Week 6 - Blog

Why is Culture Important?

Culture builds the foundation of society by influencing our identities, social interactions, and worldviews. It includes common norms, values, beliefs, and practices that give communities cohesion and a feeling of identity. Different viewpoints from different cultures enhance human experiences, stimulate creativity, and encourage innovation. Furthermore, cultural heritage connects us to our roots and shapes our shared identity by protecting the legacy of earlier generations. In multicultural cultures, embracing cultural variety fosters social unity and peace by promoting compassion, tolerance, and understanding. Fundamental to human existence, culture affects various aspects of our lives, including language, art, religion, and cuisine (Lumen, 2023).

Do you think Facebook overpaid for WhatsApp? If yes, Why?

Although there were first concerns about Facebook's $19 billion acquisition of WhatsApp, strategic planning now becomes clear. With its large user base and expected expansion, especially in emerging markets, WhatsApp was well-known. Facebook saw an opportunity to expand its audience, improve its messaging services, and obtain useful information. Although the cost was high, WhatsApp's ongoing growth and integration into Facebook's network make the investment beneficial. WhatsApp's encryption technology strengthened its competitive position in the face of increasing concerns over data security and complemented Facebook's privacy-focused goal. In the end, the acquisition set Facebook up for future growth and diversification, so looking back, the investment was wise (Deutsch, 2019).

What are some of the problems bringing in new investors?

Attracting new investors might be difficult for a variety of reasons. Potential investors may be discouraged by market and economic uncertainty because of risk concerns raised by fluctuating stock prices and unpredictable circumstances. Certain investors are discouraged by complicated regulations and compliance demands because they create legal hurdles and raise operating expenses. Profitable possibilities for investment may also be restricted by intense rivalry and saturation of the market in some industries. Furthermore, a company's lack of transparency and disclosure weakens investor confidence and trust, which prevents new investment. Uncertainty and interrupted investment flows are caused by geopolitical conflicts, which include trade disputes and unstable politics. Comprehensive risk management, compliance with regulations, honesty, and the development of investor confidence through visible performance and communication are all necessary to meet these difficulties (Anon, 2024).

References:

Lumen Learning. (n.d.). 8.1 Foundations of Culture and Identity (2023) | Communication in the Real World: An Introduction to Communication Studies.

Deutsch, A. (2019). WhatsApp: The Best Facebook Purchase Ever? Investopedia.

Is investing risky? | Principal Asset Management. (2024). (n.d.).

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