The underdog team is born

Yeah ~ recruitment process is over. I have a team of 4 now. Accounting shen, Finance shen, Marketing/Corp-com shen, plus yours sincerely Bullshit shen. Finally something I can look forward to in campus. I am so freaking bored with school life nowaday. Without my club commitments, I am just another student walking in and out of the campus attending the classes. Yeah, this case competition will be a good challenge. :)

by Str|fe

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It's a re-post

Stubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs no motivation. Shy towards opposite sex. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High-spirited.

I don't agree with half of them. What say you? Haha ~

by Str|fe

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No gym this week

Woke up this morning at 8.30, but my throat and dry cough is giving hell shit of problems. Decided to give gym a miss today. On another note, I am swinging the old ring again. It belonged to my late grandpa. He was wearing it till his last day and my grandma told me that my grandpa had intended to pass it down to me. Although I am not wear it yet, I hanged it on the cabinet and I often let it swing back and fore. Chinese New Year is approaching .........

by Str|fe

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It's me

Fuck you, understand? Fuck you! You fucking piece of shit! I almost forgot that you are good for nothing. Fuck off my back, will you?

by Str|fe

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There comes a time ......

..... when you start asking yourself, "What makes me happy?"

by Str|fe

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What goes up must come down?

Nothing much in the newspaper lately. Everyone in the market is bullish. Even the ministers are stepping out to re-emphasize (as if it's news) that China and India are the places to invest in. I find the current bull-run weird, especially when there are so much conflicting forecasts for the year of 2007. At this point of uncertainty, most people are pushing the indices even higher. 2 days ago, a correspondent in Business Times even claimed that STI of 4,000 isn't impossible.
No, I am not advocating for a correction just because I want to be different here. I truly believe that with current developments (as updated as I can be) in the various markets, a correction is inevitable. Do observe the property prices in most nations, it may be a good tell sign. Inflation is real, even though the oil price is going down (which in turn spur economy growth). Most central banks are raising interest rates. The governments of emerging markets are also trying to cool down their economy. And the new team in White House may bring us back to the era of nationalists. And there's a flood of cheap money globally as well.
Which month do you think there will be a significant correction in Singapore? And in the region? Or do you think that the only way now is up?

by Str|fe

0 comments

Citibank Case Challenge

I need a team of 4. I have an accounting shen and another finance shen in the team already. I think I am the useless one inside. Maybe I can be the smoking shen. Now, I am recruiting a marketing shen. If you are keen to join the underdog team, please apply online. I regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Haha ~
On another note, my friend just asked me when did I become so low self-esteem. I think the ego has landed.

by Str|fe

1 comments

Good morning

..........

by Str|fe

0 comments

$%^&*(*&^%$#

Question:
What's one of the advantages of going through school for driving license rather than private lessons?

Answer:
Shorter wait for test date

Bloody idiotic SSDC. The earliest test date I can book now is JULY. Fucking 6 months of wait! I call up the office and demand a solution. You know what they suggest? Have more revision lesson when the test date is approaching (i.e. July). Tamade ~ at the rate I am going, I am going to complete the course within 2 weeks. Knn ~ what the hell!? I am freaking pissed off lah! I want to earn my license before my birthday! Arrrggghh ~

Footnote: My test date for now is Friday, 13th July.

by Str|fe

3 comments

Ups and downs

I'll be walking up the stage twice today. One for scholarship award and another one for my DOS award. It may also be the final time I am walking up that stage (other than commencement in July). The memory of me clapping for my OBS-orientation friend receiving the scholarship in August 2003 is still fresh in my head. I was bitter back then. I whined about not even given the chance for an interview, less to say an award. But who can I blame? I was from polytechnic and I didn't even get the certificate of merit in polytechnic. I told my friend sitting beside me that it will be my turn next year. Yes, I envied my friend on the stage and that's what motivated me all these while. Since then, I have been awarded scholarship every year.
Today's the final time. Out of this campus life, there may not even be a stage to walk up. No one may appreciate what you have done. One can't just work to win some awards at the end of the year. Things will definitely be different out there. Will I be another nobody or will I continue to strive for excellence?
Where will you be?

