FT News Briefing

Ships are altering course as the US Navy’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz continues into its third day, and PwC plans to overhaul its global consulting business. Plus, insurers are turning to catastrophe bonds to cover data centres, and AI chatbots aren’t a substitute for doctors when it comes to medical diagnoses.  Mentioned in this podcast: Strait of Hormuz tankers stop or turn around amid US blockade Iran war could slow global growth to weakest since pandemic, IMF warns US pushing Iran to agree 20-year moratorium on nuclear activity PwC plans overhaul of global consulting business Insurers turn to catastrophe bonds to offload data centre risks AI chatbots misdiagnose in over 80% of early medical cases, study finds Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A key UK government official says Britain’s leaders have shown a “corrosive complacency” towards defence, OpenAI’s $852bn valuation is under increasing scrutiny from its own backers and fixed-income traders at Goldman Sachs suffered an unexpected drop in revenues at the start of 2026. Plus, the FT’s Raya Jalabi explains how Lebanon has become a sticking point in US-Iran negotiations.   Mentioned in this podcast: Starmer accused of ‘corrosive complacency’ on UK defence by former Nato chief OpenAI investors question $852bn valuation as strategy shifts Goldman bond traders take shine off bumper quarter The 10 minutes that set Lebanon ablaze Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hungary’s prime minister Viktor Orbán concedes, US President Donald Trump says America will launch a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after peace talks with Iran failed, and Wall Street banks are set to report trading revenues of more than $40bn for the first quarter. Plus, Meta is building an AI version of its CEO Mark Zuckerberg.  Mentioned in this podcast: Hungary’s Orbán concedes defeat as opposition heads for landslide win Trump announces naval blockade of Strait of Hormuz as Iran peace talks fail Fees for seas: a history of taxing waterways Wall Street banks set to report $40bn trading haul as war rekindles volatility Meta builds AI version of Mark Zuckerberg to interact with staff Credit: DWS News  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains at a standstill, sales of used electric vehicles are surging in the US, and the International Monetary Fund is warning that the war’s shocks will be felt by the global economy for a while. Plus, the FT’s Marton Dunai gives a rundown of the upcoming Hungarian elections.   Mentioned in this podcast: OECD urges governments to rapidly unwind costly fuel duty cuts Refineries rush to secure oil cargoes as Iran maintains grip on Hormuz Sales of used EVs surge in US as petrol prices pass $4 a gallon Who is Péter Magyar, Viktor Orbán’s nemesis? Donald Trump and JD Vance back Viktor Orbán ahead of Hungary’s election Credit: AP Archive, C-SPAN, Reuters  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Middle East ceasefire is strained, the FT’s Jamie Smyth explains how the uncertainty is hitting oil markets and Pakistan has become a mediator between the US and Iran. Plus, the data chief of the NHS has vowed to ignore controversy about Palantir while setting out plans to deeper embed the US company’s technology. Mentioned in this podcast: Middle East ceasefire under pressure over Israeli strikes on Lebanon Saudi Arabia’s key east-west oil pipeline hit as Middle East energy attacks continue Iran demands crypto fees for ships passing Hormuz during ceasefire White House pushed Pakistan to broker temporary Iran ceasefire NHS data chief pushes for deeper rollout of Palantir technology despite outcry Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump said he would “suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks” subject to Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz, hedge funds made record bets against European stocks, Turkey has sold or loaned out $20bn of gold since the outbreak of the Iran war, and a project for a German warship has turned into a defence procurement disaster. Plus, four astronauts made a historic trip around the Moon. Mentioned in this podcast: Middle East live blog Hedge funds make record bets against European stocks Europe’s rearmament meets reality: the story of a failed frigate project Turkey’s gold sales deepen bullion slump Artemis II astronauts head back to Earth after record-breaking Moon trip Credit: CNN, NBC New York  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US and Iran rejected each other’s peace proposals, EU officials are urging governments to avoid excessive support to offset surging energy prices, and the value of buyouts by private equity groups fell by more than a third in the first quarter of the year. Plus, Cuba is offsetting power blackouts and shortages with the help of soaring imports of solar technology from China. Mentioned in this podcast: US and Iran reject each other’s proposals to end war EU warns capitals against turning energy crunch into fiscal crisis Private equity buyouts slump as AI fears and war dent dealmaking Power-starved Cuba deepens reliance on Chinese solar tech Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a special edition of the FT News Briefing, reporter Guy Chazan explains the cost of US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. We hear from business owners and people affected by the policies in the Rio Grande Valley of south Texas. Mentioned in this podcast: The economic cost of Trump’s migrant crackdown Sources: White House, Fox, ABC Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig and produced by Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

America’s tariff regime affected all aspects of life from the global economy to the day-to-day of average business owners. In this special episode, the FT’s US Economics Editor Claire Jones explains what changed, and what didn’t, because of those tariffs.  Mentioned in this podcast: Listen to the rest of our Liberation Day series  Listen to Swamp Notes  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson.  Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Donald Trump fired US attorney-general Pam Bondi, and private credit investors are requesting their money back from Blue Owl Capital at an alarming rate. Plus, the FT’s Robert Armstrong continues our series on Trump’s tariffs with analysis of the Taco trade theory a year later.  Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump fires US attorney-general Pam Bondi Blue Owl struck by $5.4bn of redemption requests Taco trade theory and the US market’s surprise comeback Listen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series here Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump updated Americans on the war in Iran, and Chinese government bonds have sidestepped a global debt sell-off since the start of Washington’s conflict with Tehran. Plus, in part four of our tariff anniversary series, the FT’s Gideon Rachman explains how Trump’s tariffs reshaped the geopolitical landscape.  Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump offers mixed messages on war in Iran Chinese government bonds emerge as lone war haven Listen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series here Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann andD avid da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Foreign central banks have slashed their holdings of Treasuries at the New York Federal Reserve to the lowest level since 2012, and a preliminary estimate showed that Eurozone inflation jumped to 2.5 per cent in March. Plus, we hear from two small US business owners about how they have navigated a year of President Donald Trump’s tariffs.  Mentioned in this podcast: Foreign central banks sell US Treasuries in wake of Iran war The ECB’s three-pronged monetary strategy Trump tariff tracker: US trade, markets and the economy Listen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series here Chris Giles on Central Banks Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, Saffeya Ahmed, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Swiss lawmakers have assured senior UBS executives that they will water down stringent new rules and the Trump administration took its first step in opening the more than $10tn US retirement marketplace to private markets. Plus, as part of our series marking one year since so-called Liberation Day, the FT’s Stefania Palma explains the rocky legal future of US tariffs.  Mentioned in this podcast: Swiss lawmakers signal compromise on $22bn UBS capital plan Trump to take first steps in opening retirement funds to private markets The Supreme Court sends tariffs on a turbulent descent Listen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series here Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump has said he wants to ‘take the oil in Iran’ and could seize the export hub of Kharg Island. Uncertainty about what happens next in the war is sending nervousness through global markets. Plus, this week marks one year since President Trump’s so-called Liberation Day announcement. How has the global trade landscape changed since then? Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump says US could ‘take the oil in Iran’ Global markets recoil as Marco Rubio warns war in Iran could stretch for weeks US bond market shows signs of strain as Iran war sparks Treasury tumult How has the global economy changed since ‘liberation day’? Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig and produced by Nisha Patel and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Untold host Antonia Cundy uncovers the cultural and political influence of a controversial Catholic organisation in America. Opus Dei exists to help people get closer to God, but some members say they found other agendas – and unexpected harm – entangled in that spiritual mission. We meet Sarah – a young girl drawn to Opus Dei’s message that professional work can be a path to holiness. At 18, Sarah says goodbye to her family and moves into an Opus Dei centre to learn how to make her work an offering to God. But what she experiences there feels different to the organisation she thought she knew. Sarah chafes at unexpected rules, unquestioning obedience and dehumanising treatment. Subscribe and listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The United Arab Emirates has told allies that it would participate in a multinational maritime task force intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and Hong Kong is weighing tax cuts for asset managers. Plus, London has embraced a controversial form of energy production: burning rubbish.  Mentioned in this podcast: UAE pushes for international force to reopen Hormuz Hong Kong weighs ‘big bang’ tax cuts for asset managers ‘It’s good business’: how London became an ‘energy from waste’ capital Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Mischa Frankl-Duval, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iran’s top military leadership dismissed Donald Trump’s claims that the Islamic republic was ready to make a deal, the US president appears to make abrupt policy pivots based on swings in oil prices, and the EU’s trade commissioner says time is running out to stop the World Trade Organization from fading into irrelevance. Plus, how worried should investors be about the caps on redemptions at private credit funds? Mentioned in this podcast: Iran’s military leaders dismiss Donald Trump’s deal claims Iran war tests Donald Trump’s tolerance for ‘pain’ in oil market Meta and Google liable for social media harm to children’s mental health in landmark US case WTO risks sliding into irrelevance, EU trade commissioner warns Private credit’s game of footsie is getting riskier Ares limits withdrawals from $10.7bn private credit fund Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta and OpenAI will be among the first customers of Arm’s long-awaited new AI processor, the haven asset gold hasn’t been looking like its usual self, and Volkswagen is in talks to switch production at one its factories from cars to missile defence for Israel. Plus, Lebanon is worried Israel will push further into its southern region and occupy it.  Mentioned in this podcast: Arm launches own AI chip in high-stakes strategy shift Unhedged: Is gold an unsafe haven asset? Listen to the Unhedged podcast here VW to shift from cars to missile defence in deal with Israel’s Iron Dome maker The sum of all fears for Lebanon Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sources tell the FT that Pakistan is positioning itself as the lead mediator trying to broker an end to the US’s and Israel’s war against Iran, and the US ambassador to the EU says the bloc must implement its trade deal with the US or risk losing its “favourable” access to liquefied natural gas shipments from American exporters. Plus, carmakers are panic buying aluminium because of the Middle East conflict, and some Israeli opposition parties are being surprisingly hawkish on Iran. Mentioned in this podcast: Pakistan steps up as go-between in Trump’s Iran crisis US warns EU to pass trade deal or risk losing ‘favourable’ access to LNG Carmakers rush to secure aluminium as Middle East war hits supply Benjamin Netanyahu’s rivals compete to outdo him over Iran Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World Food Project warns millions more could be pushed into acute hunger if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Plus, energy executives meet in Houston as war in Iran rages, and China pitches itself as a “harbour of stability” to global CEOs. And Trump escalates his rhetoric on Cuba, raising fears of U.S.-Cuba confrontation. Mentioned in this podcast: Piles of wheat and canned food stuck in transit as Iran war disrupts aid Iran war is the greatest threat to global energy ‘in history’, warns IEA Canada’s oil producers in line for C$90bn windfall from Iran war  China touts itself as ‘harbour of stability’ amid Iran war  Cuba hit by second nationwide power outage in a week Credit: NBC Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Investors sounded the alarm on Thursday after a major Qatar gas facility took serious damage, and amateur traders are going wild for five-minute bets.  Mentioned in this podcast: ‘Armageddon scenario’ for gas markets as Qatar hit by missiles Five-minute bets are the new craze sweeping crypto markets Stocks and bonds tumble as investors price in ‘protracted energy shock’ CERAWeek conference Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US has relaxed sanctions on Venezuela’s state-owned oil group Petróleos de Venezuela and the Federal Reserve has stuck with plans to cut rates later this year. Plus, Walmart won patents to give algorithms more sway over prices and fears of an immediate escalation in the conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan have eased. Mentioned in this podcast: Federal Reserve chief Jay Powell says Iran oil crisis will worsen US inflation Pakistan and Afghanistan pause hostilities after Kabul hospital attack Walmart wins patents to give algorithms more sway over prices US relaxes sanctions on Venezuela’s PDVSA amid global energy squeeze Send us your tariff story: [email protected] Credit: Federal Reserve Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Fiona Symon and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The EU wants to make mergers a bit easier, Wall Street banks are offloading $18bn of debt tied to video game maker Electronic Arts, and investors are piling into cash at the fastest rate since the Covid-19 pandemic. Plus, the FT’s Ahmed Al Omran explains why Saudi Arabia’s recent truce with Iran has not paid off.  Mentioned in this podcast: EU weighs curbs on national powers to block mergers Banks prepare to offload $18bn in debt tied to EA take-private deal Investors pile into cash at fastest pace since pandemic on Iran fears How MBS’s bet on Iran backfired Send us your tariffs story: [email protected] Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello, and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT’s Gideon Rachman explains what the Strait of Hormuz’s closure means strategically for Iran, Italy’s UniCredit has launched a €35bn takeover offer for Commerzbank and China’s oil stockpile is put to the test as the strait remains closed. Plus, scientists have identified a potential new type of planet. Mentioned in this podcast: Why Hormuz will haunt us long after this war ends Biggest Nato allies reject Trump’s Hormuz armada demand UniCredit launches €35bn Commerzbank takeover offer Iran war tests Xi Jinping’s plan to build China’s stockpiles Hellish new planet identified beyond solar system Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Marc Filippino, Saffeya Ahmed, and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump warned Nato faces a “very bad” future if US allies fail to assist in opening up the Strait of Hormuz, and though oil prices have breached $100 per barrel, America’s shale producers aren’t celebrating. Plus, wealthy individuals have sought to pull more than $10bn from some of the largest private credit funds in the first quarter. And, what to expect from eight central bank meetings this week.  Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump warns Nato faces ‘very bad future’ if allies fail to help US in Iran EU ministers to discuss possible naval options for Strait of Hormuz Why America’s shale patch is not celebrating $100 oil Rich investors seek to pull billions from private credit funds  Iran war reawakens global inflation fears Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing Artificial intimacy from Tech Tonic. For the next episodes in this season go to the Tech Tonic feed. Calder Quinn has fallen into a relationship with a chatbot called Sara. She’s kind, emotionally intelligent and creatively inspiring. But how can he tell his wife he is having sex with an AI girlfriend? In the first episode of Artificial Intimacy we look at how people are developing romantic bonds with AI companions. What does it feel like to be in love with AI? What impact could it have on human relationships? Could it replace them altogether?  Host Cristina Criddle speaks to Giada Pistilli, an AI ethicist who now works at Mistral; Calder Quinn, writer at ‘AI, But Make It Intimate’; Amelia Quinn, Calder’s wife; and Alaina Winters, professor emeritus of communication who publishes on meandmyaihusband.com. Presented by Cristina Criddle, produced by Persis Love and Edwin Lane. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Breen Turner and Sam Giovinco.  We used ElevenLabs to create Sara’s voice. All other voices are real. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gulf oil producers have lost billions of dollars in energy revenues since the start of the US-Iran war, but there is one country benefiting: Russia. It is earning as much as $150mn a day in extra budget revenues from its oil sales. Plus, the FT’s defence and security correspondent Charles Clover explains what may come next in the conflict.  Mentioned in this podcast: Gulf states lose $15bn in energy revenues since start of war Iran’s new supreme leader vows to keep Strait of Hormuz closed ‘Sitting ducks’: oil tankers trapped in Gulf as Iran widens attacks on shipping Russia rakes in $150mn a day in extra revenue from surging oil prices Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The International Energy Agency has launched the largest release of strategic oil reserves in its history, investors have sought shelter from the turmoil of the war in Iran in US tech stocks and US inflation held steady at 2.4 per cent in February. Plus, the war has threatened the Indian economy’s “Goldilocks” combination of strong growth and low inflation.  Mentioned in this podcast: IEA releases record oil reserves to counter Iran war energy shock Investors seek shelter from Iran war in US tech stocks US inflation holds steady at 2.4% in February Iran war threatens India’s ‘Goldilocks’ economy The ‘number station’ sending mystery messages to Iran Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oracle’s shares climbed 9 per cent on Tuesday after the database group posted better than expected earnings, and we discuss how American businesses are navigating soaring energy prices. Plus, the higher costs to insure tankers traversing the Strait of Hormuz, and the FT’s Antoine Gara explains why investors are ditching private credit funds.   Mentioned in this podcast: Oracle shares rally on strong revenue forecast from AI data centres Soaring fuel prices expected to cast long shadow across US economy Lloyd’s of London says it will still insure ‘basically anyone’ in the Gulf Investors ditch private credit funds on rising worries over bad loans Retail investors shun private credit funds after Blue Owl gating Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The price of oil fell sharply, and we’ll take a look at why the US and Israel are avoiding an attack on Iran’s Kharg Island. Plus, the FT’s George Hammond explains what the tenuous relationship between the Pentagon and Anthropic might mean for the AI start-up.  Mentioned in this podcast: G7 ‘stands ready’ to release emergency oil reserves Anthropic sues the Pentagon over being declared a ‘supply chain risk’ Gilt market slump deepens as traders bet on Bank of England rate rise Kharg Island: Iran’s oil lifeline that Donald Trump has left untouched Webinar: War in the Middle East: What’s the End game?  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michela Tindera, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iran names Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the new supreme leader. Plus, global central bankers are eying the jump in crude prices and the impact on inflation, and Gulf businesses seek more insurance coverage as the war in Iran continues. And, fears of food price spikes are growing. Mentioned in this podcast: Mojtaba Khamenei becomes Iran’s supreme leader Oil surges past $100 a barrel for the first time in four years Qatar warns war will force Gulf to stop energy exports ‘within days’ Iran war muddles expectations of likely Federal Reserve interest rate cuts Fertiliser disruption from Iran conflict prompts global food shortage warnings Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As insurance costs rocket for shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, Asian countries brace for an energy shock. The rapid expansion of American-owned data centres in the Middle East has opened up a new front for Iran’s retaliation against the US. Plus, Donald Trump fires the head of the US Department of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, and the FT’s Joshua Franklin explains what JPMorgan wants with an historic New York City hotel.  Mentioned in this podcast: Industry casts doubt on Trump plan to insure Gulf oil tankers as Iran war halts transit Asia’s big economies brace for Iran war energy shock  Donald Trump fires controversial homeland security secretary Kristi Noem Pakistan thwarts JPMorgan’s efforts to buy historic New York hotel Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel expects war against Iran to last weeks and Ayatollah Khamenei’s son emerges as a leading candidate for supreme leader. Plus, the Federal Reserve grants crypto exchange Kraken access to its core payments system, inside the collapse of UK property lender Market Financial Solutions, and US Treasury secretary Scott Bessent says the new 15% tariff rate could start this week.  Mentioned in this podcast: Ali Khamenei’s son Mojtaba emerges as a leading candidate for supreme leader of Iran Gulf insurance costs soar 12-fold despite Trump guarantee Federal Reserve grants Kraken access to payments system in first for crypto group Collapse of UK property lender sends shockwaves through Wall Street Scott Bessent says 15% global tariff ‘likely’ to be imposed this week Send your tariffs stories to [email protected] Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Henry Larson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gas prices have soared on the back of the war in the Middle East, and US president Donald Trump criticised some European nations for not being helpful in the conflict. Plus, the ongoing crisis is disrupting precious-metals trade, and China will unveil its five-year plan during the National People’s Congress meeting on Thursday.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump threatens to cut trade with ‘terrible’ Spain and calls Starmer ‘no Churchill’ China’s cadres advocate end to overtime to encourage people to have families Brussels urges calm as Iran crisis sends European gas prices soaring Gold and silver flows disrupted as Iran conflict grounds flights Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investors turned to gold and the US dollar in the wake of the Iran conflict, and Gulf states are panicking as Iran targets them in retaliatory strikes. Plus,can the US economy handle the surging oil prices caused by the attacks?  Mentioned in this podcast: What will war in Iran do to the global economy? Panic in the Gulf as Iran lashes out at US allies What will be in Rachel Reeves’ spring outlook for the UK economy? Investors turn to gold, not bonds, as haven from war in Iran Hedge funds rethink emerging market bets after US-Israel strikes on Iran Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Nisha Patel. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The world is reeling after the US and Israel struck Iran over the weekend. The FT’s Najmeh Bozorgmehr details the situation on the ground in Tehran. Then we explore how the renewed conflict affects the United States and the Middle East. Plus, the FT’s Malcolm Moore explains the potential implications for the oil market and the global economy.  Mentioned in this podcast: What will war in Iran do to the global economy? Tehran: a city at war Oil jumps as Donald Trump vows to continue striking Iran Insurers to cancel policies and raise prices for ships in Gulf and Strait of Hormuz Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, 1939-2026 After Khamenei, who rules Iran? Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig and edited by Marc Filippino. It was produced by Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paramount Skydance is poised to triumph in its bid to buy Warner Bros Discovery after Netflix said it would not boost its offer, tech companies are increasingly turning to loans backed by the chips on which their large language models are trained and the FT’s George Steer explains how Wall Street is hedging against the tech stock sell-off . Plus, Berkshire Hathaway’s new chief executive will send his first letter to investors on Saturday.  Mentioned in this podcast: Paramount poised to clinch Warner Bros deal after Netflix walks away Tech groups turn to more chip-backed loans to fund AI arms race Wall Street turns to complex trades to dodge AI ‘implosions’ Warren Buffett hands over Berkshire Hathaway’s reins to Greg Abel Behind the Money podcast: Berkshire after Buffett Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michela Tindera, Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nvidia beat Wall Street’s estimates on Wednesday as the company continued to benefit from the boom in AI infrastructure, and HSBC is on track to deliver cost savings earlier than planned. Plus, Iran looks to tempt US President Donald Trump with investments in order to stave off war, and the FT’s Robert Smith explains how Deutsche Bank rolled out the red carpet for Jeffrey Epstein.  Mentioned in this podcast: Nvidia rallies on robust earnings powered by AI investment boom HSBC shares hit record as bank accelerates cost savings and lifts target Iran to offer ‘commercial bonanza’ to US companies How Deutsche Bank rolled out the red carpet for Jeffrey Epstein Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union address last night, Europe’s largest investment banks delivered their highest trading revenues in at least a decade in 2025, and UK self-driving start-up Wayve has raised $1.2bn in new funding. Plus, people are returning to Afghanistan in droves, but there are questions over whether the country can support this massive influx. Mentioned in this podcast: European traders celebrate decade-beating performance UK AI start-up Wayve raises $1.2bn from carmakers and Big Tech Millions of people are returning to Taliban-run Afghanistan Find a discounted subscription to FT.com here: ft.com/briefingsale Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US software stocks were hit with a fresh burst of selling on Monday as investors fretted that AI will upend the industry, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz heads to China this week to discuss trade. Plus, the FT’s Ben Hall explains where things stand in the Ukraine war four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion. Mentioned in this podcast: US software and private capital shares hit with fresh wave of selling What Friedrich Merz is going to tell Xi Jinping Volodymyr Zelenskyy urges Donald Trump to see through Russia’s ‘games’ Find a discounted digital subscription here: ft.com/briefingsale Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michela Tindera, Gavin Kallmann, and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US Supreme Court’s decision to strike down President Donald Trump’s use of emergency tariff powers is raising questions about existing trade deals, federal revenues, and the impact to American business. Plus, how JPMorgan chief executive Jamie Dimon is preparing to spend a record $2bn a week. Mentioned in this podcast: Trump’s new flat-rate tariff will boost China and Brazil What does Trump’s latest tariff threat mean for his previous trade pacts? Corporate America demands refunds after Donald Trump’s tariffs are struck down Donald Trump’s tariffs send corporate America’s import costs spiralling US banks enjoyed record profits of $300bn in 2025 Dimon seeks to sell JPMorgan investors on $2bn-a-week costs bill  FT News Briefing subscription sale Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Chait is the CEO of Greenhouse, a hiring platform. He told us his tips for hiring managers, a couple of unethical uses of AI in hiring and whether or not this job market is worse than the one during the global financial crisis. Mentioned in this podcast: The great graduate job drought Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts.  This episode was hosted by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson. It was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz and the FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump says the next 10 days will decide if the US strikes Iran or does a deal with the Islamic republic. Plus, the FT’s Anjli Raval explains just how bad the job market is for new graduates, and hiring platform Greenhouse’s CEO tells us his solutions.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump says he will decide in next 10 days if US will strike Iran The great graduate job drought  Find a discounted digital subscription here: ft.com/briefingsale Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts.  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

JPMorgan Chase is in talks to provide banking services to US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, and investors have warned that loosening the UK’s borrowing limits to fund more spending on defence would risk a bond market backlash and a self-defeating rise in borrowing costs. Plus, the White House says the New York Fed should be disciplined for a recent report, and a former investment banker is suing over her right to get eight hours of sleep per night.  Mentioned in this podcast: JPMorgan in talks to bank for Trump’s Board of Peace Gilt investors warn about ‘ruse’ to fund higher UK defence spending Trump adviser says New York Fed economists should be ‘disciplined’ for publishing study on tariffs Can bankers be fired for demanding sleep? A US court will decide FT News Briefing subscription sale Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta has agreed to spend billions of dollars on millions of Nvidia’s chips, and Warner Bros Discovery has reopened sale talks with Paramount. Plus, Christine Lagarde has decided to leave her post as president of the European Central Bank early, and US offshore wind companies are racing to bring projects online that can withstand Donald Trump’s efforts to cripple the industry.  Mentioned in this podcast: Nvidia secures multibillion-dollar Meta deal as it battles chip rivals Warner Bros throws ownership battle open by giving Paramount a week to up its offer US offshore wind farms try to withstand the force of Trump’s wrath Christine Lagarde to leave the ECB before April 2027 US restaurants downsize meals to counter anti-obesity drugs and affordability crisis Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán lashed out at Ukraine at a meeting with US secretary of state Marco Rubio in Budapest. Fund managers are betting against the US dollar. Shareholders push oil companies to accelerate growth. Plus, a new top contender in the FT’s business school ranking. Mentioned in this podcast: Marco Rubio says Viktor Orbán’s leadership is ‘essential’ to US interests MIT Sloan tops FT Global MBA Ranking for the first time Fund managers take most bearish stance on dollar for a decade Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Josh Gabert Doyon, and produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Executive producer Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cross-border EU banking deals reached their highest level since the 2008 financial crisis, and regulation reversals are hitting global electric-vehicle makers. Plus, soaring gold prices are affecting insurance coverage for precious metals storage, and how to make sense of recent AI-induced selloffs on Wall Street. Mentioned in this podcast: EU cross-border banking deals jump to highest since 2008 crisis End of EV euphoria triggers $65bn hit for carmakers Soaring gold price forces vaults to reduce insurance cover Wall Street hunts next casualty from AI threat to white-collar work Wall Street’s anything-but-tech trade shakes up US stock market Credit: White House Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the most watched business in the world. And the least understood. Streamed by millions every day, porn is everywhere. It shapes our culture, our relationships and even technology. Yet, nobody seems to know who really controls the business. The power brokers tend to lurk in the shadows, while their performers remain quite literally exposed.  In the new audiobook The Kink Machine: The Hidden Business of Adult Entertainment, from Pushkin Industries and the Financial Times, Financial Times journalists Patricia Nilsson and Alex Barker start digging into the porn industry and following where the money flows. Their reporting uncovers a shadowy power structure that includes billionaires, tech geniuses and the most powerful finance companies in the world. A gripping exposé of how power operates behind the most taboo corner of the internet, Nilsson and Barker unravel a story about control, influence and an industry with staggering cultural reach that no one really wants to talk about — until now. Here’s a preview of The Kink Machine. If you like what you hear, get The Kink Machine on Audible, Spotify, Pushkin.fm, or wherever you get audiobooks.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump administration plans to roll back some tariffs, Schroders agrees to a US takeover, and Americans paid 90 per cent of the cost of US President Trump’s tariffs last year. Plus, Goldman Sachs’ top lawyer will depart the company over Epstein ties, and how to buy a law firm when you’re not really allowed to. Mentioned in this podcast: Trump plans to roll back tariffs on metal and aluminium goods Schroders boss reassured UK Treasury ahead of £9.9bn US takeover Alphaville’s annotated thoughts on the Schroders takeover US businesses and consumers pay 90% of tariff costs, New York Fed says Top Goldman Sachs lawyer Kathy Ruemmler to resign over Epstein links How to buy a law firm if you’re not allowed to buy a law firm Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Fiona Symon and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US economy added 130,000 jobs in January, beating market expectations, and documents appear to contradict testimony Jes Staley gave about his involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. Plus, Bangladesh is holding its first elections since 2024's mass uprising.  Mentioned in this podcast: Epstein trustee document contradicts Jes Staley testimony US economy far outstrips expectations to add 130,000 jobs in January After 17 years in exile, dynastic heir looks to lead Bangladesh Find the latest season of Tech Tonic here: https://www.ft.com/tech-tonic Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick said he visited Jeffrey Epstein’s island with his family in late 2012, Cuba is struggling under the US fuel embargo, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is planning for elections in the spring. Plus, the FT’s Camilla Paladino says oil major BP isn’t getting enough credit for its turnaround. Mentioned in this podcast: Howard Lutnick says he visited Jeffrey Epstein’s island in 2012 Zelenskyy plans spring elections alongside referendum on peace deal BP isn’t getting enough credit for its turnaround BP becomes first oil major to suspend share buyback plan Cuba runs out of jet fuel as Donald Trump squeezes oil supplies Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gilts rebounded from earlier losses on Monday afternoon, and Novo Nordisk is suing US telehealth company Hims & Hers over ‘knock-off’ versions of its weight-loss drugs. Plus, France’s central bank chief is stepping down early, and US senators are pushing proposals to lift bank deposit insurance limits to avoid another Silicon Valley Bank debacle.  