City talk
# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
Accelerator
In a nutshell
Program fast-tracking startup growth.
Description
An accelerator is a program designed to rapidly grow startup businesses through mentorship, capital investment, and resource provision over a set period, usually a few months. These programs often end in a public pitch event or demo day where startups present their business models to investors. Accelerators are like boot camps for startups, pushing them to develop their businesses at warp speed and preparing them for the next stages of investment and growth.
In Context
Startup Founder: “Joining an accelerator felt like strapping my business to a rocket.”
Investor: “Just make sure your growth trajectory doesn’t turn into a game of ‘Asteroids’!”
Aces in their places
In a nutshell
Top talent optimally positioned for maximum performance
Description
“Aces in their places” is a colloquial mantra in high-stakes environments like investment banking and consulting, referring to the strategic positioning of the most skilled individuals in roles where they can make the biggest impact. It’s about leveraging expertise for optimal performance, ensuring that key players are where they need to be to drive success. This can involve placing a financial wizard in charge of complex transactions or a regulatory guru to navigate compliance mazes.
In Context
“When the trading floor is on fire, you don’t call the intern. You need aces in their places, or it’s gonna be an expensive BBQ!”
Armchair General
In a nutshell
Someone who gives opinions without practical experience or involvement.
Description
The term ‘armchair general’ is like calling someone a backseat driver in the battlefield of business. It’s used to describe a person who dishes out advice or opinions on matters they’re not actively involved in or experienced with. Picture someone lounging in a cushy office, far from the front lines of actual work, yet confidently strategizing over things they only understand from a distance. This term is a favorite in corporate settings, especially in consultancy or upper management, where strategic ‘experts’ often weigh in without getting their hands dirty in the day-to-day operations.
In Context
“Armchair generals in meetings are like football fans at a bar. They’ve never played the game, but boy, do they have strong opinions on how to win it. ‘You should’ve seen my face when the CFO, who hasn’t seen a spreadsheet in a decade, told us how to crunch numbers!'”
Arrows to fire
In a nutshell
Resources or arguments readily available for use.
Description
“Arrows to fire” in the corporate quiver is like having a secret weapon or a set of powerful tools at your disposal, ready to be unleashed when the situation demands it. Think of it as having a deck stacked with killer slides for a pitch, irrefutable data for a negotiation, or a suite of innovative solutions for a client’s problem. This term is particularly prevalent in fields like consulting, marketing, and law, where being prepared with an arsenal of persuasive arguments and evidence can turn the tide of a boardroom battle in your favor.
In Context
“Having your arrows to fire in a meeting is like showing up to a duel with a machine gun. When the boss asked for budget solutions, I whipped out spreadsheets and projections so detailed, even the office plants started taking notes.”
B
Babylonian orgy
In a nutshell
Sarcastically, a dull, obligatory out-of-town business conference.
Description
“Babylonian Orgy” in the business world, particularly in finance, consulting, or corporate settings, is a humorously sarcastic term used to describe mandatory, often tedious conferences held in another town or city. The name wryly suggests a wild, extravagant affair but, in reality, signifies an event that is anything but. It’s a tongue-in-cheek way of expressing the irony of having to travel, usually at the company’s expense, for a conference that promises to be as exciting as watching paint dry. The term reflects the sometimes droll reality of corporate gatherings, juxtaposed with the seemingly glamorous idea of business travel.
In Context
Junior Analyst: “Got the itinerary for the annual finance conference in Toledo. It’s going to be a real Babylonian Orgy.” Senior Analyst: “Ah, yes. Two days of PowerPoint presentations and lukewarm coffee. Party like it’s 539 BC!”
Back of the envelope
In a nutshell
Quick, rough calculations made informally.
Description
“Back of the envelope” refers to a calculation or estimation made quickly and with limited information, akin to jotting down figures on a scrap of paper (like the back of an envelope) for a speedy, approximate result. This method is often used in finance and consulting to obtain a ballpark figure when precision is not crucial, especially in early stages of analysis or decision-making. It relies on basic assumptions and round numbers, providing a general sense of scale or feasibility without getting bogged down in details.
