Impact of Competition on Bank Performance

Impact of Competition on Bank Performance INTRODUCTION This study focuses on a research set forth to examine the linkage of competitive obsession and/or excessive competitiveness to financial impacts (credit boom/crunch) on the banking industry. Organisations concern for the survival of business at all costs has transformed into a strong credence that they can control and dominate human, physical, natural and intangible resources, thereby direct the business world now and in future. This has induced an underestimation of some immeasurable and unfathomable trends in business. Now the business world is being battered with harsh economic and financial struggle. Hence Ezer and Demetis (2007:57) states: â€Å"Our obsession with control has become part of our validation as a species.† At this time all countries and a huge number of firms has been impinged on, by recent the credit crunch. 1.1 Background There are huge reasons for the competitive activities of countries, banks and Multinational Enterprises (MNEs). Some of these reasons are to maximise wealth and minimise cost. In the 1970s the banks were not highly driven by competitive force (Black and Strahan, 2002). Countries and Multinational Enterprises take advantage globalisation and free trade. However, the banking industry today has become quite competitive and involved in subprime lending. The increase in competition among banks led to less proficient screening aptitude and credits granted to less worthy customers (Rajan, 2008). In addition, MNEs engage in drastic activities across nations termed as an abuse of free trade. The recent economic situation emerges quite troublesome for everyone. Credit concerns are now crucial and are imperative in ensuring successes in international business. This requires the aid of banks as MNEs are in battle with an unpleasant financial crisis. Nevertheless, would these banks who are also hit by the credit struggle, save themselves, talk more of aiding the MNEs or any other business and/or customers. The financial market crisis began early in 2007 and has resulted to losses in the market and loss of confidence in financial institutions across the globe (World Economic Forum, 2008).The causes of the credit crunch are traced to a number of identified causes (Johnson and Kwak, 2009). To mention a few are subprime investments, government neglect of banking activities, and the abuse of free trade, mainly but not wholly originating from the United States. Some of these causes are still in repetition dated back to 1966 and are yet to be eradicated. Financial crisis originating in the 1960s has been re-occurring in the 70s, 80s and of present, hence, it is not a novel issue. What is yet to be known is why the credit crunch keep re-occurring from similar causes, and the possible existence of a common element among these ‘causes which is unseen or rather covered in a veil, that could make or break the achievement of a Companys objective. This common element could be termed extreme competitiveness or competitive obsession. It is unknown if competitive obsession could have contributed to the credit crunch. A study and understanding of this problem could proffer solutions and thus, possibly promote international business and financial integrity on a global scale. 1.2 Research Purpose This research is not focused on identifying and putting blames on various organisations or their activitities that might have caused the credit crunch. The aim of this study is to identify the relationship between competitiveness- its obsession and the credit crunch, and to determine whether this competitive obsession is found within the activities of the organisations that might have caused the credit crunch. 1.3 Research Questions The questions to be researched will be principally concentrated on the grounds/motivations in which business, banks and regulators take drastic decisions and engage in dangerous activities that might have led to the credit crunch. The answers to find out will thus be: What this ground/motivation is? What is the existence of this ground/motivation among different institutions? What the relationship of this ground/motivation could have to the credit crunch? 1.4 Implication of the Dissertation This study develops a new theoretical model, which incorporates two â€Å"issues† which can be found today (competitive obsession and the credit crunch) in to the notion of global economic challenges in respect to nations and MNEs. The practical significance of this study involves proffering some guiding principle/course of action for globally competitive firms in the course of competitive/strategic decisions that is accountable. How firms react to the pressures of international competition and the chances of taking comparative advantage on the macro level has been deemed importantly stressed by Herrmann (2008), describing his research as only the beginning of a broader analysis. This study tends to continue from Herrmanns research, but relating it to the credit crunch. There are obviously exclusions in the literature, but the association of competitiveness and the credit crunch are very hardly studied in some intensity. This study tries to make the association of these two is sues overt. 1.5 The Structure of the Study 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Introduction Competitiveness and the credit crunch are two different broad issues, which however are not new in the literature. Firms aspire to have a competitive advantage/edge to survive in the global market; nevertheless, the extreme cases of this competitiveness that could be very fruitful or drastic are not put in to so much consideration. Furthermore, the extreme cases of credit facility (over or under extending), might or might not have presented a favourable business condition. 2.2 Review of Studies An attempt to review the whole issues on competitiveness and the credit crunch would be a task of great difficulty, size and strength. Both subjects have been in academic and organisational practice for a very long time. Hence, the re-evaluation of literature will highly pinpoint a survey as well as case research done. Given huge amount of data and research carried out through the years, some important studies have been omitted. Apologies are made for such omissions while, other studies which might be perceived as of less significance, are been utilised. 