Mentioned in this podcast: Gilts stabilise after cabinet voices support for Keir Starmer Novo Nordisk sues Hims & Hers over copycat weight-loss drugs Novo Nordisk faces more gloom from price cuts in crowded anti-obesity drugs market French central bank governor to step down early Can the US crack the formula for ending bank runs? Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s chief of staff resigned amid controversy over the Mandelson scandal, and Japan’s conservative governing party have won a landslide victory in snap elections. Plus, top academics have dismissed Federal Reserve chair Kevin Warsh’s claim that an AI-induced productivity boom will create room for interest rate cuts. And, Syria has struck a deal that would give them control over major oil and gas fields offering a potential boost to its fragile economy.  Mentioned in this podcast: Starmer battles to stay in Number 10 after dramatic exit of McSweeney Sanae Takaichi’s LDP wins supermajority in Japan election Economists reject Kevin Warsh’s claim that AI boom will enable rate cuts Syria courts energy majors as it takes control of oilfields Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amazon’s new AI spending blitz sent shares tumbling, chipmakers got swept up in a wider tech equities sell-off, Sir Keir Starmer has apologised to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein for appointing Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the US, and American snack companies are lowering prices ahead of the Super Bowl. Plus, can Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi win this weekend’s election on star power alone?  Mentioned in this podcast: Amazon stock slumps as it prepares $200bn AI spending blitz Arm CEO says AI software sell-off is ‘micro-hysteria’ Nvidia AI chip sales to China stalled by US security review Keir Starmer apologises to victims of Jeffrey Epstein Food and drink companies suffer as US shopper sentiment sinks Can Sanae Takaichi govern Japan on star power alone? Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google said it plans to spend at least $55bn more on capital expenditure this year than Wall Street had forecast, US tech stocks were hit by a fresh wave of selling on Wednesday, and the FT’s Chris Cook talks about the challenges of unpacking millions of documents on Jefferey Epstein. Plus, OpenAI senior staff are leaving because the company is prioritising ChatGPT.  Mentioned in this podcast: Google adds $55bn to capex plans as it boosts AI spending US tech stocks hit with fresh wave of selling as chipmaker AMD tumbles Police launch criminal investigation into Mandelson over Epstein scandal OpenAI’s ChatGPT push triggers senior staff exits Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Credit: NBC News Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US tech stocks fell on Tuesday over AI concerns, Elon Musk is charting a new path for his “Muskverse” of companies, and the US military shot down an Iranian drone as Middle East tensions escalate. Plus, domestic energy companies in Argentina have benefitted from the country’s volatile economy, and Peter Mandelson is no longer a member of the House of Lords after Epstein scandal revelations. Mentioned in this podcast: US stocks drop on fears AI will hit software and analytics groups Tesla lurches into the Musk robotics era SpaceX buys xAI in $1.25tn deal to unite crucial parts of Elon Musk’s empire US shoots down Iranian drone as Middle East tensions escalate Police launch criminal investigation into Mandelson over Epstein scandal Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

France has adopted a deficit-cutting budget for 2026 after months of political wrangling, and the FT’s Christopher Grimes tells us about the front runner to be Disney’s next CEO. Plus, US President Donald Trump said he had struck a trade deal with India, and Société Générale is European banking’s latest comeback kid.  Mentioned in this podcast: France adopts budget after premier survives no-confidence vote Disney warns of hit to US theme parks as foreign tourist numbers fall Trump to slash India tariffs after Modi ‘agrees’ to stop buying Russian oil How SocGen dragged itself back from the brink Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Europe’s largest oil companies are poised to curb share buybacks, and Kevin Warsh’s nomination to Fed chair could spark a rethink of how America’s central bank works. Plus, consumer giants deal with backlash over contaminated baby formula. And, a rollercoaster in precious metals prices triggers ‘pandemonium’ in New York’s Diamond District. Mentioned in this podcast: Europe’s oil majors prepare to cut billions in shareholder payouts Kevin Warsh’s nomination as Fed chair to spark rethink of bank’s role Nestlé and Danone hit by backlash over contaminated baby formula Gold and silver tumult triggers ‘pandemonium’ in New York’s Diamond District Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Fiona Symon and Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple reported a blockbuster rise in revenue last quarter, and Blackstone is preparing to take a series of long-held investments public. Plus, Canada’s oil industry is thriving as it pushes into Asian markets. Plus, some US oil majors are reporting earnings, which could give us a window into whether they're preparing to invest in Venezuela. Mentioned in this podcast: Apple hails ‘remarkable’ $144bn quarter with best-ever iPhone sales Blackstone lines up ‘one of largest IPO pipelines in history’ Canada’s oil industry thrives as sales to China soar Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tesla on Wednesday reported its first-ever fall in annual revenue, Donald Trump has warned Iran that “time is running out” to reach a deal to avert US military action, and the Federal Reserve kept interest rates on hold. Plus, the world’s biggest mining companies have added close to half a trillion dollars to their valuations this year, triggered by heightened geopolitical tensions. Mentioned in this podcast: Tesla trims car line up in pivot to AI as annual revenue falls for first time Federal Reserve signals no rush to cut interest rates as US economy powers ahead Trump warns Iran ‘time is running out’ for deal to avert US military action Metals surge boosts value of mining groups by almost $500bn Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US health insurance stocks plunged yesterday, and New Delhi and Brussels have agreed a trade deal that will eliminate up to €4bn of tariffs on EU exports. Plus, Nato is increasing its military presence in the Arctic to counter Russia.  Mentioned in this podcast: US health insurer stocks plummet on Trump Medicare spending plan EU and India seal trade pact to slash €4bn of tariffs on bloc’s exports How Nato is preparing for war in the Arctic Send your voice memos about your post graduate job search to: [email protected] Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson and edited by Marc Filippino. It was produced by Fiona Symon and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump administration has linked security guarantees for Ukraine to Kyiv ceding the Donbas region to Russia, and there’s speculation that the US and Japan could be working together to support the yen. Plus, Israel’s military announced it had retrieved the remains of the last hostage from the Gaza Strip, and Big Tech companies are on track to dominate borrowing in the US bond market. Mentioned in this podcast: US links security guarantees for Ukraine to peace deal ceding territory Dollar sinks to 4-month low and gold soars past $5,000 as yen leaps Israel retrieves remains of last hostage in Gaza Big Tech’s borrowing spree raises US bond market fears Send your voice memos to: [email protected] Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Clare Williamson and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump administration’s immigration enforcement agency faces growing backlash after federal agents fatally shot a second protester in two weeks, and Trump teases his pick for the US’s next Federal Reserve chair. Plus, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer goes on the charm offensive in Beijing, and why the US is investing in rare-earths companies. Mentioned in this podcast: Trump faces growing backlash against immigration crackdown after shooting BlackRock’s Rick Rieder surges ahead in race to chair Federal Reserve Keir Starmer prepares for his Chinese charm offensive US to invest $1.6bn into rare earths group in bid to shore up key minerals Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Intel shares slide 12 per cent as supply constraints limit growth, and Trump’s “Board of Peace” is dividing the US’s allies. Plus, Iran’s government is seizing properties and businesses after protests rocked the country, and Victoria Craig unpacks next week’s meeting of the Federal Reserve.  Mentioned in this podcast: Intel shares slide 12 per cent as supply constraints limit growth  Iran seizes properties and businesses in crackdown after unrest Who wants to join Donald Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’? Fed chair gender reveal post Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson, Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump has dropped his tariff threat on Greenland, and the FT’s Derek Brower explains how Trump has navigated the World Economic Forum in Davos. Plus, EU lawmakers have postponed the ratification of a trade deal with the Mercosur group of South American economies, and US Supreme Court justices appeared sceptical of Donald Trump’s efforts to sack Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook. Mentioned in this podcast: Greenland latest: Trump rules out using force but calls for ‘immediate negotiations’ Trump’s Greenland pivot puts Europe in a bind Howard Lutnick heckled at Davos dinner as Christine Lagarde walks out EU lawmakers vote to delay Mercosur trade pact over legal concerns Supreme Court justices express scepticism over Donald Trump’s attempt to sack Fed’s Lisa Cook Berkshire Hathaway considers selling $7.7bn stake in Kraft Heinz Credit: World Economic Forum, Supreme Court of The United States Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US equities and the dollar fell in response to transatlantic tension over Greenland, and the FT’s Robin Wigglesworth breaks down the idea of Europe leveraging its US Treasuries to influence President Donald Trump. Plus, Netflix said that the entertainment industry remains “intensely competitive”, and China is selling drone components to Russia and Ukraine.  Mentioned in this podcast: Dollar and US stocks fall as Trump says ‘no going back’ on Greenland bid Could Europe really leverage its $12.6tn pile of US assets? Netflix highlights industry competition as it seeks Warner Bros deal approval The Chinese suppliers that could decide the drone war in Ukraine Credit: Reuters Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China has registered its lowest number of births since records began. European governments weigh up options to bring down the high cost of their state pensions? Saudi Arabian banks borrow at record pace. Plus, Chinese EV carmakers have their eyes on the UK. Mentioned in this podcast: China registers lowest number of births since records began China’s GDP grows 5% in 2025 as exports offset weak domestic outlook Can Europe still afford its generous state pensions? Josh Gabert Doyon: https://www.ft.com/josh-gabert-doyon Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Josh Gabert Doyon, and produced by Clare Williamson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Europe considers retaliation measures to US President Donald Trump’s tariff threat to NATO allies that oppose his Greenland-takeover bid, Denmark seeks to bolster its own relationship with the Arctic island. Plus, the US capture of Venezuela’s president has boosted demand for Latin America political risk cover. And, geopolitics is the topic du jour at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Mentioned in this podcast: EU readies €93bn tariffs in retaliation for Trump’s Greenland threat Denmark’s development bank has ‘huge appetite’ to invest in Greenland, CEO says Nicolás Maduro ousting boosts demand for Latin America political risk cover Behind the Money podcast: Davos’ fight for relevance  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Credit: NBC, White House, World Economic Forum Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The EU is proposing a new way to allow Ukraine to join the bloc, and it was the best year for US investment banks since 2021. Plus, a look into the iron ore market and the role China is playing in it, and a preview of the World Economic Forum in Davos.  Mentioned in this podcast: EU ‘membership-lite’ plan for Ukraine spooks European capitals Jamie Dimon warns Trump administration’s attacks on Fed could boost inflation China’s state iron ore buyer flexes muscles in talks with global miners Behind the Money podcast: Davos’ fight for relevance  FT subscription sale here. Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval, Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump has not ruled out military action in Iran and Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to call a snap general election. Plus, Donald Trump’s “unpredictable” policies have prompted bond giant Pimco to diversify away from US assets, and US banks push back against Trump’s credit card cap plans.  Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump says he has received assurances ‘killing in Iran is stopping’ Japan’s Sanae Takaichi to call snap election Donald Trump’s ‘unpredictable’ policies to fuel multiyear shift from US, Pimco says Wall Street hits back at Trump credit card cap plans FT subscription sale   Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two former senior executives at the collapsed subprime car lender Tricolor Holdings pleaded not guilty to fraud and financial crime charges, and Microsoft is pledging to “pay its way” for its AI data centres. Plus, US inflation stayed at 2.7 per cent in December, and we’ll talk about what Balderton Capital’s early investment in Revolut can teach us about venture capital investment.  Mentioned in this podcast: Tricolor executives plead not guilty to charges stemming from collapse Microsoft vows to ‘pay its way’ as it seeks to defuse data centre backlash US inflation stays at 2.7% in December Billions from a million: the London VC that hit the jackpot with Revolut FT subscription sale   Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello and Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UBS chief executive Sergio Ermotti is planning to step down in April 2027, and Paramount threatened a proxy fight in its latest move to force Warner Bros Discovery back to the negotiating table. Plus, the FT’s Robert Armstrong explains what could come next in US President Donald Trump’s crackdown on the Federal Reserve.  Mentioned in this podcast: UBS boss Sergio Ermotti plans to step down in April 2027 Paramount threatens proxy fight in battle for Warner Bros Discovery What is behind the criminal investigation into Jay Powell? Former Fed chiefs attack DoJ probe into Jay Powell FT subscription sale   Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US federal prosecutors opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell, and civil unrest continues to threaten the Islamic regime in Iran. Plus, earnings season kicks off this week with the bank results. Mentioned in this podcast: US prosecutors investigate Jay Powell over revamp of Fed headquarters Iran warns US against intervention Wall Street headed for best investment banking year since pandemic FT subscription sale Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster and Marc Filippino and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s executive producer is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Source: Federal Reserve, White House Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a repeat of an episode published on Swamp Notes, a sister podcast of the FT News Briefing on January 9, 2026. Subscribe to Swamp Notes on Apple, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen. After a military operation to capture Venezuela's leader, the Trump administration is seeking influence over other regions across the western hemisphere. The FT’s national editor Edward Luce and US-Europe foreign affairs correspondent Amy Mackinnon share their insights on how Trump and his cabinet have come to embrace the idea of foreign intervention. Mentioned in this podcast: Trump really wants Greenland US says using military is among ‘options’ to acquire Greenland How the US’s audacious operation to capture Nicolás Maduro unfolded Sign up for the FT’s Swamp Notes newsletter here Swamp Notes is hosted by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson. This week’s show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Special thanks to Pierre Nicholson.  The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts. CREDIT: Roll Call, CNN, Democracy Now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Glencore and Rio Tinto resume mining megamerger talks, protests in Iran over economic conditions are the largest in years, and the US trade deficit narrowed to its lowest level since 2009. Plus, is there a right way for chief executives to exit a company?  Mentioned in this podcast: Glencore and Rio Tinto resume talks on mining megadeal Iran protests spread to neglected hinterlands US trade deficit slides to lowest level since 2009 in October Art of the exit: is there a right way for CEOs to quit? CREDIT: Reuters  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US wants to control Venezuelan oil sales ‘indefinitely’ but the ‘catastrophic’ state of the Latin American nation’s crude facilities presents several hurdles. Plus, President Donald Trump banned institutional investors from buying single-family homes, and the UK and France pledged to deploy troops to Ukraine as part of sweeping US-backed security guarantees. Mentioned in this podcast: US seeks to control sales of Venezuelan oil ‘indefinitely’ The ‘catastrophic’ state of Venezuela’s oil facilities Donald Trump moves to ban institutional investors from buying single-family homes France and UK commit to deploying troops under proposed Ukraine peace deal Credit: CNBC Television Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leading asset managers are positioning for a sharp sell-off in US technology stocks, Venezuela’s government has launched a crackdown after the US captured Nicolás Maduro, and the Trump administration is meeting with executives from US oil majors to discuss its strategy for Venezuela. Plus, the FT’s Joe Leahy explains how US involvement in Venezuela could affect China.  