by Str|fe

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Thank you

Thanks to many of you, I manage to keep my sanity today. Thanks for chatting with me when I am down. Thanks for listening to my endless whining when the chips are down. Thanks for reading those bloody depressive posts.
Appreciate all the advices I have been getting from the comments and msn chats. I will be good. I won't give up as yet. I will work hard on my interviewing and networking skills. I didn't walk this far to throw in the towel.

by Str|fe

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16th April 2007

Many of you may not know that I have yet to complete my national service. I disrupted my service 4 years ago, so that I could join SMU in 2003. If not, I would have to wait for another 8 months in order to join the 2004 batch. Was it a right choice? I don't know. What's more of a concern now is that I need to go back to the army to serve out my remaining 3-4 months. I had submitted my application to resume my service. 16th April 2007.
The sticky situation is here. I can't apply for those jobs advertised on the newspapers right now because those employers are normally in a urgent need to fill up the open positions. Effectively, I have 6 more months (minimum) to go before I can start working. A situation which doesn't sound attractive to any recruiter. And guess what? Even for Shell, I have yet to inform them of my obligation. From my understanding, they have already found the open position for me in the procurement department of refinery business. I won't be surprised if they are not willing to wait, you see? We shall see what happens on this coming Friday when I meet the line managers.
An even stickier problem I am facing is "passion vs. bread". 90% of friends (including my mum) encourage me to take up Shell, while my heart is telling me otherwise. Ever since I left the polytechnic, I learnt that my passion lies in the finance industry. For the past 4 years in SMU, I worked hard towards a promising career in the finance sector. I was so sure that I will thrive there. Now, that's for passion. The reality isn't half as pretty. No thanks to my poor interviewing skills, I had yet to convince those bankers that I am capable enough. Can I live on my passion and wait for the right offer to appear in my face? Or should I consider looking elsewhere? Ironic, isn't it? A Summa-cum-Laude holder with outstanding CCA records having to face a "passion vs. bread" problem. Sigh ........

by Str|fe

10 comments

The ball stops here

It was a good night out at the national stadium. The atmosphere was great. Ok, that's all folks. Too lazy to blog now. Yawn ~
I like this quote - "Success awaits those who stand up one more time than they fall". Shall keep this in mind.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Minutes and hours

Passed the advanced theory just now. Once I clear the automatic vehicle lesson on this coming Monday, I can book my driving test. Yeah ~ all on schedule.
I am heading to the national stadium tonight to support the lions. Haha ~ the last time I watched a live match was back in my secondary school days. Woah ~ almost 10 years already. I know nuts about local soccer now, but heck it. I need a break. Just go out and enjoy myself on a Saturday night.
I need something to cheer me up ~

by Str|fe

0 comments

Question

Are you happy now?

by Str|fe

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When you get what you want but not what you need

The Bain & Co Party is a big disappointment. I have to bear part of the blame for I didn't had my meal before turning up for this event. It was 6.30pm, thus any normal person will think that dinner will be served, right? Never presume ~
The event was very badly organized. There was only around 15 representatives from the company, while more than 80 students were present. There were no tables, no chairs. Once the bell went off, everyone just swarmed the 15 representatives. Such event really shows the ugly side of undergrads. So what if she/he is your friend, you just have to outshine him/her tonight. Sorry, but I couldn't do it. Who are you trying to impress (spell: fool)?
Within 45 minutes, I just got sick of this cat and mouse game, thus I settled for a seat with a friend. Before long, a representative sat down beside us and we started chatting about life in Bain. Isn't that what an ideal networking event should be? Instead of having 6 hungry students swarming to each representative (shouting in order to be heard), we should be having a good chat with no hidden agenda. Ok, I am too idealistic, I know.
Anyway, Bain & Co is a good company. In fact, it's so good that it's definitely out of my league. Remember how I decided not to apply for BCG after attending its talk? The difference here lies in the culture. It's a kind of feeling which you can tell easily if you want to work for such a company. BCG isn't one (although I may not be good enough), but Bain is definitely a desirable employer (although I am definitely not good enough).
This representative who sat with us at the sofa? She is a Thai who received offers from McKinsey, Bain, and BCG. What's more amazing? She's an engineering student who managed to ace all the business case interviews in all these firms. Smart? Nah ~ she's a genius.

by Str|fe

1 comments

No call

JPM didn't call. The final chance is today, since the final round of interview is next Tuesday. Gone case. I won't console myself by saying, "I have done my best". This phrase isn't for me.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Turn left, turn right

Last night, I chatted with a SMU alumni who has been in Shell (Contract & Procurement) department for 3 years. Credit to my campus career counsellor who managed to liaise the both of us. It was a short 15 minute chat over the phone, but it has kinda changed my perception of this department. Isn't as boring as I thought it may be. I think the best part of the job is that I can to learn a lot. Good. Anyway, she is leaving for Netherland this June to join the Business Development unit. This is what make Shell attractive in a way, you see? Opportunities for moving across departments and countries. Lets see how thing turns out ~

by Str|fe

1 comments

What's left with school?