2.3 Sections of Review There are large amounts of literature works significant to this study, however, this chapter will focus on: Background : History, Present Future Competitiveness and the Credit Crunch Defined Competitive Obsession- Favourable or Unfavourable National and firm competitiveness [Porters Diamond] Competition in the Banking Industry Government/country competitiveness 2.4 Background: History, Present and the Future The early years of this millennium has faced corporations with credit problems connected with the boom in the stock market. As this financial catastrophe receded, came the rise and boom of the housing sector, which subsequently transformed in to the unavoidable credit crunch (Cooper, 2008). Financial crises has always come and gone. the early crisis of 1990 affecting countries like Mexico, Russia, Norway and Sweden and the Asian crisis of 1997 involving countries like South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Hong Kong (Allen and Gale; 2007, Nesvetailova, 2007). The causes of these financial crises and/or credit crunch were sought after and found (Johnson and Kwak, 2009). Some of these causes were generic to some Nations while others were particular to a Nation. It is found common among nations that blames were laid on the inconsistent macroeconomic policies of government and financial institutions (Allen and Gale; 2007, Nesvetailova, 2007; Turner, 2008; Cooper, 2008). Some particular causes found in the nations like the United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK) are the sub-prime lending and housing boom (Rajan, 2008), the abuse of free trade by the promoters of free trade (Turner, 2008), and corruption in nations like Indonesia (Allen and Gale; 2007). Can the misdeeds of government and financial institutions be associated to competitiveness? Porter (1998) portrays that competitive advantage of nations convey new government and business functions for the attainment of competitiveness and success. Constantly, government is ineffectual in whatever it gets to do as she constantly fall short in her industrial policies and in tackling the issues of competitive lead (OShaughnessy, 1996). Hartungi (2006), stress the competitive impacts of globalisation among nations, in the flow of labour and capital. Thus, government of nations, especially the developing ones are being threatened by competition from other nations. In consequence, these governments deregulate and hence make weak their policies for fear of alien investors relocating their businesses to another nation (Hartungi 2006; Buiter, 2007). Turner (2008) on the other hand echoes the abuse of free trade as firms utilise the benefits of free trade by carrying their dealings across var ious nations, with the aim to maximise their profit at the least cost. Thus, while (Hartungi; Buiter) accuses the government, Turner accuses the Multinational firms. Notwithstanding, both government and Firms actions are rational justified to be a move to beat competition. The future of the economy, given this recent credit crunch is still bleak and insecure. There are no quick or magic solutions to this credit troubles. Most banks still hold back on granting credit and economic endeavors are still seriously threatened and extremely bad (Lorenzen, 2009). 2.5 Competitiveness and the Credit Crunch Defined Competitiveness, which is found at the heart of business firms and nations, has always been an inevitable desire, as firms and nations struggle for survival and to outperform one another by gaining a competitive edge, comparative/absolute advantage. Given different circumstances and/or surroundings, competitiveness itself, has defined and implied differently by academic scholars/ authors. Since the theories of Adam Smith in the 1770s and Ricardo in the early 1960s, the models of Porter (1980) and Krugman (1994) prior the other current ones, accentuated by Cao (2008) and Chikà ¡n (2008) national and firm competitiveness, given the global competitive force is still obsessive. The rationale behind competitiveness stays the same; changes are found to exist on strategies engaged to accomplish it, the means of maintaining competitiveness in a rapid and constant change of business environ and processes. In the literature, competitiveness has been widely defined. The Office of Competition and Economic Analysis (OCEA) (2009) echo, â€Å"Competitiveness means different things to different people. To an economist, it may mean how well a country is performing compared to other economies, as embodied in the standard of living and changes in national productivity. To a policy maker, it may mean how a new regulation changes the ability of affected businesses to compete. To a business owner, it may mean changes in profitability as reflected in market share for its goods and services in a low-cost market place.† Hence there are no specific or clear definition of competitiveness could be generally satisfactory, rather they are given different interpretations to best match ones requirements or task (Aiginger, 2006; Ketels, 2006; Siggel, 2006; OCEA, 2009). Garelli (2006: 3), from an economic and management perspective defines competitiveness as â€Å"a field in economics that reconciles and integrates several concepts and theories from economics and management into a series of guiding principles driving the prosperity of a nation or an enterprise.† With regard to the credit crunch, which is the second concern, finance and credit availability has always been the blood of every enterprise that ensures the running of its business operations. The credit crunch or credit crises, financial squeeze, or financial crises have been termed differently by different nations, firms, scholars and institutions. Some authors further use these terms sequentially. Hence, for example, the credit crunch might have resulted from a capital crunch or the financial crises have led to a recession. However, the implied meaning remains the same. This financial instability has long existed, as well as economic theories such as the efficient market theories (EMT), Keyness and the Minskyan theories and hypothesis. Watanabe (2007:642) defines the credit crunch as â€Å"the reduction in credit supply available to borrowers, particularly bank lending supply, for some lender specific reasons.† Watanabe further describes a difference between financial crisis and the credit crunch as thus: the financial crisis involving banks breakdown, financial mismanagement and volatility, while the credit crunch involving a incidental hindrance of banks lending activities, arising from capital shortage. Similarly, Ryder (2009:76) states, â€Å"The uncertainty in the global financial markets has led to a dramatic reduction in the availability of affordable credit, or credit crunch.† 2.6 Competitive Obsession- Favourable or Unfavourable The history of excessive competition is traced to the course of economic development and evolution of industrial formation in different countries in the globe, arising from changes in demand leading to a poor economic cycle or even recessions (Cao, 2008). One of the strong criticisms of competitive obsession is that of Krugman (1994) and (Cao, 2008) on excessive competition. Krugman bases his arguments on three points- (1) that apprehensions on competitiveness, are as an empirical issue, baseless; (2) that the definition of economic setback as one of international competition is nevertheless striking to lots of people. Finally, that obsession with competitiveness is incorrect, dangerous, distorting domestic policies and a threat to the international economic system. Hence, thinking competitively will one-way or the other lead to bad policy making. Both Krugman and Cao, stress the misinformed and common thinking in economic theory that intensification of competition can improve economic and social welfare. Aiginger (2006) in his competitiveness defined stresses its non-exclusion of strategies to harm neighbouring countries. Thus, assumptions have been made about obsession being a negative term (Dance, 2003). On the other hand, excessive/obsessive competitiveness has been identified to improve welfare (productivity and social) in an economy, as well as the possibility of positive externalities and spillovers (Brahm, 1995; Aiginger, 2006). Norcia and Flener (2008) in the retail experience, suggests that a means to not just survive but excel in the recent financial crisis is to become more obsessed, with the customer experience for example. Obsession with customer experience is further identified as Mr Philip Green, the owner of Bhs, achieved a historical largest profit for the company, by being obsessed with customer value, price, quality and market (Mazur, 2002). Identifying competitive obsession as good however, is dependent on it being properly focused (Dance, 2003). This research however, neither supports nor opposes the impact or effects of competitive obsession on firms as well as on the economy, but tries to find out if competitiveness and its obsession might have resulted to the recent credit crunch. 