Mentioned in this podcast: Fund managers prepare for ‘reckoning’ in US tech sector Venezuela launches wave of repression after US seizure of Nicolás Maduro US oil tankers sail towards Venezuela as risk of production ‘collapse’ looms China’s influence in US backyard tested by Nicolás Maduro’s downfall Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts    Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello.The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ousted Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro pleaded not guilty to narco trafficking charges, and smaller private investors are eager to invest in Venezuelan oil. Plus, Chinese carmarkers are expected to increase exports this year, and we’ll look at how south-east Asia has been riding out Trump’s tariff storm.  Mentioned in this podcast: Maduro pleads not guilty to drug-trafficking charges in New York court What is Trump’s plan for Venezuelan oil? Ex-Chevron executive seeks $2bn for Venezuelan oil projects Chinese car exports set to jump as domestic sales cool How south-east Asia is riding out Trump’s tariff storm Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Kaye Wiggins, Gavin Kallmann, and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump has warned Venezuela’s defacto leader she must meet America’s demands following Nicolas Maduro’s capture. We explore what Trump hopes to achieve in the Latin American country, and the challenges ahead for its people and resource-rich oil industry.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump topples Maduro and vows to ‘run’ Venezuela in stark display of US power Donald Trump warns Venezuelan rulers as Washington prepares to dictate policy Washington plans to put oil at the heart of Venezuela’s future Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig and produced by Julia Webster and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Emily Goldberg. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Source: White House, NBC, CNN Espanol Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Financial Times columnist Gillian Tett predicted that the Magnificent 7 tech stocks were not going to fall, but they wouldn’t ride a lot higher either in 2025. What actually happened was a bit of a mixed bag, and Gillian says that sets these companies up for diverging paths in 2026. The era of an artificial intelligence tide lifting all boats seems to be drawing to an end.  Mentioned in this podcast: Forecasting the World in 2025  Forecasting the world in 2026 Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Victoria Craig and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Europe’s banking industry could shed 10 per cent of its workforce by 2030. Plus, the FT’s US national editor and columnist Edward Luce predicted America’s president would not fall out with one-time “first buddy”, billionaire Elon Musk in 2025. He explains why they could form a new kind of alliance in 2026.   Mentioned in this podcast: AI forecast to put 200,000 European banking jobs at risk by 2030 Forecasting the World in 2025  Forecasting the world in 2026 Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippinio. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Credits: The White House, Fox News, CBS, AP Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT’s Europe editor Ben Hall thought there would be a Ukraine peace deal in 2025. Despite lots of back and forth over ceasefire proposals, an agreement has yet to materialise. The negotiations reveal a lot about the relationship between the west and Russia. Can the countries come to an agreement in 2026? Mentioned in this podcast: Forecasting the World in 2025  Volodymyr Zelenskyy calls for 50-year US security guarantee for Ukraine Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Victoria Craig and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump hosted Ukraine’s leader at Mar-a-Lago for high-stakes peace talks but failed to reach a breakthrough. Plus, FT markets columnist Katie Martin predicted that in 2025, the bond market would creak but not break. She explains why it held up and whether that will continue in 2026.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump and Zelenskyy talks fail to deliver breakthrough on Ukraine peace deal Forecasting the World in 2025  Unhedged podcast Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippinio. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Adam Samson and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Credit: White House Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What went right in 2025? What could go wrong in 2026? Recorded for the FT’s digital conference The Global Boardroom, Katie Martin and Rob Armstrong talk with Ian Smith, the FT’s senior markets correspondent, about the incredible resilience of the US stock market, and the challenges ahead. Also, they go long boring companies and short KPop Demon Hunters.  Subscribe to Unhedged to hear more. For a free 30-day trial to the Unhedged newsletter go to: https://www.ft.com/unhedgedoffer. You can email Robert Armstrong and Katie Martin at [email protected]. This is a repeat of an episode published on Unhedged, a sister podcast of The FT News Briefing, on Dec. 11, 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The French pioneer of European integration Jean Monnet believed that Europe would be ‘built in crisis’. The war in Ukraine is putting this theory to the test, once again. Gideon discusses with historian Timothy Garton Ash how European leaders are responding to this latest crisis after the brief ‘holiday from history’ that followed the fall of the Berlin Wall.  Subscribe to The Rachman Review. Clip: ITV Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  This is a repeat of an episode published on The Rachman Review, a sister podcast of the FT News Briefing, on Nov. 20, 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When international private equity groups first entered Japan at the turn of the 21st century, newspapers criticised them as vulture funds and politicians steered clear of public contact. Today, it’s a different story. Dozens of buyout groups have set up in the country and the establishment is courting them. The FT’s Tokyo correspondent David Keohane and Tokyo bureau chief Leo Lewis explain why there’s been a shift, and how private equity’s presence may rejuvenate Japanese corporates. Clips from Toho The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts. This is a repeat of an episode published on Behind The Money, a sister podcast of FT News Briefing, on November 26, 2025. Follow Behind the Money on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts or Spotify. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is an episode of Political Fix, the FT weekly podcast that takes you into the corridors of Westminster to unwrap, analyse and debate British politics with a regular panel of FT correspondents. It’s been another turbulent year in UK politics. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has faced down rebellions from within his own party, overseen scandals and sackings, and delivered a constant barrage of bad news from health and housing to small boats and the Budget. He’s fared a little better on the world stage – with successful state visits, securing a comparatively competitive trade deal with Trump, as well as a tentative rapprochement with Europe. But with every international success, Starmer’s standing domestically seems to diminish: he ends the year, on some measures, as the most unpopular PM ever. In this special live episode of Political Fix, host George Parker is joined by Anna Gross, Stephen Bush and Chris Giles to analyse how the Labour party got here – and where it goes next. This is a repeat of an episode published on Political Fix, a sister podcast of FT News Briefing, on December 12, 2025 To listen and subscribe to more episodes, find Political Fix on your favourite platform by clicking here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How much do we really know about ageing? For decades, scientists have been trying to understand the biology of the ageing process - what happens to our bodies as we get older? And is it possible to slow that process down or even stop it all together? In this series of Tech Tonic, the FT’s Hannah Kuchler and Michael Peel look into the past, present and future of longevity - the wellness movement focused on extending and bettering your quality of life. Episode 1 follows Hannah as she speaks with UCL professor David Gems about the history of ageing research, and then with longevity researcher Matt Kaeberlein to discuss how the industry has developed - including current drugs that could have anti-ageing effects. Plus, Michael visits the Reviv clinic in London where he experiences, first hand, the growing consumer interest in the longevity craze.  To listen to the rest of the series, find Tech Tonic on your favourite podcast platform by clicking here! Clips: @DaveAspreyBPR, @drjoshaxe, @HealthCoachKait, Hevolution, Pom, Purina, Garnier, 4G antioxidants, @ChrisWillx, @lexfridman, ABC News, C-Span, CBS, ITV This Morning, Wired UK, The Dissenter, Will Tennyson The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this final episode of their series for the FT's The Economics Show, FT chief economics commentator Martin Wolf and Nobel laureate Paul Krugman consider listeners’ questions and comments ranging from a critique of globalisation, increasing inequality and plutocracy, the global appetite for US federal debt, China’s economic future and much more. This is a repeat of an episode published on The Economics Show, a sister podcast of FT News Briefing, on December 17, 2025 Subscribe and listen to this series of The Economics Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to podcasts.  Read Martin’s column here  Subscribe to Paul’s substack here Find Paul’s cultural coda here. Find Martin’s cultural coda here. Produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval and Josh Gabert-Doyon. Manuela Saragosa is the executive producer. Tom Hannen is the video editor. Sound design and original music by Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year, but it's also the most expensive. Between gifts, food and travel, people can end up spending a lot of money this year. The Financial Times’ consumer editor Claer Barrett explains why people are feeling the pinch this season and what they can do about it.  Mentioned in this podcast: Economists warn of flaws in US inflation report FT Financial Literacy and Inclusion Campaign Find Claer Barrett on TikTok and Instagram  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BP chief executive Murray Auchincloss has said he will step down after less than two years in the role, India’s central bank governor expects the country’s interest rates to remain low for a ‘long period’, and UK inflation fell more than expected to an eight-month low of 3.2 per cent. Plus, global companies are seeking private equity partners in China to take on their local operations as they grapple with an increasingly competitive local market. Mentioned in this podcast: BP picks Woodside boss Meg O’Neill as new chief executive India’s central bank governor signals rates to stay low for ‘long period’ UK inflation falls more than expected to 3.2% in November Global brands seek private equity partners to save their China businesses Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investors are snapping up Venezuela’s defaulted debt, JPMorgan Chase has withdrawn almost $350bn in cash from its account at the Federal Reserve since 2023, and the US unemployment rate rose to its highest level in more than four years. Plus, global asset managers’ cash holdings have fallen to a record low in a sign of investors’ bullishness about the AI-fuelled stock market rally.  Mentioned in this podcast: Investors pile into Venezuelan debt in regime change bet JPMorgan pulls $350bn from Federal Reserve to buy up Treasuries Bullish investors pile into stocks as cash levels sink to record low US unemployment rate hits four-year high of 4.6% Fifa offers cheaper World Cup tickets in response to outcry Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shell’s merger chief departed after a bid to acquire rival BP was quashed internally, and the EU’s top trade official warns the bloc would lose global credibility if it fails to approve its trade deal with the Mercosur group of South American countries. Plus, Brussels plans to scrap the EU’s 2035 combustion engine ban, and hedge funds and trading firms are piling into physical commodities markets in search of new sources of returns. Mentioned in this podcast: Shell mergers chief departed after CEO blocked bid for BP EU will lose face if it rejects Mercosur deal, warns trade commissioner Brussels plans to scrap 2035 combustion engine ban Hedge funds pile into commodities in search of fresh source of returns Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A terror attack on a Jewish event in Sydney kills more than a dozen people. Plus, investors are increasingly concerned about how much debt is funding the AI boom, world leaders meet to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine, and it’s a big week for US economic data. And: The FT’s ‘Behind the Money’ podcast looks into whistleblowing in the UK.  Mentioned in this podcast: Gunmen who killed 15 in Sydney attack on Jewish festival were father and son Investors seek protection from risk of AI debt bust Ukraine offers to drop Nato membership demands Behind the Money podcast Investors will have to wait until new year for clear data on US economy Bank of England set to cut rates to 3.75% as economic data eases inflation concerns Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Persis Love and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cryptocurrency entrepreneur Do Kwon is sentenced to 15 years in prison on two counts of fraud, and the Walt Disney Company will allow OpenAI to use its characters in its flagship products. Plus, football fans are outraged over ticket prices for next year’s World Cup. And, you’ll meet the hardliner who wants to make Chile great again. Mentioned in this podcast: Crypto founder Do Kwon sentenced to 15 years in prison Disney to invest $1bn in OpenAI Football fans condemn ‘betrayal’ over ‘extortionate’ World Cup ticket prices The hardliner who wants to make Chile great again Friedrich Merz offers to host Ukraine talks so deal not done ‘above Europe’s head’ Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Victoria Craig, and produced by Fiona Symon and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter point, and Oracle shares fell on Wednesday after it reported disappointing revenues. Plus, there’s one conglomerate in Abu Dhabi dominating the economy and its ownership is in the hands of the royal family.  Mentioned in this podcast: Federal Reserve cuts rates to lowest level in three years in divisive decision Oracle shares slide as data centre spending mounts How Abu Dhabi’s economy came to be dominated by IHC Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Fiona Symon and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EU countries want to fast-track a decision to indefinitely immobilise up to €210bn in Russian sovereign assets, investors have increased bets that interest rates in major economies could diverge next year, and Berlin stands ready to throw its weight behind a German candidate to be the next president of the European Central Bank. Plus, Australia is now the first country in the world to restrict social media access for kids under the age of 16. Mentioned in this podcast: Trump gives Zelenskyy ‘days’ to respond to peace proposal EU races to bypass Viktor Orbán on Russia assets before summit Investors increase bets on ECB rate rise in threat to dollar Germany sees high hurdles to winning ECB presidency The countdown to the world’s first social media ban for children Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paramount has launched a $108bn hostile bid to buy Warner Bros Discovery, US natural gas prices are soaring as the country ships record amounts of the fuel overseas, and US President Donald Trump says Nvidia will be allowed to send its H200 chips to China. Plus, retail investors are helping drive gold and US stocks towards “bubble” territory, the Bank for International Settlements has warned. Mentioned in this podcast: Paramount gatecrashes Warner Bros-Netflix deal with $108bn hostile bid Surging gas prices worsen affordability crisis for Americans Nvidia can sell H200 AI chips to China, Donald Trump says Retail investors help drive gold and US stocks to bubble territory, BIS warns Credit: CNBC Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Europe seeks to rally support for Ukraine as US pressure builds, and there’s likely to be plenty of debate ahead of the Federal Reserve’s final rate decision of the year. Plus, how Netflix’s blockbuster Warner Brothers Discovery buy could reshape entertainment.  Mentioned in this podcast: European allies to rally support for Ukraine as US pressure mounts France shielding €18bn Russian asset pot from EU ‘reparations loan’ push Fed expected to cut rates despite deep divisions over US economic outlook Donald Trump drives historic shift of power from investors to boardrooms Hollywood fears job cuts as opposition to Netflix-Warner deal grows Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Big Four accounting firms maintained their iron grip on auditing the UK’s largest companies last year, the industry watchdog has found. Plus, Japan’s economic normalisation could impact global bond markets.  Mentioned in this podcast: Big Four maintain stranglehold on biggest UK audits US senators seek to block Nvidia sales of advanced chips to China Japan’s economic normalisation will affect global liquidity Japanese 10-year bond yields rise to highest level since 2007 Register for the FT’s Global Boardroom digital conference Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bond-market investors worry that the leading candidate for Fed chair is too close to US President Donald Trump, while HSBC finally picks its new chair. Plus, the EU has a last-minute plan to fund Ukraine’s economic revival.  Mentioned in this podcast: Bond investors warned US Treasury over picking Kevin Hassett as Fed chair HSBC appoints Brendan Nelson as chair after chaotic search Brussels floats ‘emergency’ powers to raise €210bn from Russian assets Tell us whether your spending habits have changed this holiday season. Email Marc at [email protected]  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nigel Farage has told donors he expects to do an election deal with the Conservatives, and the race to narrow OpenAI’s dominance in the chatbot race. Plus, Eurozone inflation unexpectedly turns higher and China’s biopharma industry could be a threat to western dominance in the sector.  