The Rap on Brokerage Houses
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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."