2.7 National and Firm Competitiveness [Porters Diamond] Chikà ¡n (2008: 24-25) presents the definition of both firm and national competitiveness: â€Å"Firm competitiveness is a capability of a firm to sustainably fulfil its double purpose: meeting customer requirements at a profit. This capability is realised through offering on the market goods and services which customers value higher than those offered by competitors.† And â€Å"National competitiveness is a capability of a national economy to operate ensuring an increasing welfare of its citizens at its factor productivity sustainably growing. This capability is realised through maintaining an environment for its companies and other institutions to create, utilize and sell goods and services meeting the requirements of global competition and changing social norms.† Chikà ¡n further stresses the existence of a structural homogeneity with the two definitions, as both are described as capabilities, sharing similar root in economic and social thinking, involving strategic governance and the thought of sustainability. Thus, Garelli (2006) stipulates that firms play their main role of achieving economic benefit, while nations provide the necessary framework to maximise the economic benefit, hence their fate is entangled and cannot be managed singly. The interconnection of competitiveness at national and firm level has been presented by Porters (1990) diamond framework. As concerns gaining sustainable advantage, Porter (1998:71) throws the question himself â€Å"which firms from which nations will reap them† Porters model is useful to analyse competitiveness and its various factors (Garelli, 2006; Chikà ¡n, 2008), thus, in this literature it will be used to analyse the banking industry. The different components of the diamond theory are used to summarise the activities of banks at national and firm level: Factor conditions: these are factors of production as well as infrastructure. Innovation and efficiency via technology are inputs for banks competitiveness (Berger and Mester, 2001; Black and Strahan, 2002; Balgheim, 2007). Demand conditions: customers are increasingly becoming more demanding of banks and less loyal (Balgheim, 2007). On the micro level, mainly households and businesses take on banking dealings, such as deposits, loans and other financial services (Goddard and Wilson, 2009). On the other hand, household in some countries avoid placing their savings in financial institutions and rather buy physical goods (Barth et al, 2006). Related and supported industries: this factor takes account of cluster theory, which endorses firms concentration. The banking systems are becoming more concentrated, and the correlation of this concentration and competition is becoming vague (Carbo et al., 2009). Firms strategy, structure, and rivalry: these are managerial actions and strategy in addition to domestic rivalry. as bankers detect a rival struggle to win in the inter-bank lending competition, they assume firms to show more potential than they had reasoned (Ogura, 2006) Government: is another factor considered to determine competitiveness based on its influence on social norms and macroeconomic policy (Ketels, 2006; Chikà ¡n, 2008). However, Michael Porter disbelieves government to be a fifth determinant of competitiveness (Garelli, 2006). Davies and Ellis (2000) summarised some of the limitations of Porters model- to involve omissions of object of analysis, that productivity at national level is confused with industry level success; confusion of trade factors with respect to comparative advantage; flaws in methodology and mode of reasoning; and a refutation of the assertions of the competitive advantage of nations. 2.8 Competition in the Banking Industry Competitiveness cannot extricate itself from the conception and veracity of competition (Herciu and Ogrean, 2008). Goddard and Wilson (2009) describes banking competition as vital because a failure in the market or an anti-competitive behaviour by banks could have extreme consequences on the productive effectiveness, the welfare of the consumer and the growth of the economy. This explains further the development of competition in banking to be a highly relevant exercise paving way for good policies that could effectively regulate and supervise the banking and financial services sector (Goddard and Wilson 2009; Carbà ³ et al., 2009). At the 1970s, there were little or no competitive strains on banks, favourable government ruling and strong barriers of entry into the industry (Berger and Mester, 2001; Black and Strahan, 2002). Nonetheless, by the early 1980s, government rulings no more favoured the industry, technology and policy changes reduced the barrier entry, and competitive strains were on the increase (Berger and Mester, 2001; Black and Strahan, 2002). The increase in competition has a two effect as depicted by (Black and Strahan, 2002)-limiting the credit accessibility to new and small businesses, while also increasing its credit accessibility to big firms that are credit worthy. In recent times, competition has become highly on the increase, banks loosen their creditworthiness assessment in sub-prime lending and non-worthy customers get access to credit (Marquez 2002; Ogura, 2006; Rajan, 2008). The consequence of this is of three ways- reducing the impact of observational learning; reducing the credit risk engaged by every bank, while on the other hand; increasing the total risk engaged by the whole banking industry (Ogura, 2006). 2.9 Government/country competitiveness Competitiveness is a crosscutting issue that is influenced by the decisions of many different government agencies and is subject to a strategic goal for foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction (Ketels, 2006). Siggel (2006); Herciu and Ogrean (2008) presents a view of a country competitiveness arising from the harbouring of internationally competitive firms, industries, as well as government policies and regulations. The central or apex bank of a country is an agent of government, thus, understanding the macro/micro level competitiveness and its inter-linkages to the credit squeeze would require a study of internationally competitive banks and the central bank. 3.0 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3.1 Macro Economic competitiveness- methods suggested by Authors National competitiveness has been measured with indicators such as business competitiveness index of the world economic forum (WEF) (Ketels, 2006; Herciu and Ogrean, 2008; Chikà ¡n, 2008). The world economic forum (WEF) which engages its competitive analysis on global competitive index (GCI), sets out 12 determinants/ and or pillars of competitiveness – Institutions, Infrastructure, Macroeconomic Stability, Health and Primary Education, Higher education and training, Goods market efficiency, Labour market efficiency, Financial market sophistication, Technological readiness, Market size, Business sophistication, and Innovation. 