FT News Briefing

Iran has transferred five US citizens from prison to house arrest, US headline inflation in July rose slightly from June, and in Mexico the influence of the military has grown dramatically. Mentioned in this podcast:Iran transfers five imprisoned Americans to house arrestUS inflation edges up to 3.2% in JulyThe militarisation of Mexico’s economyFT Weekend festival promo code: FTPodcastLooking for a fresh perspective on the news? Meet FT Edit - the new app from the Financial Times. FT Edit brings you eight hand-picked stories to surprise and inform you, every weekday. Try FT Edit now: https://on.ft.com/446sxYSThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

Walt Disney reported quarterly results that showed declines at its television and movie businesses, China’s economy has fallen into deflation, and President Joe Biden is banning US tech investment in China. Plus, the FT’s Owen Walker explains why more and more countries in Europe are instituting windfall taxes on banks. Mentioned in this podcast:Disney shares jump after streaming losses narrowChinese economy falls into deflation as recovery stumblesWhite House unveils ban on US investment in Chinese tech sectors Italy joins wave of windfall taxes on banks across EuropeGoogle and Universal Music negotiate deal over AI ‘deepfakes’The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

The UK government is pushing back against an attempt by some members of the House of Lords to close loopholes in transparency legislation, US bank stocks fell after Moody’s cut the credit ratings of 10 midsized banks, and the FT’s Jamie Smyth explains the craze behind new weight-loss drugs. Mentioned in this podcast:UK government resists moves to tighten corporate transparency rulesWeak bank stocks weigh on US and European markets Novo Nordisk’s obesity drug cuts risk of strokes and heart attacksOrange juice futures hit record high after storms ravage Florida cropThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

Meta has axed a team that used artificial intelligence to create the first database of more than 600mn protein structures, and PayPal is launching a stablecoin. Plus, the FT’s Henry Foy explains why it’s so difficult for the EU to admit new members, Ukraine in particular.  Mentioned in this podcast:Meta disbands protein-folding team in shift towards commercial AIPayPal pushes deeper into crypto payments with stablecoin launchThe ‘monumental consequences’ of Ukraine joining the EUFT Weekend podcast: David Byrne on Talking Heads and ‘Here Lies Love’The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Josh Gabert-Doyon, Monique Mulima, Monica Lopez, 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.

Private equity firms are increasingly offering sweeteners such as fee discounts to secure backing from deep-pocketed investors, US banks are still relying on hundreds of billions of dollars in government financing, and Latin America’s central banks have started cutting interest rates. Mentioned in this podcast:Private equity firms offer sweeteners in struggle to lure reluctant investorsBritain’s investors shy away from UK defence companiesRegional lenders struggle to get off government life supportLatin America’s central banks declare victory in war on inflationThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

Can we get rid of the bad bits of social media and keep the good? Is it possible to create a more positive social media experience than the one we get from the platforms that dominate the landscape today? In this episode, Elaine Moore asks what the social media platforms of the future should look like, and whether platforms designed for smaller groups of users with shared interests are the way forward.We hear from writer and tech historian Benj Edwards about the BBS era of the early 1990s; University of Massachusetts professor Ethan Zuckerman; Sarah Gilbert, researcher at Cornell University and Reddit moderator; and Jonathan Abrams, partner at 8-Bit Capital and the creator of Friendster.Presented by Elaine Moore. Produced by Edwin Lane and 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. Special thanks to Hannah Murphy.Mentioned in this podcast:The Lex Newsletter: Reddit and the API apocalypseDiscord has won over gamers. Now it wants everybody elseReddit stands firm in clash with users as blackout on forums escalates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stronger than expected online sales helped Amazon beat Wall Street expectations for last quarter, and the Bank of England raised interest rates for the 14th time in a row. Plus, the FT’s Christopher Miller explains the strategy behind a series of drone attacks on Moscow.Mentioned in this podcast:Amazon’s cost-cutting and online sales lift earningsApple profits rise as services arm surpasses 1bn usersBank of England raises interest rates by 0.25 percentage pointsTreasury yields keep climbing after US increases borrowing plansFT Weekend festival promo code: FTPodcastThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

