If you're feeling down this week, take my hand as we go over some of the more uplifting headlines of the week. Yes, it wasn't all layoffs, missed earnings, and guidance knockdowns this week.
1. Mackey is not wacky
Organic grocer Whole Foods Market
Legal scuffles will rarely make it into the "good news" column, but I have to make an exception in this case. There is nothing wrong with regulatory oversight -- it's an important check against chaos. However, when a regulatory body becomes that bully who flicks your earlobes every morning, there comes a time when you have to hit back. Heck, I'm even suggesting that Sirius XM Radio
The FCC and FTC have important functions in this country. They just need to make educated decisions quicker or roll with the consequences.
2. Paper or drastic?
Supermarket chains are typically portrayed as recession resistant. It makes sense. Consumers still have to eat, and grocers stand to benefit if penny-pinching patrons are eating out less. However, even under that favorable tailwind, you still have to applaud Kroger
The end result is a grocery store chain that clocked in ahead of Wall Street's expectations, even in a jaded industry where you're expected to hold up well. Yes, the comps figure includes buoyant fuel sales. Yes, the company's outlook wasn't up to snuff. But until Kroger actually drops the ball, I'm not calling for a cleanup in aisle four.
3. Laying it on the Leno line
General Electric's
In what has to be the perfect solution, Leno will get a new show, airing five nights a week at 10pm. Not only does it keep both popular hosts happy, but it will also save NBC a ton of money now that it only has to acquire content to fill two of its three primetime hour slots on weeknights.
4. Baidu bounces
Sometimes even bad news can leave a favorable aftertaste. Baidu.com
Why the surprising optimism? Well, perhaps it's the admission that China's leading search engine is making progress in ridding its site of unlicensed sponsors. There is also China Central Television -- the same broadcaster that exposed Baidu's iffy search practices -- pointing out that even Google
5. No Grimace required
The golden arches are still glittering. McDonald's
Casual dining may be in a funk, but the burger chains that are providing whole meals for the price of a double latte or fruit smoothie are holding up well in these cost-conscious times. Now if only I could drink a Big Mac through a straw to make it truly portable.
Blech! Sorry for that gruesome image.