Mentioned in this podcast: Farage tells donors he expects to do an election deal with the Tories Mistral unveils new models in race to gain edge in ‘open’ AI OpenAI’s Sam Altman declares ‘code red’ after rivals make advances  Eurozone inflation unexpectedly rises to 2.2% in November Will the next blockbuster drug come from China? Donald Trump says he will nominate Federal Reserve chair in ‘early’ 2026 Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK pension funds are cutting back their exposure to US equities, and Swiss prosecutors have filed charges against Credit Suisse and its owner UBS over alleged organisational “deficiencies”. Plus, the chair of the UK's Office for Budget Responsibility has resigned, and the UK government will increase NHS spending on medicines to secure a carve-out from threatened US tariffs. Mentioned in this podcast: UK pension funds dump US equities on fears of AI bubble Swiss prosecutors file charges against Credit Suisse and UBS Head of UK fiscal watchdog quits after Budget leak NHS to increase medicines spending to avoid threatened Trump tariffs Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Fiona Symon. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial intelligence is threatening starting consultancy salaries, and the push to end Russia’s years-long invasion of Ukraine continues this week. Plus, Revolut did not tell UK regulators its CEO was listed as UAE resident. And, voice trading is making a comeback on one part of Wall Street.  Mentioned in this podcast: Top consultancies freeze starting salaries as AI threatens ‘pyramid’ model Zelenskyy aides meet Trump team in Florida for talks on peace plan  UK officials sought assurances from Revolut over CEO Storonsky’s surprise move Voice trading makes a comeback in $30tn Treasury market Who Killed Europe’s single market dream?  Credit: Associated Press Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Nisa Patel and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alexander Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As President Donald Trump approaches the one-year anniversary of his second term in office, the FT’s chief economics commentator Martin Wolf, and Nobel prize-winning economist Paul Krugman sit down to discuss the US economy and the state of American democracy. Are American consumers finally feeling the effect of Trump’s tariffs? Is AI to blame for the frozen labour market? Or is the spectre of a weakening democracy and plutocracy to blame for slumping consumer sentiment? In the first of four weekly episodes, Wolf and Krugman unpick the US and world economy, with Krugman explaining why he’s less pessimistic now than he was earlier this year. Subscribe and listen to this series of The Economics Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to podcasts.  Read Martin’s column here. Subscribe to Paul’s Substack here. Find Paul’s cultural coda here. Find Martin’s cultural coda here. Produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval. Manuela Saragosa is the executive producer. Original music and sound design by Breen Turner. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial intelligence has the potential to disrupt almost every industry we work in, from manufacturing to stock trading. Defence is no exception, and at a time of rising global conflict, the question of how different militaries are using AI is increasingly important. The FT’s Helen Warrell is joined by MIT Technology Review senior reporter James O’Donnell to debate the ethical, political and practical questions around AI warfare.  Mentioned in this podcast: The State of AI: the new rules of war Read the whole State of AI series here Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was edited by Marc Filippino, and hosted by Helen Warrell. It was produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S&P Global Ratings calls into question Tether’s ability to maintain its US dollar peg, and UK chancellor Rachel Reeves takes the wraps off the highly anticipated Budget. Plus, India’s booming steel production might be helping the domestic economy, but it’s causing environmental damage and trade tensions Mentioned in this podcast: S&P downgrades Tether’s assets to lowest level             UK Budget 2025: Reeves raises taxes by £26bn to all-time high   The cost of India’s hunger for cheap steel  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig, Fiona Symon, and Lucy Baldwin. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google’s parent company got close to a record $4tn market capitalisation, and more than $1tn has been wiped from the cryptocurrency market in the past six weeks. Plus, US consumers aren’t feeling too merry ahead of the holidays, and the UK prepares for its long-awaited Budget day.  Mentioned in this podcast: US retail sales growth slows as affordability crunch weighs on households Crypto market sheds $1.2tn as traders shun speculative assets Nvidia shares tumble on signs Google gaining upper hand in AI The four audiences Reeves’ ‘high-wire’ Budget must satisfy Email Marc with your holiday stories and questions: [email protected]  Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Traders are piling into bets that Wednesday’s UK Budget will push the pound lower against the dollar, and the pharmaceutical industry saw some promising — and not so promising — clinical trial results. Plus, US tech stocks leapt on Monday and Ireland’s military neutrality has created a weak spot in Europe’s defences.  Mentioned in this podcast: Currency traders bet against sterling ahead of Budget Novo Nordisk shares slump after drug failure in Alzheimer’s trial Bayer soars on promising trial results for stroke prevention drug US tech stocks surge as Fed rate cut bets fuel rebound How Ireland became the weak spot in Europe’s defences Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US pressure on Ukraine and its allies to agree a peace deal with Russia ignites fresh concern in Europe, and the US has officially designated Venezuela’s “Cartel of the Suns” a terror group. Plus, Europe looks to increase investment rules to stand up to China, and a look at why insurance companies are thinking about excluding AI risks from their corporate policies.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump hits out at Ukraine and Europe as confusion over US position mounts What is Venezuela’s ‘Cartel of the Suns’? EU to tighten investment rules to stand up to China  Insurers retreat from AI cover as risk of multibillion-dollar claims mounts Moderna is most shorted stock in S&P 500 as Americans skip jabs Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Alexander Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tech stocks have been on a rollercoaster since Nvidia reported earnings, the US added 119,000 jobs in September but unemployment reached its highest level in four years, and the US has formally handed Ukraine a sweeping peace plan drawn up with Moscow. Plus, we’ll go over all the drama that’s ensued in the run-up to the G20 conference in South Africa.  Mentioned in this podcast: US tech stocks slide as jolt of volatility hits Wall Street The American exceptionalism trade is wobbling US adds 119,000 jobs in September but unemployment hits four-year peak US hands Ukraine new peace plan drawn up with Russia Trump’s total boycott of G20 casts shadow over its future To sign up for free to the new FT Alphaville newsletter on substack, go to ftav.substack.com Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nvidia grew sales of its chips even faster than Wall Street anticipated in its latest quarter, and UK inflation fell to 3.6 per cent in October. Plus, Paramount is trying to buy Warner Brothers Discovery and China’s opaque economic data is coming under scrutiny.  Mentioned in this podcast: Nvidia reports strong growth from bumper AI chip sales The president’s men: Ellisons’ Trump ties shape battle for Warner Bros  UK inflation falls to 3.6% in October The growing problem with China’s unreliable numbers Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts  Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Marc Filippino and produced by Lucy Baldwin, Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta has won the antitrust case that threatened to break it apart, the EU plans to create a central body to co-ordinate the purchasing and stockpiling of critical minerals. Plus, US tech stocks sold off on Tuesday as worries mounted over high valuations for artificial intelligence companies, and activist hedge fund Elliott Management has built a large stake in Barrick Mining. Mentioned in this podcast: Meta wins US case that threatened split with WhatsApp and Instagram Brussels plans minerals stockpile centre to stop US snapping up supplies US tech stocks dip as traders fret over ‘frothy’ AI valuations Elliott builds stake in gold miner Barrick Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The cryptocurrency market is struggling as bitcoin has lost all its gains from this year, and HSBC leaders cannot agree on the bank's next chair of the board. Plus, the US House of Representatives votes on the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files today, and the Financial Times’ Alison Killing explains why an estimated multitrillion-dollar infrastructure project in Saudi Arabia may take decades to get done.  Mentioned in this podcast: Crypto market sheds $1.1tn as traders shun speculative assets HSBC board at odds over candidates to succeed Mark Tucker as chair Donald Trump backs vote to release Jeffrey Epstein files End of The Line: how Saudi Arabia’s Neom dream unravelled Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Victoria Craig, Fiona Symon, Persis Love, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Goldman Sachs is on track to notch its best performance in the global deals market in 24 years. Plus, what UK gilt markets are looking for after Friday’s selloff, and how Spain’s deficit is set to fall below Germany’s for the first time in two decades. And, the government shutdown has posed complications for US economic data collection.  Mentioned in this podcast: Goldman Sachs on brink of best M&A performance in 24 years UK politics as it happened — Gilts sell off on tax plan U-turn US economic outlook obscured by shutdown-triggered data gap Spain’s deficit to fall below Germany’s for the first time in two decades UK to launch first lead poisoning screening study of children after FT investigation Toxic legacy: uncovering the threat of lead poisoning Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Julia Webster, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alexander Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Oracle’s enormous borrowing to fund a push into artificial intelligence computing has spooked investors, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s heavily indebted empire, Ineos, is under increasing financial pressure, and we take a look at a glaring hole in US inflation data. Plus, the FT’s Sonja Hutson reports back from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, as part of a new FT series.  Mentioned in this podcast: Oracle hammered in tech sell-off over its huge AI bet Ineos debt sell-off accelerates amid fears over European chemicals sector ‘Big Short’ investor Michael Burry to close hedge fund as he warns on valuations The Bethlehem Project: An immigration raid divides a community Subscribe to the Swamp Notes podcast Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Henry Larson, Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US government shutdown nears an end as House approves funding deal, European carmakers and other industrial companies continue to face “devastating” chip shortages, and Scotland has been handed the same credit rating as the UK, in a boost to Edinburgh as it plans to launch an inaugural bond sale. Plus, an increasing number of wealthy Chinese people are trying to set up family offices and secure residency in the Gulf, rather than Singapore.  Mentioned in this podcast: US government shutdown nears an end as House approves funding deal Europe’s carmakers face ‘devastating’ chip crisis as Nexperia supply crunch continues Scotland handed same credit rating as UK ahead of debut ‘kilts’ sale Wealthy Chinese sidestep Singapore for Dubai US mints last penny after Trump killed coin Credit: Myles McCormick Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Lulu Smyth Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The International Energy Agency says global oil and gas demand will rise for the next 25 years if the world does not change course; Masayoshi Son’s SoftBank Group has sold its entire stake in Nvidia; and investors have been selling off the debt of US tech heavyweights. Plus, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s plan to reduce income taxes for the “middle-class” has sparked criticism that she is helping the rich. Mentioned in this podcast: Oil and gas demand to rise for 25 years without global change of course, says IEA Why Nvidia should be glad to see the back of SoftBank SoftBank sells Nvidia stake for $5.8bn as it prepares for AI investments Investor angst over Big Tech’s AI spending spills into bond market Giorgia Meloni’s ‘middle-class’ tax cut sparks political row in Italy Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Victoria Craig, Lulu Smyth and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Saudi Aramco is shifting its focus to natural gas, Donald Trump has threatened to sue the BBC for at least $1bn over an edit of a speech he gave on January 6 2021, and a $23bn mine in Guinea opens today and it is seen as a huge win for China.   Mentioned in this podcast: Saudi Aramco steps up gas push to meet surging electricity demand  Donald Trump threatens to sue BBC for $1bn over January 6 speech edit How the world’s biggest mining project is a win for China Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Lulu Smyth, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US Senate takes the first step to ending the government shutdown, and COP30 climate talks kick off in Brazil. Plus, stricter regulation puts the squeeze on Switzerland’s prized finance sector. And, can Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push to counter US tariffs help Zoho truly rival Whatsapp? Mentioned in this podcast: US senators strike deal in first step to ending government shutdown The world is struggling to halt climate change. But can it adapt? Swiss finance shrinks as regulators tighten grip on prized sector  India boosts homegrown WhatsApp rival in tech nationalism drive The 900-page book that China watchers count on Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Nisha Patel, Sonja Hutson and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Alexander Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tesla investors have overwhelmingly backed Elon Musk’s $1tn pay deal, Hungary’s prime minister travels to Washington to make the case for a Russian oil sanctions exemption, and the Bank of England keeps rates on hold. Plus, why UK bond markets are keeping calm and carrying on despite turmoil ahead of Labour’s Budget announcement.  Mentioned in this podcast: Tesla shareholders approve Elon Musk’s $1tn pay deal Bank of England keeps rates on hold at 4% in knife-edge decision Orbán to seek approval from Trump to continue importing Russian oil Bond markets are winning the Budget stand-off Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US Supreme Court justices appeared sceptical of Donald Trump’s use of emergency powers to impose tariffs, and Argentine President Javier Milei has rejected investor calls to allow the peso to float freely. Plus, contentious bankruptcy proceedings for First Brands begin today.  Mentioned in this podcast: Investors could face a bonfire night surprise on Trump tariffs ‘A glorious mess’: First Brands creditors brace for Houston court clash Milei defies calls to float Argentine peso Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US voters issued a rebuke of President Donald Trump, US stocks dropped on Tuesday as jitters over highly elevated valuations for many artificial intelligence companies intensified, and some investors are worried there’s an AI bubble in Asian stocks as well. Plus, UniCredit’s ambition to become a European banking powerhouse has hit a series of roadblocks.  Mentioned in this podcast: US election results live Listen to the Swamp Notes podcast US stocks slide as investors fret over high valuations for AI companies Asian markets’ reliance on AI boom raises ‘bubble’ fears What next for Andrea Orcel’s UniCredit? Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Marc Filippino, Sonja Hutson, Lulu Smyth and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Palantir lifted its 2025 revenue guidance and Pfizer has filed a second lawsuit against Novo Nordisk and obesity drug start-up Metsera. Plus, OpenAI inked a $38bn computing deal with Amazon, and the FT’s Claire Jones explains how the Trump administration is considering pushing for wider global dollar adoption.  Mentioned in this podcast: Palantir lifts 2025 sales outlook after posting strong quarterly growth Pfizer files second lawsuit to block Novo Nordisk’s $9bn Metsera bid OpenAI strikes $38bn computing deal with Amazon US pushes for wider global dollar adoption Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michela Tindera, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US Supreme Court begins hearing arguments this week for President Trump’s tariff policy. Plus, voters will head to the polls for state races seen as a referendum on the first year of Trump’s second term, and private equity may be full of zombie firms in the next decade. Then, a look at how China is filling a gap in the solar-energy space. Mentioned in this podcast: Businesses press Supreme Court to strike down Trump’s emergency tariff power Trump and plastic bags: New Jersey is bellwether of US political mood Private capital zombie firms will pile up in next decade, says EQT chief The global boom in solar – with or without the US Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Marc Filippino, and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amazon and Apple delivered solid earnings reports, and the FT’s Gideon Rachman explores whether Donald Trump’s foreign policy wins in Asia will hold. Plus, the European Central Bank has left its benchmark interest rate unchanged and the FT’s Jennifer Hughes says India’s initial public offering boom is not too hot, not too cold – it’s just right.  