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Matt Hermann

April 10, 2013
https://p.dw.com/p/18CyH
Praktifix
Image: DW

What drew you to business news?

A wise man from Louisiana put it best, and most bluntly: “The economy, stupid.” Everyone cares about the health of the world economy, and the successes and failures of well-known businesses are both relatable and tangible.

Describe a business story that blew you away.

The Porsche-Volkswagen takeover/counter-takeover saga a few years back. You had behind-the-scenes intrigue on global financial markets, you had German political implications due to partial state ownership of VW, you had cigar-chomping tycoons with outsize personalities...and now you’ve got a criminal trial over market manipulation charges. Juicy stuff all around.

Who would you really like to interview?

FC Bayern Munich President Uli Hoeness. He's doing time for having evaded taxes in his personal financial dealings, but that doesn't negate what he acheived as a business leader with Bayern. When he took over at the club 35 years ago it was one successful football club among many in Germany, and one with limited financial resources. Today it’s the country’s dominant sporting force and a hugely profitable global brand.

What is your favorite number - and why?

Nine. No matter where you see it, it’s always on the verge of something greater.

What is your most memorable TV assignment?

Germany versus Sweden at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium. The home side were up 2-0 after 15 minutes, and 4-0 with half an hour to go. It finished 4-4.

If you opened your own business what would it be?

The Berlin food scene has a lot going for it, but I reckon there’s room for an authentic pit barbecue joint in the German capital.