Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with profitability

Why can't amtrak turn a profit

bluelight — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 11:53:20 -0800

Why is Amtrak not profitable despite massive subsidies? And just how environmentally friendly is Amtrak? I'm planning to do a lot of long-distance Amtrak trips in the upcoming year and at first one of the draws for me was the fact that its been advertised as an environmentally friendly way to travel. Upon doing some research, however, it turns out that Amtrak is mostly run on diesel (electric is mostly in the NE corridor), not to mention the amount of food presumably wasted. So not as environmentally friendly as one would think.

And with the recent splash across the net of how Amtrak can't even make the "easiest profit" as indicated by major food losses, I'm even more curious now. I've heard bits and pieces of how Amtrak is constantly on its deathbed and heavily dependent on government subsidies, how it was only supposed to be a temporary organization, and how part of the reason for its inefficiency is its bloated administration.

I'd love to hear thoughts about this, but more specifically, I'm looking for well-written articles on this subject (the un-profitability of Amtrak). Also, sources on how "green" Amtrak really is since running on diesel is only part of the equation since I suspect that Amtrak generates quite a bit of waste. But well-written articles on the benefits of Amtrak are also welcome as well since I've already booked my tickets and would love to hear those benefits too :)

Thanks

Would you ever take a job with an unprofitable company?

taumeson — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 06:50:38 -0800

Would you ever take a job with an unprofitable company? What would you consider before doing so? I make a good living with a hellish commute and a lot of travel. I have had an old acquaintance ask me to join his department at an unprofitable company. The salary is amazing, the people in the department are great, but the organization is, while not in a "tailspin", definitely unprofitable and needing to correct course. My brain says "hey, it's good money, and you don't know the future. things could be great this time next year and you'll regret not taking the job! and even if the company goes belly-up, you can get another job". My gut says "this company has structural problems. make sure you know what you're going to do in 12 months". I'm at the point in my career where I need to take some risks in order to get ahead, and this seems like a promotion and risk, all at the same time.

What to study to learn banking in one week?

mdpc98 — Tue, 18 Jan 2005 16:20:43 -0800

StudyBingeFilter: let's suppose I had one week to teach myself banking, specifically: asset/liability management, market risk management, credit risk, funds transfer pricing/profitability, mortgage servicing valuation and accounting. anyone recommend some books/study materials/etc.? ...crickets chirping... :)