Investors are increasing their bets that Europe will sink into a painful economic downturn, and luxury groups are bracing for the end of the post-pandemic recovery boom. Plus, the FT’s Tokyo bureau chief Kana Inagaki explains why Nissan’s focus on regaining ground in China might be a bit of an uphill battle.  Mentioned in this podcast:Investors turn gloomy over Europe’s economic outlookLuxury sector slows after ‘bonkers’ post-pandemic spending spreeWhy Nissan’s woes in China are not just about electric vehiclesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

US prosecutors have charged Donald Trump in connection with his attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, Uber reported its first operating profit, and Fitch Ratings has cut the US debt rating from triple A to double A plus. Plus, the US Federal Reserve has become a target for Republican presidential candidates. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump indicted over attempt to overturn 2020 electionUber makes first operating profit after racking up $31.5bn of lossesFitch strips US of triple A rating after borrowing stand-offRon DeSantis vows to crack down on Federal Reserve’s ‘social engineering’Uniper’s chief vows to deliver a ‘good return’ for Berlin after state rescueThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monique Mulima, Monica Lopez, 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.

Rising stock prices and falling bond yields in the US have essentially neutralised the impact of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate rises, western oil and gas majors are expected to face renewed scrutiny of their energy transition plans, and China’s metals and mining investments overseas are on track to hit a record this year. Plus, the private equity owners of German sandal maker Birkenstock are considering an initial public offering of the company. Mentioned in this podcast:US stocks notch longest monthly winning streak in two yearsBooming markets neutralise impact of rate rises on US corporate fundraisingChina’s overseas investment in metals and mining set to hit recordOil majors to face energy transition scrutiny as war profit boost fadesBirkenstock owner eyes $8bn valuation in September IPOThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

The Bank of Japan announced that it’s going to allow bonds to rise more freely, and China’s politburo has signalled several target measures meant to boost the country’s economy. Plus, the FT’s Attracta Mooney explains how more frequent heat waves will impact several different industries and the economy as a whole. Mentioned in this podcast:Investment flows poised for historic shift after ‘giant leap’ by Bank of JapanWhat China’s economic measures mean in practiceHow an era of extreme heat is reshaping economiesUnhedged podcastUnhedged newsletter The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

Social media today is less about making friends and more about following popular content creators. While those creators are starting to hold some power over the platforms themselves, they’re also looking to become less reliant on the platforms that have enabled them to find fame and fortune online. What does it mean for the future of social media platforms? Our producer Josh Gabert-Doyon travels to the VidCon convention in Anaheim, California to speak to the people at the heart of the creator economy.We hear from Kris Collins, a TikTok and YouTube star who goes by the name @KallmeKris and her agent Keith Bielory, as well as Megan Lightcap, a VC investor who specialises in the creator economy, and Lindsey Lugrin, founder of the creator start-up Fuck You Pay Me, which is pushing for pay transparency and higher remuneration in the sector.Mentioned in this podcast:Why social media is hardly social any moreYouTube Shorts takes on TikTok in battle for younger usersWhat de-influencing tells us about the state of the creator economyPresented by Elaine Moore. Produced by Edwin Lane and 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. Special thanks to Hannah Murphy and Cristina Criddle.We're keen to hear more from our listeners about this show and want to know what you'd like to hear more of, so we're running a survey which you can find at ft.com/techtonicsurvey. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort earbuds.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The European Central Bank has raised interest rates back to their record high, and US bank regulators have advanced plans to impose more arduous capital requirements on the country’s large lenders. Plus, the FT’s Elaine Moore says the Twitter/X rebrand doesn’t make sense, but that’s kind of the whole point. Mentioned in this podcast:ECB raises interest rates back to record highRegulators announce ‘Basel III endgame’ rules for large US banksTwitter/X: maverick rebrand leaves Musk with a cross to bearThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Tom Stokes, Monica Lopez, 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.

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point, Facebook parent Meta returned to double-digit revenue growth for the first time since the end of 2021, and US federal prosecutors charged British billionaire Joe Lewis with 19 counts related to insider trading. Plus, China’s foreign minister Qin Gang vanished a month ago and was not replaced until this week.Mentioned in this podcast:Federal Reserve raises US interest rates to highest level in 22 yearsFacebook parent Meta posts strong revenue growth amid restructuringUK billionaire Joe Lewis surrenders to US authorities on insider trading chargesChina insists diplomacy ‘orderly’ after foreign minister’s shock removalMattel hails ‘Barbie’ movie success as ‘showcase’ for more brand tie-upsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

