The Rap on Brokerage Houses

Jun 18, 2003 12:00 PM, By Nigel Goodman


         Subscribe in NewsGator Online   Subscribe in Bloglines  

Just when you thought competition in the world of finance could not get any steeper, "Wu-Tang Financial" is in da house.

Okay–not really. A brokerage firm run by the notorious gangsta rappers Wu-Tang Clan, is just the figment of the fertile imagination of comedian Dave Chappelle, who included it in his Comedy Central show.

As hilarious as the skit was–the deadpan voice-over gave off authenticity that paid off mightily once the rappers appear on screen–it is perhaps most notable as an example of the world of finance’s increased presence in popular culture.

The skit’s funniest moment comes when two WTF advisors begin a prospective-client meeting with the usual rapper ritual of degrading the competition. The profanity-laden opening line (aimed, in this case, at Smith Barney) gives voice to the subtext of many a real-life conversation. (The skit is viewable through comedycentral.com. Follow the links to "Chappelle’s Show.")

Of course, the skit’s real currency comes from the fact that it seems weirdly plausible. Famous athletes and entertainers are engaged in all sorts of business ventures, including investment companies, and Wu-Tang certainly rates among the most savvy of business-oriented entertainers.

And, let’s face it, who wouldn’t like to see Wu-Tang’s ODB chatting up a client: "Hey, baby I got your money, don’t you worry."


Acceptable Use Policy
blog comments powered by Disqus

Current Issue

Registered Rep Cover

Dear Management, Thanks For Nothing.

By Christina Mucciolo
December 1, 2008

In our 18th annual Broker Report Card survey, wirehouse FAs say they are fed up with management ruining their excellent franchises and platforms. Will the great advisor diaspora begin?



browse back issues


Featured Book

Cannon’s Concepts For Professionals: A Complete Library of Essential Financial Concepts 

This reference book was updated for 2008 and now contains over 900 pages of information on essential financial concepts and wealth management strategies for your work with wealthy clients. The book not only contains brief summaries of each topic, but it also contains many useful diagrams and charts that can be used with clients when explaining difficult financial concepts. The information in this book meets current FINRA/NASD guidelines....

Bookstore

Affluent handbook Live Long Live Rich
Mastering High Net Worth Wealth Management team assessment
Back to Top