Mentioned in this podcast: Amazon revenues rise 13% on strength in cloud computing unit Apple predicts holiday boom in iPhone sales ‘Rely on America at your peril’: the vagaries of Trump’s foreign policy Eurozone economy expands 0.2% in third quarter ECB holds interest rates at 2% India’s IPO boom has a goldilocks feel  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Lucy Baldwin, Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta and Microsoft had mixed earnings reports, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates and said it would halt quantitative tightening and South Korea has agreed to invest $350bn in the US in return for lower tariffs on car exports. Plus, John Malone is stepping down as chair of his media and telecoms empire, marking the end of an era in which the “cable cowboy” reshaped both industries. Mentioned in this podcast: Meta hit by huge AI spending Federal Reserve trims US interest rates by quarter point but casts doubt on December cut Federal Reserve nears end of QT amid signs of stress in money markets US and South Korea seal trade deal ‘Cable cowboy’ John Malone to step down from media and telecoms empire Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Lucy Baldwin, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI said it had completed a long-awaited restructuring, and Tesla’s chair has stepped up her campaign to win shareholder support for Elon Musk’s $1tn pay package. Plus, South Korea’s Kospi is the world's top-performing major stock index by far this year.  Mentioned in this podcast: Microsoft valuation passes $4tn as OpenAI completes restructuring Tesla chair warns Musk could quit if shareholders reject $1tn pay deal What is driving the world’s best-performing stock market? Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US companies struck more than $80bn worth of deals, Argentina’s currency and government bonds surged after a landslide electoral victory for President Javier Milei’s party. Plus, JPMorgan Chase has invested $75mn in an Idaho-based mining company, and Apple’s services revenue is projected to climb to record highs.  Mentioned in this podcast: US companies strike $80bn in mergers as Trump boosts dealmaking Argentine bonds and currency surge after victory for Javier Milei’s party JPMorgan backs gold miner in initial investment by ‘America First’ fund Apple hits $100bn services revenue milestone despite growing legal risks Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump is in Asia this week ahead of high-stakes trade talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Plus, the UK chancellor is pushing for her own trade deal in the Gulf, and the US Federal Reserve is heading into its next meeting without some important economic data.  Mentioned in this podcast: ‘Positive framework’ agreed for Trump-Xi summit, says Scott Bessent UK chancellor to hold Gulf trade talks in push for pro-growth policies Markets brace as Argentines go to the polls Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alexander Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura Hughes receives a tip that horses are dropping dead in Wales. As she investigates, she finds decades of academic studies researching the problem. She learns these aren’t isolated incidents. Something is spreading across the countryside. It’s undetectable to humans, nobody knows it’s there — until they fall ill. Subscribe to Untold: Toxic Legacy, for the rest of the series. For more information on how to live safely with lead, please visit the LEAPP Alliance website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump’s sanctions on Russian oil companies shook energy markets on Thursday, and the US president pardoned Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao. Plus, President Javier Milei’s economic plan rests in the hands of this weekend’s midterms elections in Argentina. Mentioned in this podcast: Trump’s oil sanctions shake India and energy markets Donald Trump pardons Binance crypto founder Changpeng Zhao Milei’s make-or-break moment Save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription: ft.com/briefingsale  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Victoria Craig, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michela Tindera, Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tesla said its quarterly profit fell by more than a quarter, Sequoia Capital’s chief operating officer resigned over comments made by partner Shaun Maguire that she regarded as Islamophobic, and UK inflation unexpectedly held steady at 3.8 per cent in September. Plus, the Trump administration has been quietly suppressing climate change data.  Mentioned in this podcast: Tesla profits drop more than a quarter despite record sales Sequoia COO quit over Shaun Maguire’s comments about Mamdani UK inflation unexpectedly holds steady at 3.8% in September The costs of Trump’s campaign to censor climate science Save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription: ft.com/briefingsale  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michela Tindera and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Netflix shares fell as a dispute with Brazilian tax authorities cut into its profits, Unilever said it has delayed the spin-off of its €15bn ice cream division because of the US government shutdown and gold had its worst day in more than a decade yesterday. Plus, critics are questioning whether South Africa’s Black empowerment policies are really paying off. Mentioned in this podcast: Netflix shares drop as Brazil tax dispute hits profits Unilever’s €15bn ice cream spin-off delayed by US government shutdown Gold tumbles 6% in biggest sell-off since 2013 South Africans question future of Black empowerment policies Save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription: ft.com/briefingsale  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michela Tindera and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

European governments have rallied behind Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and are rushing to secure a deal on the use of Russia’s frozen assets, a coalition deal in Japan paves the way for Sanae Takaichi to become the country’s first female prime minister, and Amazon Web Services experienced a major outage on Monday. Plus, Marc Rowan, chief executive of Apollo Global Management, has said Europe is “at war with itself” over financial regulation.  Mentioned in this podcast: Europeans rush to Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s defence after tense Donald Trump meeting Apollo’s Marc Rowan says ‘at war with itself’ over finance regulation Amazon says cloud services recovering from widespread outage Japan coalition deal paves way for Sanae Takaichi to become first female PM Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michela Tindera, Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump urged his Ukrainian counterpart to accept Russia’s war terms during Friday’s volatile White House meeting, and five-year plans still have a place in Chinese politics despite massive changes to its economic system. Plus, global hedge funds are listing in Hong Kong again after an extended slowdown, and the battle for control of rare earth metals is turbocharging stock prices in this sector.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump urged Zelenskyy to accept Putin’s terms or be ‘destroyed’ by Russia China pushes high-tech in 5-year plan as US tensions rise Why China still loves its five-year plans Hedge funds return to Hong Kong listings Rare earths shares soar as US and China battle over export controls Save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription: ft.com/briefingsale  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Jess Smith, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shares in US regional banks fell on Thursday after two lenders disclosed that they were exposed to alleged fraud by borrowers, and the UK economy grew 0.1 per cent in August. Plus, Japan is having a hard time keeping up with demand for matcha.  Mentioned in this podcast: US regional bank shares sink on credit worries after fraud disclosures UK economy grew 0.1% in August Japan buckles under matcha mania Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Michela Tindera, Josh Gabert-Doyon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Big investors are cutting back their exposure to riskier corporate debt, the IMF doled out some advice to the US and the UK, and China’s economy remained mired in deflation last month. Plus, Turkey’s business community is being rattled by an anti-corruption drive that has swept up hundreds of companies. Mentioned in this podcast: Big investors scale back risky bond exposure after storming rally IMF warns US must tackle its yawning deficit IMF urges UK to stick with two official economic forecasts every year China’s consumer prices fall as deflationary pressures persist Crackdown or capital grab? Turkey state fund controls 1,000 businesses Email Marc your questions about US politics: [email protected] Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Lucy Baldwin, Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The leaders of Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase and Citi warned that investor exuberance risked driving financial markets into bubble territory, and US investors are hunting for private data as the federal government shutdown is blocking the release of crucial reports. Plus, silver hit a record on Tuesday, and investors are facing a growing concern that European defence start-ups are oversaturating the market.  Mentioned in this podcast: Banks caution over bubble as they report bumper profits US government shutdown leaves traders ‘flying blind’ on jobs data Silver price hits record amid scramble in London market Investors confront top of European defence start-up ‘hype cycle’ Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US stock markets rebounded on Monday, and the Netherlands has taken control of a Chinese-owned semiconductor company. Plus, US President Donald Trump visited Jerusalem on Monday to celebrate the release of Israel’s hostages, and Europe’s lagging IPO market is starting to pick back up.  Mentioned in this podcast: US stocks rebound after Donald Trump takes softer tone on China Dutch government takes control of Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia Trump arrives in Egypt after hailing ‘historic dawn of a new Middle East’ European IPO markets show signs of revival Economics Nobel Prize awarded for explaining innovation-driven growth Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump has threatened new “large scale” export controls on China, and Wall Street’s investment banks just wrapped up a record-breaking quarter. Plus, dozens of European lawmakers are earning income from side hustles connected to their legislative responsibilities, and OpenAI’s ownership structure is making it harder for the company to raise money.  Mentioned in this podcast: China blames Trump and US for escalating trade war Wall Street investment banking revenues poised to top $9bn  Scores of MEPs hold side jobs in sectors where they steer EU laws Who owns OpenAI? blockbuster deals complicate investor payouts  Check out ‘Toxic Legacy’ from the FT’s Untold podcast Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Josh Gabert-Doyon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Israeli government approved the US-brokered deal for a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza, the US Treasury has intervened in Argentina’s currency market, and Danish offshore wind developer Ørsted plans to cut about a quarter of its workforce. Plus, the FT’s Katie Martin explains why the good vibes in the markets are really just investors running on fumes.  Mentioned in this podcast: Israeli government approves Gaza ceasefire deal and hostage release Ørsted to cut quarter of workforce after US setbacks US Treasury intervenes in Argentina’s currency market Brace for a market melt-up Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has said Israel and Hamas have agreed the first step in his plan for a Gaza ceasefire, and Washington wants its companies exempt from EU climate rules. Plus, Chinese customs agents are going after a wide range of US semiconductor tech, and central bankers around the world are facing criticism for a widely used monetary tool.  Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump says Israel and Hamas have agreed first phase of Gaza peace plan US demands EU dismantle green regulations in threat to trade deal China launches customs crackdown on Nvidia AI chips The populist shadow hanging over central banks and QE The FT News Briefing has been nominated for Signal’s listener’s choice award for best Daily Podcast. Vote for us here!  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Fiona Symon, Lucy Baldwin, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A UBS fund has 30 per cent of its portfolio tied to the failed First Brands Group, and carmakers across much of the world are scaling back on electric vehicle plans. Plus, international investors are returning to China’s start-up scene, in addition to assets across emerging markets.  Mentioned in this podcast: UBS fund holds 30% exposure linked to First Brands Why carmakers are falling back in love with petrol Global investors stage cautious return to Chinese start-ups Emerging markets roar back with biggest stock rally in 15 years The FT News Briefing has been nominated for Signal’s listener’s choice award for best Daily Podcast. Vote for us here!  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Ethan Plotkin, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EU governments have agreed to limit the travel of Russian diplomats, analysts are worried about a flurry of circular AI deals, and France lost another prime minister after less than a month in office. Plus, why the weaker dollar is helping big US exporters, while domestic-focused companies lose out. Mentioned in this podcast: EU to curb Russian diplomats’ travel as suspected spy attacks mount OpenAI targets 10% AMD stake via multibillion-dollar chip deal France in fresh political and market turmoil after prime minister resigns Multinationals race ahead as dollar slump divides US stock market Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Lulu Smyth. Additional help from Alexander Higgins, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel and Hamas head into crunch-time negotiations in Cairo, and Japan’s prospective new prime minister will have work to do to bring her party back together. Plus, Europe is facing a flood of cheap Chinese textile imports, and investors are piling into an unproven technology to power the US artificial intelligence boom.  Mentioned in this podcast: Israel and Hamas prepare for crunch ceasefire talks Japan gears up for ‘Takaichi trade’ as first female leader prepares for power China reroutes clothes exports to Europe after US tariffs upset trade US and investors gambling on unproven nuclear technology, warn experts Billionaire beef baron warns US not producing enough to satisfy protein craze Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Victoria Craig, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alex Higgins and Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description: The US will provide Ukraine with new intelligence, the American company behind Fico homebuyer credit scores is shaking up the mortgage industry, and Tesla’s global deliveries hit a new record in the third quarter. Plus, Saudi Arabia’s Prince Mohammed bin Salman has sidelined hardliners and sought to remake Islam in a country long seen as exporting radicalism.  Mentioned in this podcast: US to provide intel to guide Ukrainian long-range missile attacks on Russia Credit bureaus snubbed in ‘Fico’ plan to sell mortgage scores direct to users Tesla sales hit record as US buyers rush to beat end of tax credits How Mohammed bin Salman curbed Saudi Arabia’s clerics Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sales of Chinese electric-car maker BYD fell for the first time in 19 months in September, the US government shutdown is not likely to affect interest rates, and a fresh bout of jitters is shaking Argentina’s financial markets. Plus, a nascent solar revolution is taking hold in Africa’s largest oil-producing nation, Nigeria.  Mentioned in this podcast: BYD monthly sales fall for first time since early 2024 US government shutdown unlikely to prompt deeper Fed cuts Argentine assets hit by fresh selling amid worries over US bailout Solar shines in the rush for power in Africa’s largest petrostate The FT News Briefing has been nominated for Signal’s listener’s choice award for best Daily Podcast. Vote for us here!  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Gary, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US government has shut down after Democrats and Republicans failed to agree on a spending deal before the October 1 deadline, and Sir Keir Starmer has tried to revive his floundering premiership by urging his Labour party to launch a “patriotic” fight against Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. Plus, US President Donald Trump is launching a direct-to-consumer drug sales programme, and Spotify is appointing co-CEOs to replace Daniel Ek.  Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump announces direct-to-consumer ‘TrumpRx’ drug sales programme What happens if the US government shuts down? Starmer urges Labour to launch ‘patriotic’ fight against Reform Spotify CEO Daniel Ek to step down as music streamer splits role Listen to Political Fix here: https://podfollow.com/975569919   The FT News Briefing has been nominated for Signal’s listener’s choice award for best Daily Podcast. Vote for us here!  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk’s business empire has been hit by a wave of senior departures over the past year, video games maker Electronic Arts is being taken private by a Saudi Arabia-backed consortium, and Downing Street has opened the door for Labour to break its election promises and raise taxes in the Budget. Plus, the euro’s biggest rally since 2017 has further to run, Wall Street banks are predicting.  Mentioned in this podcast: Elon Musk hit by exodus of senior staff over burnout and politics Video games maker Electronic Arts strikes $55bn deal to go private Labour refuses to rule out manifesto-breaking tax rises Euro’s rally has further to run, Wall Street banks predict The FT News Briefing has been nominated for Signal’s listener’s choice award for best Daily Podcast. Vote for us here!  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kent Militzer, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump administration’s financial regulator is preparing to change five decades of corporate reporting practice, and the US government is once again on the brink of a shutdown. Plus, Denmark is closing its airspace to drones after a series of incursions, and drive-throughs are the latest craze sweeping the coffee world.  