Although both Brazil and Vale remain intriguing options for investors, the existence of golden shares is something of a red flag that merits attention from international investors.
The controversy over the Confederate flag in 2000 and the subsequent economic boycott by the NAACP drew national attention to racial tensions in South Carolina.
They also exist to carry out research and, equally importantly, flag up emerging issues that the wider commercial community needs to be paying attention to.
Mr. Pistorius's alleged connection to the shooting has drawn international attention, coming months after his historic appearance at the London Olympic Games, where he carried the flag for South Africa.