3 industries pass tests for year 2000 computer glitch

Article Abstract:

As for Year 2000 preparedness, we have three industries that have passed the test. Airlines, securities and electric utilities are all almost ready for the new millennium. The tests on Wall Street seem to be the most concise of all the industries, whereas the FAA test for the airlines are only focused on weaker airports in the nation. The electric utilities industry is focusing on how to react if there was a disaster of some kind in 2000 rather than the disaster that would occur from the computer glitch. At least there are a few industries that we won't need to worry about in the upcoming year.

Securities Dealers, Investment Banking and Securities Dealing, Electric Utilities, Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution, Scheduled Airlines, Scheduled Air Transportation, Electric services, Security brokers and dealers, Air Transportation, Scheduled, And Air Courier Services, Management, Airlines, Securities industry, Year 2000 transition (Computers), Company systems management, Information management

Monsanto set to acquire Cargill's foreign seed unit

Article Abstract:

The biotechnology company The Monsanto Corp. has moved to acquire Cargill Inc.'s seed operations for $1.4 billion, reflecting expectations that biotechnology will proliferate agriculture in the fuure. The deal signifies Cargill's weakness, because of its inability to invest in biotechnology. However, Cargill, with a strong presence in feed production and grain processing, is one of the largest operators in the global seed market, and Monsanto hopes that acquiring Cargill will aid Monsanto in moving into foreign markets with its genetically engineered corn and soybeans.

Comment:

Aquires Cargill's seed operations for $1.4 billion

Asset sales & divestitures, Acquisitions & mergers, Chemicals & Allied Products, Chemical Manufacturing, Nursery and Floriculture Production, Seeds, Chemicals, Monsanto Co., Cargill Inc.

The last-stand partnership on Wall Street

Article Abstract:

Edward D. Jones and Co. of St. Louis, MO, remains one of the last major brokerage houses to keep a partnership structure when many firms have gone public. The company's network of around 4,200 offices largely serves rural areas not well served by more traditional brokerages. The company has a rather conservative investment strategy largely focused on the long-term holding of blue-chip stocks. The company is actively hiring broker candidates as a means to increase its market.

Comment:

Edward D. Jones maintains partnership structure and conservative financial planning

Securities Brokerage, Stockbrokers, Edward D. Jones and Co.