January 15

In January 1782, Robert Morris, the Superintendent of Finance for the United States under the Articles of Confederation, appeared before Congress to advocate for a federal mint. He highlighted the need for standardized coinage to stabilize the Continental currency, which had suffered severe inflation during the Revolutionary War. Morris proposed a decimal-based system of dollars and cents, simplifying calculations and trade. His plan drew inspiration from existing European models but tailored to the young nation's needs. Congress approved the conceptual framework, leading to the Coinage Act of 1792 which officially established the United States Mint in Philadelphia. The adoption of decimal coinage made the U.S. currency pioneering among world powers. Morris's vision laid the groundwork for a monetary system that facilitated commerce, government finance, and economic growth. His advocacy demonstrated the critical role of fiscal policy in nation-building and set a precedent for central banking in America.

On January 15, 1889, Dr. John Stith Pemberton formally incorporated the Pemberton Medicine Company in Atlanta, Georgia. Originally founded to market a patent medicine named Coca-Cola, its formula blended coca leaves and kola nuts. Under Frank Robinson's guidance, the product's name and cursive logo were established. The incorporation laid the groundwork for the beverage's commercial expansion. Within a few years, the company would evolve into The Coca-Cola Company under Asa Candler. Today, it stands as one of the world's most recognizable brands and beverage firms.

The Swiss National Bank surprised the world on January 15, 2015 by removing the three-year-old peg of 1.20 francs per euro. The franc surged by nearly 30% against major currencies in minutes, inflicting heavy losses on currency traders and exporters dependent on competitive exchange rates. Swiss exports, from machinery to luxury goods, faced sudden cost disadvantages. The SNB cited soaring intervention costs and diverging monetary policies in Europe and the US. Global markets reeled as volatility spiked, prompting reviews of risk controls at financial institutions. The event reshaped discussions on central bank interventions and safe-haven currency dynamics.

On January 15, 2018, Carillion plc, a major British construction and facilities management group, collapsed into compulsory liquidation after failing to secure emergency funding. The firm’s demise left scores of public projects, including schools and hospitals, in limbo and put over 40,000 jobs at risk. Creditors faced losses estimated in the billions of pounds, while government agencies intervened to ensure continuity of critical services. Subsequent inquiries scrutinized flawed accounting practices, weak board oversight, and auditor roles. Carillion’s failure spurred debates on corporate governance, outsourcing policies, and the need for stronger regulatory safeguards in large enterprises.