Semiotics I

1.  The signifier is the image of a bull, poised in an offensive position and ready to charge.
2. The statue signifies financial prosperity, optimism, and aggression typically shown among Wall Street bankers and financial analysts.
3.  The past decade on Wall Street has shown a lot of change in regards to banking policies, company awareness, and open communication.  Since the economic recession in 2008, Wall Street has had to adapt under the new policies and the bailout plan implemented under the Obama administration.  This has required more conservative loans, highly regulated transfers, and other adaptions that have left a lasting mark on the financial community.  Overall, the economy has been steadily improving in the last ten years.  Although it is currently in a healthy state, some analysts are assuming a slight recession will occur in the next few years.  The impending, and inevitable, recession also undermines the financial aggression presented by the bull.  Additionally, the installation of the 'Fearless Girl' in 2017 has also changed the message on Wall Street.  The Bull is no longer a standalone statue that represents the stereotypical male dominance in the financial market.  The Fearless Girl provides a juxtapositional message that demonstrates the social awareness and resurgence in women's rights, gender diversity, and female leadership.