3.2 Firm Level – Competition in Banking- methods suggested by Authors The measure of competition in the banking industry is significantly subject to barriers on entry, internationally and at home (Barth et al, 2006). They stress- entry requirements and restrictions of foreign entry/ownership of domestic banks as two of the variables that could be used to qualitatively confine the degree to which competition in the banking sector is controlled. Nevertheless, some researchers [(Goddard and Wilson, 2007; 2009; Carbà ³ et al., 2009)] draw inference from the observations of firms behaviour derived from theoretical models. Furthermore, the measurement of competitiveness differs broadly in terms of definition, scope, drivers and geographical location (Ketels, 2006). Irrespective of the measures that are put in use, the important issue is ensuring that these different measures make similar suppositions about competitive behaviour (Carbà ³ et al., 2009). Various studies and research has been engaged to understand the credit crunch on a macroeconomic level and on the financial aspects of firm Kang and Sawada (2008). However, the researchers environment and sense of direction in identifying and resolving problems, as well as the interested organisation and society subscribing to it, determines his/her research process or methodology (Ghuari and Gronhaug, 2005). 3.3 Adopted Methods for this Study The main purpose of this present study is to examine the interrelationships of extreme competitiveness among firms and the financial impacts. This will be evaluated on a macro and micro level. The intended methodology will differ as well as emanate from the methodology utilised by the above reviewed researchers in a number of ways: On the macro level, the interrelationships of firms and financial institutions will be evaluated by drawing form secondary data (GCI published by the WEF for 2008/09). For this study, however, the interrelationships will be evaluated utilising only two (2) – Institutions and Financial market sophistication, of the twelve determinants of competitiveness, rather than the combination of all the 12 determinants of competitiveness. A collection of primary data via questionnaire: this questionnaire is intended not just to ascertain or measure competition on the bank firm level competition but going further to evaluate how this competition are driven by business factors such as changes in policy and business strategies. To support the data collected via questionnaire will engage in an interview to give room for some of the top bank personnel to justify and give opinions on the issue of competitiveness and the credit crunch. 3.4 TRIANGULATION This research will triangulate its primary and secondary data collection method qualitatively and quantitatively. This approach will be important when considering the reliability and validity of data, and in trying to find similarities and differences existent in these different sources of data. Thus, the result of one research strategy are cross checked against the result of another research strategy (Bryman and Bell, 2007; Saunders et al, 2007). Thus, the methodology utilised for this research will draw data qualitatively and quantitatively. Quantitative as it will engage in statistical measure and manipulations and qualitative as it will also engage in interviews and survey reports. 3.5 FIRMS AND FINANCIALINSTITUTIONS – A SECONDARY APPROACH The secondary approach utilised for the purpose of this research will draw data from the global competitive report of the world economic forum (WEF), as well as textbooks, articles and journals by electronic and manual means. Drawing data from secondary sources provides a channel as to the essential research work that needs to be carried out, as well as sufficient background information to ensure a direction for research (Cooper and Schindler, 2008). The GCI prepared by the WEF, derives its data from the executive opinion survey (EOS) as well as from other globally recognised data sources such as the International monetary fund (IMF), organisation for economic co-operation and development (OECD) and national sources. Institutions as described by the WEF, comprises the interaction of individuals, firms and governments to create wealth and income in the economy, thus, having a potent connection on development and competitiveness. Financial sophistication on the other hand, emphasises a thorough review of risk ensuring an appropriate creative channelling of resources use. In order to emphasise the connection and link of Institutions and Financial market sophistication, we adopt the correlation index calculation. A way of measuring the relative strength of correlation between two variables is done through a correlation coefficient (r) (Francis, 2004). Hence the product moment correlation coefficient formula: r = n∑xy- ∑x∑y √({n∑x^2 )- à £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬â€œ(∑x)à £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬â€^(2 )} {n∑y^(2 )- (∑y)^(2 )} Where r = product moment coefficient formula and is a number which lies between +1 and – 1 When r is far from zero (closer to +1 or – 1), there is a strong correlation When r is close to zero, there is a large dispersion and variables uncorrelated r= 0 signifies zero correlation r= 1 signifies strong/direct connection between variables. r= – 1 signifies strong/inverted connection between variables. Where x and y = variables to be measured, And n = number of (x, y) variables 3.6 Test of Robustness The essence of the robustness test is to check the stability of findings from secondary analysis done above, in the sense of whether smaller or larger deviations could prejudice performance of the model or data findings to a large extent. Thus, the existence of gross errors in a small fraction of observation is regarded as a small deviation, the main aim of robust measures being to preserve against errors (Huber and Ronchetti, 2009) Using a dataset of over 100 countries surveyed by the world economic forum, variables on a selected number of countries are drawn. To identify a relationship between competitiveness and the credit crunch (based on two pillars afore mentioned), this research uses the â€Å"robustness/ruggedness approach†, which has been effectual in Baxter and Kouparitsas (2004) in analysing its datasets of over 100 countries. Using this approach, a variable is identified to be a robust determinant of another vis-à  -vis the recent credit crunch, if the correlation coefficient of both variables is far from zero (0). 