The local bourse opened in 1585. The Rothschild family banking dynasty was born here generations ago. The powerful Deutsche Bundesbank , once the scourge of reckless currency traders, is also headquartered in Frankfurt. Milan combines artistry, craftsmanship, marketing. . .and profits. Its wintry beauty comports nicely with the locals' stern work ethic.
Old traditions are very much alive here. . .
Still, the City's historic aura masks a 21st-century dedication to the pursuit of profit. Its trading exchanges dominate world commerce. And in true American fashion, there is barely a glance back at the past. Chicago's passions are commodities, options, and futures. A scenic, edgy city, Los Angeles hosts large chunks of the U.S. film, television, and recording industries. . .