FT News Briefing

A pile up of bad debt threatens to sour investors’ growing optimism about the prospects for the US’s largest banks, and European football clubs are pouring money into transforming stadiums. Plus, the FT’s Joe Miller explains why another bad bet by SoftBank could be trouble for the Japanese group. Mentioned in this podcast:SoftBank’s Gen Z social media bust: was IRL the next Facebook or a fraud?The European football clubs turning stadiums into cash cowsLargest US banks set to log sharp rise in bad loansThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

One of the world’s top gold producers fired its chief executive for serious misconduct, Chinese provinces pumped a record $31bn of capital into fragile regional banks last year, and German inflation accelerated to its fastest rate for three months in December. Plus, a study shows widespread untracked fishing is hindering global efforts to protect depleted fish stocks and marine environments. Mentioned in this podcast:Endeavour Mining CEO dismissed for serious misconductOff-radar fishing threatens efforts to preserve stocks, study warnsChina steps up aid for regional banks as economic risks mountGerman inflation rises to 3.8% in blow to rate-cut hopesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Minutes from the December Federal Reserve meeting show that officials were committed to higher-for-longer interest rates, convertible bonds have been a rare bright spot for corporate fundraising, and two bombs killed more than a hundred people in southern Iran yesterday. Plus, some Russians convicted of gruesome crimes are returning to their communities after fighting in Ukraine.  Mentioned in this podcast:Fed officials said rates could remain high ‘for some time’US companies dive into convertible debt to hold down interest costsBomb blasts at Iranian commander’s grave kill nearly 100The Russian murderers sent home as free men after fighting in UkraineThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Russia has fired a second massive barrage of the new year on Ukraine’s capital and the country’s second-largest city, Benjamin Netanyahu’s rightwing allies have blasted Israel’s top court for striking down a controversial law aimed at overhauling the country's judiciary, and BlackRock’s lead in the US exchange traded fund market is being eroded by Vanguard and smaller rivals.Mentioned in this podcast:Russia pounds Ukraine in new year’s second massive air strikeBenjamin Netanyahu’s allies blast top court but wait to revive judicial overhaulVanguard and rivals gain ground on BlackRock in US ETF marketThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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 Peter Spiegel, Katie Martin and Elaine Moore preview what could happen in geopolitics, markets and artificial intelligence in 2024.The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

FT News Briefing presents a special episode from Slate’s “What Next” podcast, hosted by Mary Harris. Everybody loves pandas—and China knows it. As we say goodbye to the National Zoo’s pandas, this Slate podcast looks back at 50 years of “panda diplomacy” and consider its uncertain future. Join Harris as she speaks with E. Elena Songster, author of Panda Nation: The Construction and Conservation of China’s Modern Icon and professor of environmental history of modern China at St. Mary’s College of California. FT News Briefing will return with regular episodes next week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are generative AI systems such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT really intelligent? Large language models such as GPT 4 appear to use human-level cognitive abilities when they engage in legal reasoning, write essays or solve complex problems. Hosts John Thornhill and Madhumita Murgia speak to Emily Bender, professor of computational linguistics at the University of Washington, to find out what’s really happening under the hood, and also hear from Pablo Arredondo of CaseText, which develops AI tools for lawyers; influential computer scientist Melanie Mitchell, professor at the Santa Fe Institute, and Konstantin Arkoudas, an AI expert who’s worked on Amazon’s Alexa. Free links:OpenAI set to launch store as ChatGPT reaches 100mn usersHow to keep the lid on the Pandora’s box of AIWe need a political Alan Turing to design AI safeguards‘I’ve never seen anything like this’: how OpenAI’s dramatic weekend unfoldedTech Tonic is presented by Madhumita Murgia and John Thornhill. Senior producer is Edwin Lane and the producer is Josh Gabert-Doyon. Executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Sound design by Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music. The FT’s 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.

