Apple & Disney Succession & Battling Winter Sick Season 01/02/25
Jan 2, 2025
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Scott Gottlieb, former FDA commissioner, dives into the alarming rise of flu, RSV, and norovirus this winter, shedding light on why these illnesses are peaking. He discusses the strain on healthcare systems and the crucial role of public health policies. Additionally, the conversation touches on major executive changes at Apple and Disney, probing into how these leadership shifts might shape the future of these giants in 2025. The complexities of healthcare challenges and their implications for society also take center stage.
The corporate landscape is undergoing significant changes with Apple and Disney both seeking new leadership to adapt to evolving market demands.
The rise in respiratory viruses this winter has prompted discussions about healthcare system efficiency, highlighting challenges in patient care and insurance dynamics.
Deep dives
Concerns Over Rising Viruses
There is a notable rise in respiratory viruses, particularly flu, RSV, and norovirus, coinciding with the ongoing flu season. Currently, about 5% of emergency room visits are for flu-like symptoms, with a higher prevalence of around 13% among children aged zero to four. This uptick is partially attributed to a delay in the RSV season, causing these viruses to peak simultaneously. The spread of norovirus, known for causing severe gastrointestinal distress, is particularly concerning as it can be easily transmitted in household and public settings.
Shocking New Year Violence
Two violent incidents marked the New Year, raising significant security concerns. In New Orleans, a pickup truck attack led to the deaths of at least 15 individuals and over 30 injuries, with the FBI investigating potential accomplices. Separately, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, resulting in fatalities and several injuries. Both vehicles were rented through the Turo app, prompting investigators to examine possible connections between the two attacks.
Leadership Changes in Major Corporations
Several high-profile executive changes are happening as the New Year begins, highlighting a trend in corporate restructuring. James Gorman will transition from CEO of Morgan Stanley to Chairman of Disney to assist in finding a successor for Bob Iger, who is deemed overdue for change in leadership. At the same time, Apple is also appointing a new CFO, raising questions about the long-term succession of Tim Cook, who has led the company for nearly 14 years. These changes reflect shifting dynamics in corporate governance and the need for new leadership direction.
Controversies in Healthcare Regulation
The discussion around the profitability of health insurance companies continues to provoke debate, especially regarding their role in managing costs and patient care. Dr. Scott Gottlieb emphasizes that while these insurers implement necessary constraints, they often do so at the expense of patient satisfaction. The intricate balance between the health insurers and government expectations leads to complexities in care delivery. Further, issues such as food regulation and advertising by pharmaceutical companies raise questions about public health and the effectiveness of current healthcare policies.
Happy New Year! 2025 brings executive turnover to multiple corporate teams, including Apple, which is replacing its CFO, and Disney, where Morgan Stanley’s James Gorman is helping find a successor to Bob Iger. Dartmouth Tuck School of Business professor Paul Argenti weighs the succession plans at both companies. And this January, we’re in the thick of cold, flu, RSV, and norovirus; former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb discusses the uptick in illness this winter, as well as potential changes to the U.S. healthcare system. Plus, New York’s congestion pricing looms, and deadly incidents in New Orleans and Las Vegas prompted security concerns on New Year's Day.