Howard Schultz speaking in LA. It is interesting to note his relationship and view of Wall Street and the investor community.  Schultz speaks about his willingness to sacrifice short-term results for residual long-term growth. Wise, bold and a luxury for a large public company. Whether or not you love/hate or ambivalent about him or his company, it grew to prominence through soft factors, by understanding the consumer. It is a study in how a company with no technological advantage can excel in the competitive marketplace.