Mentioned in this podcast: Let the market decide how often companies report Trump to meet lawmakers with government shutdown days away Denmark bans civil drones for a week after sightings over military bases The rise of drive-through US coffee chains with a need for speed Why Japan is sprucing up its shabby offices Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Victoria Craig, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alexander Higgins and Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT News Briefing has been nominated for Signal’s listener’s choice award for best Daily Podcast. And we need your help in order to win. Please vote for us by clicking the link. Also vote for our other FT podcasts who have been nominated for a Signal award, Behind the Money and Tech Tonic. We promise the whole process will take less than five minutes. Vote for the FT News Briefing  Vote for Behind the Money  Vote for Tech Tonic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oracle, private equity group Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi’s MGX will control roughly 45 per cent of TikTok USA, Germany’s chancellor has called for Europe to use frozen Russian assets to create new loan to finance Ukraine’s war effort, and a landmark trial finds former French president Nicolas Sarkozy guilty of criminal conspiracy. Plus, can a US bailout save Argentina’s president from deepening political problems? Mentioned in this podcast: TikTok US to be valued at $14bn after Trump’s deal, White House says European officials fear Trump is preparing to blame them for Ukraine failure Germany’s Merz backs using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine Nicolas Sarkozy sentenced to 5 years in prison in Libya corruption trial Can a US bailout save Argentina’s Javier Milei? Until 29th October, you can save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription at ft.com/briefingsale Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Persis Love, Victoria Craig, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BNP Paribas has relaxed a policy that blocked it from financing “controversial weapons”, US debt investors have raised the alarm over lax lending standards in credit markets, and Italy is considering a freeze in its retirement age of 67. Plus, Singapore and Hong Kong want to become major players in the gold market.  Mentioned in this podcast: BNP Paribas drops pledge not to finance ‘controversial weapons’ US debt investors raise alarm over lending standards Italy weighs freezing its retirement age at 67 Singapore and Hong Kong shoot for place in gold firmament Until 29th October, you can save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription at ft.com/briefingsale Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boss of Eli Lilly has branded the UK “probably the worst country in Europe” for drug prices, US President Donald Trump hit out at the UN at a speech at the global body’s General Assembly, and the Federal Reserve has scope to cut interest rates another three times, the OECD has said. Plus, the biggest US-listed companies keep talking about artificial intelligence, but few appear to be able to describe how the technology is changing their businesses for the better.  Mentioned in this podcast: Eli Lilly boss brands UK ‘worst country in Europe’ for cheap drug prices Can the UN save itself from irrelevance? Federal Reserve has room for three more rate cuts as US growth slows, says OECD UK set for highest inflation in G7, says OECD America’s top companies keep talking about AI — but can’t explain the upsides Until 29th October, you can save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription at ft.com/briefingsale CREDIT: PBS and the White House Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nvidia said it planned to invest up to $100bn in OpenAI to support a massive build-out of artificial intelligence data centres, Oracle’s Safra Catz is stepping down as chief executive and the US is considering a “large and forceful” intervention to support Argentina through a bout of severe market volatility. Plus, shares in Indian IT companies fell after US President Donald Trump sharply raised the application fee for H-1B visas.  Mentioned in this podcast: Nvidia to invest up to $100bn in OpenAI Oracle splits CEO role as Safra Catz steps down TikTok algorithm to be overseen by Oracle in Trump deal US offers financial lifeline to Argentina’s Javier Milei Indian IT shares fall over fears from Trump’s $100,000 H-1B visa fee Until 29th October, you can save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription at ft.com/briefingsale Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alex Higgins and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US companies may have to pay billions in new fees to hire foreign workers, and US tech groups are losing a political battle in Brussels to gain access to the EU’s financial data market. Plus, the UK joined Canada and Australia in recognising a Palestinian state on Sunday, and a Chinese retail giant is facing some growing pains on its European expansion plans.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump’s H-1B visa fee to hit US employers with $14bn annual bill EU to block Big Tech from new financial data sharing system UK, Canada and Australia recognise Palestine as an independent state Will Benjamin Netanyahu annex the West Bank? China’s rival to Amazon battles to go global after failed UK bids Until 29th October, you can save 40% on a standard annual digital subscription at ft.com/briefingsale Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Victoria Craig, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alexander Higgins and Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Deutsche Bank chief executive Christian Sewing is set to be named as a defendant in legal proceedings, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump did their best to present a united front, and the Bank of England kept interest rates steady. Plus, Nvidia has agreed to invest $5bn in its struggling rival Intel.  Mentioned in this podcast: Deutsche Bank chief Christian Sewing set to face multimillion-pound lawsuit Trump and Starmer at Chequers as it happened: leaders present united front after lavish state visit BoE holds interest rates at 4% and slows ‘quantitative tightening’ Nvidia to invest $5bn in rival Intel CREDIT: CBS News Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kent Militzer, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates for the first time this year and China is banning its tech companies from buying AI chips made by Nvidia. Plus, how did the Swiss National Bank become one of the world’s top investors in US tech?  Mentioned in this podcast: Federal Reserve cuts rates by quarter point and signals more to come China bans tech companies from buying Nvidia’s AI chips  Switzerland’s US tech ‘whale’  Protesters against Trump state visit march through London  Credit: Reuters Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 The UK and US are set to announce deeper co-operation on digital assets such as cryptocurrencies, a UN commission concluded that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, and Mario Draghi has warned that the EU’s economic competitiveness is on the retreat due to “inaction” by Brussels. Plus, Donald Trump’s administration is shifting the balance of power from shareholders to company bosses. Mentioned in this podcast: UK set to announce closer co-operation with US on cryptocurrencies Israel launches ground invasion of Gaza City EU economy falls behind global rivals due to ‘complacency’, warns Mario Draghi Donald Trump tilts balance of power from investors to CEOs Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa Cook can remain a Federal Reserve governor for now, the US and China seem to be making progress in their trade talks, and the US and UK promised to boost financial ties ahead of a state visit by President Donald Trump. Plus, Gen Z is toppling governments across Asia. Mentioned in this podcast: Lisa Cook can stay at Fed ahead of rates decision, appeals court rules UK and US pledge to boost financial ties ahead of Trump state visit Donald Trump signals US and China have struck TikTok deal The Gen Z revolution spreading in Asia Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon and Sonja Hutson. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Borrowing costs for the French government are outpacing some French corporations, and the threats to Turkey’s leading opposition party may be part of a wider push to change the country’s democracy. Plus, Chinese export controls on Germanium are forcing defence firms to seek new suppliers, and the failure of a little-known US car lender may spell trouble for the wider banking sector.  Mentioned in this podcast: French companies’ borrowing costs fall below government’s as debt fears intensify Is this the end of Atatürk’s party? China’s curbs on defence metal germanium create ‘desperate’ supply squeeze Car lender’s failure hints at what’s under the hood in private credit US justice department probes fraud allegations at subprime car lender Tricolor Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Sonja Hutson, and Victoria Craig. Additional help from Alexander Higgins and Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brazil’s supreme court has voted to convict former president Jair Bolsonaro for plotting a coup d’état, conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s killing led to calls on the right for retribution, and US inflation data confirm the Fed’s dual-mandate conundrum. Plus, shares in bitcoin-hoarding companies have tumbled in recent weeks as investors grow increasingly concerned about an overcrowded market. Mentioned in this podcast: Brazil’s supreme court finds former leader Jair Bolsonaro guilty of plotting coup Charlie Kirk’s shooting leads to calls for retribution Charlie Kirk’s killing and the ‘despicable violence’ of US politics US inflation rises to 2.9% in August Shares in bitcoin hoarders sink as ‘crypto treasury’ mania sours Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Victoria Craig. Additional help from Kent Militzer and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was shot dead, military analysts are worried about Nato’s response to a Russian drone attack, and US drugmaker Merck has scrapped a £1bn London research centre. Plus, investors have raised a record amount this year off “Bowie bonds”.  Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump ally Charlie Kirk shot dead in Utah What is Vladimir Putin’s game plan against Nato’s eastern flank? Merck slams UK as it scraps £1bn London drug research centre ‘Bowie bonds’ go mainstream as Wall Street chases returns Email Swamp Notes with your questions Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova and Sonja Hutson. Additional help from Kelly Garry and Michael Lello. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US annual jobs numbers get a revision, and Israel is intensifying its fight against Hamas. Plus, there’s a brand new copper mining conglomerate, and South Korean companies have been cutting corners to bring workers to the US.  Mentioned in this podcast: US hiring growth revised down by 911,000 jobs in year to March  Israel launches attack on Hamas in Qatar  Anglo American and Tech Resources to create $50bn mining giant Korean companies admit cutting corners on US visas but say they have little choice Macron appoints ally Sébastien Lecornu as France’s prime minister Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, and Sonja Hutson. Additional help from Kelly Garry, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rupert Murdoch has resolved the bitter dispute over his sprawling media empire, France is once again without a prime minister, and US bank PNC has agreed to buy smaller peer FirstBank. Plus, North Cyprus is betting big on casinos to boost its economy. Mentioned in this podcast: Murdoch seals $3.3bn succession deal to hand empire to eldest son Macron scouts for new prime minister to quell turmoil PNC to buy Colorado’s FirstBank for $4.1bn North Cyprus casino plans stoke fears of slide towards ‘dark’ economy Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Katya Kumkova and Sonja Hutson. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The French government is on the brink of another collapse, and Japan’s prime minister quits after just a year in office. Plus, China may open its domestic bond market to Russian companies for the first time since 2022, and US economic data is complicating the Federal Reserve’s upcoming decision on interest rates. Mentioned in this podcast: French PM François Bayrou on the brink in crucial confidence vote Japan’s prime minister quits to make way for new leader China paves way for renminbi fundraising by Russian energy giants  US adds just 22,000 jobs in August as labour market sputters Click here to access virtual sessions from the FT Weekend Festival  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Victoria Craig, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Peter Barber and Alex Higgins. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump’s nominee to join the Federal Reserve has vowed to uphold central bank independence, bond traders are banking on revenue from Trump’s tariffs to bolster US public finances, and Nasdaq is trying to combat a number of suspected “pump and dump” scams. Plus, the “Amazon of Africa”, Jumia, is still trying to prove that it can be a profitable business after six years on the public market.  Mentioned in this podcast: Stephen Miran vows to uphold Fed independence but says Donald Trump ‘entitled’ to a view on monetary policy Bond investors count on Trump tariff revenues to rein in US debt Nasdaq to tighten rules on small-cap stocks after suspected ‘pump and dump’ scams  Is there a future for the ‘Amazon of Africa’? Sign up for the FT Weekend Festival at ft.com/festival and use the promo code “FTPodcasts” for 10 per cent off. Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Victoria Craig, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alex Higgins, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lloyds Banking Group will put thousands of its staff at risk of dismissal, and Indonesians are angered over the widening inequality in their country. Plus, MEPs in the European parliament are unhappy with the EU-US trade deal, and the FT’s John Foley explains what artificial intelligence has to do with the outcome of Google’s antitrust case.  Mentioned in this podcast: Thousands of Lloyds staff face axe in performance overhaul  European parliamentarians attack EU-US trade deal and demand changes Google shares jump after judge refrains from ordering break-up Indonesian rage over MPs ‘opulent lifestyle’ reflects deep economic discontent Google dodges a bullet Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Victoria Craig, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A sell-off in government bonds spilled into the equity market as stocks fell on Tuesday, and Eurozone inflation ticked up to 2.1 per cent in August. Plus, European banks are intensifying their calls for regulators to remove obstacles to cross-border banking services in the EU.  Mentioned in this podcast: European banks push for lower cross-border hurdles US stocks fall as bond sell-off spills into equities Eurozone inflation rises to 2.1% in August Pound falls as UK long-term borrowing costs hit highest level since 1998 Sign up for the FT Weekend Festival at ft.com/festival and use the promo code “FTPodcasts” for 10 per cent off. Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig Katya Kumkova and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israeli banks pressed to give back war profits to customers, Russia denies GPS jamming of an European commission jet, and Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi takes on Tesla and Apple. Plus the trial of a former Brazilian president is coming to a close. Mentioned in this podcast: Ursula von der Leyen’s plane hit by suspected Russian GPS interference  Israeli banks plan giveaways after anger over wartime profits The Chinese gadget maker taking on Tesla and Apple Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert Doyon, Marc Filippino, Persis Love, Fiona Symon and Manuela Saragosa. Additional help by David da Silva. Sound engineering by Jean-Marc Eck. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The leaders of China and India met on Sunday amid trade tensions with the US, and Guyanese voters head to the polls today to chart a future for the world’s newest petrostate. Plus, the UK secures its largest ever warship deal with Norway, and AstraZeneca’s China division has recovered from a major scandal by pledging billions in new investment.  Mentioned in this podcast: Xi and Modi say they are ‘partners not rivals’ in bid to repair ties World’s newest petrostate heads for ‘mother of all elections’ UK secures largest ever warship deal from Norway AstraZeneca bounces back from scandal in China Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Persis Love, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Jean-Marc Eck and Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some World Trade Organization members are preparing to unveil a new grouping to boost “trade openness”, and the FT’s Katie Martin unpacks the lack of market moves after Nvidia’s outlook. Plus, a four-month “ninja stealth rally” has driven Tokyo’s equity market to record highs.  Mentioned in this podcast: Singapore, UAE and other small nations to launch trade partnership Nvidia growth outlook hit by China uncertainty Japan’s ‘ninja stealth rally’ draws in global investors Listen to the Swamp Notes podcast on the World Trade Organization Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nvidia’s earnings report signalled solid growth, cryptocurrencies are taking a hold of Venezuela’s economy, and more than half of the UK’s biggest listed companies chose external candidates as their new chief executive. Plus, SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son has become an unofficial diplomat between Washington and Tokyo.  