)   found that when couples who had spent time forming friendships through emailing or chatting online met for the first time, 94% of them went on to see one another again. Of these relationships formed, on average they lasted for approx 7 months, with 18% of them lasting for over a year. Such figures are in line with relationships formed in more traditional ways. (University of Bath Study, 2005) The study also brought up a number of other interesting facts; the degree to which the couples interacted before meeting up seemed to play a vital role in the success of the relationship. For example, those who talked on the telephone before meeting up and those who chatted simultaneously online (as opposed to simply emailing) were found to have formed ‘deeper’ and more emotional attachments. Similarly, those couples who exchanged gifts before meeting up seemed to form deeper and more committed relationships. The study concluded that simultaneous communication forms more of an intimacy. Interestingly, the research showed that men were generally more likely to be committed to the relationship than the women, and tended to be more dependent upon the women. One explanation for this was the fact that perhaps men felt more comfortable with the anonymity which writing brings as it gave them a chance to express their emotions more easily than they would have been able to face to face. It seems that likewise webcams were not viewed as desirable or successful with anonynimity being preferred. Dr Gavin (Author of Research Study) stated that; â€Å"We also found people are shying away from using webcams because they feel its important not to see their partners for some time – there is something special about text-bases relationships.† (University of Bath Study, 2005) Of all the relationships studied, 39% of the couples were still together at the time of the survey, and of these 24% of the couples had been together for at least a year, and 8% for at least 2 years. Of the relationships which had ended, 14% had lasted for over a year, and 4% had lasted over 2 years. (University of Bath Study, 2005) Successes: Invariably there are always going to be people who are more successful at meeting others than some. Many suggest there is a lot you can do to maximise the success of your internet dating experience. For example, the first thing you need to do is produce a great profile to post online. Dating websites such as the Singlescafe.net express the importance of posting a photo alongside your profile, preferable a happy one! This helps ensure people take the trouble to actually read your profile if they like the look of you. The information in your profile should be kept simple and honest. Good grammar and spelling is also a must. (Dr Black, 2003) DatingDirect.com like many of its rivals offers advice on dating tips and how to find a successful relationship. They suggest that you become a ‘go-getter’ and don’t just wait for others to respond to your profile but actively seek out profiles of like minded members and beginning posting immediately. The theory obviously being that the more people you respond to, the more likely to are you find someone suitable. Obviously for the highest chances of success you should be contacting people who appeal to you, particularly in terms of their hobbies and interests as well as their location. Similarly, they advise that you should respond quickly to members who have contacted you. You should not worry about seeming to eager, good manners win out here. These tips they argue maximise your potential of successfully meeting people and forming a relationship through internet dating. There are obviously many happy stories of both relationships and friendships formed through internet dating. It gives people an opportunity they may not have had otherwise for many reasons. For example some personal success stories follow: â€Å".I was very sceptical at first, not really thinking it would work. Anyway I decided ‘nothing ventured nothing gained’ and sent 6 emails, I received 4 replies, Becky was one of themsince I last contacted you Becky and I have got engaged, we are so happy†¦. meeting Becky has made my life complete.† Graham (http://app6.datingdirect.com/public/success/feedback.asp) â€Å"What a brilliant service, I have found the girl of my dreams and we are now going strong. Keep up the good work!†Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Patrick   (http://app6.datingdirect.com/public/success/feedback.asp) â€Å"I met my wife on a dating website. We married last April and are expecting our first baby this April. We couldnt be happier. Ive met the love of my life. My soul mate. I would recommend dating websites to anyone. They do work.† Adam Stevenson, Plaistow, West Sussex, England(BBC News Page, 2005) Certainly for shy people or those who fear rejection the internet has opened up a new world. They can contact people who are in the same position as them without fear.   Failures: Aswell as the success stories there also seem to be some failures. At the very least there are a number of common pitfalls to internet dating. While most subscribers will desire a large number of responses to their profile, this can actually backfire on you if you end up receiving far to many to cope with. Conway (from Askmen.com) discusses how he once received 56 responses to his profile and found this rather overwhelming, meaning he had to spend a huge amount of time replying to all the women and basically often repeating what he had said and asking the same questions over again as he couldn’t keep on top of the correspondence; â€Å"I cant tell you how many times Ive been embarrassed because I asked a woman the same question four or five times.