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Tag: Gamble
The $17B gamble made on the basis of a handshake with Steve Jobs
It seems to be a week for interesting peeks at Apple history, a new piece telling the story of Softbank founder Masayoshi Son making a $17B gamble on the basis of a gentleman’s agreement with Steve Jobs.
Invariably known as Masa, the Japanese entrepreneur – who holds the interesting record of having been the richest man in the world for three days – figured out that Apple had to be working on a phone, two years before it was announced …
While not a household name in the US, Masa was briefly the wealthiest man on the planet for three days, just ahead of the dotcom crash at the turn of the century.
Having subsequently lost most of his wealth, the iPhone played a key role in his financial recovery. Today, he’s the world’s biggest investor, having done a trillion dollar’s worth of deals in the past 20 years.
A Wired excerpt from a new biography of Masa reveals his realization that Apple had to be working on a phone, and the gamble he took based on an unwritten agreement with Steve. Author Lionel Barber tells the story.
On a visit to California, sometime in the summer of 2005, he showed Jobs his own sketch of a mobile-enabled iPod that had a large display and used the Apple operating system. The new device, he predicted, would be able to process data and images. Jobs pooh-poohed the idea but could not resist dropping hints about the iPhone.
Jobs: “Masa, don’t give me your shitty drawing. I have my own.”
Masa: “Well, I don’t need to give you my dirty piece of paper, but once you have your product, give it to me for Japan.”
Jobs refused to reveal any more detail, but Masa spotted the flicker of a smile on the Apple boss’s face. After pressing him further, Masa wangled a follow-up meeting at Jobs’ Tudor-style country home in Palo Alto. At that meeting, Masa claims, Jobs agreed in principle to give SoftBank exclusive rights to distribute the iPhone in Japan. “Well, Masa, you are crazy,” said Jobs. “We have not talked to anybody, but you came to see me first. I’ll give it to you.”
Steve’s word was enough for Masa, leading his company Softbank to buy the carrier Vodafone Japan for $17B. This gave Softbank a consumer business which would be worth very much more once it had the exclusive Japanese rights to the iPhone 3G, the first model compatible with local networks. The deal was indeed done, and the bet of course paid off big-time.
Masa does have something of a reputation for colorful stories, but the facts certainly align with some version of his account, with Steve’s appreciation for the man’s vision and nerve likely playing a significant role.
Photo: Apple
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In 1997, when Apple was on the brink of bankruptcy, Steve Jobs made a deal with Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates that would change the course of both companies. With just a handshake, Gates agreed to invest $150 million in Apple to keep the struggling company afloat.Fast forward to 2021, and that $150 million investment has ballooned into a $17 billion stake in Apple for Microsoft. This gamble, made on the basis of a simple handshake, has paid off handsomely for Gates and Microsoft.
The deal not only saved Apple from bankruptcy but also helped Microsoft avoid antitrust scrutiny by showing that they were willing to support their competition. It was a bold move that has since been lauded as a stroke of genius.
In the world of business, sometimes all it takes is a handshake and a leap of faith to make a game-changing decision. And in this case, that gamble has paid off in spades.
Tags:
Steve Jobs, Apple, technology, business, handshake deal, $17 billion gamble, investment, innovation, Silicon Valley, tech industry, Tim Cook, Apple Park, partnership, iPhone, iPad, Mac, Steve Jobs legacy.
#17B #gamble #basis #handshake #Steve #Jobs
San Francisco Giants in High-stakes Gamble, Turn to Yuong Winner Max Scherzer for Bolstering Their Starting Rotation
San Francisco Giants Eyeing Max Scherzer to Strengthen Their Pitching Lineup
The San Francisco Giants, known for their strategic moves, are now in search of a seasoned pitcher to enhance their starting rotation. After missing out on Corbin Burnes, the Giants are carefully considering their options to solidify their pitching staff for the upcoming season. Currently, the rotation comprises promising talents like Logan Webb, Robbie Ray, Hayden Birdsong, and Kyle Harrison, with one spot left to be filled.