Historian Sir Simon Schama and FT deputy arts editor and film expert Raph Abraham join Lilah to discuss the historical epic ‘Napoleon’. Ridley Scott’s new two-and-a-half-hour-long film stars Joaquin Phoenix, and documents a lot: Napoleon’s rise and fall, some of his most famous battles, and his relationship with his wife, Josephine. But how well does it represent his character? We discuss what the film got right and wrong (historically and dramatically), why Napoleon continues to loom so large in culture, and whether historical epics still satisfy us.-------We are still collecting your cultural predictions for 2024! What’s one thing you think will happen (or want to happen) in culture next year? Write us. You can email us at [email protected] or message Lilah on Instagram @lilahrap. -------Links (all FT links get you past the paywall): – Simon’s FT Weekend essay on Napoleon, and why so many writers and filmmakers try to depict him: https://on.ft.com/4861gbn– the FT’s official review of Napoleon by Danny Leigh: https://on.ft.com/484moPh– An essay from Janan Ganesh on why Napoleon still matters: https://on.ft.com/3uWF8Sj– Simon recommends the 2012 movie ‘Lincoln’, directed by Steven Spielberg– Raph is a fan of Pablo Larrain’s ‘Jackie,’ from 2016, and the Leonard Bernstein biopic ‘Maestro’, directed by Bradley Cooper and available on Netflix on December 20– We interviewed Pablo Larrain in 2021 about his creative process: https://on.ft.com/3oofjVO – Lilah wrote a column about learning to draw: https://on.ft.com/46NBaZt – Simon is on X @simon_schama-------Special FT subscription offers for Life and Art podcast listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial, are here: http://ft.com/lifeandart-------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing 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.

When a Dutch crime reporter makes an unbelievable discovery, a small-town murder case begins to look like an international assassination plot.For more from the FT, sign up for the FT Edit App. To listen to Hot Money ad free, subscribe to Pushkin+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt raised the prospect of the Bank of England reducing interest rates in 2024 in an interview with the FT, and Novo Nordisk’s drugs for obesity could have a profound effect on healthcare, society and our relationship with food. Plus, part three or our three-part series on a changing India looks at the country’s booming fertility industry. Mentioned in this podcast:FT Person of the Year: Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen of Novo NordiskJeremy Hunt raises prospect of Bank of England rate cuts in 2024Credit: Vogue.comCredit: Jimmy Kimmel LiveThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Breen Turner, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

