Squawk Pod

Bitcoin, ethereum, blockchain, the Senate, and a whole lot of volatility. Andrew Ross Sorkin explains why so many people are talking about the cryptoeconomy, in a conversation exclusive to Squawk Pod. Capitol Hill, the SEC, and the global public are grappling with what these tokens are--securities, maybe--and how to regulate them. Alesia Haas, CFO of Coinbase, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, discusses the company’s recent financial results, the volatility that’s supported its success, and ways to keep investors safe. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In an extended interview, legendary short-seller Jim Chanos discusses AMC’s meme stock journey, movie theaters, apes, Reddit, and all. Short interest in AMC is rising in the wake of AMC’s quarterly financial report, but Wall Street is warning retail investors that the “Mother of All Short Squeezes” that they’re waiting for, may not be as fun a play as they’re expecting. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

While President Biden and leaders across corporate America have been encouraging, incentivizing, and even requiring that employees get vaccinated, Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has vocally opposed mask mandates, vaccine mandates, and Covid-19 passports. In a lively interview with Andrew Ross Sorkin and Becky Quick, Senator Cruz defends his stance on masks in schools and weighs in on employer rights to require behaviors from their workers. Plus, CNBC’s Senior Economics Reporter Steve Liesman shares data from CNBC’s All-America Economic Survey, which reveals American openness to vaccination and vaccination requirements. In a conversation exclusive to Squawk Pod, Liesman explains where most Americans find mandates reasonable, and where they don’t. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo are teaming up to expand and prepare America’s workforce. The bipartisan infrastructure bill working through Congress aims to invest $100 billion in job creation, supporting small businesses as they recover from and power through the pandemic. In an extended interview with Andrew Ross Sorkin, the two secretaries discuss the infrastructure bill, diversifying the private sector’s talent pipeline, and the future of the American workforce. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The economy added 943,000 jobs in July, the best pace in nearly a year and nearly 100,000 more than economists expected. Kate Moore, head of thematic strategy for BlackRock’s global allocation team, Austan Goolsbee, former Council of Economic Advisers chairman, break down the numbers. CNN has terminated three of its employees for lying about their Covid-19 vaccination statuses and coming to the office, according to a memo sent to staff internally. Tom Gimbel, founder and CEO of staffing firm LaSalle Network, and Kate Kelly, reporter at The New York Times, discuss return to work policies and corporate America’s role in leading the next wave of vaccinations. United Airlines will require its 67,000 U.S. employees to get vaccinated against Covid by no later than Oct. 25th; those unwilling to comply will risk termination. CNBC’s Phil LeBeau says this move will likely ramp up pressure on other major U.S. carriers to follow suit. CNBC’s Kate Rogers reports on the teacher shortage ahead of a new school year. Plus, Virgin Galactic announced it will sell seats for space tourism flights, starting at $450,000. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi is prioritizing his customers’ experiences, investing in driver acquisition to alleviate price surging and wait times as ride hailing gets back on track. Khosrowshahi also defends his decision not to mandate vaccines for all riders and drivers. The meme stock mania continues with the company that started it all: Robinhood. Now a meme stock itself, Robinhood has announced a stock sale as the retail “apes” push its price higher. In an effort to combat climate change, the White House announced a target for the country’s cars: by 2030, half of all American vehicle sales will be electric. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg explains the collaboration between the Biden administration and automakers, including voluntary corporate commitments and corresponding federal funding expectations. Plus, an Elon Musk biography is underway, and earnings season is sending issuer stock prices on the market’s roller coaster. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SEC Chair Gary Gensler shares his plan for taming the “Wild West” that is the cryptocurrency ecosystem. After years of leadership in finance regulation and teaching blockchain technology at MIT, Gensler praises innovation, but calls for “guard rails.” China is aiming to curb new Covid cases, and New York City has a new access pass for its social scene: proof of vaccination. Plus, CNBC’s Eamon Javers reports that the CDC is stepping in to extend the eviction moratorium. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After 17 months and three vaccines, Covid cases continue to tick up, even in the U.S. Senate. Operation Hope Chairman and CEO John Hope Bryant offers a progress report of his nonprofit’s efforts to alleviate financial strain on American workers amid the pandemic; he’s partnered with various U.S. corporations to provide financial coaching to employees. Delta CEO Ed Bastian attests to the impact this initiative has had for his own employees. Bastian also discusses maintaining Delta workers’ physical wellbeing with vaccination policies for passengers. Plus, China is cracking down on video games, and Pepsico is shelving its juices. