Five stories demonstrating how the green rush nurtured the best and worst that U.S. capitalism had to offer.
business
Weighing Big Tech’s Promise to Black America
“Floyd’s killing sparked widespread protests in the streets and calls for racial justice in Fortune 500 boardrooms. But while corporate America’s official responses often felt like crisis PR disguised as philanthropy, Netflix’s approach stood out.”
How Target Got Cozy With the Cops, Turning Black Neighbors Into Suspects
“For decades, Target fostered partnerships with law enforcement unlike those of any other U.S. corporation.”
Airbnb Is Spending Millions of Dollars to Make Nightmares Go Away
“When things go horribly wrong during a stay, the company’s secretive safety team jumps in to soothe guests and hosts, help families—and prevent PR disasters.”
The Man Who Didn’t Invent Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
“He’s now retired in his early 60s, after a full career climbing the corporate ladder. Montañez made it, from rags to riches, from factory floor to corporate suite. He just didn’t make Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.”
Beige Ambition
“Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen grew up to make New York’s most desirable clothes. But can even perfection survive the pandemic?”
How Supreme-Style Merch Drops Took Over Corporate America
“If your brand is strong enough, there’s really nothing you can’t slap a logo on and sell at a premium with the aura of exclusivity.”
Female Founders Under Fire
“Are women in the startup world being unfairly targeted?”
The Cost of Convenience
“South Korea’s Coupang promised to make e-commerce lightning fast. A Covid-19 outbreak at one of its warehouses shows that its workers paid the price.”
The Eighth Wonder of the World*
“In exchange for billions in tax subsidies, Foxconn was supposed to build an enormous LCD factory in the tiny village of Mount Pleasant, creating 13,000 jobs.” The Verge investigates the empty promises (and empty buildings) of “Wisconn Valley.”