A global rally in government debt has driven yields past many Wall Street targets for the end of 2024, and rising premiums in China are driving families to cancel health coverage. Plus, in the second of a three-part series, the FT’s Benjamin Parkin travels to southern India to see whether factories can help solve the country’s employment problems. Mentioned in this podcast:Bond market rally drives yields past Wall Street’s end-2024 targetsMillions drop out of China’s state health insurance systemThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva, Gavin Kallmann and Joanna Kao. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Copper is set to finish the year as the top-performing industrial metal, and the FT’s John Paul Rathbone recently visited a Hamas tunnel and talks about his experience. Plus, in the first part of a three-part series, the FT’s John Reed goes to Varanasi to show how India’s digital transformation is going. Mentioned in this podcast:Supply squeeze helps copper prices buck tough year for base metalsInside the ‘Gaza metro’: Israel displays Hamas tunnel big enough for a carNarendra Modi responds to assassination claims The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Activist investor Cevian Capital has taken a €1.2bn stake in UBS, and Nippon Steel has agreed to buy US Steel in a $14.9bn deal. Plus, the FT’s Josh Gabert-Doyon takes us to the English town of Widnes and discusses what the destruction of fossil fuel infrastructure means for local citizens. Mentioned in this podcast:Activist Cevian places €1.2bn bet on UBSNippon Steel agrees to buy US Steel for $14.9bnThe Fiddler’s Ferry blast that will reshape a town’s identityThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Corporate bankruptcies are increasing at double-digit rates in most advanced economies, and TSMC is going to play a huge role in Taiwan’s upcoming election. Plus the FT’s Henry Foy explains how a European politician spied for China. Mentioned in this podcast:UK’s biggest companies failing to close pay gap, says reportChipmaker TSMC casts long shadow over Taiwan electionChinese spies recruited European politician in operation to divide westBankruptcies soar as high rates and end of Covid aid hit businesses hardThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva, Gavin Kallmann, and Josh Gabert-Doyon. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Central banks are charting different courses for interest rates in 2024, and EU leaders have agreed to officially start accession talks with Ukraine. Plus, for US union leader Shawn Fain, the historic auto workers strike is only the beginning. Mentioned in this podcast:EU leaders agree to start accession talks with UkraineStocks and bonds surge as Jay Powell comments fuel bets on interest rate cutsECB keeps rate on hold but lowers inflation forecastAndrew Bailey warns ‘still some way to go’ as BoE holds rates at 5.25%The unexpected revival of America’s trade unionsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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 Federal Reserve on Wednesday held interest rates at a 22-year high, countries reached a deal at the COP28 climate summit to transition away from fossil fuels, and Germany reached a last-minute budget deal to avoid a financial shutdown. Plus, the FT’s John Paul Rathbone explains whether Israel can continue its pursuit of Hamas without losing western support. Mentioned in this podcast:How the COP28 deal was won but the battle for 1.5C may be lostJoe Biden’s criticism of Israel highlights mounting unease over Gaza warFederal Reserve keeps rates at 22-year high but hints at cuts to comeGermany agrees budget deal to plug €17bn hole after debt rulingThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak headed off a Conservative revolt over his flagship Rwanda migration bill, US core inflation rose last month, and the FT’s Sam Jones explains the downfall of Signa, one of Europe’s most prominent property developers. Mentioned in this podcast:Rishi Sunak secures win in Rwanda asylum voteRise in US core inflation highlights stubborn price pressuresRwanda vote exposes Tory divisions despite Rishi Sunak’s winSigna fires René Benko ally for suspected ‘gross violations’ of dutiesInsurers built €3bn exposure to struggling Signa property empireThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Investors poured record sums into high-yield bond exchange traded funds in November, Rishi Sunak will on Tuesday seek to face down rightwing Tory rebels by pushing ahead with his controversial Rwanda bill, and the FT’s Joshua Chaffin tells us about the wealthy donors pushing for US universities to crack down on antisemitism. Mentioned in this podcast:High-yield bond ETFs attract highest flows on record in NovemberGovernment to face down party rebels over Rwanda billThe Ivy League, Wall St donors and the furore over antisemitism on campusThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

