Population Reality Check

(Click for large image)

Thanks to the Economist for this excellent graphic of the “old age dependency ratio” in select countries. This is real indication of the changes ahead in business, government and society in general in the years ahead.

April Retail Sales - End the Week on a High Note

Thanks to Retailing Today for this graphic of April comps for key retailers.

Keeping in mind that may of the players on the bottom rung beat expectations (JCPenny for example gave guidance their comps would run -9 to -12% but actually hit -6.6%) , this is not a bad way to end the week.

New Chiang Kai-skek Biography

Today's Economist has a review of Jay Taylor's new biography The Generalissimo: Chiang Kai-shek and the Struggle for Modern China. Looks fascinating.

In Taipei? The National Palace Museum is the show stopper but the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a must see as well.