Max Scherzer: A Potential Game-changer for the Giants
Among the potential candidates, Max Scherzer emerges as a compelling choice for the Giants’ final spot in the rotation. Despite a challenging 2024 season due to injuries, Scherzer’s track record speaks volumes about his capabilities as a pitcher. With an impressive resume boasting three Cy Young awards and multiple All-Star appearances, Scherzer brings a wealth of experience and expertise to any team he joins.
Assessing the Risk and Reward
The decision to sign Scherzer, even on a one-year deal, poses both risks and rewards for the Giants. While his recent injury concerns may raise questions about his performance and durability, Scherzer’s proven talent and past accomplishments cannot be overlooked. His ability to adapt and excel under pressure, as evidenced by his postseason performances and championship wins, adds a valuable dimension to the Giants’ pitching arsenal.
Strategic Implications and Long-term Prospects
Bringing Scherzer on board could not only bolster the Giants’ immediate pitching needs but also have far-reaching implications for the team’s competitiveness in the long term. His mentorship of younger pitchers and his knack for rising to the occasion in crucial games could significantly impact the team’s morale and performance. Moreover, Scherzer’s presence could attract other top-tier talents to consider the Giants as a desirable destination, further strengthening the team’s roster.
Looking Ahead: A Calculated Gamble or a Winning Strategy?
As the Giants weigh their options and consider the potential benefits of signing Max Scherzer, the decision ultimately hinges on a delicate balance of risk and reward. While uncertainties loom regarding Scherzer’s health and form, the allure of adding a seasoned ace to their pitching staff is undeniable. Whether this move proves to be a high-stakes gamble or a game-changing strategy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the San Francisco Giants are poised to make a calculated and impactful decision that could shape their future success on the field.
The San Francisco Giants are making big moves in their quest for playoff success. In a high-stakes gamble, the team has acquired young pitching sensation Max Scherzer to bolster their starting rotation.Scherzer, who has been dominant on the mound this season, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Giants. With a proven track record of success in high-pressure situations, Scherzer is expected to be a key asset as the team looks to make a deep postseason run.
The Giants, currently sitting atop the NL West standings, are making a bold statement with this acquisition. By adding Scherzer to an already strong pitching staff, they are signaling their commitment to competing at the highest level.
Fans of the Giants are buzzing with excitement over the addition of Scherzer, and are hopeful that he will help lead the team to glory in the postseason. With his impressive skill set and competitive fire, Scherzer has the potential to be a game-changer for the Giants as they chase their championship dreams.
Stay tuned as the San Francisco Giants continue their high-stakes gamble with Max Scherzer, and watch as they aim to solidify their place as one of the top teams in baseball.
Tags:
San Francisco Giants, High-stakes Gamble, Max Scherzer, Starting Rotation, Yuong Winner, MLB, Baseball, Pitching, Free Agency, San Francisco Giants News, Max Scherzer Signing, Giants Starting Rotation, Baseball Rumors
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Waterloo: Napoleon’s Last Gamble (Making History (Paperback))
Price: $7.99
(as of Dec 14,2024 20:50:12 UTC – Details)
Publisher : Harper Perennial; New edition (May 19, 2016)
Language : English
Paperback : 160 pages
ISBN-10 : 000719076X
ISBN-13 : 978-0007190768
Item Weight : 4.8 ounces
Dimensions : 5.08 x 0.39 x 7.8 inches
Waterloo: Napoleon’s Last Gamble (Making History (Paperback))In this gripping account of one of history’s most famous battles, author Adam Zamoyski brings to life the events leading up to and following the Battle of Waterloo. With meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, Zamoyski paints a vivid picture of the key players involved, from Napoleon himself to the Duke of Wellington and Marshal Blucher.
Through firsthand accounts and historical documents, Zamoyski delves into the strategies and tactics employed by both sides, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the decisions that ultimately led to Napoleon’s defeat. From the initial clashes on the battlefield to the final moments of the battle, Waterloo: Napoleon’s Last Gamble is a riveting and insightful look at a pivotal moment in European history.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a thrilling read, this book is sure to captivate and engage readers of all backgrounds. So grab a copy and delve into the world of 19th-century Europe, where empires clashed and destinies were decided on the fields of Waterloo.
#Waterloo #Napoleons #Gamble #Making #History #Paperback