3.7 Secondary sample collection The systematic sampling method has been selected to take in to account a sample of 15 countries, which will be used for the measurement of connection between variables. This method of sampling has been found to create ease of use, especially where there is an inexistence of a sampling frame. The procedure of the sample systematically selected is as follows: A hundred and thirty- four (134) economies have been covered in the 2008-2009, global competitiveness report by the world economic forum (WEF). Thus sampling 15 countries will be a selection of every 134/15 (8.93th) country. If every eighth (8th) country is selected, 8 x 15= 120, so the last 14 countries will certainly not be selected. On the other hand, if every ninth (9th) country is selected, 9 x 15= 135, definitely the final country selected does not subsist(see appendix 2). One of the disadvantages of systematic sampling is that the sampling technique is not strictly random, since the selection of a random starting point would mean all subjects are pre-determined (Francis, 2004) However, for the sake of the study 8.93th will be approximated to 9th, as it is more free of bias compared to selecting every 8th country. The countries selected are shown in the table (1). Table 1 Column1 S/N Country Country Rank/no Random Starting Point 1 Japan 9 2 Australia 18 3 Saudi Arabia 27 4 Tunisia 36 5 South Africa 45 6 Latvia 54 7 Turkey 63 8 Ukraine 72 9 Egypt 81 10 Georgia 90 11 Algeria 99 12 Albania 108 13 Mali 117 14 Nepal 126 15 135 Source: reproduced from the global competitive report (2008-2009) 3.8 Primary Data Collection The purpose of the research is to identify the existence of competitive obsession or excessive competitiveness particularly on the actions and reactions of banks and the government on a macro and micro level interrelationship. To draw a wide range of data on competition among these institutions, the quantitative and qualitative approach is engaged. 3.9 Quantitative research: the questionnaire This research will use questionnaire administered on bank staffs to collect data for quantitative analysis. This aspect of research will engage its analysis univariately in frequency tables, diagrams and percentage of variables, using the Microsoft excel. Subsequent on that, the data findings will be endorsed with that of the qualitative and secondary data. The questionnaire is purposeful on the views of bank staffs relative to competitive actions that might have contributed to the credit crunch. The questions posed will therefore indirectly address the three (3) key research questions, then similarities and differences in answers triangulated with other research methods to be utilised in the

Satire in Jonathan Swifts Gullivers Travels :: Gullivers Travels

Satire in Gulliver's Travels  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚        Ã‚  Ã‚   On the surface, Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver's Travels appears to be a travel log, made to chronicle the adventures of a man, Lemuel Gulliver, on the four most incredible voyages imaginable. Primarily, however, Gulliver's Travels is a work of satire. "Gulliver is neither a fully developed character nor even an altogether distinguishable persona; rather, he is a satiric device enabling Swift to score satirical points" (Rodino 124). Indeed, whereas the work begins with more specific satire, attacking perhaps one political machine or aimed at one particular custom in each instance, it finishes with "the most savage onslaught on humanity ever written," satirizing the whole of the human condition. (Murry 3). In order to convey this satire, Gulliver is taken on four adventures, driven by fate, a restless spirit, and the pen of Swift. Gulliver's first journey takes him to the Land of Lilliput, where he finds himself a giant among six inch tall beings. His next journey bring s him to Brobdingnag, where his situation is reversed: now he is the midget in a land of giants. His third journey leads him to Laputa, the floating island, inhabited by strange (although similarly sized) beings who derive their whole culture from music and mathematics. Gulliver's fourth and final journey places him in the land of the Houyhnhnm, a society of intelligent, reasoning horses. As Swift leads Gulliver on these four fantastical journeys, Gulliver's perceptions of himself and the people and things around him change, giving Swift ample opportunity to inject into the story both irony and satire of the England of his day and of the human condition. Swift ties his satire closely with Gulliver's perceptions and adventures. In Gulliver's first adventure, he begins on a ship that runs aground on a submerged rock. He swims to land, and when he awakens, he finds himself tied down to the ground, and surrounded by tiny people, the Lilliputians. "Irony is present from the start in the simultaneous recreation of Gulliver as giant and prisoner" (Reilly 167). Gulliver is surprised "at the intrepidity of these diminutive mortals, who dare venture to mount and walk upon my body" (I.i.16), but he admires this quality in them. Gulliver eventually learns their language, and arranges a contract with them for his freedom. However, he is bound by this agreement to protect Lilliput from invasion by the people of Blefuscu.

Agriculture and Tractor

The tractor industry reported a strong 28. 3% growth in sales volumes during 2009-10, thereby ending the phase of cyclical correction that had pulled down tractor sales during the preceding two years (200709). Significantly, the revival of 2009-10 happened despite the droughtlike conditions in many States during the kharif1 season dampening sentiments.The key factor enabling the demand growth of 2009-10 was strong rural liquidity, which in turn was sustained by several factors, including: higher minimum support price (MSP) for crops; greater ability of farmers to make cash purchases (including the usage of Kisan Credit Card which are increasingly being used to part-finance tractor purchases); enhanced employment opportunities (with rural employment schemes being implemented by the Government of India); an improved credit environment; and continuance of replacement demand.These factors apart, non-agricultural use of tractors (for haulage in construction and infrastructure projects) co ntinued to increase, benefiting tractor demand. Also, with infrastructure projects and rural employment schemes increasing employment opportunities, availability of labour for agricultural activities continued to decline, persuading even farmers with medium-sized land holdings to either rent or purchase tractors. On a regional basis, the performance of the eastern, northern and western parts of the country was robust during 2009-10 in terms of tractor demand, while that of the southern region was moderate.A strong growth in tractor volumes, albeit on a low base, was witnessed in the eastern States, including Bihar, Orissa and Jharkhand, which had a good paddy crop. Tractor volumes in the northern and western regions also reported strong growth during 2009-10, especially in the second half (H2) of the year, benefiting from a low base (H2, 2008-09) and a satisfactory kharif crop in some States. The southern region reported moderate performance in terms of tractor demand (growth of 11. 