FT News Briefing

In the second episode of this season of Tech Tonic, James Kynge, the FT’s Global China Editor, asks how significant Chinese intellectual property theft has been to the country’s rise as a global tech superpower.We hear from an FBI agent based in Silicon Valley whose job is to prevent the theft of trade secrets, and ask whether China’s ‘talent programmes’, under which Beijing funds scientists and engineers around the world, are actually spy recruitment networks or whether they are genuine attempts to lure home professionals and plug China’s talent gap. Experts are warning the growing distrust between the US and China could put the future of scientific and technological exchange at risk.Featuring interviews with Nick Shenkin, FBI special agent and director of the Strategic Technology Task Force for the FBI's San Francisco field office; an interview between the FT’s Demetri Sevastopulo and Michael Orlando, acting director of the US National Counterintelligence and Security Center; Rui Ma, China tech analyst and creator of the Tech Buzz China podcast; Wang Huiyao, founder and president of Center for China and Globalization in Beijing; Winston Ma, author and adjunct professor at the NYU law school; and Gisela Kusakawa, assistant director at the Anti-Racial Profiling Project at Asian Americans Advancing Justice.Check out stories and up-to-the-minute news from the FT’s technology team at ft.com/technologyFor a special, discounted FT subscription, go to https://www.ft.com/techtonicsaleAnd check out FT Edit, the new iPhone app that shares the best of FT journalism, hand-picked by senior editors to inform, explain and surprise. It’s free for the first month and 99p a month for the next six months.Presented by James Kynge. Interview with Michael Orlando conducted by Demetri Sevastopulo. Edwin Lane is senior producer. Josh Gabert-Doyon is producer. Manuela Saragosa is executive producer. Sound design is by Breen Turner, with original music from Metaphor Music. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.News clips credits: NBC, Global News, Micron, The Oregonian Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekend, we delve into the world of celebrity via the app Cameo. What does it mean that we can now pay celebrities to send us personalised video greetings? And how has our interaction with famous people shifted over the last decade? Lilah talks to gaming critic Tom Faber about the ethics and absurdities of fame in 2022. Then, interior design columnist Luke Edward Hall gives us his top tips on making your home really feel like yours.--------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. --------------Links and mentions from the episode: –Tom Faber on Cameo: https://on.ft.com/3FIF7kF –Luke Edward Hall on the magic of your own murals: https://on.ft.com/3jjN4UY –Luke’s five design principals: https://on.ft.com/2OZGXcH –Luke Edward Hall is on Instagram at @lukeedwardhall, and Tom Faber is on Twitter at @_TomFaber–Key coverage of the war in Ukraine is free to read: https://www.ft.com/freetoread—-------------Special offers for Weekend listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial are here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast. If you have an iPhone and want to try FT Edit, search ‘FT Edit’ in the app store.--------------The first US FT Weekend Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Washington, DC. To attend virtually or in person, buy tickets at http://ft.weekendfestival.com – use the discount code FTFriends2022 for 10% off.--------------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design by Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

French bank shares and bonds were rattled this week after the recent poll showed stronger results for right-wing French presidential candidate, Marine Le Pen.Aluminium producer Rusal became the first Russian company to publicly call for an investigation into the alleged war crimes in the Ukrainian town of Bucha, and FT markets editor, Katie Martin, discusses whether sanctions against Russia might affect the global dominance of the US dollar. Mentioned in this podcast:Le Pen’s poll surge rattles French bonds and bank stocksRussian aluminium producer Rusal calls for Bucha war crimes investigationFinancial warfare: will there be a backlash against the dollar?FTNB: Russia’s war on Ukraine boosts China’s financial ambitionsKetanji Brown Jackson confirmed for US Supreme Court seatThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US has imposed its most severe level of sanctions on Russia’s Sberbank and Alfa-Bank, and Brazil might have finally settled on a chief executive for Petrobras. Plus, the FT’s China correspondent, Eleanor Olcott, spoke to staff at a Chinese autonomous vehicle company who say AutoX conducted risky test drives in a push for better data and investment.Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:US imposes ‘severe’ sanctions on Russian banks after Bucha atrocitiesPetrobras faces fresh turmoil as Brazilian government’s pick for chief withdrawsWhy Chinese driverless car company AutoX disengaged its safety featuresApple App Store: FT EditThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US and eurozone government debt sold off on Tuesday as traders weighed the prospect of stronger sanctions against Russia and comments from a top policymaker at the Federal Reserve signalling more aggressive action, President Joe Biden announces US, UK and Australia co-operation on hypersonic weapons, and in China’s financial hub, Shanghai, there are signs of growing public anger at the government’s stringent zero-Covid lockdown measures. Mentioned in this podcast:Government debt hit as traders weigh prospect of further Russia sanctionsBiden to announce US, UK and Australia co-operation on hypersonic weaponsShanghai extends Covid lockdown measures despite economic concernsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The venerable venture capital firm, Sequoia Capital, has announced a change in leadership, Elon Musk has bought a nearly-10 per cent stake in Twitter, French president Emmanual Macron has called for a ban on Russian oil and coal. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:EU moves closer to boycott of Russian energyTwitter/Elon Musk: social media star becomes social media ownerHuawei faces dilemma over Russia links that risk further US sanctionsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EU prepares more sanctions against Russia after apparent atrocities near Kyiv, French president Emmanuel Macron has warned his supporters not to assume that he will win a second term in this month’s election, and international auditors are resigning from China’s heavily indebted property developers.Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:EU prepares more sanctions against Russia after apparent atrocities near KyivBig Four under growing pressure as Chinese developers delay auditsFrance votes: Macron’s frontrunner status conceals deep rifts in societyLimited offer: 50 per cent off a digital subscription to FT.com The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first episode of this season’s six-part series, the FT’s Global China Editor James Kynge tracks China’s dramatic transformation from the manufacturing workshop of the world to the next global superpower. The driver of that change is technology, sparking a battle between China and the US over who will dominate. Numerous ethnic Chinese scientists working in the US have found themselves ensnared in this bitter rivalry, including US-based physics professor Xiaoxing Xi, wrongly accused of industrial espionage, amid accusations that China’s tech prowess has been built on the theft of US innovation. How deep is the rift between the two countries over tech and what does that mean for the world?Check out stories and up-to-the-minute news from the Technology team at  ft.com/technologyGet 50% off an FT subscription at ft.com/briefingsaleAnd check out FT Edit, the new iPhone app that shares the best of FT journalism, hand-picked by senior editors to inform, explain and surprise. It’s free for the first month and 99p a month for the next six months.Presented by James Kynge. Edwin Lane is senior producer. Josh Gabert-Doyon is producer. Manuela Saragosa is executive producer. Sound design is by Breen Turner, with original music from Metaphor Music. The FT's head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.News clips credits: CNBC, CGTN America, NBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest host Marc Filippino discusses the FT's war coverage in Ukraine with our Editor, Roula Khalaf. How does a news organisation make decisions during wartime? Then Marc talks with Maria Stepanova, author of In Memory of Memory, which was short-listed for the Booker Prize last year. Maria tells us why so many intellectuals are leaving Russia and what it’s like to be Russian and against the war.—-------------Special offers for Weekend listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial are here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast--------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. --------------The first US FT Weekend Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Washington, DC. To attend virtually or in person, buy tickets at http://ft.weekendfestival.com – use the discount code FTFriends2022 for 10% off.--------------Links and mentions from the episode: –Key coverage of the war in Ukraine is free to read: https://www.ft.com/content/77ab8dcf-cb02-4e57-aff0-85c8a84f5a1f  -In late March the FT published an exchange on NATO’s red lines between our Chief Economics Commentator Martin Wolf and Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator Gideon Rachman: https://www.ft.com/content/7640ea89-cc1f-4e41-a64f-95e88de19454–Maria Stepanova, ‘The War of Putin’s Imagination’: https://www.ft.com/content/c2797437-5d3f-466a-bc63-2a1725aa57a5–Maria’s International Booker Prize shortlisted novel is called ‘In Memory of Memory.’ Here’s a quick review we ran when it first appeared in English: https://www.ft.com/content/bad0513d-f67c-4e0e-9b2d-962040fa6422–This weekend’s FT Magazine cover story, ‘21 days in Ukraine: a diary’: https://www.ft.com/content/391232c8-b05c-480f-a189-4e9e21d1bd4a#comments-anchor –You can also keep up with FT coverage by following @financialtimes on Instagram and Twitter. –Marc Fillipino is on Twitter at @mfilippino and hosts the FT News Briefing. You can listen at the following link, or by searching for ‘FT News Briefing’ wherever you get your podcasts: https://www.ft.com/ft-news-briefing --------------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design by Garrett Tiedemann.