specialized Agencies
(JSC) r/wallstreetbets – GameStop vs Wall Street
In January 2021, Reddit’s “r/wallstreetbets” catalyzed a short-squeeze on GameStop’s stock, significantly impacting major Wall Street players and hedge funds. Despite GameStop’s financial decline in previous years, the sudden surge in its stock price stunned industry insiders. This committee explores GameStop’s Board of Directors and hedge-fund executives’ responses to the crisis precipitated by the Reddit community and a YouTuber. Beyond GameStop’s immediate situation, the committee delves into the broader repercussions of this unprecedented event on the stock market. It investigates how social media platforms, like Reddit, can wield unexpected influence on financial markets, challenging conventional wisdom. Additionally, the committee examines regulatory responses, such as those from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and scrutinizes the actions of trading platforms like Robinhood (amidst others), which controversially restricted trading during the peak of the squeeze. This comprehensive exploration aims to illuminate the intricate balance between market freedom and regulatory oversight in modern finance. By analyzing the evolving dynamics of market participation, the committee seeks to provide valuable insights that can inform future policy decisions. Ultimately, the committee’s findings could shape regulatory frameworks aimed at preventing market manipulation while preserving the democratic nature of market engagement, ensuring a fair and transparent financial landscape for all participants.
The delegates in the GameStop room have a chance to revive the company, amidst the chaos. The Wall Street Executives however, are losing money with their predictions. Each committee room’s actions, naturally, will have consequences on the other – but there will only be one room, which profits at the end.
Women’s NBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The WNBA grapples with discussions on the imbalance in viewership compared to men’s sports, notably the NBA. This difference impacts not only player salaries but also recognition. The Board of Directors convenes to address these challenges and mirror the NBA’s success. Strategic decisions and effective solutions from the Board are crucial for the league’s trajectory. Enhanced visibility through increased marketing and promotions is vital, along with partnerships with major brands for sponsorships and engaging social media content. Collaborations with the NBA for joint campaigns elevate the WNBA’s status. Improving the fan experience and investing in grassroots programs are also key for growth and sustainability. The Board must innovate and adapt to changing trends in sports consumption, leveraging digital platforms and emerging technologies to engage fans and attract new audiences. You must also advocate for greater media coverage and representation, challenging societal norms and biases that undermine the value of women’s sports.
The Board’s decisions steer the league towards greater recognition, financial stability, and parity with men’s sports. You aim to cultivate enduring support and interest in women’s basketball while ensuring fairness and equity. By aligning with the NBA’s success, the WNBA strives to bridge the gap in viewership and elevate the profile of women’s sports on a broader scale, enhancing opportunities for players and advancing the sport as a whole – and get nothin’ but net.
2007 Ferrari F1 Boardroom
Regarded as the biggest scandal in F1 history, the 2007 ‘Spygate’ scandal involving Ferrari, McLaren and to a slightly lesser degree, Renault enforced a rethinking of sporting politics. The scandal involved Nigel Stepney, a chief mechanic and technician of Ferrari leaking details of their car to individuals at McLaren and Renault.
Delegates will begin the committee discussing engineering the car which you think will win them the 2007 F1 championship, dedicated towards revering Ferrari’s legacy. The delegates will also focus on the significant impact the scandal had on Ferrari’s esteemed reputation. You must navigate the crisis by addressing both the technical aspects of car engineering and the broader implications for the team’s legacy. This includes examining the damage to Ferrari’s image as a paragon of excellence and integrity in motorsport. Strategies will be formulated to restore trust among fans, sponsors, and the broader F1 community. The committee will explore public relations campaigns, potential legal actions, and internal policy changes to prevent future breaches. By concentrating on these multifaceted efforts, delegates aim to reinforce Ferrari’s standing in the sport and ensure that the legacy of innovation and success continues, despite the setbacks caused by the scandal. It’s your job to now drive Ferrari’s chances of success.
THE SOCIAL NETWORK 2004 - BUILDING FACEBOOK
Facebook (now Meta) until recently, was considered the most used social-media platform across the world. Despite the proliferation of social-media apps such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, the usage of Facebook/Meta has waned. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most revolutionary platforms, reshaping our technological landscape. The substantial financial gains for Mark Zuckerberg are undeniable. In this committee, Harvard delegates, not yet Facebook creators, will collaboratively pioneer what could be one of the most successful and dynamic social media platforms globally.
Set in 2004, the committee’s focus is on crafting what will evolve into Facebook. Harvard students, cognizant of social networking’s transformative power, will innovate a platform redefining online connection. Drawing inspiration from platforms like Friendster and Myspace, you’ll brainstorm features prioritising user experience, privacy, and scalability. Discussions on interface design, functionality, and requisite technology will ensue. Your efforts lay the foundation for one of the internet’s most influential and pervasive platforms.
Hershey Boardroom 2002
In January 2002, Hershey faced financial struggles while Wrigley dominated the chewing gum market. Rumours swirl about Wrigley’s interest in buying Hershey, potentially monopolising the chocolate market. Delegates anticipate Wrigley’s offer, planning their response. Wrigley aims to expand its market share and persuade Hershey to accept the acquisition. Conversely, Hershey seeks to bolster sales and possibly counter Wrigley’s offer by acquiring Wrigley itself. Beyond economic concerns, health issues related to chocolate overconsumption, innovation in chocolate and candy products, effective marketing strategies, and environmental sustainability in cocoa farming pose significant challenges.
As the committee delves into the chocolate market’s complexities, you encounter multifaceted challenges extending beyond Hershey and Wrigley’s competition. Health concerns require innovative product development and moderation promotion. Continuous innovation is crucial to meet evolving consumer preferences. Effective marketing is vital for brand differentiation and consumer engagement. Sustainable cocoa farming practices are essential to mitigate environmental impact. The committee’s discussions will centre on these pressing issues, demanding strategic foresight and collaborative efforts to navigate the turbulent chocolate market. It won’t be easy, but a victory for either side would be sweet.