9% in 2009-10), being impacted largely by the de-growth in Andhra Pradesh (AP)—a key southern market—where rainfall was irregular in 2009-10.However, in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, higher MSPs for rice along with some revival of interest of public sector banks (PSBs) in tractor financing led to strong tractor sales volumes. Historically, tractor demand has been fairly volatile, being influenced by cyclical trends, availability of finance, and crop patterns (monsoon). After four years of strong growth during 2003-07, the fiscal years 200708 and 2008-09 both reported a marginal decline in tractor sales volumes, largely reflecting cyclical corrections.In addition to the cyclical dips, during H2, 2008-09, the industry also had to cope with the 1 Kharif season in India is during the south-west monsoon (June-October) ICRA Rating Feature Tractor Industry: An ICRA Perspective liquidity crunch, which pushed up interest rates, even as financiers resorted to more stringent lending norms in the face of rising non-performing assets (NPAs). However, the situation improved during 200910 as credit availability improved on the strength of greater liquidity in the banking system.While tractor financing has traditionally been done by PSBs, of late, private banks and non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), despite their higher interest rates vis-a-vis the PSBs, have been able to increase their penetration of this market on the strength of faster loan processing and use of more liberal credit norms. Overall, with tractor demand being closely linked to agricultural output, growth in farm mechanisation and farmers’ remuneration, the long-term demand drivers for the industry remain robust.The currently low levels of tractor penetration in India, strong Governmental focus on availability of finance for agriculture mechanization tools and on rural development, increase in the use of tractors for nonagricultural purposes, and the growing emphasis on tractor exports au gur well for the industry. Background Chart 1: Annual Trends in Tractor Sales Volumes Chart 2: Monthly Trends in Tractor Sales Volumes Source: Industry, ICRA’s estimates Source: Industry, ICRA’s estimates The tractor industry reported a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20% in volume terms during the period 2003-07.The long up-cycle in demand was supported by several factors, including excise duty exemptions on tractors (2004-05), thrust on rural development, improved availability of finances for tractor purchase, and low interest rates. The growth also came on a low base, with the preceding three fiscal years (2000-03) having witnessed a prolonged phase of volume correction. The cyclical correction during 2000-03 had been aggravated by the build-up of channel inventory with the major players having pushed aggressively for larger sales.In contrast to this phase of cyclical slowdown, the one that happened during 2007-09 was less severe, with volumes declining by around 3%, despite the intermittent tightening of the liquidity situation during H2, 2008-09. The demand slowdown during H2, 2008-09 also impacted the profitability of the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), that is, the tractor manufacturers, because of the high price inventory they were carrying. However, the situation improved on the cost structure front in H1 2009-10 with the softening of commodity prices preparing the ground for the industry to earn higher profitability margins.The pickup in volumes also lowered the overhead expenses for the tractor manufacturers, boosting their profitability. While the OEMs did not lower the listed sales price of tractors, the benefit of lower steel prices was passed on to the end customers via discounts. This is an accepted practice in the industry; given that once prices are lowered it is difficult to raise them subsequently. However, during H2 2009-10, the tractor majors increased the prices with the reversal of commodity prices an d the discounts have also come down. ICRA Rating Services Page 2 ICRA Rating FeatureChart 3: Trends in Profitability Margins of Select Players Tractor Industry: An ICRA Perspective Source: Company releases, ICRA’s estimates; refers to Profit before Interest and Tax (PBIT) and volume in the tractor segment Capacity utilisation in the tractor industry had hit a low during 2002-03, following large capacity additions and a volume slump. After that, capacity utilisation improved steadily, but remained moderate at around 50% during 2008-09. In 2009-10, the tractor volume growth has helped the OEMs improve their capacity utilizations; however, there is still excess capacity in the industry.Thus, over the medium term, most tractor manufacturers would not need to make any significant capital investments in building capacities. As discussed, the domestic tractor industry has to cope with demand volatility on account of cyclical trends and the strong linkages it has with agricultural pr oduction and monsoon rains. Many of the industry players have thus diversified into related products, including generator engines and cranes, besides focusing more on exports, to gain some insulation against the volatility in domestic tractor demand.As for tractor exports, while a major part of that currently goes to USA, the OEMs are now exploring various other markets across Europe, Asia and Africa for future exports. Industry Trends by Region The biggest markets for the tractor industry include States like Uttar Pradesh (UP), Andhra Pradesh (AP), Madhya Pradesh (MP), Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, which together accounted for around 50% of the total tractor sales in India during 2009-10. The tractor industry witnessed a strong y-o-y growth of 28. 3% during 2009-10, with most of the States reporting positive growth during the year.Chart 4: Trend in Tractor Sales across regions Chart 5: Trend in Tractor sales across States Source: Industry, ICRA’s estimates Source: Industry, IC RA’s estimates The northern region remains the largest tractor market in India with sales of around 1,67,000 units as of 2009-10. This region reported a growth rate of 35. 7% in volume sales in 2009-10 over the previous fiscal, with the key contributors including UP, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. The northern region benefited from higher MSPs (for crops), limited availability of labour (forcing higher mechanisation), and increasing non-agricultural use of tractors.Additionally, increased infrastructure development activities (especially highways) led to appreciation in land values and use of tractors for non-agricultural purposes. In some cases, farmers also received compensation for the Government’s acquisition of select land patches (adjoining highways), which increased the availability of cash with them. Feedback from industry players ICRA Rating Services Page 3 ICRA Rating Feature Tractor Industry: An ICRA Perspective suggests cash purchases (including purchases u sing Kisan Credit Card) in some northern States increased to 35-40% of the total tractor volumes in 2009-10 from 10-15% in the past.Tractor volumes in UP grew by 42. 7% during 2009-10, with H2, 2009-10 reporting particularly strong growth (around 51% y-o-y) mainly on the back of high sugarcane prices for the kharif crop and improved irrigation facilities. In the case of Punjab, tractor volumes remained strong for the fifth straight year in 2009-10 (y-o-y growth of 42%). In Rajasthan however, growth in tractor volumes was relatively subdued in 2009-10 (around 24% y-o-y) as compared with the figure for the northern region as a whole.Tractor sales in Rajasthan were especially low in H2, 2009-10 versus H1, 2009-10, due to lower kharif output on account of deficient rains and inadequate financing availability. In the eastern region, tractor volumes continued to report strong growth in 2009-10, albeit on a small base, and went up by 53. 