Why did such a bull**** story get everyone so excited?
Answer: Because it makes for sensationalist headlines of course! That's why. Joe Public picks up a copy of the daily rag and catches those few words in big, bold print. He's no whiz when it comes to business finance, but hey, it says "Blah Blah Blah-Blah-Blah" so it must be true.
Granted, Ross Greenwood's article seems to provide the most rational and balanced perspective for the day, but unfortunately it always comes down to perception rather than reality - whether it be shareholder perception, travelling public perception, or whoever. If the perception that it's all going pear-shaped gains enough momentum, well it's only a matter of time before that perception indeed becomes the reality so many people fear. I really hope it doesn't come to that, as I don't relish the notion of having to dust off that CV again.