Here's a play for an aspiring banker: move to South Africa.
The country's economy is forecast to grow 3.7% this year and English is the de facto language (although there are about 10 other dialects buzzing around).
JPMorgan Chase has announced plans to bulk up its corporate banking efforts in the country -- offering loans as well as forex and bond-trading services. The big U.S. bank already sells M&A advice in South Africa.
However, it won't be easy to grab market share, as a host of competitors are making similar moves. BNP Paribas and Citigroup have dominated the country's stock underwriting market this year. And Absa Group Ltd., a unit of Barclays, has won 37 debt underwriting assignments.
Bankers familiar with mining and natural resources are most in demand, as are currency traders.
The Mid-Career Squeeze (FINS)
Recent rounds of Wall Street cuts have inordinately targeted mid-career bankers and brokers. Senior workers have been spared because they have valuable client contacts and the young guns are cheap.
Tiny Hedges (WSJ)
A growing crop of small businesses like travel agencies are hedging their currency risk in forex markets. Something to think about for a trader with a entrepreneurial streak.
Road Perks (WSJ)
New research shows that the average business traveler spends $49 on in-flight services and $39 per meal. Are you getting the most out of your expense account?
MBA ROI (Poets & Quants)
David Wilson, CEO of the Graduate Management Admission Council, weighs in on rising B-school tuitions and debt loads. He also busts out some Robert Browning poetry.
Fear Factor (FINS)
Would you take a dream job if your would-be boss made vague threats? Some 70% of FINS readers said "no."
Red Bull Market (Men's Health)
Turns out, the stuff in energy drinks isn't that bad for you, but it probably doesn't do much to improve your health either. However, milk thistle, a staple in such go-juice, will clean your liver.
Ever the Masochists (Bloomberg)
Wall Street traders are turning to hot yoga in order to shed stress --exercising in 106-degree rooms after a long day at the Bloomberg terminal.
Buzz Around the Office
Trodgeball? Trampoline? (Devour)
Trampolines + Dodgeball = Best Sport Ever. Let the games begin.
List of the Day
You're expected to give presentations in front of bosses and clients alike, but what do you do if your throat seizes up the minute you take the podium? Here are some tips.
1. Practice with people you trust. You know they won't judge you, so you'll naturally act more relaxed.
2. Practice without slides. They can be distracting.
3. Prepare answers to some questions you know you'll be asked.
(Source: AOL Jobs)