The code that sunk a stock market

In the early 80s, the Vancouver Stock Exchange set up its new VSE stock index, tracking loads of Canadian stocks in one handy, regularly-updated number. But after just 18 months, the value of the VSW had dropped to just one half of its level on day one. CRASH!
Yet, all other stock indicators disagreed: they all showed modest, gradual *gains*, not catastrophic losses.
The programmers had another look and ... oops!
I produced this video for the University of Sydney's online course, "NaN: Numbers and Numerics".
Credits:
Vancouver Stock Exchange, by Yaletown Productions Inc. (1981),
video used with permission, City of Vancouver Archives, Reference Code (AM1553-8-S14-: MI-265)
Vancouver Stock Exchange Floor, photo by Jeff Goode (1983) from the Toronto Public Library archives, used with permission
Earth: Blue Marble photo, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Image by Reto Stöckli

[@menglish83]

As a resident of the Vancouver area for all of my life, I can say that this scenario perfectly sums up our continuous failing as a region to carefully consider details. Really great video! Beautifully explained and illustrated.

[@SteevyMathew]

Unknown / rarely known information beautifully and succinctly provided in a well-made video. I just binge watched your entire channel and i really hope you make more videos. You sir have earned a new subscriber!

[@Trimethopimp]

Thanks for this, great video. I'm quite intrigued by rounding errors and the repercussions they can have on systems.

[@dantekibler8325]

What do you use for editing tools and artwork. All of your videos are beautifully edited