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The White House announced a “historic release” of about 180mn barrels of oil from the US emergency stockpile in an attempt to cool oil prices, and the two-year Treasury yield this week rose above the 10-year Treasuries for the first time since 2019. FT markets editor, Katie Martin, explains what this signals for the US economy.Mentioned in this podcast:US orders biggest ever release from Strategic Petroleum ReserveUS yield curve inverts in possible recession signal US bonds: don’t fret about inversion yet Limited offer: 50 per cent off a digital subscription to FT.com The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SoftBank will slow down further investments amid a scramble for cash, journalist and “Putin’s People” author Catherine Belton talks about the impact sanctions are having on Russian oligarchs. Plus, the FT’s Frankfurt bureau chief, Martin Arnold, talks about Russia’s threat to halt gas shipments to Germany and what that could do to the German economy. Mentioned in this podcast:Softbank to slow investments after crash in tech holdingsGermany takes step towards gas rationing over payments standoff with Russia Journalist Catherine Belton on Rachman Review podcast Limited offer: 50 per cent off a digital subscription to FT.com The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia has decided to “dramatically” scale back its military activities in the Kyiv area, and Barclays faces a £450mn hit after the bank mistakenly issued $15bn-worth more of financial products in the US than it had permission to do so. Plus, the FT’s chief economics commentator, Martin Wolf, explains how the war in Ukraine is further disrupting the global economy. Mentioned in this podcast:Russia says it will ‘dramatically reduce’ military activity around KyivThe VXX plot thickens with Barclays’ £450m structured notes lossPutin’s war demands a concerted global economic responseLimited offer: 50 per cent off a digital subscription to FT.com The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia’s biggest internet company has embedded code into apps found on mobile devices that allows information about millions of users to be sent to servers located in the country, the yen dropped to a seven-year low on Monday as the Bank of Japan bucked the global trend for tighter monetary policy, and China’s patchy vaccination campaign has left half of its elderly population exposed to a higher risk of severe Covid-19. Mentioned in this podcast:Russian tech giant’s data harvesting raises security concernsYen hits 7-year low after Bank of Japan sticks to stimulusChina’s patchy vaccine campaign leaves half of older citizens at riskLimited offer: 50 per cent off a digital subscription to FT.com The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new six-part series of Tech Tonic brings you stories from the frontlines of the battle between the US and China for global technological supremacy. At stake is the future of technologies that will shape all our lives, from the way the internet is used to the way we govern our societies. Join the FT’s Global China Editor James Kynge as he charts China’s dramatic transformation into a global tech superpower, sparking rivalry with the US over who controls our technological future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HSBC has repeatedly edited its analysts’ research publications to remove references to a “war” in Ukraine, the US has denied that it is seeking to overturn Vladimir Putin’s regime, Plus, the FT’s Global China Editor explores how the bitter hi-tech war between the US and China is playing out. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:US denies it is seeking regime change in MoscowHSBC cut mentions of Ukraine ‘war’ from analyst reportsTech Tonic: Season 3Limited offer: 50 per cent off a digital subscription FT.com The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekend, guest host Taylor Nicole Rogers talks to Ukrainian filmmaker Iryna Tsylik, director of the documentary The Earth is Blue as an Orange. It won a major directing award at Sundance in 2020 and has now become one of the films being used to explain the current war in Ukraine around the world. The film was shot in 2017 in a disputed area of eastern Ukraine, and focuses on a family making home movies during the conflict. Iryna reflects on the power of art now that she’s had to flee her own home. Then we hear from Louis Wise, who recently interviewed the sculptor Anish Kapoor about his grand plans for this year's Venice Biennale. --------------Special offers for Weekend listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial are here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast--------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. You can also keep up with FT coverage by following @financialtimes on Instagram and Twitter.--------------The first US FT Weekend Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Washington, DC. To attend virtually or in person, buy tickets at http://ft.weekendfestival.com – use the discount code FTFriends2022 for 10% off.--------------Links and mentions from the episode: –Key coverage of the war in Ukraine is free to read: https://www.ft.com/content/77ab8dcf-cb02-4e57-aff0-85c8a84f5a1f  –Iryna Tsylik’s documentary, ‘The Earth is Blue as an Orange’ https://www.sundance.org/projects/the-earth-is-blue-as-an-orange – Iryna writes public updates using her Facebook account here: https://www.facebook.com/ira.tsilyk  –Louis Wise on Anish Kapoor: https://www.ft.com/content/6a371cb7-9042-4f6f-8cc3-5a7f0f8444ad –Louis is on Instagram @louisquinze  –Jan Dalley, ‘Is it right to cancel Russian artists?’ https://www.ft.com/content/c5b1a01a-dc5b-41a6-a941-2480d2123fe9 --------------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design by Breen Turner and Tommy Bazarian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US is finalising a plan to supply the EU with up to 15bn additional cubic metres of liquefied natural gas by the end of 2022, Russian shares rose as the Moscow exchange partially reopened, hedge funds search for bargains in Russian and Ukrainian bonds, and Toshiba shareholders vote down management’s plan to split the famous industrial conglomerate in two.Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:US to boost supplies of liquefied natural gas to EURussian shares rise as Moscow stock market reopensHedge funds search for bargains in Russian and Ukrainian bondsToshiba shareholders reject management plan to split the company War in Ukraine: free to read Twitterspaces discussion: A look inside Putin’s inner circlesThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oil exports from a crucial pipeline on Russia’s Black Sea coast were fully halted on Wednesday, Vladimir Putin said Russia will begin to invoice European gas buyers in roubles, and writer Tim Judah talks about Ukraine’s many volunteer armies, and the FT revealed that Archegos Capital Management quietly amassed a stake in Deutsche Bank after its founder Bill Hwang forged ties with the German lender’s leaders before the family office imploded last year.Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Major Russian pipeline fully halts exports, sending crude higherRussia to switch gas invoicing to roubles for European buyersAt the gateway to Kyiv: Ukrainians dig in to resist Russia’s onslaughtScoop: Archegos quietly built stake in Deutsche BankWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer Tim Judah talks about life in Kyiv as Russian forces advance on suburbs of Ukraine’s capital, and the FT’s Money Clinic host Claer Barrett talks about gold as a safe haven in times of uncertainty. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Body bags, burning buildings and buzz cuts for soldiers: how Kyiv is survivingMoney Clinic with Claer Barrett: Is Gold the Safest Place to Invest? War in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moscow reopens markets, Pakistanis face crippling inflation and their prime minister Imran Khan faces a no confidence vote, Nestlé justifies staying in Russia as criticism mounts.Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Russia’s local bonds drop as Moscow takes first steps towards reopening marketsUS government bond market suffering worst month since Trump electedNestlé justifies staying in Russia as criticism mountsPakistan: Imran Khan and the politics of inflationWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Germany said it sealed a long-term agreement with Qatar for liquefied natural gas supplies, prices on many products in Russia have shot up as sanctions blow a hole in Russia’s economy, EU lawmakers are set to finalise new rules for leading technology companies despite heavy lobbying by Big Tech, and a key player in the chip industry warns of a two-year shortage of critical equipment.   Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Germany says its clinched long term gas deal with QatarPrice surges and panic buying: Russia’s war empties shelves and walletsHow Big Tech lost the antitrust battle in EuropeChipmakers face two year shortage of critical equipment War in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekend, we discuss the power of disinformation, and how Russia has been using it in Ukraine. We are joined by Natalia Antelava, who has reported in Ukraine and Eastern Europe for years. Natalia is editor-in-chief of the popular news website called Coda Story, which focuses on global digital crises, and has been closely covering Putin’s disinformation machine in Ukraine and beyond. We step back and examine the narratives Russia has used since 2014 to confuse, distort, and spread lies.--------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. —--------Links and mentions from the episode: –Key coverage of the war in Ukraine is free to read: https://www.ft.com/content/77ab8dcf-cb02-4e57-aff0-85c8a84f5a1f  –Coda Story, Natalia’s news website: https://www.codastory.com/-Coda’s Disinformation Matters newsletter: https://www.codastory.com/newsletters/disinfo-matters-newsletters/– Natalia is on Twitter @antelava. You can also keep up with FT coverage by following @financialtimes on Instagram and Twitter.--------------The first US FT Weekend Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Washington, DC. To attend virtually or in person, buy tickets at http://ft.weekendfestival.com – use the discount code FTFriends2022 for 10% off.—------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design by Breen TurnerClips this week from Euronews, CNN and the BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US secretary of state has poured cold water on hopes of a diplomatic settlement to the war in Ukraine, saying there were no signs Vladimir Putin was “prepared to stop” Russia’s invasion of its neighbour, JPMorgan has processed interest payments sent by the Russian government for two of the country’s bonds, and the London Metal Exchange suspended electronic trading in nickel on Wednesday, just after it reopened for business following a week-long shutdown.Mentioned in this podcast:US pours cold water on hopes of a Ukraine settlementRussia edges closer to averting default as JPMorgan processes bond paymentLondon Metal Exchange suffers fresh glitch during nickel tradingWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Federal Reserve has lifted its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point, Europe’s largest energy traders have called on central banks for help to avert a cash crunch, and the FT’s Tom Mitchell discusses the rising cost of Beijing’s loyalty to Moscow. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Fed announces first rate rise since 2018 amid surging inflationChina makes rare intervention to bolster confidence after market routThe rising cost of China’s friendship with Russia Energy traders call for ‘emergency’ central bank interventionWar in Ukraine: free to read Twitter Space: China’s involvement in the war in Ukraine The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oil prices fell and share indices in Hong Kong and China dropped amid investor jitters over potential lockdowns and their economic impact, German prosecutors have charged a key player in the Wirecard fraud scandal, the UK and EU have levelled new sanctions on Russian oligarchs. Mentioned in this podcast:EU and UK hit Roman Abramovich and other oligarchs with new sanctionsPakistan presses ahead with Russian-built gas pipelineChina shares fall sharply on concerns over Covid outbreak and Ukraine warFormer Wirecard chief executive charged with fraudWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US stocks dip lower on concerns over this week’s Federal Reserve meeting, a star witness in the 1MDB corruption trial has wrapped up testimony in a Brooklyn courthouse, and US president Joe Biden is courting Venezuela and re-engaging with Saudi Arabia to overcome his oil sanctions against Moscow.  Mentioned in this podcast:US government bond prices drop ahead of Federal Reserve meetingTim Leissner’s testimony in 1MDB trial shines light on vast fraudHaving frozen out Putin, Biden is warming to other autocratsGermany to buy US F-35 jets in first big deal since defence budget boostWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US officials say Moscow has asked Beijing for military equipment to support its invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine’s army celebrates its Turkish drones but Ankara plays down weapons sales to appease Moscow, Russia has ratcheted up the chances that it will default on its debt with a threat to pay international bondholders in roubles rather than dollars, and sanctions are forcing Russian banks to abandon global ambitions and focus on survival. Mentioned in this podcast:US claims Russia has asked China for military help in invasion of UkraineRussia threatens to make external debt payments in roublesTurkey is trying to carve out role as a mediator between Kyiv and MoscowRussia’s banks turn from global ambitions to survivalWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekend, we speak with Ukrainian journalist Olga Tokariuk, who is currently in western Ukraine. Olga reflects on how Ukrainians forged the resolve they are showing now in the fight against Russia. She shares how Ukraine’s identity has shifted and strengthened over the past 30 years since its independence, especially in the seven years since the Maidan revolution. Then, FT film critic Danny Leigh joins us to discuss this year's Oscars nominees, from ‘Power of the Dog’ to ‘Don't Look Up’. With a drop in viewership over the years, it seems the Academy is scrambling to make us care. But should we? Special offers for Weekend listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial are here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast--------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. --------------The first US FT Weekend Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Washington, DC. To attend virtually or in person, buy tickets at http://ft.weekendfestival.com – use the discount code FTFriends2022 for 10% off.--------------Links and mentions from the episode: –Key coverage of the war in Ukraine is free to read: https://www.ft.com/content/77ab8dcf-cb02-4e57-aff0-85c8a84f5a1f  –Olga is on Twitter @olgatokariuk. You can also keep up with FT coverage by following @financialtimes on Instagram and Twitter.–Mary Elise Sarotte on Ukraine’s history since 1991: https://www.ft.com/content/742f15fc-675a-4622-b022-cbec444651cf –Danny’s roundup of this year’s Oscars nominees: https://www.ft.com/content/d9000eb2-11ec-40af-aa8f-2e5f654bde4e –Danny’s review of Power of the Dog:  https://www.ft.com/content/8f2af17e-cad5-4fc6-9ea7-68e5402dda5d –Lilah made a Hark list of some of our favorite moments from the show so far, which you can listen to here https://short.harkaudio.com/3pwwAMH--------------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design by Breen Turner and Hannis Brown. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US consumer price growth approached 8 per cent last month ahead of a surge in energy prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the war in Ukraine is causing energy bills to skyrocket in the UK. Plus, the FT’s central European correspondent, James Shotter, talks about his reporting on the flood of Ukrainian refugees into Poland and how Poles are responding. Mentioned in this podcast:Tears of relief on Polish border as flow of refugees inches to safetyUS inflation reaches 7.9% in February hitting new 40-year highECB scales back stimulus plan as Ukraine war drives up inflation expectationsWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EU leaders prepare to meet in Versailles today for a summit aimed at a unified response to the war in Ukraine, and Citigroup is having a hard time selling its retail bank in Russia. Plus, the FT’s Paris bureau chief Victor Mallet explains how the Ukraine war is boosting Emmanuel Macron’s re-election chances. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:EU struggles to deepen unity on defence and energyCitigroup ‘running out of options’ in push to sell Russian bankA home run’: Ukraine war boosts Emmanuel Macron’s re-election chancesWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US and UK banned Russian oil and gas imports on Tuesday to punish Moscow for invading Ukraine, the stalled green revolution, and Russians are fleeing the country.  Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Biden bans US imports of Russian oil and gas in attempt to punish PutinCurbs on Russian exports raise risk of oil shock and recession in EuropeWill the Ukraine war derail the green energy transition?War in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oil and natural gas prices see-sawed as global stocks fell on Monday after a US push to ban Russian crude faced German resistance, the US Treasury warns banks to be on high alert for sanctions evasion, sanctions on Russia could aid Beijing’s efforts to internationalise the renminbi, and Levi Strauss said it is halting its business in Russia.Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Markets rattled by push for Russian oil ban How the Ukraine war could boost China’s global finance ambitionsUS warns banks to be on high alert for Russia sanctions evasionLevi Strauss halts business in RussiaWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is fueling the ‘fastest growing refugee crisis in Europe since second world war,’ according to the UNHCR; the White House has reversed its position and now is talking with European partners about a ban on Russian oil, and sanctions on Russia have unleashed a renewed wave of disruption for strained global supply chains. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Ukraine invasion fuels ‘fastest growing refugee crisis in Europe since second world war’US in ‘active discussions’ over Russian oil import ban as Moscow targets Ukraine urban centres  Russia demands US guarantees over revival of Iran nuclear accordWorld’s biggest shipping groups suspend Russian cargo bookings Ukraine crisis batters Sri Lanka’s tea and tourism recovery strategyWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we bring you one of the most popular episodes from our archive: a conversation with Elif Shafak, the most widely read woman novelist in Turkey. She and Lilah discuss national identity, the generational pain of conflict, and writing in countries that don't have freedom of speech. This conversation feels especially poignant today, as the war in Ukraine becomes even more devastating. This episode also features columnist Enuma Okoro on loving our cities, and economist Tim Harford on feeling less pressure to get everything done.We’ll be back with a new episode, on the cultural side of the war in Ukraine, next week.--------------We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. --------------Special offers for FT Weekend listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial are here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast--------------Links from the episode:––Key coverage of the war in Ukraine is free to read: https://www.ft.com/freetoread. You can also keep up with FT coverage by following @financialtimes on Instagram and Twitter.—Enuma Okoro’s love letter to New York City: https://www.ft.com/content/e2507d84-9a12-4755-a9c7-41c9ea116947  —Lilah’s piece about visiting Armenia: https://www.ft.com/content/2e2f38b0-e7a1-11e8-8a85-04b8afea6ea3 —Review of Elif Shafak’s novel, The Island of Missing Trees: https://www.ft.com/content/1a064a06-bd19-43c7-8237-38931853d0e2 —Tim Harford on to-do lists: https://www.ft.com/content/06ffe40d-fdcc-4be8-b536-810cedce7ed1 —Oliver Burkeman on how not to waste your life (paywall): https://www.ft.com/content/dd0d477b-c1f7-4d74-af68-c1ef1692566c--------------The first US FT Weekend Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Washington, DC. To attend virtually or in person, buy tickets at http://ft.weekendfestival.com – use the discount code FTFriends2022 for 10% off.--------------Sound design and mixing is by Breen Turner, with original music by Metaphor Music.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Western brands flee Russia, global commodities soar as Putin intensifies his attack on Ukraine, and the US announces new sanctions on Russian oligarchs and their families. Plus, Accenture, McKinsey and Boston Consulting Group are the latest companies to flee or suspend operations in Russia. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:US announces new sanctions on Russian oligarchs and their familiesCommodity prices soar to highest level since 2008 over Russia supply fearsWestern brands flee Russia in unravelling of ‘capitalistic diplomacy’War in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the brutality of Moscow’s invasion intensifies, the idea of targeting oil and gas exports for sanctions is no longer off the table, and Federal Reserve chair Jay Powell confirmed to US lawmakers that he is backing a quarter point rate rise later this month despite the uncertainties caused by Russia’s invasion. Plus, the FT’s Frankfurt correspondent, Joe Miller, talks about the dramatic change in Germany’s foreign and defence policy as a result of Russia’s war on Ukraine, and how that’s changed the corporate landscape. Mentioned in this podcast:Should the west place an embargo on Russian oil and gas supplies?Powell backs quarter-point rate rise in March despite Ukraine war effectsGermany’s defence industry transformed by Scholz’s €100bn response to Ukraine crisisTwitter Space: How the war in Ukraine is impacting the global economy The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline company that was to bring Russian gas to Europe is reportedly insolvent, China has signalled it is ready to play a role in finding a ceasefire, and crypto exchanges are under pressure to block transactions with Russia as western politicians fear that cryptocurrencies will undermine the effectiveness of financial sanctions.Mentioned in this podcast:Nord Stream 2 pipeline becomes insolvent, says Swiss officialNord Stream 2 pipeline becomes insolvent, says Swiss officialBeijing shifts public position after call between Chinese and Ukrainian foreign