Alphabet earnings beat expectations, a new report from the IMF says the future of the global economy is looking a little brighter than it did a few months ago, and the troubled regional bank PacWest has agreed to merge with Banc of California. Plus, the FT’s James Shotter explains the role Israeli businesses are playing in protesting the country’s judicial reforms. Mentioned in this podcast:Alphabet revenue beats forecasts on robust digital ad performanceIMF upgrades forecasts but warns global economy ‘not out of the woods’US regional lenders PacWest and Banc of California agree merger Israel’s protesters prepare next phase of battle for democracyLeading Israeli businesses to strike in protest at judicial reformsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

Credit Suisse has been fined $388mn by US and British regulators, and Spain is facing an uncertain political future as the right and left failed to secure a clear path to forming a government. Plus, Top US consultancies are struggling to attract business in China as Beijing’s national security raids scare away local clients.Mentioned in this podcast:Credit Suisse fined $388mn over Archegos collapseSpain faces uncertain political future after election deadlockWork dries up for US consultancies in China after national security raidsLVMH becomes late addition to running order of Paris Olympic sponsorsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, 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.

America’s risky corporate loan market has been hit by the biggest slew of downgrades since the depths of the Covid crisis in 2020, and European banks with large retail arms are expected to report big second-quarter profits. Plus, the FT’s sports editor Josh Noble explains why the commercial rollout of the Women’s World Cup has been so disappointing. Mentioned in this podcast:US junk loan market hit with flurry of credit rating downgradesUK banks share more of the benefits of interest rate hikes Commercial rollout of Women’s World Cup criticised as missed opportunityBombs, car chases and ‘free money’: Dutch gangs blow up German cash machinesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Tom Stokes, 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.

There’s a growing feeling that social media is bad for us: bad for society and bad for our wellbeing. That trend has culminated in a new wave of legislation in the United States aiming to address social media’s impact on young people’s mental health. But in this episode, Elaine Moore, deputy editor of the FT’s Lex column, looks at some of the unanswered questions over whether social media really causes us harm, and what legislation will mean for the future of the social media business model. Are we in the throws of a technological panic? In this episode, the third in a series on social media, Elaine speaks to Emma Lembke, co-founder of youth advocacy group Log Off; Katie Paul, director at the Tech Transparency Project; Amy Orben, head of the Digital Mental Health Group at the University of Cambridge; and FT tech reporter Hannah Murphy.Since the publication of Katie Paul’s investigation into the trade of looted Middle Eastern antiquities on Facebook, Meta has changed its policy on the sale of historical artefacts.Presented by Elaine Moore. Produced by Edwin Lane and 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.We're keen to hear more from our listeners about this show and want to know what you'd like to hear more of, so we're running a survey which you can find at ft.com/techtonicsurvey. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort earbuds.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Nasdaq Composite had its biggest one-day drop in more than four months, the winner of Thailand’s general election has been suspended from parliament, and the FT’s Clive Cookson tells us about two huge breakthroughs in the treatment of Alzheimer’s. Mentioned in this podcast:Nasdaq drops more than 2% after Netflix and Tesla results disappointThai election winner blocked from premiershipEli Lilly drug shown to slow Alzheimer’s progressionThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Saffeya Ahmed, Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

A crackdown on password sharing helped Netflix add nearly 6mn subscribers, UK inflation fell to a 15-month low of 7.9 per cent in June, Ukraine’s armed forces are having a hard time with Russian mines and Spain’s Sunday election could mean the end of Pedro Sánchez’s time as prime minister. Mentioned in this podcast:Netflix’s password-sharing crackdown pays off with nearly 6mn new subscribersUK inflation falls more than expected to 7.9% in JuneCould the UK inflation crisis be at a turning point?Military briefing: the mines stalling Ukraine’s advance‘Spain first’: Vox party on brink of sharing powerRachman Review podcast: Spain's lurch to the rightThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

Big investment banks are turning more bearish on the dollar, and Europeans struggle with a near-record heatwave. Plus, the FT’s Anastasia Stognei explains why Russia is starting to seize assets from food and beverage companies. Mentioned in this podcast:Kremlin oligarchs circle Danone and Carlsberg’s Russian assetsWall Street banks ditch bullish dollar bets over ‘soft landing’ hopesScorching Europe struggles to adapt to near-record temperaturesCarlos Ghosn says he filed $1bn lawsuit so Nissan managers cannot ‘sleep quietlyReuters: Carlos Ghosn speaks online at Japan press conferenceThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

