The 180 Pulse
With thought-provoking articles covering varied domains, 180DC SRCC aims to create student leaders through a holistic learning experience.
Read to take a deep dive into looking at world issues from the eyes of a consultant.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Continuing failure of Ed-Tech
The Ed-Tech industry which gained immense popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic is now on the threshold of failure. From being a supplementary mode of education to a primary one during the pandemic days, the industry is now coming to terms with reality. Well known companies like Unacademy laid off 600 employees and Vedentu another 200. Despite the fact that most of these companies are well funded and have high valuations they have not been able to perform well. They are facing problems of low enrollment rates and numerous complaints from the existing customers. The question this poses is that Ed-Tech’s were simply a necessity during an unusual time in human history and with things back in order, the limitations of virtual learning are finally exposed.
Dive deeper into this article to analyse the trends and the reasons behind the rise and fall of Ed-Tech startups and if they do have a future in the Indian scenario.
Product Updates: Is Latest Really the Greatest?
Consumers often assume that the latest product iteration is superior, but this isn’t always the case. Businesses frequently use updates, sometimes minor, to renew interest and attract buyers. This “newer is better” assumption can lead to blind consumerism, pushing unnecessary purchases and creating overconsumption trends. Despite occasional disappointment, consumers maintain interest, assuming the next iteration will surpass predecessors. While updates can improve efficiency and satisfaction, misleading updates can exploit consumers’ trust, leading to inferior purchases and unnecessary expenses.
Check out T Himaja Reddy’s article as it navigates through the disruptive world of product updates and their impact on consumer rationality by analysing the example of Apple’s recent launch of iPhone 15.
End to password sharing: Boon or Bane for Netflix?
In a shocking twist, Netflix has declared war on password sharing, ending an era where one subscription meant endless connections. The fallout was immediate – angry subscribers, threats to abandon ship. But did Netflix’s gamble pay off? The unexpected answer lies in a surge of 5.9 million new subscribers, defying skeptics and reshaping the streaming landscape. Dive into the full article to unravel the suspense behind Netflix’s bold move – a decision that not only challenges the norms but leaves a lasting mark on the future of online entertainment. Discover how the streaming giant turned a potential crisis into a triumph, setting the stage for a new era in streaming.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Gaming Console Market And Its Road Ahead
Gaming consoles contribute a huge proportion of revenue in the gaming industry, with Sony and Microsoft being the dominant players. Being a volatile industry, it has to face several challenges and has to adapt to the current trends, while simultaneously working towards innovation and technological advancements as they are the market drivers.
PlayStation by Sony or Xbox by Microsoft? This exhilarating article on “Gaming Console Market and it’s Road Ahead” by Keshav Garg gives a wider view about gaming consoles, the current competitors and what the future holds for them.
The Opportunity Cost of Bitcoin
The day is January 3rd, 2009. The sun shines in the clear skies and the planet wakes up with endless opportunities. Satoshi Nakamoto, whoever they might be, turns on their system and mines the genesis block. The world, for better or worse, has been set on a path of change. Within a small period of just over a decade, Bitcoin reached a market cap of almost $1.2 trillion in April 2021, and over the years, it has grown to be much bigger than, perhaps, what it was supposed to be.
Gender Bias in AI
With the recent application of revolutionized AI technology in numerous sectors, results were astonishing. Favoritism in hiring, Racism in Healthcare, Sexism in university screening, discrimination in the courts and banking sector as well as many such prejudices were observed. Algorithmic bias can not only undermine equality but also lead to unfair decisions and representations of certain groups.
ECONOMIC AND PUBLIC POLICY
Floor Price of Basmati- A Way for Growth or a Path into Recession
In the labyrinth of India’s basmati rice market, a seismic shift occurred on September 12, 2023, when the government fixed the MEP at $1200 per tonne. The consequences were swift – a decline in global market share, farmers facing substantial losses, and a food fair in Turkey where Indian companies received no orders due to soaring prices. The government, initially unyielding, eventually bowed to pressure, lowering the price to $950 per tonne on August 27. As the dust settles, this article delves into the repercussions on farmers, the economy, and the intricate web of international relations. Amidst rising exports, pockets are affected, and the impact on India’s basmati industry unfolds in a tale of growth and potential recession. Uncover the intricacies by exploring the complete article.
FIFA Finals: The End of Qatar?
In the aftermath of the grand conclusion of the FIFA Finals in Qatar, the world celebrated the crowning of a new champion. However, as the cheers fade away, it is crucial to cast a critical eye on the true cost of hosting such extravagant global events. Behind the glitz and glamour, a darker narrative unfolds—a story of exploitation and questionable ethics. What did it take for Qatar to pull off this spectacular tournament? Who bore the burdens of its success? Join us as we peel back the layers, unearthing the truth behind the shadows, and exposing the exploitative mechanisms that underlie the grand spectacle of the FIFA Finals in Qatar.
Roof Over the Head: A Life of Dignity and Respect
Explore Mohak Bhasin’s “Roof Over The Head: Life Of Dignity And Respect,” which highlights the significance of housing in human life. It emphasizes how slums, despite providing shelter, often lack basic amenities, impacting residents’ well-being. Discover the transformative “In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project” in India, inaugurating 3024 flats in Kalkaji to improve living conditions and offer equal opportunities. The project challenges traditional perceptions of slums by providing civic amenities, cleanliness, ownership titles, and a sense of security.
Learn about the “Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna” (PMAY), launched for “Housing For All.” The scheme has constructed millions of houses, but faces challenges like land scarcity, construction quality, and sustainable financing. The article proposes policy solutions including conducting a census, disclosing financial plans, and promoting long-term occupancy for community development.
Experience the insightful journey of “Roof Over The Head: Life Of Dignity And Respect” by clicking the link in the bio. Gain a deeper understanding of the importance of housing in creating a dignified and respectful life for all individuals.
Philosophy and Psychology
Psychology in Consulting
Usually when people hear the word ‘Consulting’, they think of complicated spreadsheets, decision making for business finance and coming up with corporate strategies to make a firm bigger and better.