ministersCrypto exchanges resist calls for Russia bans after sanctionsWar in Ukraine: free to readThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The International Energy Agency will hold an emergency meeting to discuss whether to release oil from strategic stocks to offset rising energy prices caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Russian financial markets have descended into turmoil after western sanctions over the weekend struck the country’s financial system, and gulf states are staying neutral when it comes to the war in Ukraine. Mentioned in this podcast:IEA to discuss releasing oil stocks on Tuesday to stabilise pricesRussia doubles interest rates as sanctions send rouble plungingGulf states’ neutrality on Ukraine reflects deeper Russian tiesWar in Ukraine: free to read The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BP plans to divest its stake in Russia’s state-oil company Rosneft, Norway’s $1.3tn oil fund plans to sell out of Russia and US and Western allies to impose sanctions on Russia’s central bank and cut some lenders from Swift. Plus, shares in cybersecurity companies rise as companies around the world fear more Russian cyberattacks. Mentioned in this podcast:BP to divest stake in Russian state-oil company RosneftWest to impose sanctions on Russian central bank and cut some lenders from SwiftA global financial pariah’: how central bank sanctions could hobble RussiaWar in Ukraine risks scrambling the logic of cyber securityThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia has invaded Ukraine. We begin this episode with a visit from FT Weekend editor Alec Russell, a week after he joined us to discuss his years covering the fall of communism in eastern Europe. How can we make sense of this? Then, we go searching for the Hum, a mysterious noise that has plagued the residents of Halifax, West Yorkshire. It’s an uncomfortable, low-frequency sound that has also been heard in towns across the world, from New Mexico to Ontario to Scotland. The FT's Imogen West-Knights tells us that it's mostly heard by middle-aged women. So is it a real noise, an imaginary illness, or both? --------------Special offers for Weekend listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial are here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast--------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. --------------The first US FT Weekend Festival is on Saturday, May 7 in Washington, DC. To attend virtually or in person, buy tickets at http://ft.weekendfestival.com – use the discount code FTFriends2022 for 10% off.--------------Links and mentions from the episode: –Imogen West Knights on the mystery of the hum: https://on.ft.com/3pe43ve –The FT’s key coverage on the war in Ukraine is free to read: http://ft.com/freetoread – Here’s the piece Alec mentioned, ‘The road to war: how Putin wrote the requiem for peace’, by Mary Sarotte: https://on.ft.com/3HqSO8F – Alec’s lunch with Lea Ypi: https://on.ft.com/3GHmi1J –Alec is on Twitter at @AlecuRussell, and Imogen is on Twitter @ImogenWK –Rob Armstrong’s profile of Larry Gagosian: https://on.ft.com/3ImMiBr --------------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing, sound design and sleuthing by Breen Turner.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Western countries are punishing Russia after Vladimir Putin ordered an invasion from Ukraine, and UK prime minister Boris Johnson wants to punish Russia by removing it from the Swift international payments system. Plus, the FT’s Katie Martin explains how markets reacted on the first day of the war in Ukraine. Mentioned in this podcast:Putin shatters peace in Europe as Russia storms UkraineWorld leaders divided on whether to eject Russia from Swift payment systemEuropean gas prices soar and oil tops $105 after Russia attacks UkraineRussia-Ukraine webinar: What Next?  The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT’s Max Seddon, reports from Moscow about Vladimir Putin’s order to launch a full-scale invasion into Ukraine, and the FT’s economics editor, Chris Giles, explains what a Russian invasion might do to the global economy. Mentioned in this podcasVladimir Putin orders start of ‘military operation’ in eastern UkraineUkraine crisis: Sanctions and high energy prices pose threat to global economyRussia-Ukraine webinar: What Next?  The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Western powers impose sanctions on Russia as Biden says Ukraine ‘invasion’ has begun, and Russian assets are set to bear the brunt of the Ukraine conflict. Plus, the FT’s Berlin bureau chief, Guy Chazan, explains what freezing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project means for Germany. Mentioned in this podcast:Biden imposes wave of sanctions on Russia for Ukraine ‘invasion’Russian stocks sell off on mounting sanctions risksPutin backs separatist claims to whole Donbas region of UkraineThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia sends troops into Ukraine after recognizing two separatist regions there. Then, Russia could be facing sanctions for its actions over Ukraine. How could that affect gas companies and consumers? Finally, Peloton discovered rust on some of its exercise bikes, it sent them to consumers anyway without telling them. We have more on its plan to conceal the rust, known as “Project Tinman.” Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Carl Icahn launches board fight at McDonald’s over treatment of pigsPutin recognises two separatist regions in eastern UkraineThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Olympics wrapped up in Beijing yesterday, capping two weeks of competition and controversy. Banks pledged in the run up to the Glasgow climate summit to fund a UN-backed ETF. But, the money never arrived and the fund is close to failing. Plus, Taylor Nicole Rogers on what steps companies can take to have a more diverse workforce.Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Are companies walking their diversity talk?Companies urged to honour racial justice pledgesClimate ETF on brink of failure months after UN summit launchAlpine resorts freeze out British ski instructors after BrexitBeijing Winter Olympics close after fortnight of competition and controversyThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekend, FT Weekend editor Alec Russell brings us to Albania for Lunch with the FT. He sits down with writer Lea Ypi, whose memoir ‘Free’ documents her childhood there, both under communism and after its fall. Ypi, a political theorist at the London School of Economics asks: does capitalism make us free? Plus: European tech correspondent Madhumita Murgia explores how science fiction shapes our attitudes towards the future, and how that translates across different cultures. --------------Do you want to read the Financial Times? We have special discounts for listeners here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast--------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at [email protected]. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. --------------Exciting news! Lea Ypi will be speaking at the first FT Weekend Festival to be hosted in the US. To attend (virtually or in person) go to http://ft.weekendfestival.com – with 10% off using the discount code FTFriends2022. It’s on Saturday May 7th at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. --------------Links and mentions from the episode: –Alec Russell’s Lunch with Lea Ypi: https://on.ft.com/3GHmi1J –FT review of Lea Ypi’s memoir Free: https://www.ft.com/content/b5455f0f-33a9-480e-9027-6884cc25faa4 –Madhu on how science fiction shapes our attitudes to the future: https://www.ft.com/content/2f35be37-9da8-4cf6-89b2-8488b36c5a63 –Madhu recommends the book Exhalation by Ted Chiang–Chen Qiufan’s latest book is caled AI2041: Ten Visions for ur Future, co-authored with Kai-Fu Lee  – This weekend’s Lunch with the FT, with Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas: https://www.ft.com/content/098ba985-1284-46c6-9abe-f626fa9e47f0– Lunch with the Financial Times, edited by Lionel Barber, a selection of classic lunches: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/309/309448/lunch-with-the-ft/9780241400685.html Alec is on Twitter at @AlecuRussell, and Madhu is at @madhumita29."Long Live Enver Hoxha!" copyright Believe Music and UMPG Publishing. "Astroboy" Copyright Tezuka Productions Co. Clip: AP Archive--------------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design is by Breen Turner.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sequoia Capital plans to move deeper into cryptocurrency markets and has earmarked at least $500mn for investments in cryptocurrency assets, and a global financial regulator says that policymakers must act quickly to craft rules for digital asset markets. Plus, the FT’s Moscow correspondent, Polina Ivanova, reports that Siberia has become home to a cottage industry of DIY cryptomining fuelled by cheap electricity. Subscribe to the FT News Briefing on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyMentioned in this podcast:Sequoia earmarks $500mn for push into cryptocurrency marketsGlobal financial watchdog calls for ‘urgent’ action to contain crypto risksIn Siberia, a crypto boom made of ingenuity, defiance and DIYThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Federal Reserve’s latest meeting minutes show it would be willing to tighten monetary policy quickly if US inflation does not come under control, and the EU’s top court has opened the way for Brussels to withhold funding from member states for violations of the rule of law. Plus, the FT’s Mark Vandevelde explains how Blackstone’s rent-to-buy business is working out. Mentioned in this podcast:Fed prepared to tighten policy more aggressively if inflation persistsBlackstone’s new real estate play: the rent-to-buy marketEU court ruling opens way for Brussels to act against Hungary and PolandThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 US and European shares rallied on Tuesday after Russia said it had begun pulling back some troops, and former Google chief executive, Eric Schmidt, is creating a $125mn fund to address problems with artificial intelligence. Plus, the FT’s US energy editor, Derek Brower, explains that US shale companies are feeling pressured to produce less oil despite rising prices. Mentioned in this podcast:US stocks rise after Russia says some troops returning to baseOil’s climb towards $100 a barrel tempts US shale companies to shed restraintEric Schmidt creates $125mn fund for ‘hard problems’ in AI researchThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT’s Gideon Rachman discusses the messaging wars between the US and Moscow over Ukraine, Central America and Mexico is benefiting from a bumper year in remittances from migrant workers in the US. Plus, the FT’s Jonathan Wheatley explains why investors might be getting more nervous about sinking their money into emerging markets. Mentioned in this podcast:Putin, US intelligence and the global fight for the Ukraine narrativeRemittances made to Central America from the US have reached record levelEmerging markets: all risk and few rewards?The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Peter Barber and Gavin Kallmann. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.