8% over 2008-09, being driven mainly by the higher M SPs announced for paddy. Within the region however, many financiers remained reluctant to finance tractor purchases in some States like Bihar. Nevertheless, in Bihar, tractor volumes grew 66% over 2008-09 to around 29,000 units in 2009-10, thereby accounting for over 50% of the totalsales in the eastern region. The Bihar market, where tractor penetration had been low historically, has shown sustained growth over the last few years and become one of the important markets for the tractor industry. Overall, in the eastern region, growth in tractor volumes is expected to moderate, going forward, as the benefit of a low base get diluted gradually. The western region reported sales of around 92,000 tractor units during 2009-10—a growth rate of 35. 7% over the previous fiscal—benefiting particularly from the strong performance that Maharashtra, Gujarat and MP posted during H2, 2009-10 (55% y-o-y growth over H2, 2008-09).The factors contributing to the strong growth in the reg ion during H2, 2009-10 included a benign base effect, higher crop prices (of sugarcane and cotton in Maharashtra, and of cereals and soyabean in MP), and greater availability of retail finance. The performance of the southern region in terms of tractor sales was relatively modest during 2009-10, with the growth rate being around 11. 9% over the previous fiscal. While most States in the region reported healthy growth, AP, which is the largest tractor market in the south, de-grew by 10. 4% in 200910.The AP market has been undergoing a volume correction since 2007-08, with the preceding four to five years having witnessed a large and sustained volume growth; this factor apart, the de-growth of 2009-10 was also aided by irregular monsoons. The other big market in the southern region, Karnataka, reported growth of 74% in tractor volumes in 2009-10 mainly on the strength of higher MSPs for rice; however, volume growth is expected to moderate in 2010-11 because of the base effect. In Tamil Nadu, tractor sales were flat during H1, 2009-10, but the performance improved in H2, 2009-10 mainly because of improved retail financing by the PSBs.Industry Trends by Tractor Horse Power (HP) The Indian tractor market has traditionally been a medium HP market, with 31-40 HP tractors accounting for around 47% of the total industry volumes. In 2008-09, the 31-40 HP category had reported sales of 157,602 tractor units, which was about the same as the previous year’s figure but lower than the 2006-07 statistic by 7%. In 2009-10 however, this category reported a strong revival, with the volume growing by 22%2 over 2008-09; the revival was led by UP, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. The other major segment in theIndian tractor market is the 41-50 HP range, which accounts for around 23% of the total industry volumes. This segment grew by around 10% during 2009-10, thereby underperforming the growth in overall tractor volumes (around 19%) that year. The main reason for this underperf ormance was the low growth that the southern region, the biggest market for this segment, reported in 2009-10. 2 The HP wise y-o-y growth rates are based on 9M 2009-10 tractor volumes. Page 4 ICRA Rating Services ICRA Rating Feature Tractor Industry: An ICRA PerspectiveThe >51 HP segment of the Indian tractor market also underperformed the industry growth rate in 200910 mainly because of the de-growth in the exports which is a key demand area for these high HP tractors. Some Long-Term Demand Drivers for the Industry Low penetration of tractors in Indian agriculture: Indian agriculture is characterised by low farm mechanisation, fragmented land holdings, and high dependence on monsoon rains (in the absence of adequate irrigation facilities). Tractor penetration in India is low at around 13 tractors per 1,000 hectares as against the global average of 19 and the US average of 29.While this does indicate the relative backwardness of Indian agriculture, it also points to the significant scope that exists for raising tractor penetration, which bodes well for tractor demand over the long term. Government support for the agricultural sector: Although agriculture contributes just around 20% to India’s GDP, it provides employment to a large rural population, which is why the sector remains a strong focus area for the Government. The tractor industry benefits significantly from the Governmental focus on agriculture, with measures such as nil excise duty ontractors (even the excise duty on tractor parts has been lowered from 16% to 8%) and inclusion of tractor financing under priority sector lending (by PSBs) serving as long-term demand drivers. Financing of tractor purchase is of great significance for the industry, it being a key demand facilitator. Export of tractors: Indian tractor manufacturers have been increasingly targeting the international markets over the last few years. The industry exported a total of around 37,900 tractors during 2009-10, with the USA , Africa, South America, and some Asian countries being the top destinations.The industry leader, Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M), has acquired Yancheng Tractors, the fourth largest tractor manufacturer in China (in terms of FY2008 volumes), to improve its presence in the country. In the developed markets, Indian tractors have a relatively marginal presence, with sales being largely restricted to the hobby farming segment. Outlook Tractor sales are expected to remain healthy in fiscal 2010-11, given the good rabi crop this time around, the continuing firmness in the prices of agricultural products, and the healthy monsoons anticipated during the coming kharif season.Moreover, improving farm mechanisation levels (with labour availability in rural areas declining), increasing non-agricultural use of tractors, higher credit disbursements for agriculture, and sharper Governmental focus on the farm sector (larger budgetary allocations) are also expected to encourage tractor sales. The indust ry’s profitability is however expected to remain moderate in the medium term, considering the high competitive intensity and low capacity utilisation levels, although larger players could benefit from scale economics.As for margins, while they have seen an improvement in 2009-10, they would remain vulnerable to adverse changes in commodity prices. While some States in the northern region have achieved high levels of tractor penetration and farm mechanisation, on an all-India basis, the penetration remains low, which along with the current shortage of farm labour and consequently rising labour costs, may be expected to lead to greater mechanisation and use of tractors.The long-term prospects for the Indian tractor industry hinge on agricultural growth and Government support in areas such as financing availability, tax exemptions, and fiscal stimulus for rural development. Overall, ICRA expects the long-term growth rate for the Indian tractor industry to trend around the histor ical average of 6-8%, supported by increasing tractor penetration. ICRA Rating Services Page 5 ICRA Rating Feature Tractor Industry: An ICRA Perspective Annexure I: Structure of the Indian Tractor IndustryThe Indian tractor industry has around 13 national players and a few regional players. The industry is dominated by Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) with a market share of around 41. 