In Context
In investment banking, a junior analyst said to his colleague, “Forget the complex models for now, just give me a back-of-the-envelope estimate. We need to know if we’re looking at a gold mine or a money pit – and fast! We don’t have time to count every penny when we’re just trying to see if the well’s not dry!”
Backburner
In a nutshell
Delaying or deprioritising a task or project.
Description
In finance and business, putting something on the “backburner” means to delay or deprioritize it in favor of more urgent or important tasks. This kitchen-inspired metaphor suggests relegating a task to a less prominent position, akin to moving a pot to a rear burner on a stove while focusing on what’s cooking in the front. It’s commonly used in high-pressure environments like investment banking or consulting, where juggling numerous projects and priorities is the norm. The term reflects the practical need to triage tasks based on their urgency and importance.
In Context
At the consulting firm, the manager quipped, “Let’s put the budget review on the backburner for now. It’s like that gym membership I bought in January – full of good intentions but not seeing much action!”
Backstreet Driver
In a nutshell
Someone controlling from an indirect position
Description
The term “backseat driver” has been humorously adapted in the business context to “backstreet driver,” combining the notion of backseat driving with the idea of taking a less straightforward route. It refers to a person who tries to control a situation by giving unsolicited advice or making decisions from a secondary or indirect position, often without a clear understanding of the direct issues at hand. This can be frustrating to those who are directly involved and can lead to inefficiency or conflict in decision-making processes.
In Context
“Our project would progress smoother if the backstreet driver from the finance department would trust us to handle the budget details.”
Bacon job
In a nutshell
A lucrative, high-paying job or project.
Description
In the world of finance and consulting, a “bacon job” is a term playfully used to describe a project or role that’s particularly lucrative – it’s bringing home the bacon, so to speak. It’s the kind of job that not only pays well but often comes with a sense of satisfaction due to its high stakes and impact. These jobs are typically found in high-pressure environments like investment banking, where large deals and transactions can yield substantial rewards. The term evokes the image of ‘bacon’ as a valued, desirable commodity, symbolizing financial success and reward.
In Context
Two investment bankers chatting: “Did you hear about Sarah’s new position? Total bacon job. She’s basically printing money over there. I swear, she’ll be buying her own island soon. Meanwhile, I’m over here just trying to afford extra guac at Chipotle!”
Bad paper
In a nutshell
Debt that is unlikely to be repaid; high-risk.
Description
“Bad paper” refers to debt securities or loans that are at high risk of default. In the finance world, particularly in banking and debt markets, this term is used to describe investments that are considered shaky or dubious due to the borrower’s poor credit history or the precarious nature of the debt. It’s akin to holding a hand in poker you know won’t win; the chances of seeing a return are slim. This paper is often sold at a discount, reflecting its high risk. The term underscores the fundamental principle of risk and return in finance – the riskier the investment, the higher the potential return… or loss.
In Context
In a casual conversation at a bank, one trader joked to another, “Handling bad paper is like dating someone who’s ‘complicated’ – it seems exciting at first, but you’re probably going to end up losing more than you bargained for!”
C
Cadence
In a nutshell
Rhythmic flow of a sequence of events or processes.
Description
In finance, particularly in project management and corporate operations, ‘cadence’ refers to the predictable, rhythmic flow of business processes and activities. It could be the frequency of financial reporting, the regularity of team meetings, or the scheduling of project milestones. Establishing a cadence is crucial for maintaining order, predictability, and efficiency in business operations. It helps in aligning various functions and departments, ensuring everyone is in sync and contributing to the overall objectives of the organization.
In Context
“Our quarterly financial reporting cadence is like a metronome – if the metronome was set to the theme song of a suspense thriller!” – Accountant during year-end closing.
Cafeteria plan
In a nutshell
Employee benefit plan offering a variety of options.