Week 5
- receive psychology case
- receive law of M&A case

Week 6
- presenting law of M&A case

Week 7
- psychology midterm
- meeting psychology prof to discuss case

Week 9
- presenting psychology case
- Law of M&A midterm

Week 12
- presenting IT & Law project

Nothing much. Counting down. Lets go for a walk ...............

by Str|fe

0 comments

Perhaps, perhaps. Perhaps.

My ex-lecturer just called me a while ago. She was trying to convince me to accept this Shell job. Reasons being ....
1. Shell is a good company
2. There must be a reason why they put me in that department
3. From her perspective, I am suitable for this job
4. Shell is big. There will be chance to move around in the future
5. Don't shut my door

I have been thinking today. I am supposed to reply on Thursday morning. It may not even land me the final offer because I am supposed to meet the line manager to assess my fit (although I think it's more of a formality). The point is ..... I was even considering rejecting it on Thursday without giving myself the chance to explore this department. Why? Simply because I have no passion for this job.
In conclusion, I think she managed to convince me that I should just give it a shot. Go down to the office and see what they offer. Maybe the department isn't as boring as I think. Maybe I am really suitable for this job (I doubt Shell would have anyhow thrown me inside). If thing doesn't work out, my hands will still be free anyway. Perhaps.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Bain Party 2007

Yeah. I am going to the party this Friday. Chris ~ remember to smile more. And most importantly, keep the nose parrallel to the ground. Lalalala ~

by Str|fe

0 comments

Shell called. Finally.

Both good news and bad news. The HR told me honestly that my case is a tricky one. I didn't meet the Finance benchmark (which is supposed to be higher), but I met the Shell benchmark (huh???)
Anyway, the result is yes, they're going to offer me a job. At that moment, I was concerned with whether I will be placed on the G-scheme (fast track) program. The HR had since assured me as well. Now, the department they are offering is Contract & Procurement. I have not much idea what is it. And the best part is ...... they need a reply by Thursday morning (although I requested for a week). How nice ~ kept on suspended for a month and they want me to make a decision within 3 days.
Here's the feedback from the event.

Strengths
- Motivation
- Significant inputs
- Seek feedback constantly from different sources
- Attempted to contribute more

Weakness
- Need to anticipate the consequence of actions
- More practical solutions from all views
- Need to think wider and further
- Need to anticipate

by Str|fe

3 comments

Finally .......

"You have successfully filed for graduation on 22 January 2007 15:45hrs (By SMU Administrator). "

by Str|fe

0 comments

First interview in 2007

I didn't expect such a setting for an interview. I was seated on a long sofa, while the 2 interviewers (Vice-president and Biz CFO) sat on the individual sofa at each corner. There was no desk, no nothing to hide my nerve. To be fair, the questions posted weren't tough, but I was way too nervous to think properly. Idiotic ~
As usual, here's the list of questions (together with my afterthoughts) to share with you .......

1. Tell me more about yourself - Not very creative huh?
2. What is IRR 133? - No idea. It's something like FRS for derivatives.
3. What is EVA? - No problem. Formula included.
4. Estimate the number of petrol kioks in CBD area and tell me how did you derive this figure - This is my doom question. I bloody screwed up this question. The interviewer literally opened her eyes wide when I gave my answers.
5. Tell me the differences between stock and bond - No problem. Finance 101.
6. What determine the price of bond? - No problem, but I could have explained more.
7. What are the roles of CFO? - Fortunately, I've done the right research for this interview. Read the whole thick book titled "CFO Financial Leadership Manual".
8. What are the differences between CFO and Controller? - No problem. That book has one whole chapter on this issue.
9. Name me some of your experiences working in/leading a team - No problem, although I hate such questions.
10. Tell me more about your achievement during your internship - Hmmm..... that was in 2005 sia ~
11. What's your greatest achievement in the past 5 years? - No problem, but dunno if it's relevant.
12. Give me an example of your tough experience working in team - Hmmm.... too many to name, but of course I will quote the Gourami team. Haha ~

