FT News Briefing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Donald Trump has nominated Stephen Miran to fill a soon-to-be vacant seat on the Federal Reserve’s board of governors, and the Bank of England lowered rates by a quarter per cent in a close vote. Plus Europe’s weapons factories are expanding fast and US President Donald Trump threatens a 100 per cent tariff on chips excluding Apple. Mentioned in this podcast:https://www.ft.com/content/298bf95e-49ec-4d9f-8948-b7f72cf4ffddBoE cuts rates with a hawkish shift in its outlookEurope builds for war as arms factories expand at triple speedDonald Trump threatens 100% tariff on chips but with carve-out for AppleSign up here for the Chris Giles on Central Banks newsletter.Today’s FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Sam Giovinco, Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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