The quality most essential to Gates' success, though, is what the experts call self-knowledge.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Bill Gates, who doesn't spend much quality time in the art market, did buy a beautiful Winslow Homer for a record price, but this wasn't Alan Bond flexing his flabby muscles.

FORBES: The "Orange Marilyn" and the market

The idea of an X-Factor as the winning gene is as true for people as it is for businesses, says Poulfelt, noting individuals like Mozart, Steve Jobs and Bill Gates -- who all managed to tap into a unique skill or quality to stand out from the crowd.

CNN: Have you got the career X-Factor?

But Dr Baretta warns that the jetties proposed along with the gates will be a problem reducing flushing of the lagoon, and thus its water quality.

ECONOMIST: Flood barriers