Description
In finance, specifically in the realm of human resources and employee benefits, a ‘cafeteria plan’ is a type of employee benefit plan that allows workers to choose from a variety of pre-tax benefit options, much like picking different dishes in a cafeteria. Common in corporate finance and HR departments, these plans can include health insurance, retirement benefits, and other perks. The flexibility of a cafeteria plan is attractive to employees because it allows them to tailor their benefits package to their specific needs and life situations.
In Context
“Choosing benefits in our cafeteria plan feels like being at a buffet – do I load up on retirement options or go heavy on the health perks? Either way, I’m trying to avoid indigestion in my golden years!” – Employee during open enrollment season.
Calendar tickler
In a nutshell
Reminder system for upcoming financial events or deadlines.
Description
In finance, especially in areas like accounting, investment management, and banking, a ‘calendar tickler’ is a system used to remind professionals of upcoming important dates, deadlines, and events. This could include tax filing deadlines, payment due dates, or dates for releasing financial reports. It’s essentially a financial planner’s alarm clock, ensuring that crucial tasks aren’t overlooked in the daily hustle. In the fast-paced world of finance, where missing a deadline can have significant repercussions, having a reliable calendar tickler is like having a personal assistant for your deadlines.
In Context
“My calendar tickler is so full, it’s more like a calendar taser at this point – it doesn’t just remind me, it practically shocks me into action!” – Busy Accountant during tax season.
Call on the carpet
In a nutshell
Summoned for a serious talk or reprimand in business.
Description
In the context of finance, particularly in corporate settings like investment banking or consulting, being ‘called on the carpet’ means being summoned for a serious discussion, usually involving a reprimand or critical review of one’s work or decisions. It’s akin to being called into the principal’s office. The phrase dates back to when someone was summoned to the boss’s office, which was often carpeted, to discuss a mistake or problem. In today’s corporate culture, it signifies a moment of accountability where one might need to explain or defend their actions or results.
In Context
“After that trade went south, I got called on the carpet so fast, I think I got carpet burn. Next time, I’ll double-check those numbers!” – Trader recounting a tough meeting with their boss.
Can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok?
In a nutshell
A playful way to ask for brainstorming or feedback.
Description
This quirky, humorous phrase is like a breath of fresh air in the often stiff world of finance, be it in investment banking, consulting, or capital markets. It suggests a creative and collaborative approach to brainstorming, where you’re asking a colleague or team to help cook up ideas or refine a concept in their ‘think-wok’. It’s a lighthearted way to invite others to engage in open, dynamic discussions, where ideas are mixed and seasoned with different perspectives, much like ingredients in a stir-fry.
In Context
“Hey team, can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok? I promise it’s half-baked already, just needs a little spice from your brilliant minds!” – Junior Analyst at a team brainstorming session.
Candlestick
In a nutshell
A charting tool showing price movements.
Description
A candlestick is a type of financial chart used to describe price movements of a security, derivative, or currency over time. Each “candle” on the chart represents price action for a specific period, showing the opening, closing, high, and low prices. The main body (the wider part) indicates the opening and closing prices, while the lines or “wicks” above and below represent the high and low. Candlesticks can be various colors; commonly, a white or green candlestick denotes a closing price higher than the opening, and black or red indicates a lower closing price.
In Context
“Today’s candlestick on the chart shows a strong opening but a weak close.”
D
Cadence
In a nutshell
Rhythmic flow of a sequence of events or processes.
Description
In finance, particularly in project management and corporate operations, ‘cadence’ refers to the predictable, rhythmic flow of business processes and activities. It could be the frequency of financial reporting, the regularity of team meetings, or the scheduling of project milestones. Establishing a cadence is crucial for maintaining order, predictability, and efficiency in business operations. It helps in aligning various functions and departments, ensuring everyone is in sync and contributing to the overall objectives of the organization.