Mentioned in this podcast: Nvidia revenue jumps 56% on robust AI demand How SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son became Donald Trump’s favoured foreign investor Crypto goes mainstream in Venezuela London’s rush for external CEO candidates shows succession planning weakness Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investors are worried that Donald Trump’s attempted firing of a Federal Reserve governor could undermine faith in the world’s most important central bank, and FT sources say the US has said it is prepared to provide intelligence assets to any western security plan for postwar Ukraine. Plus, French assets were hit on Tuesday as investors reacted to the prospect of a government collapse as soon as next month. Mentioned in this podcast: US long-term debt sells off after Trump’s attempted firing of Fed governor US offers air and intelligence support to postwar force in Ukraine French assets hit by prospect of government collapse Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump said he was firing Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, shares in Ørsted plunged after the Trump administration halted one of the Danish wind farm developer’s almost-completed projects, and Elon Musk’s xAI has sued Apple and OpenAI alleging they broke antitrust rules. Plus, Germany’s government is encouraging young people to invest in the stock market rather than rely on the country’s flailing pension programme.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump says he is firing Fed governor Lisa Cook ‘effective immediately’ Musk’s xAI sues Apple and OpenAI over ChatGPT and iPhone integration Germany’s pensions crisis: can €10 a month change how people invest? Ørsted shares plunge to record low after US government halts project Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jay Powell signalled a monetary policy shift during a high-profile Jackson Hole speech last week, and European investors are pouring money into new air defence technology. Plus, Spanish bank Santander is seeking to become a big player in Wall Street’s Spac market.  Mentioned in this podcast: Jay Powell paves the way for Federal Reserve interest rate cut in September Wall Street’s September Fed rate cut bets still hinge on economic data Venture capital steps up ‘Iron Dome’ air defence investments Santander signals Wall St ambition with Spac mandates Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Ethan Plotkin, and Sonja Hutson. Additional help from Alex Higgins, Peter Barber. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EU officials are accelerating plans for a digital euro, and the US Department of Justice has called for Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook to be removed from her post. Plus, investors lost billions of dollars in July in what could be pump and dump stock scams.  Mentioned in this podcast: EU speeds up plans for digital euro after US passes stablecoin law Justice department calls on Federal Reserve to sack governor Lisa Cook ‘I almost fell off my chair’: Investors lose billions on meme stocks as ‘pump and dump’ scams multiply Sign up for the FT Weekend Festival at ft.com/festival and use the promo code “FTPodcasts” for 10 per cent off. Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chinese regulators are pushing back against US AI chips, Target shares fell more than 6 per cent after the retail group picked an insider to be its new chief executive, and UK inflation accelerated more than expected to 3.8 per cent in July. Plus, China is making a big push for vehicle battery swapping. Mentioned in this podcast: Beijing turns against Nvidia’s AI chip after ‘insulting’ Lutnick remarks Target shares drop as retailer picks insider to lead turnaround drive UK inflation rises more than expected to 3.8% in July Will a 3-minute battery swap beat a 5-minute charge for China’s EV drivers? Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US tech stocks sold off on Tuesday, and Federal Reserve chair Jay Powell will be between a rock and a hard place when he delivers his speech at the Jackson Hole Economic Policy Symposium this Friday. Plus, Ozempic-maker Novo Nordisk has fallen behind its rivals. Does it have a plan to catch up?  Mentioned in this podcast: Jay Powell to deliver Jackson Hole address under fire on multiple fronts US tech stocks hit by wave of concerns over future of AI boom How Novo Nordisk lost its lead in the weight loss race Labubu frenzy sends Pop Mart profits soaring Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump floated the prospect of US security guarantees for Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is looking for options after India got hit by extremely high US tariffs, Soho House has agreed to a take-private deal, and Softbank is buying $2bn worth of Intel shares. Plus, the FT’s Leila Abboud explains why more Italian bonds are starting to look a little more like French bonds.  Mentioned in this podcast: Trump floats US security guarantees for Ukraine in meeting with Zelenskyy French borrowing costs close in on Italy’s as investors fret over debts Donald Trump tariffs threaten Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ drive Soho House agrees $2.7bn take-private deal SoftBank to buy $2bn in Intel shares as it grows US investments Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump will meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy today, just days after meeting Russian President Putin, and the UK’s solar output is reaching record levels. Plus, tech companies are spending trillions to build AI data centers. Mentioned in this podcast: ‘Absolutely immense’: the companies on the hook for the $3tn AI building boom Putin demanded Ukraine cede Donetsk and Luhansk in exchange for freezing rest of front line Volodymyr Zelenskyy to press for ceasefire at Donald Trump meeting British solar power surges past 2024 total Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Katya Kumkova, Marc Filippino, and Lulu Smyth. Additional help from Alex Higgins and Derek Brower. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet in Alaska today, and Dubai is trying to hold on to its role as the financial centre of the Middle East. Plus, China is sending out a warning to foreign countries stockpiling rare earths metals, and the FT’s Katie Martin explains why she’s worried about the calm in the markets.  Mentioned in this podcast: Can Dubai keep its crown as the Middle East’s finance capital? Investors are frogs in a Trumpian pot China warns foreign companies against stockpiling rare earths Putin hails Trump’s ‘energetic and sincere’ efforts to end Ukraine war Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Katya Kumkova, Josh Gabert-Doyon and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kent Militzer, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fears of a massive non-dom exodus from the UK have been allayed by initial tax data, and UK companies in China are being buoyed by diplomatic law. Plus, the FT’s Jamie Smyth explains why the US shale boom may be over after a decade-long run.  Mentioned in this podcast: UK companies in China buoyed by diplomatic thaw US oil producers say Opec ‘price war’ will halt shale boom   Initial tax data allays fears of non-dom exodus from UK Sign up for the FT Weekend Festival at ft.com/festival and use the promo code “FTPodcasts” for 10 per cent off. Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Sam Giovinco, Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The White House walks back expectations for Friday’s meeting between the US and Russian presidents, and Norway’s oil fund is pulling its money out of Israel. Plus, inflation stayed flat in the US in July, and storm-hit beach towns are struggling to shore up amid sand scarcity. Mentioned in this podcast: White House downplays expectations for Trump-Putin Alaska summit US inflation holds steady at 2.7% in July despite Trump’s tariffs Norway oil fund sells out of a fifth of Israeli firms amid fierce criticism Can the world’s beaches survive a sand shortage? Crypto founder Do Kwon pleads guilty to US fraud charges Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Michaela Seah, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EU leaders will hold a call with US President Donald Trump ahead of his meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, and the Mexican peso has emerged as an unlikely winner from Trump’s trade war. Plus, Trump has opened the door to Nvidia selling advanced AI chips to China, and the FT’s Kathrin Hille explains what’s next for Taiwan after the country’s failed recall vote.  Mentioned in this podcast: EU leaders to hold call with Trump ahead of Putin meeting over Ukraine Peso soars as ‘carry trade’ reignites after tariff delays Trump opens door to Nvidia selling advanced AI chips to China for a fee Why Taiwanese fear China could take over from within Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK employers cut back hiring over labour and tax cost fears, and Ukraine and its European allies worry about US President Donald Trump’s summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Plus, HSBC is weighed down by woes in the Hong Kong commercial property market, and India’s huge IT sector is scrambling to counter the threat of artificial intelligence.  Mentioned in this podcast: UK employers cut back hiring over labour and tax cost fears Donald Trump to meet Putin in Alaska as he signals Ukraine may need to cede land European allies back Ukraine’s borders after Donald Trump floats land swap with Russia HSBC flags 73% of Hong Kong commercial property loans as risky India’s IT services giants race to reinvent themselves for the AI age Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Jess Smith, Sonja Hutson, Fiona Symon, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alex Higgins and Peter Barber. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has nominated Stephen Miran to fill a soon-to-be vacant seat on the Federal Reserve’s board of governors, and the Bank of England lowered rates by a quarter per cent in a close vote. Plus Europe’s weapons factories are expanding fast and US President Donald Trump threatens a 100 per cent tariff on chips excluding Apple.  Mentioned in this podcast: https://www.ft.com/content/298bf95e-49ec-4d9f-8948-b7f72cf4ffdd BoE cuts rates with a hawkish shift in its outlook Europe builds for war as arms factories expand at triple speed Donald Trump threatens 100% tariff on chips but with carve-out for Apple Sign up here for the Chris Giles on Central Banks newsletter. Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Sam Giovinco, Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

European companies are falling behind US counterparts and CoreWeave’s takeover of Core Scientific is facing some pushback. Plus, Boston Consulting Group helped create plans to relocate Gazans to Somalia, and the FT found that Iranian nuclear scientists made a covert visit to Russia last year.  Mentioned in this podcast: European earnings lag behind US as trade war saps market revival CoreWeave’s $9bn takeover of Core Scientific faces revolt from top shareholders BCG consultants modelled relocating Gazans to Somalia The covert trip by Iranian nuclear experts to Russia Email Swamp Notes your questions: [email protected]  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, and Michael Lello. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump plans on imposing new sanctions on Russia unless there is a ceasefire in Ukraine, and Palantir’s skyrocketing stock is raising concerns that it’s overvalued. Plus, OpenAI released a new “open-weight” model, and Russia’s banks are coming under scrutiny over bad loans. Mentioned in this podcast: Trump readies fresh sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet Russia moves to contain concern over banks’ bad loan exposure Palantir’s valuation is a triumph of ‘number go up’ OpenAI releases open models to compete with China’s DeepSeek Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump wants to raise tariffs on India and the CEO of Deutsche Bank approved a controversial trade he was later tasked with probing. Plus, Australia wants a port they sold to China back, and Tesla’s board gave chief executive Elon Musk $30bn worth of shares after threats from him to resign.   Mentioned in this podcast: Donald Trump to raise tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases Deutsche Bank chief approved controversial trade he was later tasked with probing The remote Australian port caught in a US-China security tussle  Tesla board awards $30bn of shares to ‘energise and focus’ Elon Musk Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT’s US financial commentator joins to discuss how investors are responding to unsettling new economic data, and Germany’s biggest sports retailer is considering relocating some manufacturing to China. Plus, US President Donald Trump is using tariffs to target Brazil’s judiciary, and consumers are cutting back on luxury brands.  Mentioned in this podcast: Dollar rebound fizzles after jobs data disappoints Germany’s biggest sports retailer considers moving production into China Lula seizes Trump tariff threat to revive re-election push Brazil vows to defend supreme court against Donald Trump’s onslaught Luxury brands hit by drop in tourist spending in Europe and Japan  Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Ethan Plotkin, Jess Smith, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekend, we're sharing an episode from our fellow FT podcast, Swamp Notes. The US president is angry with the chair of the Federal Reserve over interest rates. He’s applying a lot of pressure on Jay Powell to lower them or leave his job. The FT’s Claire Jones and Adam Posen, president of the Peterson Institute for International Economics, break down what will happen if Trump succeeds in either of those goals. Subscribe to Swamp Notes on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple revenues jump on strong iPhone sales and rebound in China and Donald Trump has reimposed tariffs on dozens of trading partners. Plus, Samsung seals a multibillion-dollar chipmaking deal with Tesla, and Ukraine reverses a policy that would take away autonomy from anti-corruption agencies.  Mentioned in this podcast: Apple revenues jump on strong iPhone sales and rebound in China Trump reimposes tariffs on dozens of countries Ukraine restores independence of anti-corruption agencies Samsung’s $16.5bn Tesla deal will test chipmaker’s hopes for revival  Globetrotter: Los Angeles with the FT Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta’s shares jumped more than 10 per cent off the back of better than expected second-quarter earnings, and the Federal Reserve held rates steady despite calls to lower borrowing rates by US President Donald Trump. Plus, American copper prices fell after Trump exempted refined materials from a 50 per cent tariff on the metal, and HSBC profits declined by 29 per cent.  Mentioned in this podcast: Meta shares jump on strong results as Zuckerberg sets out ‘superintelligence’ goals Fed holds rates steady despite Trump’s calls for lower borrowing costs US copper prices fall after Trump exempts refined metals from tariffs  HSBC profits slide 29% on hit from China and restructuring Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Henry Larson, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The potential US-China trade war truce depends on US President Donald Trump’s approval, and a UN-backed food security group says a famine is unfolding in Gaza. Plus, China’s AI expo gives the international community an alternative to American technology, and the IMF’s new global growth forecast reflects that the fall of the dollar has lessened the impact of Trump’s trade war.  Mentioned in this podcast: US says extended trade war truce with Beijing hinges on Trump approval ‘Worst-case scenario’ of famine unfolding in Gaza, says global hunger monitor China lays out its AI vision in foil to Donald Trump’s ‘America First’ plan  IMF upgrades global growth forecast as weaker dollar aids world economy Credit: Fox Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Fiona Symon, Mischa Frankl-Duval, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey and UK chancellor Rachel Reeves are at odds, and EU politicians are grumbling over the bloc’s trade deal with the US. Plus, the US economy is defying expectations and Bain & Co is to shut down its consulting business in South Africa after a corruption scandal.  Mentioned in this podcast: Rachel Reeves and Andrew Bailey clash over Revolut meeting What have the US and EU agreed on trade? Merz says trade deal will cause ‘considerable damage’ to German economy How the EU succumbed to Trump’s tariff steamroller Bain & Co shuts South Africa consulting business after corruption scandal How long can the US economy defy expectations? Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The European Union struck a deal to limit the rate of US tariffs, and public companies are filling their coffers with cryptocurrencies. Plus, the share of goods in total UK exports has fallen to a record low, and China is moving to fill the void left by the US at the United Nations. Mentioned in this podcast: US and EU strike trade deal, says Trump Companies load up on niche crypto tokens to boost share prices Trump left a power vacuum at the UN. China saw an opportunity The share of goods in total UK exports has fallen to a record low China’s Shaolin Temple says its head is facing a criminal investigation Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Jess Smith, Ethan Plotkin, Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alex Higgins and Peter Barber. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.  CREDITS: Shaolin Temple (1982)/Chung Yuen Motion Picture Company Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump is set to visit the UK and Krispy Kreme and GoPro stocks rise after becoming meme stocks. Plus, the ECB keeps rates at 2% and how AI is affecting the job market for new-grads.  Mentioned in this podcast: Keir Starmer to press Donald Trump over deal to cut tariffs on UK steel imports ECB holds rates steady at 2% Is AI killing graduate jobs? Meme stock mania returns as Krispy Kreme and GoPro shares soar FT Weekend Fest Promo code: FTPodcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kent Militzer and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tesla’s second-quarter profits fell 23 per cent as sales of its electric vehicles continued to slide, private equity firms made record use of a controversial tactic to cash out their clients this year, and McKinsey has stopped its China business from undertaking some generative artificial intelligence work. Plus, Taiwan will hold a recall election this weekend and the outcome could mean a lot for its relationship with China. Mentioned in this podcast: Elon Musk warns ‘rough quarters’ ahead for Tesla after Trump cancels EV incentives Private equity firms flip assets to themselves in record numbers McKinsey bars China practice from generative AI work amid geopolitical tensions Taiwan’s once-dominant KMT falls ‘out of step’ with the electorate Taiwan launches unity drive as China threat looms Email Swamp Notes your questions: [email protected] Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Henry Larson, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.  Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.