Charles Schwab in 2002

Lynda M. Applegate; F. Warren  McFarlan; Jamie  Ladge

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Case | HBS Case Collection | November 2002 (Revised May 2007)

Charles Schwab in 2002

by Lynda M. Applegate, F. Warren McFarlan and Jamie Ladge

Abstract

Details the evolution of the Charles Schwab business model, from its founding in 1975 to October 2002. The protagonist, David Pottruck, is faced with re-inventing the firm as a full-service brokerage at a time of tremendous industry instability as the industry reels from the effects of deregulation, consolidation, global economic downturn, and investor lack of confidence.

Keywords: Entrepreneurship; Business Strategy; Competitive Strategy; Business Model; Business or Company Management; Economic Slowdown and Stagnation; Financial Services Industry;

Language: English

Format: Print

29 pages

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Citation:

Applegate, Lynda M., F. Warren McFarlan, and Jamie Ladge. "Charles Schwab in 2002." Harvard Business School Case 803-070, November 2002. (Revised May 2007.)

About the Authors

Lynda M. Applegate

Baker Foundation Professor, Sarofim-Rock Professor of Business Administration, Emerita

Entrepreneurial Management

General Management

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F. Warren McFarlan

T.J. Dermot Dunphy Baker Foundation Professor of Business Administration, Emeritus

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Charles Schwab in 2002

Abstract

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