In Context
“Our quarterly financial reporting cadence is like a metronome – if the metronome was set to the theme song of a suspense thriller!” – Accountant during year-end closing.
Cafeteria plan
In a nutshell
Employee benefit plan offering a variety of options.
Description
In finance, specifically in the realm of human resources and employee benefits, a ‘cafeteria plan’ is a type of employee benefit plan that allows workers to choose from a variety of pre-tax benefit options, much like picking different dishes in a cafeteria. Common in corporate finance and HR departments, these plans can include health insurance, retirement benefits, and other perks. The flexibility of a cafeteria plan is attractive to employees because it allows them to tailor their benefits package to their specific needs and life situations.
In Context
“Choosing benefits in our cafeteria plan feels like being at a buffet – do I load up on retirement options or go heavy on the health perks? Either way, I’m trying to avoid indigestion in my golden years!” – Employee during open enrollment season.
Calendar tickler
In a nutshell
Reminder system for upcoming financial events or deadlines.
Description
In finance, especially in areas like accounting, investment management, and banking, a ‘calendar tickler’ is a system used to remind professionals of upcoming important dates, deadlines, and events. This could include tax filing deadlines, payment due dates, or dates for releasing financial reports. It’s essentially a financial planner’s alarm clock, ensuring that crucial tasks aren’t overlooked in the daily hustle. In the fast-paced world of finance, where missing a deadline can have significant repercussions, having a reliable calendar tickler is like having a personal assistant for your deadlines.
In Context
“My calendar tickler is so full, it’s more like a calendar taser at this point – it doesn’t just remind me, it practically shocks me into action!” – Busy Accountant during tax season.
Call on the carpet
In a nutshell
Summoned for a serious talk or reprimand in business.
Description
In the context of finance, particularly in corporate settings like investment banking or consulting, being ‘called on the carpet’ means being summoned for a serious discussion, usually involving a reprimand or critical review of one’s work or decisions. It’s akin to being called into the principal’s office. The phrase dates back to when someone was summoned to the boss’s office, which was often carpeted, to discuss a mistake or problem. In today’s corporate culture, it signifies a moment of accountability where one might need to explain or defend their actions or results.
In Context
“After that trade went south, I got called on the carpet so fast, I think I got carpet burn. Next time, I’ll double-check those numbers!” – Trader recounting a tough meeting with their boss.
Can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok?
In a nutshell
A playful way to ask for brainstorming or feedback.
Description
This quirky, humorous phrase is like a breath of fresh air in the often stiff world of finance, be it in investment banking, consulting, or capital markets. It suggests a creative and collaborative approach to brainstorming, where you’re asking a colleague or team to help cook up ideas or refine a concept in their ‘think-wok’. It’s a lighthearted way to invite others to engage in open, dynamic discussions, where ideas are mixed and seasoned with different perspectives, much like ingredients in a stir-fry.
In Context
“Hey team, can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok? I promise it’s half-baked already, just needs a little spice from your brilliant minds!” – Junior Analyst at a team brainstorming session.
Candlestick
In a nutshell
A charting tool showing price movements.
Description
A candlestick is a type of financial chart used to describe price movements of a security, derivative, or currency over time. Each “candle” on the chart represents price action for a specific period, showing the opening, closing, high, and low prices. The main body (the wider part) indicates the opening and closing prices, while the lines or “wicks” above and below represent the high and low. Candlesticks can be various colors; commonly, a white or green candlestick denotes a closing price higher than the opening, and black or red indicates a lower closing price.
In Context
“Today’s candlestick on the chart shows a strong opening but a weak close.”
E
Cadence
In a nutshell
Rhythmic flow of a sequence of events or processes.
Description
In finance, particularly in project management and corporate operations, ‘cadence’ refers to the predictable, rhythmic flow of business processes and activities. It could be the frequency of financial reporting, the regularity of team meetings, or the scheduling of project milestones. Establishing a cadence is crucial for maintaining order, predictability, and efficiency in business operations. It helps in aligning various functions and departments, ensuring everyone is in sync and contributing to the overall objectives of the organization.
