Cross-sell match made in merger heaven
Washington Mutual is expanding into the $800 billion credit card industry with the purchase of Providian Financial Corp. for $6.45 billion. The potential win-win scenario allows Providian to open credit card accounts with WaMu’s 11.7 million households, while Washington Mutual can sell checking accounts and home equity loans to Providian’s customers.
Investors cry for more education
Brokers are scoring well with clients according to the annual Securities Industry Association Investor Survey. The majority of respondents felt satisfied with the quality of service they receive from their broker. But the majority also look to the securities industry to do more to educate them about how to make good investments.
Operators race to provide all-digital service
In the face of satellite and emerging telco competition, cable operators are quickly transitioning to an all-digital lineup through digital simulcast solutions (carrying basic programming in
both analog and digital). Eventually, everything will be digital, accelerating growth in cable’s programming and services like video on demand (VOD) and high-definition television (HDTV).
Entertainment brands join wireless biz
Imagine an ESPN phone. The sports giant will be an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) as early as next year, following other players like Virgin and
7-Eleven. The trend teams the brand affiliations of MVNOs with the networks of major wireless carriers. Experts agree consumer education will be the key for these new partnerships.
Creating a buzz through media exposure
Hospital marketers are creating alliances with media firms to generate publicity through patient education. Critics say these partnerships blur the line between news and advertising. Usually, the exclusive sponsorship involves health education and service-related messages for consumers.
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Clinical trial delays prove costly
It’s official — according to Cutting Edge Information, drug companies can lose between $600,000 (niche drug) and $8 million (blockbuster) in revenue each day a drug’s launch is delayed. The main reason is patient recruitment and retention. Communication
and coordination among study sponsors, clinical research organizations, site management organizations, investigators
and patients is critical. |
| He said/she said |
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“For a blockbuster drug, just a month-long delay can translate into $80 million or more in lost sales in a given year.”
— Jon Hess, senior analyst
at Cutting Edge Information |
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