Thames Water’s biggest investor slashed the value of its stake last year, Ford’s steep price cut for its electric pick-up truck rattled shareholders and BlackRock will offer retail investors more of a voice in its biggest exchange traded fund. Plus, the FT’s Thomas Hale unpacks what’s ailing China’s economy.  Mentioned in this podcast:Thames Water’s biggest investor cut value of its stake by 28%Does Xi Jinping need a plan B for China’s economy?Ford shares sink after steep price cuts for electric pick-up truckBlackRock offers a vote to retail investors in its biggest ETFBlackRock: investor votes are no revolution in shareholder democracyThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

The EU wants other polluting nations to cut emissions faster. Three of the largest US banks reported a surge in profits last week from charging more for loans as more US banks report this week. Plus the FT’s political editor, George Parker, examines how the UK conservative party might squeeze out a win during the country’s next general election.Mentioned in this podcast:‘We are on for a massive defeat’: can the Tories prevent the inevitable?Large US banks reap bumper profits on Federal Reserve rate risesEU pushes other polluting nations to cut emissions fasterThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Saffeya Ahmed (suff-YUH, EH-med) 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.

Mark Zuckerberg used advertising to turn Facebook into the first global social media giant, boasting 3bn users around the world. But today there are questions about the business model that has powered it for the past 15 years, and what Zuckerberg’s new focus on building the Metaverse means for the platform that started it all. Elaine Moore speaks to veteran Silicon Valley investor Roger McNamee, one-time advisor to Zuckerberg; writer and researcher Tim Hwang, author of Subprime Attention Crisis; and Steven Levy, editor at large at Wired and author of Facebook: The Inside Story. Meta declined a request for an interview for this episode, but directed us to their Q1 2023 earnings.Presented by Elaine Moore. Produced by Edwin Lane and 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. Special thanks to Hannah MurphyClips: Meta, US Senate.We're keen to hear more from our listeners about this show and want to know what you'd like to hear more of, so we're running a survey that you can find at ft.com/techtonicsurvey. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance of winning a pair of Bose QuietComfort earbuds.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government has invited Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to London, and US regulators are going after the company behind ChatGPT. Plus, the FT’s Beijing bureau chief, Joe Leahy, explains how China’s youth are dealing with high levels of unemployment. Mentioned in this podcast: ChatGPT maker investigated by US regulators over AI risksPrince Mohammed bin Salman invited to visit UK in autumnRachman Review: Will this year’s climate talks be a washout?China’s youth left behind as jobs crisis mountsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

US inflation fell sharply to 3 per cent in June, the $1.35tn US junk bond market has shrunk by almost $200bn since its all-time peak in late 2021, and tensions started to boil over during Nato’s two-day summit. Mentioned in this podcast:US inflation slows to 3% as interest rate rises biteUS junk bond market shrinks as rising rates put off borrowers‘We’re not Amazon’: tensions with Ukraine surface at Nato summitThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

Jeremy Hunt has ordered ministers to find more than £2bn to fund public sector pay rises this year, JPMorgan is trying to scoop up Silicon Valley Bank’s clients, and a US court denies a watchdog’s request to block the Microsoft-Activision mergerMentioned in this podcast:Nvidia in talks to be an anchor investor in Arm IPOJPMorgan hires dozens of start-up bankers to capitalise on SVB collapseUS judge denies FTC attempt to block Microsoft’s Activision dealBehind the Money: Frances Haugen’s lessons as a Facebook whistleblowerJPMorgan expands startup banking team abroad with ex-SVB hiresThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

Hedge funds have cut their bets on a rising US stock market to the lowest level in at least a decade and pivoted to Europe, a top US banking regulator has announced tougher capital rules for a broader range of lenders, and Dutch PM Mark Rutte is quitting politics after the collapse of his coalition. Plus, the FT’s Henry Foy explains why Nato is torn over whether to admit Ukraine. Mentioned in this podcast:Hedge funds slash bets on US after rally and pivot to EuropeTop US bank watchdog outlines tougher rules for larger lendersNato’s dilemma: what to do about Ukraine’s bid to join?Erdoğan links Sweden’s Nato bid with Turkey’s EU accessionDutch PM Mark Rutte to quit politics after collapse of coalitionCorrection: In the July 10 episode of the FT News Briefing we mistakenly described the UK Chancellor’s annual speech as the Madison speech. It is the Mansion House speech. We regret the error. The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Monica Lopez, Katie McMurran, 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.