In Context
“Our quarterly financial reporting cadence is like a metronome – if the metronome was set to the theme song of a suspense thriller!” – Accountant during year-end closing.
Cafeteria plan
In a nutshell
Employee benefit plan offering a variety of options.
Description
In finance, specifically in the realm of human resources and employee benefits, a ‘cafeteria plan’ is a type of employee benefit plan that allows workers to choose from a variety of pre-tax benefit options, much like picking different dishes in a cafeteria. Common in corporate finance and HR departments, these plans can include health insurance, retirement benefits, and other perks. The flexibility of a cafeteria plan is attractive to employees because it allows them to tailor their benefits package to their specific needs and life situations.
In Context
“Choosing benefits in our cafeteria plan feels like being at a buffet – do I load up on retirement options or go heavy on the health perks? Either way, I’m trying to avoid indigestion in my golden years!” – Employee during open enrollment season.
Calendar tickler
In a nutshell
Reminder system for upcoming financial events or deadlines.
Description
In finance, especially in areas like accounting, investment management, and banking, a ‘calendar tickler’ is a system used to remind professionals of upcoming important dates, deadlines, and events. This could include tax filing deadlines, payment due dates, or dates for releasing financial reports. It’s essentially a financial planner’s alarm clock, ensuring that crucial tasks aren’t overlooked in the daily hustle. In the fast-paced world of finance, where missing a deadline can have significant repercussions, having a reliable calendar tickler is like having a personal assistant for your deadlines.
In Context
“My calendar tickler is so full, it’s more like a calendar taser at this point – it doesn’t just remind me, it practically shocks me into action!” – Busy Accountant during tax season.
Call on the carpet
In a nutshell
Summoned for a serious talk or reprimand in business.
Description
In the context of finance, particularly in corporate settings like investment banking or consulting, being ‘called on the carpet’ means being summoned for a serious discussion, usually involving a reprimand or critical review of one’s work or decisions. It’s akin to being called into the principal’s office. The phrase dates back to when someone was summoned to the boss’s office, which was often carpeted, to discuss a mistake or problem. In today’s corporate culture, it signifies a moment of accountability where one might need to explain or defend their actions or results.
In Context
“After that trade went south, I got called on the carpet so fast, I think I got carpet burn. Next time, I’ll double-check those numbers!” – Trader recounting a tough meeting with their boss.
Can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok?
In a nutshell
A playful way to ask for brainstorming or feedback.
Description
This quirky, humorous phrase is like a breath of fresh air in the often stiff world of finance, be it in investment banking, consulting, or capital markets. It suggests a creative and collaborative approach to brainstorming, where you’re asking a colleague or team to help cook up ideas or refine a concept in their ‘think-wok’. It’s a lighthearted way to invite others to engage in open, dynamic discussions, where ideas are mixed and seasoned with different perspectives, much like ingredients in a stir-fry.
In Context
“Hey team, can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok? I promise it’s half-baked already, just needs a little spice from your brilliant minds!” – Junior Analyst at a team brainstorming session.
Candlestick
In a nutshell
A charting tool showing price movements.
Description
A candlestick is a type of financial chart used to describe price movements of a security, derivative, or currency over time. Each “candle” on the chart represents price action for a specific period, showing the opening, closing, high, and low prices. The main body (the wider part) indicates the opening and closing prices, while the lines or “wicks” above and below represent the high and low. Candlesticks can be various colors; commonly, a white or green candlestick denotes a closing price higher than the opening, and black or red indicates a lower closing price.
In Context
“Today’s candlestick on the chart shows a strong opening but a weak close.”
F
Cadence
In a nutshell
Rhythmic flow of a sequence of events or processes.
