The fact is, other regions offer higher returns with no more risk than many Asian markets today, or returns that are at least as good without as much risk.

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Changes are particularly needed in countries such as Germany and Switzerland, where there are statutory minimum pay-outs which mean that business with guaranteed returns is no longer profitable.

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Delayed refund checks due to a late start to the tax season this year and snafus with returns claiming education credits no doubt contributed to slower sales because consumers had less cash in hand.

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