The "Big D" Across the Pond

For all but eight years of my life, I have been a resident of the Greater Dallas area, bearing witness to the consistent economic and population growth that has shaped this city over nearly five decades.

Much like a blue-chip stock, the City of Dallas has seen its fortunes rise steadily "up and to the right", overcoming occasional challenges such as the Savings & Loan Crisis while maintaining robust regional fundamentals.

Consequently, a recent report in City Journal predicts that the Greater Dallas/Fort Worth area, colloquially known as "The Metroplex," is set to become the third-largest metropolitan area in the country by 2030, trailing only New York and Los Angeles. Clearly, there's a reason they call Dallas "Big D."

Does the European Union Have a Dallas?

Now, imagine a word game where I prompt you to name a city experiencing tremendous economic growth, starting with the letter "d" and totaling six letters. Your first guess would likely be Dallas, and that seems like a safe bet, right? But what if I told you that wasn't the city I had in mind. What would your second guess be?

Let me give you a hint: they make Guiness there!

The Rise of Dublin

In recent years, Dublin has quietly emerged as a key player in the European Union (EU) economy, drawing parallels with the economic significance that Dallas holds in the United States. The Irish capital is rapidly becoming a hub for innovation, finance, and technology, poised to replicate the economic prowess that Dallas has long exhibited in the U.S.

Unfamiliar with Dublin's rise? No worries. Let's explore the factors contributing to Dublin's ascent and examine how it is positioned to become the EU's economic stronghold.

Tech Hub of Europe

Dublin has magnetically attracted global technology giants, earning the moniker "Silicon Docks." Major companies like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn have established their European headquarters in the city, fostering a thriving tech ecosystem. This concentration of talent and innovation has resulted in the creation of thousands of high-skilled jobs, propelling economic growth and attracting further investment.

The parallels with Dallas are evident in the transformation of the Silicon Docks, reminiscent of how Dallas's technology sector (with firms like Texas Instruments and Nokia along the Telecom Corridor) has been a major contributor to the U.S. economy. The presence of cutting-edge research facilities, start-ups, and multinational corporations has positioned Dublin as a pivotal player in shaping the EU's technological future.

Financial Hub and Fintech Innovation

Dublin's financial sector has expanded rapidly, echoing Dallas's significance in the U.S. financial landscape. The city hosts a growing number of international banks, asset management firms, and fintech startups. Following Brexit, as financial institutions sought to maintain EU access, Dublin emerged as a natural choice, consolidating its status as a financial hub where English, the international language of business, is predominantly spoken.

Dublin's potential to mirror Dallas's economic impact is underscored by its emphasis on fintech innovation. With a favorable regulatory environment and a skilled workforce, the city has become a breeding ground for financial technology startups, enhancing its position in the EU's financial ecosystem.

Strategic Geopolitical Importance

Much like Dallas benefits from its central location in the U.S., Dublin's strategic position within the EU adds to its economic significance. As an EU member, Dublin provides easy access to the European market, making it an attractive location for businesses seeking a gateway to the continent. The city's connectivity, both in terms of transportation and digital infrastructure, positions it as a key player in facilitating international trade and commerce.

Educational Excellence and Talent Pool

Dublin's educational institutions, such as Trinity College and University College Dublin, contribute to the city's economic growth by producing a highly skilled workforce. This educated talent pool attracts multinational companies, fosters innovation, and propels Dublin into a position of economic prominence within the EU.

This phenomenon mirrors Dallas's role in the U.S., where prestigious universities and research institutions (e.g., Southern Methodist University, University of Texas at Dallas, etc.) contribute to the region's economic vitality. Dublin's emphasis on education ensures a sustainable supply of skilled professionals, reinforcing its potential to be the driving force behind the EU's economic engine.

Go Long on Dublin

As evident, Dublin's evolution into a European economic powerhouse draws striking parallels with Dallas's long-standing and growing role in the U.S. economy. The convergence of technology, finance, strategic positioning, and a robust talent pool positions Dublin as a key player in shaping the EU's economic future. As the city continues to attract investment, foster innovation, and strengthen its economic infrastructure, it is poised to become the EU's equivalent of what Dallas is to the United States – a dynamic and influential economic hub.

Et, al...

Review: The Iron Claw

As mentioned earlier, I have spent most of my life in Dallas. Growing up in the area during the 70s and 80s, before cable television was around, there were only about five television stations. Needless to say, your content choices were limited compared to today.

However, there was one show that I consistently watched, airing on Saturday nights on the local station KTVT called “Saturday Night Wrestling.” The show featured wrestling matches organized by World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), showcasing a cast of characters. At the center were the Von Erich brothers, a wrestling dynasty in Texas before tragedy struck their entire family.

The movie “Iron Claw” delves into the tragic yet captivating story of the Von Erich brothers. Zac Efron portrays Kevin Von Erich, the eldest brother burdened with carrying the family legacy and battling the demons cast by their overbearing father, Fritz (played with chilling intensity by Holt McCallany). Fritz, a former wrestler himself, molds his sons into gladiators, pushing them relentlessly towards stardom, often at the cost of their physical and mental well-being.

Through breathtaking in-ring action and poignant moments of vulnerability, the film explores the brothers' unwavering bond, their struggles with addiction and depression, and the haunting "Von Erich curse" that seems to cast a shadow over their achievements.

And the Verdict is…

This movie was fantastic!

While the film takes some liberties with the timing of certain events, the underlying story is very much rooted in reality. The Von Erichs were titans in Dallas during the early 80s, and the tragic events that impacted this family are hard to comprehend. "The Iron Claw" delivers a powerful and unflinching portrait of a family wrestling with both destiny and themselves.

WARNING: If you are not familiar with the story of the Von Erichs, be prepared for an emotional gut wrenching. It's almost impossible to think so much tragedy can fall upon one family, but unfortunately it did.

If you enjoy what you've read here and you think I might have a clue what I'm talking about, then please reach out to me if you would like me to present to your firm or organization. I have experience talking to professional organizations, trade conferences, as well as universities. I've also appeared in newspaper articles and podcasts. Also, I'm available for birthdays and bar mitzvahs.