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Post Corona

summary ofPost CoronaBook by Scott Galloway

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You’ll learn

  • How tech giants soared amid the pandemic crisis
  • The reality of monopoly power
  • About resilience in capital markets
  • Capitalism's role in market balance

first KEY POINT

The pandemic's top earners capitalized on monopolies

In the middle of March 2020, the world began to realize the true extent of a new virus spreading fast. While many feared for their lives, the pandemic's natural effect had not yet dawned on people.Many countries initiated a total lockdown to curb the spread of the virus, which meant that only health and essential workers could attend their jobs. Other businesses started to crumble within weeks, and owners started feeling the brunt. However, as people complained, some organizations made more profits than ever. Companies like Apple, Tesla, and Google made huge profits, and their numbers dominated the market index.The reason for the financial dominance of big companies is easily explained. The United States system supports those with enough money to buy their way out of trouble. These companies control the market because nobody is willing to stop them. They quickly buy their potential competitors or run them aground with money. Customers purchase from them because they have no choice.This summary explores the surge in big companies' profits and why people must work together to overthrow dominant forces.

The market favors those who are winning, and the government's inability to control monopoly plays a part.

second KEY POINT

Companies with colossal cash control the market

When the WHO declared the Coronavirus a pandemic, the world stood still, and people became perplexed. Governments worldwide battled to keep their people safe by declaring total lockdowns of different magnitudes. Businesses crumbled, and many people's mental health took a downward spiral. However, one distinct aspect during the pandemic is the capital markets' resilience. Key capital markets rapidly recovered despite an initial drop as the crisis escalated. They recouped most of their initial losses in just a few months. This bounce back was not reflected in broader public markets.Numbers in the market can be deceptive; this remarkable rebound is due to significant gains from a select group of companies, giant tech firms, and other vital entities. While the media has been distracted by the big tech and large corporate organizations, small businesses need to catch up significantly. The list of bankruptcies in the United States alone is long and shocking.In reality, companies with substantial cash reserves, the ability to leverage debt, and high-value stocks are well-placed to acquire assets from their weaker, failing rivals and dominate the market.The business world makes solid predictions about who will thrive or die in the post-corona era, and the divide between large and small companies, the innovative and the traditional, is growing daily. According to predictions, current market leaders will grow more dominant, while those lagging seem fated to fail.Over the past ten years, markets have valued companies based on their vision and growth potential rather than profits. Firms with substantial cash reserves, minimal or affordable debt, valuable assets, and low overhead costs are more likely to withstand the economic impacts of a lockdown.The strongest asset must be leveraged for companies down the pecking order. If the most substantial asset is the brand, they must heavily focus on it. For companies in precarious situations, survival hinges on necessary cost reductions. Things will take a long time before they go back to normal, and even with vaccines, the journey back to normality is slow and unpredictable.

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first KEY POINT

The government's major impact on market giants

second KEY POINT

Companies can no longer increase costs without adding value

third KEY POINT

How schools rip off students

fourth KEY POINT

Capitalism can combat the growing influence of monopolists

fifth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Scott Galloway is a professor of marketing at the NYU Stern School of Business, public speaker, entrepreneur, and author. He hosts The Prof G Pod with Scott Galloway podcast.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity about?

Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity by Scott Galloway explores the profound transformations brought by the COVID-19 pandemic across various sectors. The book discusses how businesses and individuals can leverage these changes as opportunities for growth and innovation.

What are the key takeaways from Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity?

The key takeaways from Post Corona include understanding the accelerated digital transformation, the importance of adaptability in business, and recognizing shifts in consumer behavior. Galloway emphasizes the need for strategic foresight in navigating post-pandemic landscapes.

Is Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity worth reading?

Yes, Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity is worth reading for anyone interested in business, innovation, or societal shifts. Galloway’s insights provide valuable perspectives on capitalizing on the changes resulting from the pandemic.

How many pages is Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity and when was it published?

Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity has 224 pages and was published on September 7, 2021. This makes it a relatively concise read for those looking to engage with its insights quickly.

How does Post Corona: From Crisis To Opportunity address business strategies post-pandemic?

Post Corona addresses business strategies by offering actionable insights on adapting to the new normal and embracing technology. Galloway provides examples of businesses that successfully pivoted during the pandemic, showcasing the necessity of innovation in uncertain times.