Albert Einstein was obsessed with the limitless power of our imagination and left us many great quotes on the topic.  One of my favorites:  “If at first the idea is not absurd, then there is no hope for it.” Judging by his penchant for mind-stretching ideas, Mr. Einstein would have loved this next one.

I am pleased to be one of three judges who will pick the recipient of the 2016 European Innovation and Technology Venture Award.  Contestants are start-up companies from across the European Union, who are creating smart business solutions to address important social issues.

I have published several blogs on the eroding relevance of traditional banking and financial services.  This age-old industry is increasingly susceptible to all kinds of new competitors, and must re-imagine itself in order to stay indispensable.  Here is yet another example of the looming dangers.

The origins of the hotel industry can be traced back to biblical times, yet it is still full of customer pain points.  This is proof that even long standing, highly competitive industries should be continuously re-imagined.  Here is one recent example of how.

Nearing the end of the season, a completely unexpected, Cinderella team is sitting atop the English Premier League, arguably the world’s most competitive football championship.  Leicester City is five points clear of second place Tottenham, and well ahead of perennial powerhouses Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool.  With only a splinter of the budget and cachet of these illustrious clubs, Leicester’s success is based on a highly unique strategy.