Strike A Pose
Adherents of the “skirt length theory” have long posited that the popularity of short hemlines in the fashion world bode well for U.S. financial markets. One banking official, taking inventory of the overall mood at ASF2012, suggested a similar trend could be true in the securitization sector. “I think the fact that everyone’s in suits is a bullish sign,” the official said, comparing the attire of this year’s attendees to that of previous years and conferences. “If they were all in polo shirts, I’d be more bearish—unless of course it’s some sort of contrarian indicator.”
Not Only Proud
One enthusiastic attendee was heard in an out-of-context sound byte saying, “I’m a peacock, you know? Just let me spread my wings and fly!” He must have been doing his best officer Terry Hoitz (Mark Wahlberg) impression from the movie “The Other Guys.” Didn’t know peacocks could fly? If you’d seen the movie, you’d know that they can -- for short distances, according to officer Allen Gamble (Will Ferrell).
Where Am I, Again?
With most attendees both staying and working at the Aria, many have probably not left its walls since they arrived in Vegas. And although walking past the poker tables and slot machines at 8 o’clock on your way to the Exhibit Hall is a good reminder of where you are, ASF2012 attendees have been highly business focused. One reporter has seen more than one attendee so absorbed in work they’ve tried to walk onto escalators going the wrong way. Take a deep breath of overly oxygenated air. Look around. You’re in Vegas. There are real lions at the MGM Grand.