Description
In finance, particularly in project management and corporate operations, ‘cadence’ refers to the predictable, rhythmic flow of business processes and activities. It could be the frequency of financial reporting, the regularity of team meetings, or the scheduling of project milestones. Establishing a cadence is crucial for maintaining order, predictability, and efficiency in business operations. It helps in aligning various functions and departments, ensuring everyone is in sync and contributing to the overall objectives of the organization.
In Context
“Our quarterly financial reporting cadence is like a metronome – if the metronome was set to the theme song of a suspense thriller!” – Accountant during year-end closing.
Cafeteria plan
In a nutshell
Employee benefit plan offering a variety of options.
Description
In finance, specifically in the realm of human resources and employee benefits, a ‘cafeteria plan’ is a type of employee benefit plan that allows workers to choose from a variety of pre-tax benefit options, much like picking different dishes in a cafeteria. Common in corporate finance and HR departments, these plans can include health insurance, retirement benefits, and other perks. The flexibility of a cafeteria plan is attractive to employees because it allows them to tailor their benefits package to their specific needs and life situations.
In Context
“Choosing benefits in our cafeteria plan feels like being at a buffet – do I load up on retirement options or go heavy on the health perks? Either way, I’m trying to avoid indigestion in my golden years!” – Employee during open enrollment season.
Calendar tickler
In a nutshell
Reminder system for upcoming financial events or deadlines.
Description
In finance, especially in areas like accounting, investment management, and banking, a ‘calendar tickler’ is a system used to remind professionals of upcoming important dates, deadlines, and events. This could include tax filing deadlines, payment due dates, or dates for releasing financial reports. It’s essentially a financial planner’s alarm clock, ensuring that crucial tasks aren’t overlooked in the daily hustle. In the fast-paced world of finance, where missing a deadline can have significant repercussions, having a reliable calendar tickler is like having a personal assistant for your deadlines.
In Context
“My calendar tickler is so full, it’s more like a calendar taser at this point – it doesn’t just remind me, it practically shocks me into action!” – Busy Accountant during tax season.
Call on the carpet
In a nutshell
Summoned for a serious talk or reprimand in business.
Description
In the context of finance, particularly in corporate settings like investment banking or consulting, being ‘called on the carpet’ means being summoned for a serious discussion, usually involving a reprimand or critical review of one’s work or decisions. It’s akin to being called into the principal’s office. The phrase dates back to when someone was summoned to the boss’s office, which was often carpeted, to discuss a mistake or problem. In today’s corporate culture, it signifies a moment of accountability where one might need to explain or defend their actions or results.
In Context
“After that trade went south, I got called on the carpet so fast, I think I got carpet burn. Next time, I’ll double-check those numbers!” – Trader recounting a tough meeting with their boss.
Can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok?
In a nutshell
A playful way to ask for brainstorming or feedback.
Description
This quirky, humorous phrase is like a breath of fresh air in the often stiff world of finance, be it in investment banking, consulting, or capital markets. It suggests a creative and collaborative approach to brainstorming, where you’re asking a colleague or team to help cook up ideas or refine a concept in their ‘think-wok’. It’s a lighthearted way to invite others to engage in open, dynamic discussions, where ideas are mixed and seasoned with different perspectives, much like ingredients in a stir-fry.
In Context
“Hey team, can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok? I promise it’s half-baked already, just needs a little spice from your brilliant minds!” – Junior Analyst at a team brainstorming session.
Candlestick
In a nutshell
A charting tool showing price movements.
Description
A candlestick is a type of financial chart used to describe price movements of a security, derivative, or currency over time. Each “candle” on the chart represents price action for a specific period, showing the opening, closing, high, and low prices. The main body (the wider part) indicates the opening and closing prices, while the lines or “wicks” above and below represent the high and low. Candlesticks can be various colors; commonly, a white or green candlestick denotes a closing price higher than the opening, and black or red indicates a lower closing price.
In Context
“Today’s candlestick on the chart shows a strong opening but a weak close.”
G
Cadence
In a nutshell
Rhythmic flow of a sequence of events or processes.