French immigration reforms put Emmanuel Macron’s leadership to the test, Pisa rankings show sharp decline in student attainment in maths and reading since 2018, India’s stock market is set to take Hong Kong’s spot among world’s largest, and Shohei Ohtani signs a record $700mn baseball contract with Los Angeles Dodgers. Mentioned in this podcast:UK students fall behind on core skills post-pandemicEY to cut a further 150 UK jobs as Big Four firms grapple with waning demandShohei Ohtani signs record $700mn baseball contract with Los Angeles DodgersIndia’s stock market set to take Hong Kong’s spot among world’s largestFrench immigration reforms put Emmanuel Macron’s leadership to the testCredit: MLB.com The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Joanna Kao, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva, Gavin Kallmann, and Zach St. Louis. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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 EU is set to pave the way for completely ending gas imports from Russia and Belarus, and a record supply of oil from the US is complicating Opec+ maths. Plus, the FT’s Jennifer Hughes explains why the price of gold and bitcoin are both booming in the same week.  Mentioned in this podcast:EU paves way for total ban on Russian gas importsOil market caught by surprise as US output surgesGold price hits all-time high as traders bet on interest rate cutsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Michela Tindera, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Moody’s Investors Service advised staff in China to work from home ahead of its cut to the outlook for the country’s sovereign credit rating, Palestinians in Gaza are running out of places to evacuate to, and oil prices have fallen to their lowest level in five months. Plus, the FT’s Christopher Miller explains what would happen on the ground in Ukraine if western aid dries up. Mentioned in this podcast:Moody’s advised staff to work from home ahead of China outlook cutJoe Biden says Republican refusal to fund Ukraine is a ‘gift’ to Vladimir PutinKyiv’s political feuds cause cracks in Ukrainian unityShattered Israel-Hamas truce leaves Gaza’s civilians with nowhere left to runRepublicans tell Joe Biden US aid to Kyiv depends on immigration curbsEU budget dispute threatens €50bn war lifeline for UkraineOil slumps to lowest in five months despite Opec+ production cutsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Leading economists say the Federal Reserve will hold off on interest rate cuts until at least July 2024, and the US Supreme Court heard a case that could shut down Democrats’ attempts to impose a wealth tax. Plus, the FT’s Europe editor, Ben Hall, explains why Ukraine is cracking down on oligarchs and what it means for the country. Mentioned in this podcast:Economists see Fed keeping rates at 22-year high until at least July  How the US Supreme Court could thwart a prospective wealth taxUS Supreme Court appears wary of upending tax law in closely watched caseThe crackdown on Ukraine’s oligarchsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Hot Money is back with a brand new season. On the first episode of Hot Money: The New Narcos, a Dutch crime reporter makes an unbelievable discovery, and a small-town murder case begins to look like an international assassination plot.Subscribe to Hot Money: The New Narcos Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK will make it harder for employers to hire overseas staff in an attempt to reduce record immigration by 300,000 a year, a Venezuelan referendum lays claim to two-thirds of neighbouring Guyana, and the White House says the US is set to run out of funds to aid Ukraine by the end of the year. Plus, we get a preview of the new Hot Money season, which dives into the European cocaine trade.Mentioned in this podcast:UK government unveils measures to cut immigration by 300,000 a yearVenezuela says voters back claim to oil-rich swath of GuyanaUS funding for Ukraine set to run out by end of the year, White House warnsSubscribe to Hot Money: The New NarcosThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Edith Rousselot, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Israel has ordered Palestinians in Gaza to evacuate a large area of land in the south of the strip, South Korea has become a top 10 defence exporter since the start of the war in Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata party has won a series of resounding victories in India’s state polls, and wealthy Argentines are moving to Uruguay to avoid high taxes. Mentioned in this podcast:Israel pounds southern Gaza after US warning on civilian deathsSouth Korean defence industry rides global order wave‘Leaving without leaving’: Argentines are flocking to Uruguay to avoid a high tax burdenNarendra Modi’s BJP triumphs in India state electionsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Hot Money is back with a new season that begins with a mysterious murder in a small town and leads to a cocaine super cartel and a secret proxy war between democracies and dictatorships.Follow Hot Money: The New Narcos here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Washington is aiming to halve Russia’s oil and gas revenues by the end of this decade, and markets turned things round and had a great November. Plus, the FT’s Nicholas Megaw explains how investors use AI to decode what executives say on earnings calls. Mentioned in this podcast:US aims to halve Russia’s energy revenues by 2030, says officialInvestors use AI to glean signals behind executives’ soothing wordsMarkets in 2024: Investors bet on déjà vu all over againThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Nato’s secretary-general is warning the west not to underestimate Russia, Cigna is in talks to merge with Humana in a deal that would create a US health insurance giant worth $140bn, and an audio essay by the FT’s Najmeh Bozorgmehr explores Iranians’ complicated feelings about the Israel-Gaza conflict.Mentioned in this podcast:Russia has stockpiled missiles for winter attack on Ukraine, says NatoCigna and Humana in deal talks to create US health insurance giantWhy Nato’s reassurances to Ukraine are starting to ring hollowIranians see both sides of the Israel-Gaza conflictAmerican diplomat Henry Kissinger dies aged 100The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