I have 12 questions in a short 30-minutes interview. So you could guess how nervous I was. I went too fast, and my answers were too short. I could have elaborated on some points. Sigh ....... If I am the interviewer, I won't even let myself pass this round. No kidding.

by Str|fe

1 comments

Dean of Students’ (DOS) Award

Another award in the bag! This award isn't a big deal since there are another 29 awardees. I applied for this award simply to ease the bitter feeling of losing out last year. Yes, I applied for the same award last year, thinking my role as E.y.E Club ex-president will pull in some weight. Tamade ~ I lose out to juniors lor. So it's a sweet revenge now. An award and $100 in pocket.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Nothing much

A weekend spent at home due to my illness. Nevertheless, it was a good rest. All ready for the interview tomorrow morning. I wonder how tough will a technical interview be. Anyway, I guess it will be a good opportunity to gauge my technical knowledge in finance as well. Fingers crossed.
This week may be an important week for my job hunting. As mentioned above, it's my 2nd round of interview in JPMorgan. Applied for the Bain & Co dinner/party ~ hopefully I will be accepted for this "invitation". Tried my luck for McKinsey Corporate Finance as well, although I know the chance is one in a thousand. Shell should be calling me this week too, they can't keep me suspended forever. Nothing much in the pipeline, which can be a worrying stats. Chin up ~ I just need a little break. I am good. I am.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Too bad

Have to give the dinner a miss too. Sigh. Still feeling very uncomfortable and the drowsy effect of the medicines kick in real fast. Yawn ~ there goes my Saturday night.

by Str|fe

0 comments

If it ain't broken

No, I have not fully recovered. The stomach is still feeling uncomfortable. Sigh .... I guess I have to give tonight's bash a miss. Wanted to go because it's organized by Bondue. Oh well ~
But I am still heading out for dinner with my OBS-mates. It's almost 4 years since we attended our OBS as our freshmen camp. It's still funny recalling the first impression I had of each and every one. 4 years ..... very precious time of my life. I had my fair share of ups and downs. Given a choice, what will you do 4 years ago?

by Str|fe

0 comments

That's funny

I didn't leave that comment. But end up, ppl think I was the one. Acting smart. Haha ~ Oh well. Today's mark a new phase in our friendship. It marks the full stop. Sad to say, I pity the one struck in the middle. Oh well, we give and take. No point trying to work on it anymore. Time will tell ......

by Str|fe

1 comments

Fever, diarrhoea, vomiting

To cut the story short........

6.30am: vomiting and diarrhoea
7.45am: vomiting and diarrhoea
8.45am: left home for driving theory practice
10.15am: driving theory practice concluded
10.30am: practical driving lesson
12.15pm: practical driving lesson concluded
12.30pm: decided to give the social psychology class a miss
1pm: reached home
1.15pm: diarrhoea and vomiting
1.40pm: vomiting
2pm: visited the doctor
2.15pm: 38.0 Degree Celsius
2.20pm: 5 types of medicines prescribed by the doctor

Ironic. First time missing a class due to medical condition. While I was busy like nuts in the past, nothing goes wrong. Last night, I was still complaining to my friends that I am bored. -_-

by Str|fe

0 comments

Why am I the last?

I couldn't believe it when I received the call from my friend this evening. He was rejected. Gosh ~ that's a shocking news. He was in my team, so I get to witness his technical capabilities and style of working in team. In fact, other than the Australian (whom I couldn't get along with), he's the most capable chap in the team. I wonder why Shell choose to let go of a talent ~
Having said that, I realized ..... only 4 persons in my team of 11 received offers from Shell. The rest are rejections, of course. Amazingly low, especially when I felt that my team performed very well overall. Weird ~
In Singapore, there were 10 of us who went. 3 from NUS, 3 from NTU, and 4 from SMU. Out of the 3 engineers from NUS, 2 received offers. Sad to say, all 3 from NTU got rejected. For SMU, 2 received offers (1 other rejection), while 1 is still pending. Yeah, I am the last one pending. Why must I be the last one? In fact (correct me if I am wrong), all the 49 participants have received offers/rejections, except me I am the freaking final one.
Am I confident? Absolutely not. I have to admit that I didn't performed up to par. So rejection is inevitable. I just want it sooner than later. Don't play this hard-to-get game. Tomorrow, tomorrow will be the D-day. Look out for annoucement.
p.s. I don't need consolation.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Question