Description
In finance, particularly in project management and corporate operations, ‘cadence’ refers to the predictable, rhythmic flow of business processes and activities. It could be the frequency of financial reporting, the regularity of team meetings, or the scheduling of project milestones. Establishing a cadence is crucial for maintaining order, predictability, and efficiency in business operations. It helps in aligning various functions and departments, ensuring everyone is in sync and contributing to the overall objectives of the organization.
In Context
“Our quarterly financial reporting cadence is like a metronome – if the metronome was set to the theme song of a suspense thriller!” – Accountant during year-end closing.
Cafeteria plan
In a nutshell
Employee benefit plan offering a variety of options.
Description
In finance, specifically in the realm of human resources and employee benefits, a ‘cafeteria plan’ is a type of employee benefit plan that allows workers to choose from a variety of pre-tax benefit options, much like picking different dishes in a cafeteria. Common in corporate finance and HR departments, these plans can include health insurance, retirement benefits, and other perks. The flexibility of a cafeteria plan is attractive to employees because it allows them to tailor their benefits package to their specific needs and life situations.
In Context
“Choosing benefits in our cafeteria plan feels like being at a buffet – do I load up on retirement options or go heavy on the health perks? Either way, I’m trying to avoid indigestion in my golden years!” – Employee during open enrollment season.
Calendar tickler
In a nutshell
Reminder system for upcoming financial events or deadlines.
Description
In finance, especially in areas like accounting, investment management, and banking, a ‘calendar tickler’ is a system used to remind professionals of upcoming important dates, deadlines, and events. This could include tax filing deadlines, payment due dates, or dates for releasing financial reports. It’s essentially a financial planner’s alarm clock, ensuring that crucial tasks aren’t overlooked in the daily hustle. In the fast-paced world of finance, where missing a deadline can have significant repercussions, having a reliable calendar tickler is like having a personal assistant for your deadlines.
In Context
“My calendar tickler is so full, it’s more like a calendar taser at this point – it doesn’t just remind me, it practically shocks me into action!” – Busy Accountant during tax season.
Call on the carpet
In a nutshell
Summoned for a serious talk or reprimand in business.
Description
In the context of finance, particularly in corporate settings like investment banking or consulting, being ‘called on the carpet’ means being summoned for a serious discussion, usually involving a reprimand or critical review of one’s work or decisions. It’s akin to being called into the principal’s office. The phrase dates back to when someone was summoned to the boss’s office, which was often carpeted, to discuss a mistake or problem. In today’s corporate culture, it signifies a moment of accountability where one might need to explain or defend their actions or results.
In Context
“After that trade went south, I got called on the carpet so fast, I think I got carpet burn. Next time, I’ll double-check those numbers!” – Trader recounting a tough meeting with their boss.
Can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok?
In a nutshell
A playful way to ask for brainstorming or feedback.
Description
This quirky, humorous phrase is like a breath of fresh air in the often stiff world of finance, be it in investment banking, consulting, or capital markets. It suggests a creative and collaborative approach to brainstorming, where you’re asking a colleague or team to help cook up ideas or refine a concept in their ‘think-wok’. It’s a lighthearted way to invite others to engage in open, dynamic discussions, where ideas are mixed and seasoned with different perspectives, much like ingredients in a stir-fry.
In Context
“Hey team, can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok? I promise it’s half-baked already, just needs a little spice from your brilliant minds!” – Junior Analyst at a team brainstorming session.
Candlestick
In a nutshell
A charting tool showing price movements.
Description
A candlestick is a type of financial chart used to describe price movements of a security, derivative, or currency over time. Each “candle” on the chart represents price action for a specific period, showing the opening, closing, high, and low prices. The main body (the wider part) indicates the opening and closing prices, while the lines or “wicks” above and below represent the high and low. Candlesticks can be various colors; commonly, a white or green candlestick denotes a closing price higher than the opening, and black or red indicates a lower closing price.
In Context
“Today’s candlestick on the chart shows a strong opening but a weak close.”