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.askmen.com/dating/dating_advice_100/102c_dating_tips.html) Likewise, it can be a disappointment to some who do not receive as many responses to their profiles as expected. On a more serious note its important to be aware of the dangers of internet dating as a means of meeting people. The main concern for the user is that the person they are contacting is not who he/she says they are and what they are telling you is not true. There is no way to monitor this and it is purely down to human judgement and experience. A bad experience may put you off internet dating for good. Dating sites urge a strong need for caution. One of the biggest pitfalls of internet dating seems to be the issue of whether all of the users are infact single. It is very common that many people will claim to be divorced or single when infact they are not. The internet is an easy way to cheat for these people with little of the risks involved were they to meet someone in a more conventional sense. Jennifer describes her personal unhappy experience of internet dating: â€Å"I tried it a long time ago, but the men I met were all, without exception. control-freaks, psychos and/or chauvinists, and usually married. From a personal point of view, I’d say avoid it like the plague, but if it is all you have got, be very, very careful. It is far too common an occurrence that women get caught in dangerous situations using the world wide web.† Jennifer, UK (BBC News Page, 2005) In agreement that internet dating is not a viable option to forming new relationships Sarah say; â€Å"Internet dating never works. You can be sure that if a person says one thing to you, they are saying the exact same thing to someone else.† Sarah UK (BBC News Page, 2005) Sadly too, often many con artists will use internet dating sites in order to attract people who may be wealthy. Advice suggests you should never reveal anything financial about yourself and most certainly never offer to help someone out with money. There is also the issue of age with the minimum age being 18; however, again there is no way to verify this. Similarly, there is no true way of knowing until you meet up whether that photo posted in the profile is really a genuine one. If you meet up with someone who has deliberately misled you the experience of internet dating is unlikely to be a successful one. (www.bol.ucla.edu/~jbred/Dangers.htm) There are also risks involved when the internet dater takes the next step and decides to meet up with the person they have been chatting with. While most meetings will at the very least be harmless ones its important to be aware that the person you are meeting could be dangerous or unstable. The advice given is to always meet in a public place, maybe even bring along a friend. Never meet in a private place where you will be alone and never give out your home address to a stranger. The chances of meeting someone dangerous are not high but awareness is needed. (www.bol.ucla.edu/~jbred/Dangers.htm) Conclusion: Whilst it is clear that internet websites are becoming increasingly popular in a society where people find it difficult to socialise and date in a more conventional fashion, it is somewhat unclear just how successful internet dating is for meeting people, or more importantly, in meeting the ‘right’ person and forming long term attachments. Whilst researching the information I have found that there are numerous stories and experiences which support the idea that internet dating in indeed a very successful way of meeting people, however, there are an awful lot of people who say it has been unsuccessful for them. I think it is important to consider the aspect of ‘luck’ in internet dating just as you would in traditional dating. Despite this, however, the internet obviously opens up a wide potential for meeting people and therefore logic would argue that with access to more potential partners it is more likely you may meet the one who is destined for you. Certainly for many people who otherwise would not have even been on the dating scene the internet opens up huge possibilities and success can definitely be found. Infact I would conclude that whilst there are both successes and failures to be found, the majority of the somewhat slim available research on the topic does strongly suggest that the internet is a successful way of meeting people. Certainly all the internet dating sites will agree with this statement and offer and display numerous personal success stories, but more importantly, an independent study carried out by the University of Bath strongly indicated that many long lasting relationships were formed through this method of dating and that couples had as good a chance of staying together as relationships formed in more traditional settings. It must be noted again that the research on this topic is still slim and the study was not a major one but nevertheless evidence available overall strongly suggests that internet dating is a success. Certainly there are ways in order to make internet dating more successful for you and I discussed these earlier. There are also pitfalls to internet dating again discussed earlier. The key seems to be to persevere just as you would in any other dating scenario and the outcome looks good. Bibliography: -Datingdirect.com, Dating Tips, available from http://app6.datingdirect.com/public/help/datingtips.asp (accessed on 12/03/05) -Datingdirect.com, Members Feedback, available from http://app6.datingdirect.com/public/success/feedback.asp (accessed on 12/03.05) -University of Bath Study, 14th Feb 2005, available from  Ã‚   http://www.bath.ac.uk/pr/releases/internet-dating.htm (accessed on 12/3/05) -Jones, Techniques of successful internet daters, available from http://www.girl-dating-tips.com/articles/Techniques_of_Successful_Internet_Daters.shtml (accessed on 12/3/05) Dr Black, The Internet Cafà ©, Internet Dating: How to be successful and safe, 2003 available from http://www.singlescafe.net/internet_dating.html (accessed on 12/3/05) -Blazier, Internet dating service blissfully successful in lasting relationships, March 6th 2004, available from http://www.eharmony.com/core/eharmony?cmd=community-internet-dating-service (accessed on 12/3/05) -Ambit Gambit, Internet Dating: Looking for love in all the wrong places, April 30th 2004, available from http://ambit-gambit.nationalforum.com.au/archives/000254.html (accessed on 12/03.05) -AskMen.com, Dating and love, available from http://www.askmen.com/dating/dating_advice_100/102_dating_tips.html (accessed on 12/03/05) -BBC News Page, Online dating good for romance, 14th February 2005, available from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/education/4250281.stm (accessed on 12/03/05) -The dangers on internet dating, 21st March 2003, available from http://www.bol.ucla.edu/~jbred/Dangers.htm (accessed on 12/03/05) -Match.com, More married and engaged couples meet on match.com than any other dating website, February 8th 2005, available from   http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/050208/nytu177_1.html (accessed on 13/03/05)