What happens when you pair up a super possessive girl and a super low self-esteem boy?

by Str|fe

1 comments

Routine weekdays

Monday: Driving
Tuesday: Driving
Wednesday: Gym
Thursday: Driving
Friday: Gym

by Str|fe

0 comments

Amazing Thai government

Singapore says it is "saddened" that Thailand had decided to cancel a civil service exchange programme with Singapore and rescind its invitation to Foreign Minister George Yeo to attend the joint meeting in Bangkok at the end of this month, in what is seen as a protest against a meeting between ousted Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister S. Jayakumar last weekend.

The Singapore Foreign Ministry had said Mr Thaksin was in Singapore for a private visit and had requested to meet Professor Jayakumar, who is an old friend. "We expressed dissatisfaction with the incident and the explanation made by Singapore authorities," Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Kitti Wasinondh said today.

The Singapore Foreign Ministry said, "It was purely a social and private meeting. No official calls or meetings were arranged. Thai nationals do not require visas to visit Singapore. There is no reason for Singapore to turn Dr Thaksin away. Prior to Singapore, Dr Thaksin had also visited several other countries without any protest by the Thai Government."

I wonder how far will the Thai government goes in digging its own grave. This is double-standard, reflected clearly in the final line of the extract. How can these Thai idiots determine who can enter Singapore and who can't? Go ahead ~ cancel the exchange programme. You might as well bar Singaporean tourists from stepping into Bangkok. Truly amazing government .......

by Str|fe

0 comments

Can't hear my greeting?

They just don't get it, do they? I won't greet them. I won't even open my mouth to say the simple greeting like "uncle" and "auntie". I won't care less if they want to complain to my mum or backmouth me behind my back. If I respect you, I will greet you. If I don't respect you, you should be grateful if I even acknowledge your presence by nodding my head.
Do they deserve my respect? Wait till you hear what they have done ~

by Str|fe

1 comments

Blood sucker Seng-City

If I print 1 page on 1 side, I pay 5-cents. Reasonable.
If I print 2 pages on 2 sides, I pay 10-cents. Still reasonable.

Now, the instruction writes:
If you print 2 pages on 1 side (i.e. smaller font), you pay 10-cents.
If you print 4 pages on 1 side (i.e. even smaller front), you pay 40-cents.

Tell me. When I print many pages on each side, I save you both ink and papers. Right? Why the hell am I paying more for less? Bloody sucker ~ and fuck the administrator for accepting such a bloody vendor.

by Str|fe

0 comments

No news

......................

by Str|fe

0 comments

It's already week 3?

Amazingly, we are already into the 3rd week of the term. Of my final term. I couldn't focus on my studies so far, or rather, I've lost the motivation. Just learn as much as I can, but there won't be any pressure for grade this time round. What good does it do anyway?
Tonight will be the first time I am driving in the evening. Just want to try if there's any difference. I am already in Stage 21 (out of 35), and just a couple more lessons, I can book for my TP. Hehe ~ but guess what? I haven't cleared my advanced theory. Haha ~ too lazy back in Dec, but I have already booked the test lah (next Saturday). Wish me luck ar. I want to earn my license in May (birthday).
Shell hasn't called. Don't understand what's the delay. Heck care. I will post the outcome on my blog once I receive the news.
Yawn ~ going for my English class and Social Psychology class later. Yawn ~ very lazy.........

by Str|fe

0 comments

CV resume CV resume

Spent the past 2 hours "re-constructing" my resume. Thanks to a few friends who gave me their valuable advices. Hehe. Yeah, lets jiayou!