A record number of Chinese people have defaulted since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, a court ruling in Germany has opened up a huge €60bn hole in the country’s budget, and the FT’s Christine Murray explains why Mexico is benefitting from companies rethinking their foreign investments.Mentioned in this podcast:Chinese people default in record numbers as economic crisis deepens‘A house of cards’: court ruling leaves Olaf Scholz’s legacy in tattersThe city where Mexico’s nearshoring hype is becoming realityBerkshire Hathaway’s Charlie Munger dies aged 99The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Qatar said mediators had secured a deal to prolong the temporary truce between Israel and Hamas by two days, Chinese fast-fashion group, Shein, has filed confidential paperwork for an initial public offering with the US securities regulator, and Tesla CEO Elon Musk is experiencing a bit of culture shock as he fights against union action in Sweden. Plus, the value of rare whiskies sold at auction has recorded the steepest fall in a decade other than during the pandemic.Mentioned in this podcast:Israel-Hamas truce extended by 2 days, says QatarChinese fast-fashion retailer Shein makes confidential filing for US IPOTesla wins interim decision against Swedish state over car number plates Premium whisky prices slump as weak global economy hurts taste for luxury The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Turkey’s exports to Russia of goods vital for Moscow’s war machine have soared in 2023, and nations at this year’s COP28 summit will revisit a proposal to phase out fossil fuels. Plus, the FT’s Madhumita Murgia explains how one patient in need of a new liver exposed major flaws in the UK’s organ transplant system. Mentioned in this podcast:Future of fossil fuels leaves nations at odds ahead of UN climate summitTurkey’s exports of military-linked goods to Russia surgeAlgorithms are deciding who gets organ transplants. Are their decisions fair?Tech Tonic podcast: Superintelligent AIThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva, Gavin Kallmann, and Josh Gabert-Doyon. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Voters in the Netherlands elect Geert Wilders; UK immigration numbers reach new high; Plus, senior Carlsberg executives are detained in Russia.Mentioned in this podcast:Net migration to the UK hit record 745,000 in 2022Far-right Dutch victory puts European liberal democracy on defensiveEx-Carlsberg executives detained in Russia over fraud claimsThe FT News Briefing this week was produced by Kasia Broussalian, Sonja Hutson, Fiona Symon, Marc Filippino, Josh Gabert-Doyon and me, Persis Love. Our engineers were Monica Lopez and Odinn Ingibergsson. We had help this week from Saffeya Ahmed, Joanna Kao, Sam Giovinco, David da Silva, Michael Lello, Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producers this week were Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s global head of audio and our 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.

Sam Altman returns and OpenAI board members are given the boot; US authorities foil a plot to kill Sikh separatist leader on US soil; plus, the UK’s Autumn Statement increases the tax burden.Mentioned in this podcast:US thwarted plot to kill Sikh separatist on American soilHunt cuts national insurance but taxes head to postwar highOpenAI says Sam Altman to return as chief executive under new board The FT News Briefing is produced by Persis Love, Josh Gabert-Doyon and Edwin Lane. Additional help by Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Manuela Saragosa is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Israel and Hamas have agreed a deal to release hostages, Dutch voters head to the polls today, and Binance chief executive Changpeng Zhao has resigned after pleading guilty to a US criminal charge. Plus, the FT’s George Hammond explains why Sam Altman has so many people rallying behind him after he was ousted from OpenAI. Mentioned in this podcast:Israel approves hostage deal with HamasDutch election shapes up as tight race to replace Mark RutteBinance chief Changpeng Zhao pleads guilty in US criminal caseOpenAI directors in talks with Sam Altman on rejoining boardThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