1%, followed by Tractors and Farm Equipments TAFE, which holds around 22% of the market. The other major players include Escorts (12. 1%), L&T-John Deere (7. 8%), and International Tractors Limited (8. 9%). During the last few years, the industry has seen some consolidation with M&M acquiring Punjab Tractors (PTL) and TAFE acquiring Eicher Tractors.Most of the tractors sold in India are in the 21-50 HP range, with the 31-40 HP category alone accounting for around 50% of this. The long-term prospects of the Indian tractor industry are highly dependent on Government policies for the agriculture sector. Histor ically, most tractor sales are done on credit even as over the last few years financial institutions, facing an increase in their non-performing assets (NPAs), have resorted to some tightening of credit norms. Also, during 2009-10, there has been a sharp increase in cash purchases, reflecting the rise in disposable incomes in the rural markets.Most of the tractor financing done by banks comes under priority sector lending, a directed-lending mechanism of the Government of India. In terms of volume, India is one of the largest tractor markets in the world, besides China and the USA. The prospects of the domestic industry are highly linked to monsoon rains, which remain a key factor in determining agricultural production. Better irrigated States like Punjab and Haryana have a high tractor density (over 100 per 1,000 hectares), while States like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Himachal, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Andhra, MP and WestBengal have low levels of tractor penetration—a pointer to th e substantial growth potential that the latter set offers. On an all-India basis, tractor penetration remains low at around 13 per 1,000 hectares. Besides being used in farming, tractors find application in activities such as harvesting and irrigation, land reclamation, drawing water and powering agricultural implements. In addition, lately, the tractors are also being used for non-agricultural purposes including haulage in construction and infrastructure projects which has expanded the tractor market.The Indian tractor market, thus, is expected to grow in future and remain one of the biggest tractor markets in the world. Chart 6: Trend in State wise market share Source: Industry, ICRA’s estimates Annexure 2: Region-wise Market Shares of Various Players The market shares of the top four players in the Indian tractor industry did not change much during 200910 in comparison with 2008-09. M&M remained the market leader with around 41. 1% market share, followed by TAFE with a mar ket share of around 22%, Escorts with around 12. 1%, and International Tractors (ITL) with around 8. 9%.ICRA Rating Services Page 6 ICRA Rating Feature Tractor Industry: An ICRA Perspective Chart 7: Movement in Regional Market Shares of Select Players 2009-10 vs. 2008-09 (bps) Source: Industry, ICRA’s estimates M&M remains particularly strong in the southern region (50. 4% market share during 2009-10). However, L&T John Deere (LT-JD) was able to increase its market share in the region by around 250 bps in 2009-10, mainly at the expense of M&M (market share down by 140 bps) and Escorts (down by 140 bps).In the western region too, LT-JD performed well in 2009-10, increasing its market share by 190 bps, even as TAFE lost market share by around 90 bps there. In the northern region, where M&M has been traditionally weak, the company increased its market share by 140 bps during 2009-10, even as ITL and Escorts lost market shares by around 90 bps and 60 bps respectively, there. In t he eastern region, M&M was able to raise its market share by around 140 bps in 2009-10 at the expense of Escorts and TAFE.ICRA Rating Services Page 7 ICRA Rating Feature Tractor Industry: An ICRA Perspective ICRA Limited An Associate of Moody's Investors Service CORPORATE OFFICE Building No. 8, 2nd Floor, Tower A; DLF Cyber City, Phase II; Gurgaon 122 002 Tel: +91 124 4545300; Fax: +91 124 4545350 Email: [email  protected] com, Website: www. icra. in REGISTERED OFFICE 1105, Kailash Building, 11th Floor; 26 Kasturba Gandhi Marg; New Delhi 110001 Tel: +91 11 23357940-50; Fax: +91 11 23357014Branches: Mumbai: Tel. : + (91 22) 24331046/53/62/74/86/87, Fax: + (91 22) 2433 1390 Chennai: Tel + (91 44) 2434 0043/9659/8080, 2433 0724/ 3293/3294, Fax + (91 44) 2434 3663 Kolkata: Tel + (91 33) 2287 8839 /2287 6617/ 2283 1411/ 2280 0008, Fax + (91 33) 2287 0728 Bangalore: Tel + (91 80) 2559 7401/4049 Fax + (91 80) 559 4065 Ahmedabad: Tel + (91 79) 2658 4924/5049/2008, Fax + (91 79) 2658 4924 Hyderabad: Tel +(91 40) 2373 5061/7251, Fax + (91 40) 2373 5152 Pune: Tel + (91 20) 2552 0194/95/96, Fax + (91 20) 553 9231  © Copyright, 2010 ICRA Limited. All Rights Reserved. Contents may be used freely with due acknowledgement to ICRA.All information contained herein has been obtained by ICRA from sources believed by it to be accurate and reliable. Although reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the information herein is true, such information is provided ‘as is' without any warranty of any kind, and ICRA in particular, makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, timeliness or completeness of any such information. All information contained herein must be construed solely as statements of opinion, and ICRA shall not be liable for any losses incurred by users from any use of this publication or its contents.

The Influence Of Technology Essay - 1207 Words

The Influence of Technology What can technology do for an individual or how can technology facilitate life for someone. As seen in todays real world, technology has come a long way. Technology has advanced in such a way that even people who are current with technology feel at times that they are outdated. From telephones that are portable to being able to send an actual machine rover to another planet such as Mars, we have seen an explosion of technology. Mainly all these benefits are technological advances which benefit our way of living. I can recall growing up and having to call my parents to ask for permission to go to a friends house. I had to first find a public telephone and make sure I had enough coins to place the call. Now†¦show more content†¦This essay will emphasize on how today technology is used to cheat in an academic environment. Phenomenons that we see take place in the academic setting now a day is academic dishonesty. Sure someone can go online and research a certain topic, sure the y can learn a lot simply from logging in and reading. But we also see that with as much ease they can go online and request an essay which is already done. They can go to a website full of information and simply cut and paste. Chris doesnt consider himself a cheater. Yet for the past four years, the 21-year-old senior at one of Californias most prestigious universities (which he doesnt want identified) has used an arsenal of tricks to pass his classes. Hes plagiarized, taken illegal prescription drugs to improve his focus, obtained exam questions in advance and text-messaged his friends via cell phone to find quick answers to tough questions. Still, he doesnt see any of that as out of the ordinary. Sure, Ive used test banks, study drugs, text buddies, cyber-essays and picture messaging, he says. But so does everyone. 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