by Str|fe

0 comments

Beep beep ..... rejection

I took a nap just now due to the bloody headache I was having since the driving lesson in the morning. I was awaken up by 2 sms. Rejection. Rejection.
Sigh...... I think there's only 5 Singaporean on the list who haven't received the call from Shell. Most offers and rejections were already made last week. So when I learnt that 3 of my friends (out of 5) had received the rejection just now, I am so ready for it now. Sian ~ Shell hasn't called yet. It just want to keep me hanging for one more day. Yeah, how fun ~

by Str|fe

0 comments

The New CFO Financial Leadership Manual

I am reading this book by Steven M. Bragg. This "manual" is thicker than a textbook, but it's very useful (especially for my job interview in finance department). Alot of interesting insight into the job of a CFO. Some of the chapters are;

- CFO's place in the corporation
- Financial strategy
- Performance measurement systems
- Control system
- Capital budgeting
- IPO
- Risk Management
- Mergers & Acquisitions

Hmmm..... maybe some of you will think that I am dreaming too far. But this is really my goal. Becoming a CFO of a listed company before 40 year-old. That's why I am considering doing ACCA (instead of CFA) part-time upon graduation. Many friends have advised me to take the auditing route, but I really hate the Big 4. No matter what, I have faith that I am working towards my goal, be it a little step at a time. I just need abit more luck in my first job hunting. Slowly but surely ...........

by Str|fe

0 comments

Muthu's Curry and Money

Quite a pathetic Saturday when I had to go back to campus for a 1.5 hour make up class. Totally waste of my time. Luckily, I managed to catch up with my buddies for dinner after my class. Believe it or not, it's my first ever time stepping into Little India. Eh ~ the crowd is abit "amazing". Haha. Anyway, we settled our dinner at this Muthu's Curry. 7 of us eating curry. Guess how much was the bill? $240! Bloody $34 for each of us. Eating curry! Tamade ~ my most expensive curry ever. Bah.
Today's Sunday. Shall prepare for my upcoming interview since the interviewer told me that it will be a technical interview. Revision time ~

by Str|fe

0 comments

Have you sold your Thai shares?

Thai government is nuts ~
Ever since the military took over the government, only shits happen.
- Military coup
- New Year's Eve bombings in Bangkok
- More attacks in Southern Thailand
- 30% capital controls imposed
And today, a bigger bomb drops. The Cabinet has approved a draft law that will restrict foreign ownership of local companies to 50%. Do you know the implication of this law? Freaking idiotic. Months ago, I had a post on this issue in which Thai is looking for ways to protect its mama-shops. These retired army generals really have no idea what's economy and politics. Yeah, continue with all these stunners. Sooner or later, Vietnam will catch up.

by Str|fe

1 comments

"Infrastructure trust"

Remember the above tool. It will be a hot topic this year, just like how REITs has been over the years. Years ago, I came across an article on shipping trust too, which of course hasn't taken place in Singapore. Who knows? NOL may be next in the limelight.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Hot off the press

Lawyers for former National Kidney Foundation (NKF) chief executive T.T. Durai dropped a bombshell at 5.30 pm and said that he has conceded liability in the civil suit and would pay costs.
Damages will be assessed later.

This dramatic development came on the third day of what was expected to be an eight-week trial.

The suit against the rest of the former board members will continue on Friday.

Amazing...... really amazing. Now, I wonder how his daughter feels. I recall reading an open letter from his daughter to the public, appealing to everyone to return the "innocence" to her dad once her dad is cleared of the charge. That was many many months ago. Today, her dad decides to throw in the towel, without making any argument. Oh well ~

by Str|fe

0 comments

Tiring Tuesday

The night before
- Stomach cramped at 3.30am. Bloody painful till 5am. I've said I need a specialist soon.

The driving
- Raining again. Slow slow slow ........ till I couldn't concentrate.

English enrichment course
- Attended the first lesson today. Super stressful. I knew my English sucks, but I didn't realised I am that bad. Sigh ..... and reading out aloud isn't a fun task for me.

Psychology class
- It's amazing how many in the class tried to avoid this idiot. I thought I was the only fellow, since he and I had some clashes over CCA. At the end of the class, when the people started to gossip, I realised all of them were offended by this idiot over CCA matters. See? You can be bloody good in your technical knowledge, but if you don't know how to PR, who will respect you?

by Str|fe

0 comments

Bondue Bash: Back to School


Leave a comment if you want to get the tickets. Join me!

by Str|fe

2 comments

Soaring CEO salaries in the US raise ethical questions

This issue is hot in the news now and it will only get hotter. Maybe the salaries in Singapore isn't as bombastic, but I guess the main concern locally is the problem of non-disclosure of directors' salaries. It's crappy when they claimed that revealing compensation will increase competition. Bullshit.

