There is no truth in the rumour that Softbank, Japanese owner of Comdex, Ziff Davis and Kingston, among others, is so worried about the reputation of the Japanese banking industry that it's changing its name to Safebank. But it looks like it's changing the name of Comdex, and although it claimed more visitors than ever to Vegas, there are signs that the golden goose has been fattened beyond fois gras status. More visitors, but we'd guess less exhibitors, albeit with bigger stands. Hotel charges had gone up 10 per cent, but a lot more people pulled out of Vegas on Thursday rather than Friday, so 10 per cent doesn't cover a four day trip being cut to three. Meanwhile the convention authorities continue to pile on more exhibition space, and the casino operators build more hotels. We think this one is starting to look fit to overheat horribly. ®