But rather than closing the gap by producing more and consuming less, both have followed a far less painful path.

FORBES: Germany And China Have The Gold And Will Make The Rules

In closing arguments over the patent dispute, Oracle attorney Michael Jacobs accused Google of embarking on a "reckless path to patent infringement" when developing Android.

BBC: Oracle building

Major consumer internet and financial services companies are also highly motivated, as they see a path to greater advertising and promotion-based revenue if they can demonstrate more marketing value through closing the loop.

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