Anyway, back to the title of this post. I will quote some lines from this article, and tell me how you feel about it.

• The abrupt departure of Home Depot Inc chief Robert Nardelli last week, with a US$210 million exit package in hand, show how skewed CEO pay can be.
• In 2005, the ratio of CEO pay to average worker pay was 411 to 1.
• That compares with a 1980 ratio of 42 to 1.
• What's particularly galling in the Home Depot case is that the stock fell 8 per cent under Mr Nardelli's leadership, trailing chief rival Lowe's Cos Inc, which has paid its CEO much less.

Think about it. Is the compensation so high because top CEO is in such short supply? Or is it unartificially because well-paid CEOs tend to be on company boards and approve executive compensation?
I doubt Singapore salary structure will turn out this way, but I will appreciate it if companies will state out the compensation of directors and top executives clearly in the annual reports.

by Str|fe

0 comments

80 > 50

Instructor: Do you know that on Singapore roads, if there's no road sign on the street, it's presumed to be 50km/hr?
Me: Oh, is it? I didn't know.
Instructor: You are travelling at 80 on a road with speed limit of 50.
Me: Eh.... haha ~ ok.

by Str|fe

0 comments

R.I.P. Ostrich

Now, I am convinced that recruitment process in Shell is credible. Yes, ostrich didn't get the offer. Or rather, ostrich got REJECTED! Rejoice, people! Haha ~ So much for drinking my Coke Light. Hehe ~
Had a good gathering with my shell mates this evening. Other than the Singapore team, 2 Malaysian friends joined us too. It's nice of them to come over to join us for the dinner. The bitching session at the coffee place after the dinner was excellent. We bitched from 8pm to 11pm. Amazing! Since all of us are in the final term now, it's inevitable we discuss a lot on our job hunting experience. It's always nice to hear some encouraging words from friends. Hopefully, this gathering can be an annual event even when all of us start curving out our careers.
Frankly speaking, I am convinced that I won't kick off my career in Shell. Whether or not they make an offer to me next week, it's more for the ego's sake. If any of us are not offered, the rest of the teams will find out within days. And I definitely don't want to fall into the same category as ostrich. Keeping my fingers crossed ~
Once again, R.I.P. Ostrich

by Str|fe

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Sing that song for me

Realised alot of my friends are leaving for exchange program in this term. Really alot of them. Take care, my friends. We won't be seeing each other in campus anymore since it's my final term. Catch up when you guys are back. All the best!

by Str|fe

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Xpress Holding: cause for concern?

I came across this news about 3 weeks ago. Today, this company is in the news again because the editor is encouraging the shareholders to post more questions to that decision by the board of directors. I definitely share the editor's view.

[Extract] There could be conerns, not just about Xpress breaching an AGM deadline, but about the root cause of that breach: the auditors's refusal to sign off on Xpress's FY2006 accounts and the company's decision to subsequently sack the auditors.

[Summary] In short, Deloitte is Xpress's external auditor. Deloitte had doubts on some revenue item records and also raised concerns about the internal controls. After Deloittle's refusal, Xpress then hired Fon Kon Tan Grant Thornton as an independent accountant. Foo Kon Tan then declare the records isn't far from accurate and indicated its willingneess to act as Xpress's auditor. Xpress then asked Deloitte to resign and moved to hire Foo Kon Tan.

Tell me. If an auditing firm rather resigns then to sign off the client's accounts, what does it implied? If a company can easily sack its original auditor who doesn't "goes with the flow", then what's the protection for shareholder? Why did Xpress go for a relatively smaller local auditor when it can hire any of the remaining Big 4? If Foo Kon Tan and Deloitte hold opposing views, who has more credibility? Why is there a need to sack? Why can't the directors comply with Deloitte's request? Is there really something fundamentally wrong with the financial statements?

by Str|fe

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Current affairs?

Pardon me for the lack of commentary on current affairs these days. It's ironic since the very purpose this blog was born is for commentary. Maybe it's due to the lack of interesting affairs around me. There are some good ones in Business Times today. Will touch on them in the next few posts. By the way, it's Friday.

by Str|fe

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A taste of my classes

It's Friday, so I already have a taste of all the 3 courses this term. Let me have a short recap.