A majority of OpenAI employees sent a letter demanding that the board reinstate former CEO Sam Altman, Argentina is entering a new era after electing radical libertarian outsider Javier Milei as president, and the US Department of Justice is seeking more than $4bn from Binance to settle a criminal fraud investigation. Plus, the FT’s Alec Russell unpacks Indonesian president Joko Widodo’s ambitious plan to build a new capital city and turn the country into an economic superpower. Mentioned in this podcast:Majority of OpenAI staff threaten to quit unless Sam Altman is reinstatedInvestors cheer Milei victory in ArgentinaJavier Milei prepares shock therapy to cure Argentina’s sickly economyUS DoJ seeks more than $4bn from Binance to settle criminal probeIs Indonesia finally set to become an economic superpower?The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Radical libertarian economist, Javier Milei, has won Argentina’s presidential elections, investors are shaking up the venture capital market by raising money to buy out start-ups, and Bangladesh is struggling to keep the lights on after going all-in on liquefied natural gas. Mentioned in this podcast:Radical libertarian Javier Milei elected president of ArgentinaInvestors shake up VC market by raising money to buy out start-upsWill Bangladesh come to regret its dash for gas?Altman appears at OpenAI offices as pressure grows to reinstate himThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Josh Gabert-Doyon, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Introducing Life and Art, a new podcast FT Weekend. Join host Lilah Raptopoulos for two episodes each week.On Mondays, they talk about life and how to live a good one. On Fridays, Lilah hosts a roundtable that will dive deep into a piece of culture that’s in the air right now. On this episode, Lilah’s joined by FT columnist Stephen Bush and assistant arts editor Rebecca Watson to talk about the new cringe-drama-comedy show, The Curse. They discuss the show and how prestige TV is changing comedy. Why are we laughing less, and cringing more? And why is comedy so complicated right now? Click here to follow Life and Art, from FT Weekend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than half of low-income UK households with mortgages have fallen behind on one or more of their bills and Alibaba disappointed investors after announcing that it ditched plans to spin off its cloud business. Plus, the FT’s Stephen Foley talks about EY’s new leader Janet Truncale and how she might steer the accounting firm.Mentioned in this podcast:Alibaba ditches plans to spin off cloud business and list supermarketEY picks Janet Truncale as the first woman to lead a Big Four firmLow-income borrowers hit hardest by Bank of England rate risesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Manuela Saragosa, Josh Gabert-Doyon, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is attempting to save a plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda; an EU proposal will see Denmark enforcing the price cap on Russian oil by checking ships in the Baltic Sea; Plus, EY names a new CEO.Mentioned in this podcast:Sunak vows emergency legislation as Supreme Court rules against Rwanda policyEY picks Janet Truncale as first woman to lead Big Four firmDenmark could block Russian oil tankers from reaching marketsThis episode of FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Manuela Saragosa, Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Joe Biden and Xi Jinping will hold a high-profile summit in San Francisco today, US inflation fell more than expected to 3.2 per cent in October, and the war in Ukraine is doing serious damage to Russia’s labour market. Mentioned in this podcast:Biden and Xi meet in bid to stabilise relations between superpowersUS stocks and bonds jump after inflation falls to 3.2%Russia’s war economy leaves businesses starved of labourAI outperforms conventional weather forecasting methods for first timeThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Global investment banks have criticised a blanket ban on short selling imposed by South Korean regulators, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stunned Westminster on Monday by restoring former PM David Cameron to the political frontline, and the FT’s Christopher Grimes explains what the future of Hollywood might look like after months of strikes. Mentioned in this podcast:Global banks criticise Korean short selling ban as ‘phantom farce’David Cameron returns as UK foreign secretary after Suella Braverman is sackedGaza’s al-Shifa hospital ‘ceases to function’ as it runs out of fuelHollywood snaps back into action after actors reach deal to end strikesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Joanna Kao Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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 UK’s Takeover Panel has reported its first deficit in almost a decade, and oil prices have been cooling off at a pretty weird time. Plus, the FT’s Kate Duguid explains why a hack at China’s biggest bank put the US Treasury market on ice.  Mentioned in this podcast:UK Takeover Panel falls victim to deal droughtWall Street and Beijing fight fallout of ransomware attack on China’s biggest bankI’m going to dip my fat fingers in oil (Opinion)Iceland declares state of emergency as it braces for volcanic eruptionThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