Israel is set to start voting on controversial judicial reforms on Monday and the largest US banks are expected to report the biggest jump in loan losses since the onset of the pandemic. Plus, global manufacturers are shifting business out of China to Vietnam. Mentioned in this podcast:Benjamin Netanyahu faces fresh wave of resistance to Israeli judicial reform plansWall St to report biggest jump in loan losses since pandemicVietnam becomes vital link in supply chain as business pivots from ChinaThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Investors sold stocks and bonds across the world on Thursday as US borrowing costs touched a 16-year high, US Treasury secretary Janet Yellen is in China, and Meta said more than 30mn people had signed up to its long-awaited competitor to Twitter. Plus, the FT’s Africa editor David Pilling explains why conservation in the Congo has become contentious. Mentioned in this podcast:US borrowing costs hit 16-year high as markets roiled by jobs dataJanet Yellen to visit China in new US push to ease tensionsMeta says 30mn people have signed up to Twitter competitor ThreadsIn search of the ‘village of the elephants’, deep in the central African rainforestThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

The US and Germany are among the western allies falling behind in delivering promised heavy weapons to Ukraine, and big asset managers are flocking to Latin American bonds and currencies. Plus, the FT’s Africa editor David Pilling introduces us to some conservationists working to protect elephants from poachers in the Congo River Basin. Mentioned in this podcast:Latin America’s bonds and currencies lure yield-hungry investors In search of the ‘village of the elephants’, deep in the central African rainforestJapan Airlines gives tourists chance to reduce baggage by renting clothesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Israel’s raid on the West Bank reignites fears of escalating violence, Switzerland is looking into potential Russian sanctions violations and we continue our series on the Congo Basin with David Pilling, the FT’s Africa editor. Plus, meme stock traders shop for Bed Bath & Beyond.Mentioned in this podcast:Switzerland questions oil trader over sidestep of Russian sanctionsIn search of the ‘village of the elephants’, deep in the central African rainforestEight injured after car rams pedestrians in Tel Aviv, say policeInvestors spend $200mn on ‘worthless’ Bed Bath & Beyond sharesToday’s FT News Briefing is produced by Manuela Saragosa, Fiona Symon and Josh Gabert-Doyon. Mixing by Simon Panayi. Additional help from Katie McMurran, 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.

The UK’s financial watchdog has summoned bank chief executives to address concerns that savings rates are lagging behind the surging cost of mortgages, Internet brand, Yahoo, is planning a return to the public markets, and the FT has released an investigation into sexual allegations toward celebrated architect, David Adjaye. Plus, the FT’s Africa editor, David Pilling, takes us to one of the biggest rainforests in the world. Mentioned in this podcast:UK watchdog summons bank bosses to address ‘profiteering’ claimYahoo plots return to public markets Sir David Adjaye: the celebrated architect accused of sexual misconductIn search of the ‘village of the elephants’, deep in the central African rainforestThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Apple has been forced to make drastic cuts to production forecasts for the mixed-reality Vision Pro headset, French president cancels a trip to Germany as protests continue in Paris over the police killing of a teenager, and the Nasdaq Composite recorded its best first half of the year since 1983. Plus, the FT’s Taylor Nicole Rogers tells us what resuming student loan payments will mean for borrowers and the larger economy.Mentioned in this podcast:Apple forced to make major cuts to Vision Pro headset production plansPolice killing of teenager Nahel reopens old wounds for France’s minoritiesFrance suffers fifth night of rioting sparked by killing of teenagerNasdaq records best start to year in four decadesMillions of US borrowers brace for the return of student debt paymentsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Brian Gutierrez, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’ 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.