IT & Law
The prof looks very young. The structure of the class looks very slack. I think I will definitely enjoy this class much more than the stupid CAT or Data Management.

Social Psychology
I always have a keen interest in this topic. That's why I did Psychology in year 1 and Persuasion last term. It kinda similiar to this social psychology that I am taking now. At least I recognised the theories. Glad that the class participation is only 10%, just plain lazy to talk.

Law of Mergers & Acquisition
This is the smallest class I have ever attended. 22 of us, and I believe there will be more dropout. Though the prof is boring, I enjoy the materials. I did pretty well for both Biz Law and Company Law, so I reckon this course won't be a problem. I enjoy law classes because I really have questions to ask.

There you go, just 3 courses. It will be a super slack term for me. Looking forward to more interviews and catching up with friends.

by Str|fe

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Good night

Lets all keep our spirit up. Stay positive. :)

by Str|fe

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Just a matter of time

Finally a piece of good news for the new year. Received the phone call this morning. I have passed the phone interview (last week) and the next round of interview will be on the 22nd January. Didn't expect to hear from them so soon since the phone interviewer actually told me that the result will only be released at the end of January. Yeah, glad to advance to the next stage.
On another hand, Shell will announce the result of Gourami this/next week. Shitty. I am pretty sure I won't get offered, especially since I had a run in with the engineer coach and some disrespectful team-mates. Hopefully, Shell won't reject me over the phone. Send me a rejection email anytime. I am getting used to it. Haha ~

by Str|fe

3 comments

Expectation builds disappointment

You criticised. You promised this and that. You sounded as if the only way things can go is north.
When the going gets tough, you were nowhere to be found. When deadlines are breached, excuses were all you have. When will you learn the meaning of "responsibilities"?
A person can be all glam and loud outside. If there isn't substance in the head, the shit will be exposed sooner or later. Don't just go for the image, will you? How long can you fool us?

by Str|fe

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I hate school

This title surprised even myself, especially since I have been such active in school life. Today marks the first day of school, and damn ~ I really hate it. I went library to print some notes and guess what I saw? Students sleeping with heads lying on open pages. Can you believe it? It's just the first day of school and I thought it's the exam week already. Why has SMU gotten to such stage? Sigh ........
The only delightful thing is that I met a couples of friends for coffee. It was a good catch up session though it was short. I think friends are the only reason I am looking forward to campus tomorrow and beyond.
I know. I need to get out fast.

by Str|fe

1 comments

Another side of the pillow

After weeks of suffering stiff neck from the bloody old pillow, I bought a new pillow just now. Cost me $49.90. ^&*((^%%^&* the shop downstair is selling at $7.50. Haha ~ but of course I am paying for the quality. Happy with my purchase after all.
Hmmm....... I am not looking forward to school at all. I am sick of it. Sian. I need a longer holiday. And I realised that I have 3 exams for 3 courses. And 2 of them are law papers. Bloody sian. Frankly speaking, I just need a challenge. I wanna slack, yet I want a challenge. Freaking idiotic. Tomorrow will mark the beginning of the end. Bye ~

by Str|fe

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*M* Schindler's List

Finally managed to watch this classic. It must be one of the most amazing film I have enjoyed for the longest time. Some of the pictures were so powerful that it totally changed my perception of wars. Trust me, it's a 3-hour film which you shouldn't miss. If you want it, I can lend you the dvd.

Rating: 5 stars

by Str|fe

2 comments

Lactose intolerance

It is the condition in which lactase, an enzyme needed for proper metabolization of lactose (a sugar that is a constituent of milk and other dairy products), is not produced in adulthood. With lactose intolerance, the result of consuming too much lactose is excess gas production and often diarrhea. [from wikipedia]

Finally understand the exact medical term of the condition that I am having for a long long time. Maybe that's why I insisted on kopi-O since white coffee always give me upset stomach. I also avoid ice cream (if possible) and won't even touch chocolate. 2 days ago, I bought a carton of soya milk. I consumed only half of it, and it's leaving me in a lousy state now. Tamade ~

by Str|fe

0 comments

Str|fe
@ www.masterzhuo.blogspot.com

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