We’re bringing you a special live conversation from the FT’s Investing in America conference in Miami. Marc is joined on stage by FT US managing editor Peter Spiegel, FT energy reporter Amanda Chu, fDi Intelligence editor Jacopo Dettoni, and fDi managing director Chris Knight to discuss which city won the top spot on the FT’s ranking of best US cities for foreign investment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia has added at least Rbs3.4tn ($37bn) to its budget for this year, the war between Israel and Hamas is starting to bite into Israel's economy, and Spain’s ruling Socialist party has sealed a contentious amnesty deal with Catalan separatists. Plus, Paris is rushing to make the river Seine clean enough for Olympic athletes to swim next summer. Mentioned in this podcast:Russia adds more than 3tn roubles to its budget‘I’m not sure we’ve got a safety net’: Israeli businesses buckle as war hits economyPedro Sánchez set to retain power in Spain after amnesty deal with Catalan separatistsParis bets on giant tank to clean up Seine river in time for OlympicsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Joanna Kao, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Introducing Life and Art, from FT Weekend. It's a new twice-weekly culture podcast from the Financial Times. On Monday, we talk about life, and how to live a good one, in a one-on-one conversation that explores everything from food and travel to philosophy and creativity. On Friday, we talk about “art” – in a chat show! Three FT journalists come together to discuss a new cultural release across film, TV, music and books. Hosted by Lilah Raptopoulos, together with the FT’s award-winning writers and editors, and special guests.Click here to follow Life and Art, from FT Weekend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shares of UK chip designer Arm fell after its revenue forecast for the current quarter left Wall Street underwhelmed, the US’s top diplomat has provided Washington’s most detailed plan for the postwar future of Gaza, Portugal’s corruption scandal is spelling trouble for the government’s economic plans, and US President Joe Biden got some pretty conflicting news for his re-election campaign this week.Mentioned in this podcast:UK chip designer Arm’s shares fall after disappointing revenue forecastUS calls for Palestinian Authority to run Gaza and West Bank after the war with HamasPortugal’s economic plans in disarray after PM resignationPortuguese PM António Costa resigns as corruption crisis eruptsDemocratic wins in US state votes boost Joe Biden‘People are frustrated’: Gaza war opens rift among US DemocratsAccess 50 per cent off of a digital subscription FT.com/briefingsaleThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Joanna Kao, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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 IMF has warned rapid wage increases in eastern Europe risk eroding the region’s competitive edge, Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country will maintain indefinite control over Gaza, and Australia’s prime minister went to China this week in a dramatic turnround in relations between the two countries. Plus, economists are worried falling pork prices in China might tip the country back into deflation.Mentioned in this podcast:Soaring wage growth risks blunting eastern Europe’s edge, IMF warnsIsrael plans ‘indefinite’ controls over Gaza, says Benjamin NetanyahuAustralia seeks reset with Xi Jinping while balancing ties with USThe quick and easy guide for countries resisting Chinese trade coercionFalling pork prices threaten to push China back into deflationRachman Review podcastThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Joanna Kao, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

WeWork filed for bankruptcy, PwC plans to cut up to 600 jobs in the UK, and the FT’s Peter Spiegel explains who won the distinction of the best US city for foreign investment. Mentioned in this podcast:WeWork files for bankruptcy amid office market downturnWeWork: boxed-in flexible space group seeks new lease of lifePwC to cut up to 600 UK jobs as attrition rate plungesHouston overtakes Miami as best place for foreign businesses in annual FT-Nikkei rankingThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Joanna Kao, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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 testifies in New York today, Japan’s prime minister turns to stimulus to offset the pain of inflation, private equity is getting pummelled by higher interest rates, and Berkshire Hathaway reported a record amount of cash on hand.Mentioned in this podcast:Japan’s PM Fumio Kishida bets on $113bn stimulus to tackle inflation painPrivate equity: higher rates start to pummel dealmakersWarren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway sells stocks as cash pile swells to record levelsDonald Trump prepares to testify in New York civil fraud trial The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Joanna Kao, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.

Israeli troops have entered Gaza City, European private equity group CVC Capital Partners has postponed plans to float until next year, and central banks are hitting pause on interest rate rises while inflation stays strong.Mentioned in this podcast:Israeli army attempts to ‘encircle’ Gaza City as Joe Biden calls for pause in fightingCVC Capital Partners postpones plans for Amsterdam listingCentral banks hold interest rates at a scary timeBoE expected to leave rates unchanged as inflation remains strongAI companies agree to government tests on their technology to assess national security risksSam Bankman-Fried convicted of fraud over FTX’s collapseThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 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.