Play The Game

TV today can be tiresome to watch because of presentation.  These manic traits have spilled over into a good deal of sports coverage as well.  So if you want something scenic, slower and relatively easy to watch and comprehend, golf can be better than most.  But it came as a surprise, however, to see in an economic journal a critical article on a golfer and trading practices.

Golfing is more than golf these days it seems in this item from the Mises Institute about Phil Mickelson, insider trading, the penalties incurred and tax issues as well.  The gods of the greens are neither saintly nor straight with their putting and driving on the financial markets.  As well as risking the odd chancy shot from the bunkers they may well be kicking the money ball onto a more favourable lie than they should.

This was in the USA where there are bodies and laws that allow some of this to be tackled and dealt with.  Also, in that home of what was once democracy, there is a tradition and inclination to go after famous names.  Scalp hunting in a modern form is still part of their tradition of dispute.

When we come to the United Kingdom and some of its European club mates, it is another matter.  A handful might suffer some adverse publicity, but even fewer will face the rigours of the law and public enquiry.

It is possible that are rich and famous footballers could be involved in some interesting financial operations, but as with the men of the City, they will have friends in both high and low places.

Of course in the UK this is what it has always been.  It's the rich what gets the pleasure, it's the poor what gets the blame, it is not the same the whole world over, ain't it all a blooming shame.