India, Nov. 10 -- In the 1980s, London was the centre of world shipping, and The Baltic Exchange in the City was the centre of shipping in London. Having an office within walking distance of The Baltic was a prerequisite for any meaningful involvement in this industry. It was an old and venerable institution, with its strong traditions, customs, and the motto 'Our Word Our Bond'.

Shipping has always been very closed and secretive. Quick and timely information has always been an essential requirement. In those days, communications were primitive by today's standards. Dial-up landlines and noisy telex machines were the workhorses, and these left much to be desired. Pagers and fax machines were just making an entry. This is where the person...