Tuesday talk

1. One of the crippling vices not being addressed in our society is gambling. A growing number in the corporate world are deeply affected. More and more stories are being told of the dire circumstances in which some have found themselves as they try to feed their habit, especially via online sites. A crisis is on our hands, some people are warning.

2. The saying, "the more things change, the more they stay the same" is very true in relation to the resurgence of Chinese-operated businesses in the country. The traditional Chinese shop was the heartbeat of many rural towns. Now, they are making a big comeback, at the same time sounding the death knell for locals. Many have had to close their businesses because they simply cannot compete. Welcome to 21st-century commerce.

3. Ganja farmers must be quite confused at the moment. Even though the country appears to be taking steps preparatory to decriminalising the weed, the raids are going on, seemingly with greater intensity. Some are asking whether we will have to import when they fly the gates.

4. It's a dog-eat-dog world in the insurance business these days, and in some cases, a little obeah is being called on to help in sales personnel's success and advancement. There are hilarious accounts of mysterious powder and odd odours turning up in the most unexpected places.