Elon Musk took over Twitter with the promise of promoting free speech and making the loss-making platform profitable again. But his critics say he’s destroying Twitter’s culture and driving it to bankruptcy. How much danger is the company really in? In the first episode in a new series of Tech Tonic, Elaine Moore, deputy editor of the FT’s Lex column, asks whether Musk will save Twitter or destroy it.In this episode we hear from Evan Henshaw-Plath, one of the original creators of Twitter; Rumman Chowdhury, Twitter’s former head of machine learning, ethics, transparency, and accountability who was laid off by Elon Musk; and FT tech reporter Hannah Murphy.Presented by Elaine Moore. Produced by Edwin Lane and 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. Special thanks to Hannah MurphyClips: TED Conferences, CBS, Joe Rogan Experience Podcast, MSNBC, CNNWe're keen to hear more from our listeners about this show and want to know what you'd like to hear more of, so we're running a survey which you can find at ft.com/techtonicsurvey. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort earbuds.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US Supreme Court has curbed universities’ ability to consider race in admissions, turmoil at the top of Thames Water has left the UK government scrambling to prepare contingency plans, and China has passed a new foreign relations law that deepens President Xi Jinping’s control over the country’s external relations. Plus, the FT’s Raphael Minder explains how Belarus's President Alexander Lukashenko ended up brokering a deal to stop the attempted coup in Russia.Mentioned in this podcast:US Supreme Court curbs consideration of race in university admissionsWhy Thames Water is under growing strainChina passes foreign relations law to strengthen Xi Jinping’s response to sanctionsAlexander Lukashenko: from Putin’s puppet to Prigozhin’s saviourThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Sterling suffers biggest one-day fall against the dollar in a month following UK growth fears, US banks are stepping up the sales of their loan portfolios, and Odey Asset Management continues to spiral after an FT investigation into sexual misconduct allegations at the hedge fund. Mentioned in this podcast:US banks step up sales of loan portfolios to private lendersOdey Asset Management in talks with SW Mitchell over Oliver Kelton’s fundsWall Street shares waver as central bankers warn of more rate risesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Sierra Leone’s president, Julius Maada Bio, has won a second term in office, the US Supreme Court rejects a Republican election plan, and a New York court has ruled that FTX’s Sam Bankman-Fried cannot dismiss the criminal charges against him. Plus, a leading Japanese semiconductor equipment maker has accepted a $6.4bn buyout offer from a state-backed fund. Mentioned in this podcast:Bio secures second term as Sierra Leone leaderUS Supreme Court affirms state courts’ authority over election rulesSam Bankman-Fried fails to dismiss criminal charges related to FTXJapan steps into chip supply chain with $6.4bn JSR dealThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

The head of the Wagner militia has denied trying to overthrow the Russian government, and western banks may not be able to participate in the Shanghai IPO of Swiss chemicals group Syngenta. Plus, the Federal Reserve’s campaign to increase interest rates is doing damage to short-term bond yields.Mentioned in this podcast:Wagner chief hails march on Moscow as ‘masterclass’ but denies coup bidBets on bond renaissance frustrated by stubbornly high inflationChina’s biggest IPO in years poses $9bn question for western banksHollywood producer says champagne gifts for Netanyahu may have been ‘excessive’The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Wagner troops withdrew from Russia late Saturday night after an abandoned coup attempt on Moscow, Greek prime minister Kyriako Mitsotakis won re-election in a blowout, and foreign investors viewed Turkey’s first interest rate rise in years as a ‘baby step’ towards ending the country’s economic crisis. Mentioned in this podcast:Kyriakos Mitsotakis set for return to power in Greek electionsWagner troops withdraw as Russian uprising leaves Putin weakenedInvestor scepticism remains after Turkey’s ‘baby step’ towards ending crisisThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Home prices in the US and UK skyrocketed during the coronavirus pandemic. In a special four-part series, we explored how they got so out of whack and what might work to bring back some balance. Mentioned in this podcast:Homesharing offers a cheaper alternative to rental accommodationTurning offices into condos: New York after the pandemicThe Fed’s waiting game: is the US economy finally starting to crack?How stubborn inflation has undermined the UK housing marketThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bank of England’s 50 basis point interest rate rise is causing concern for the UK’s already-high mortgages, and Germany has signed another long-term deal to import more US liquefied natural gas. Plus, the FT’s Aanu Adeoye explains what’s at stake in Sierra Leone’s election this weekend. Mentioned in this podcast:‘We’re suffering’: soaring costs create opening for Sierra Leone’s oppositionBank of England raises interest rates by 0.5 percentage pointsMass UK house repossessions unlikely despite soaring mortgage ratesGermany locks in more US natural gas as it shuns Russian supplyThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

India’s prime minister Narendra Modi is set to address the US Congress today, and US regulators are accusing Amazon of duping customers into signing up for its Prime service without their consent. Plus, Italy has stripped China’s Sinochem of its influence as the largest shareholder in the Italian tyremaker Pirelli. Mentioned in this podcast:India’s Narendra Modi embarks on US state visit to deepen defence and tech tiesWashington’s embrace of Modi carries a priceFTC alleges Amazon ‘tricked and trapped’ customers with Prime subscriptionsItaly strips China’s Sinochem of its influence as Pirelli’s largest investorThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC has accelerated dealmaking in the US, and US president Joe Biden’s son has agreed to plead guilty to tax and firearm possession charges. Plus, the FT’s Madhumita Murgia visited an AI voice technology start-up to explain some of its applications and risks. Mentioned in this podcast:Singapore’s GIC accelerates US deals as China coolsHunter Biden hit with federal tax and firearm chargesCan AI make me a musical star?The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has met with China's President Xi Xinping in an attempt to ease US-Sino tensions. Plus, the aerospace industry says that flying taxis could soon be on the horizon in cities around the world.Mentioned in this podcast:Xi Jinping sees ‘progress’ in China-US ties at meeting with Antony BlinkenWhich flying taxi will take off first?Amazon, Hilton and Starbucks to hire thousands of refugees across EuropeThe FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon and Josh Gabert-Doyon. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music and Simon Panayi was the audio engineer.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AstraZeneca has drawn up plans to break out its China business, and France is challenging a German-led plan to build up Europe’s air defences. Plus, US businesses are cutting back on their investments in diversity and inclusion. Mentioned in this podcast:AstraZeneca drafts plan to spin off China business amid tensionsFrance summons allies in challenge to German-led air defence plan Cuts to investment in diversity threaten gainsHunt tells ministers to quicken adoption of AI to boost economyThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

In this last episode of Martin Wolf’s series, the FT’s chief economics commentator sits down with the FT’s executive opinion editor, Jonathan Derbyshire, to give his concluding thoughts on the state of the world’s democracies. Drawing on arguments in Martin’s latest book, The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism, and his conversations in this series, they discuss what role citizens’ juries could play in rectifying some of what has gone wrong in the past couple of decades.Want more?Martin Wolf: in defence of democratic capitalismCitizens’ juries can help fix democracyFor Martin’s FT columns click hereFor the FT review of Martin’s book click here Read a transcript of this episode on FT.comThis episode is presented by Martin Wolf. The producer is Laurence Knight. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa and the sound engineer is Breen Turner. The FT's global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this fourth episode of Martin Wolf’s series, the FT’s chief economics commentator discusses the rise of populist politics with someone who was hit by its hard edge: Hillary Clinton. Drawing on arguments in Martin’s latest book, The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism, they discuss what the future holds for democracy, why female leaders face such extreme misogyny and threats of violence, whether President Biden can win re-election next year, and why Clinton is pinning her hopes on a younger generation of voters.Want more?Martin Wolf: in defence of democratic capitalismCitizens’ juries can help fix democracyFor Martin’s FT columns click hereFor the FT review of Martin’s book click here This episode is presented by Martin Wolf. The producer is Laurence Knight. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineers are Samantha Giovinco and Breen Turner. The FT's global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Clips: CNN, ABC, CBS, OAN, Fox, BBC, CBCRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK hedge fund firm Odey Asset Management is being dismantled in the wake of sexual misconduct allegations against its founder and Saudi Arabia has spent almost $8bn on gaming companies in the past 18 months as part of a turbocharged investment spree. Plus, FT markets editor Katie Martin talks about this week’s asynchronous central bank moves. Mentioned in this podcast:ECB increases interest rates to highest level since 2001Chinese economic data fuels gloom over recoverySaudi Arabia spends billions in drive to dominate global games industryOdey Asset Management to be broken upUnhedged podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/UnhedgedThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.

The US Federal Reserve paused its interest rate rise campaign on Wednesday after 10 straight increases, and former UK prime minister Boris Johnson has been found to have committed “multiple” contempts of parliament. Plus, Russian energy giant Gazprom has been backing militias in the Ukraine war.Mentioned in this podcast:Federal Reserve pauses rate rise campaign but signals more to comeBoris Johnson found to have committed ‘multiple’ contempts of parliament‘Stream’ and ‘Torch’: the Gazprom-backed militias fighting in UkraineBeyonce blamed for stubbornly high Swedish inflationCredit: Beyonce performs Break My Soul in StockholmThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Katie McMurran, 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.