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jack Dorsey’s Square is acquiring Australian buy-now-pay-later company Afterpay in a $29 billion deal that deepens its foothold in digital payments. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb discusses potential booster vaccines to curb continuing illness, and he considers the CDC’s data delivery and transparency. Plus, Disney's latest box office debut is straight out of the jungle, and an infrastructure package could mean a smoother ride for road trippers in the years to come. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Covid Delta variant is likely infecting more people than are being recorded, according to former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb. He discusses transmission and hospitalization rates and responds to concerning data from an internal CDC presentation obtained by The Washington Post. Spirit Airlines CEO Ted Christie considers what the variant data means for leisure travel, and explains why he hasn’t required vaccinations for his own employees or passengers. Scarlett Johansson and Disney are at odds after “Black Widow'' was released in theatres and on Disney+ on the same day. The actor claims the simultaneous push breached her contract, and Disney has fired back at the lawsuit. Plus, in the wake of Robinhood’s public debut, the stock hasn’t quite lived up to its promise--at least, not yet. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Vlad Tenev, Robinhood CEO, says meme investing is no joke, “it’s a real thing.” Free stock trading app Robinhood surged in popularity among retail investors through the Covid-19 pandemic and the meme stock mania of 2021. The company sold shares in its Nasdaq launch at $38 a piece, valuing it over $30 billion. Tenev celebrates Robinhood’s IPO, the role of ‘payment for order flow’ in the next generation of investing, cryptocurrencies, and what the road to the public market means to him personally. Andrew Ross Sorkin, Joe Kernen and Morgan Brennan look for lessons for Robinhood in the legends of IPOs-past and …. Kernen on cruise control. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren says she’s skeptical that Bitcoin will prove to be a reliable hedge against inflation over the long run, a key reason some investors choose to own it -- and why she’s warning for tighter regulation, suggesting it will help root out “snake oil salesmen” and may shore up the confidence of investors in the nascent asset class. And, Warren’s tax proposal on the wealth of ultra-millionaires and billionaires garnered a lot of attention from Wall Street during the early days of the 2020 Presidential campaign. In a striking - and at times fiery - exchange, billionaire and Home Depot founder Ken Langone joins the Squawk Box gang to discuss the possible policy’s impact on the richest of rich Americans. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Beijing’s sweeping regulatory crackdown on technology, education, food delivery and property sectors has sent shockwaves across global markets, driving Chinese markets down. Kyle Bass of Hayman Capital Management says it's 'unconscionable' for global fund managers to invest in China. CNBC’s Eunice Yoon reports from a tutoring company in China as new rules in that once under-the-radar industry shed light on the demographic and industrial changes in the world’s second-largest economy. Tesla releases a better-than-expected second-quarter earnings report, and the electric vehicle maker passed $1 billion in quarterly net income for the first time, but Elon Musk is leaving the chat. CNBC’s Phil LeBeau breaks down the headlines with Joe Kernen, Andrew Ross Sorkin and Morgan Brennan. Plus, Bitcoin levels off after Amazon denied a rumor that it would start accepting the token as payment. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Luxury electric vehicle maker, Lucid Motors, debuts today under the ticker LCID. Lucid’s first electric vehicle, the $77,000 Lucid Air, is expected to be delivered to customers in the second half of 2021. Peter Rawlinson, chief executive officer at Lucid Motors, discusses the trading debut and the future of electric vehicles. Ratings for the Olympic Games’ opening ceremony were down 36% compared to 2016. Axios Media Reporter, Sara Fischer, and CNBC’s Jabari Young weigh in on the ratings, logistical challenges, and the latest news from Tokyo. Bitcoin surged to its highest level since mid-June today, trading as high as nearly $40,000, after a recruitment ad suggested that Amazon may start accepting the cryptocurrency for payment. Plus, CNBC’s Eunice Yoon reports on the tensions between the U.S. and China …. and Joe Kernen is taking his bets. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everybody’s online. Twitter’s second-quarter earnings came in stronger than analysts had anticipated as revenue grew 74% year over year in the quarter due to “a broad increase in advertiser demand.” Twitter’s Chief Financial Officer Ned Segal breaks down the earnings results, Bitcoin, and fighting misinformation on the platform. The Covid-19 Delta variant is highly-contagious. Former FDA Commissioner and Pfizer board member Dr. Scott Gottlieb says he expects businesses and organizations to take a more authoritative position on vaccination requirements once full regulatory approval is given. He also weighs in on the virus, variants and vaccines at the Tokyo Olympics. NBC’s Stephanie Gosk checks in from the much-delayed start of the 2020 Games.. Plus, China is stepping up restrictions on the private education industry, which is hitting some U.S. companies and the hard seltzer market may be oversaturated. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A failed Senate test vote dealt a blow to the bipartisan infrastructure framework, but the plan could have a chance to move forward again as soon as Monday. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg believes there will be an infrastructure deal and said the Biden Administration’s “not trying to get gold-plated water pipes, just ones without lead.” AT&T beat analysts’ estimates for monthly phone bill paying subscriber additions in the second quarter, fueled by more Americans converting to 5G phones. Axios media reporter Sara Fischer discusses AT&T’s earnings report and what investors should know about the company’s outlook. Plus, Elon Musk speaks at a Bitcoin conference and PG&E’s decision to bury around 10,000 miles of power lines in an effort to reduce the risk of wildfires. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Verizon reported better-than-expected revenue and subscriber growth, raising its full-year outlook. Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg breaks down the results and how much our smartphones show about post-pandemic consumers. Famed visual artist Damien Hirst says he believes in the staying power of nonfungible tokens, or NFTs. He discusses his NFT project where the buyer eventually chooses whether to keep - or destroy - digital or physical art, aptly named “The Currency.” The Opening Ceremonies are still a couple of days away, but the Tokyo Olympics are getting underway. World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke to the International Olympic Committee members in Tokyo, and said the global failure to share vaccines, tests and treatments is fueling a “two-track pandemic.” Plus, Chipotle earnings are hot, AMC’s board names Redditor-approved CEO Adam Aron as chairman and the Milwaukee Bucks win the club's 1st NBA title since 1971. And, breaking in the Squawk Terrace, high above Times Square! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

World’s richest man leaves Earth. Jeff Bezos’ space company, Blue Origin, launched him into spaceflight history, riding in the inaugural human crew of the New Shepard rocket. Adam Jones, Morgan Stanley Head of Global Autos and Share Mobility discusses the investment implications of the Blue Origin launch and the road ahead for space tourism. New Covid-19 cases are up in the U.S., as the highly-contagious Delta variant spreads among unvaccinated Americans. Former Obama administration official Dr. Kavita Patel warns that this resurgence of infection could impact economic and workplace re-opening. Plus, Comcast and ViacomCBS are exploring ways to work together and it could mean more SpongeBob SquarePants for all. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Billionaire investor Bill Ackman’s blank-check company Pershing Square Tontine Holdings has dropped a deal to buy 10% of Vivendi’s flagship Universal Music Group, following regulator concerns. Ackman discusses why he decided to pull his SPAC deal -- but is still investing in Universal Music -- the markets and his thoughts on Covid. He says the spread of the Delta variant doesn’t pose a significant threat to the economic reopening, and he sees interest rates rising on the back of the big comeback. Plus, CNBC’s Brian Sullivan reports on the new OPEC agreement to increase production by 400,000 barrels each month beginning in August. The output hike will continue through September 2022, at which point the entirety of the nearly 6 million barrels per day the group is still withholding will be back on the market. Plus, Happy Birthday to a few folks in the Squawk Box family. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As Jeff Bezos prepares for his upcoming spaceflight, the Franklin Institute’s chief astronomer Derrick Pitts discusses details of the unpiloted Blue Origin craft and the differences between this billionaire’s trip to space and Sir Richard Branson’s. A Covid outbreak in California has prompted L.A. County to reinstate its mask mandate. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb identifies who’s at risk of contracting the Delta variant, and who’s spreading it. Plus, Cleveland Clinic and Mt. Sinai won’t administer Aduhelm, a controversial but recently FDA-approved Alzheimer’s drug, and, in the wake of the Federal Reserve’s “extraordinary measures,” economists and investors weigh the risks of inflation and the likelihood that it will persist. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Activist short seller Spruce Point Capital Management is accusing Oatly of shady accounting and greenwashing, claiming the stock is up to 70% overvalued. Spruce Point Founder and CIO Ben Axler explains his short position on the oat milk brand and defends the allegations. Netflix is making moves to enter the gaming space, but not without some watch list and content suggestions from Joe Kernen. Plus, the National Urban League is out with its annual “State of Black America” report. President and CEO Marc Morial and report co-author and Johns Hopkins professor Dr. Lisa Cooper discuss the intersection of racial equity, opportunity, and public health after 16 months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Founder, chairman, and CEO of the world’s largest asset manager, Larry Fink discusses inflation and the Delta variant as they impact the global economic recovery in an extended interview. With $9.5 trillion in assets under management, Fink’s BlackRock has participated in the Federal Reserve’s efforts to buoy the American economy--during the Covid-19 pandemic and during the financial crisis of 2008. New to the helm of Marriott, Tony Capuano offers a look at rising consumer interest in vacation and travel. Though the hospitality giant has largely recovered from a turbulent year, CEO Capuano says there’s one crowd he’s still waiting to accommodate: business travelers. Plus, bitcoin’s wild ride continues, Alaska cashed in on the meme trade, and the Senate Democrats have reached a $3.5 trillion deal--but CNBC’s Ylan Mui points out that there’s much more negotiating and spending still to come. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pfizer executives shared data about vaccines and Covid-19 boosters with government agencies this week. After attending the meeting, NIAID Director Dr. Anthony Fauci shares his expected timeline for boosters, confidence in vaccines, and global health outlook. CNBC Special Correspondent Scott Cohn unveils the network’s annual ranking: America’s Top States for Business. All 50 states are measured against each other with an extensive set of metrics, but only one claims the #1 spot. Plus, Chipotle, Verizon, and others have teamed up with PayPal and JUST Capital in an effort to support their workers’ financial wellness. Chipotle CEO Brian Niccol discusses the pandemic’s effects on worker wellbeing--both mentally and financially--and explains that a 20% wage increase is just what they ordered. PayPal CEO Dan Schulman underlines the importance of a supported, passionate workforce, and encourages other corporations to follow suit. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Virgin Galactic successfully brought founder Sir Richard Branson and three other crew members in a suborbital space flight, its fourth spaceflight to date. Joe, Becky, Andrew, and discuss the trip’s implications for the space race and for aviation with CNBC’s Morgan Brennan, who was on the ground in New Mexico for the launch. Former Astronaut and NASA Administrator Bill Nelson shares his perspective on the billionaires’ space race and considers innovation, exploration, and competition on the global stage. Back on Earth, spread of the Covid-19 Delta variant is picking up pace as Pfizer and U.S. officials meet to discuss booster shots for vaccines already in distribution. Former White House Health Policy Director under President Obama Dr. Kavita Patel discusses booster timelines and Delta variant risks. Plus, Disney hit the weekend box office, and tax plans have hit the global negotiating table. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the final episode in Squawk Pod’s Berkshire Hathaway series, Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger share their combined 187 years of wisdom, both in life and in finance. The two consider history’s patterns, from fiscal stimulus to global pandemic, and offer perspective on today’s economic and social problems. Buffett and Munger discuss wealth’s impact on character, both for individuals getting rich, and America, growing ever more prosperous. Reflecting on their years together, Buffett, Munger, and Becky Quick discuss what it takes to make magic, and what living a successful life really means. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In part three of the Squawk Pod Berkshire Hathaway series, CEO Warren Buffett and Vice Chairman Charlie Munger share lessons learned from investing through nearly 7 decades of economic history. In conversations with Becky Quick, the two share their perspective on axe murderers, “swingers,” and the costs of a free market, and the two speak candidly on the dangers of Robinhood, bitcoin, and stock market “gambles.” Buffett identifies patterns in the economy’s long road from the Great Depression, through the Great Recession, to 2021, and warns against the investing pitfalls of markets past. Munger details his own controversial opinion of China as a global economic power, and in a conversation exclusive to this podcast, Becky Quick shares her takeaways from over a decade of conversations with the pair. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In part two of a special series of Squawk Pod episodes, Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett and Vice Chairman and long-time partner Charlie Munger recount their humble origins at a Nebraska grocery store, tracing their nearly 70-year-long journey through their worst trades and best influences. The two discuss Berkshire Hathaway succession plans and the links between being the bigger person and making the bigger profit in conversations with CNBC’s Becky Quick spanning the last 15 years. In reflections exclusive to this podcast, Becky Quick discusses the “Buffett-Munger magic” and the duo’s secrets to building a full life as well as a full portfolio. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the first of a special series of Squawk Pod episodes, Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger speak with CNBC’s Becky Quick about their 60 years of friendship and their journey building Berkshire Hathaway. Hear archival footage of Buffett through the ages: from the 1960s, the early 2000s, and just last month. Buffett and Munger reminisce on how Berkshire got into the insurance business, how the two became friends, and how their earliest failures taught them lessons that they still live by, 70 years later. Plus, in a conversation exclusive to this podcast, Becky Quick reflects on nearly 15 years of covering Berkshire Hathaway and its architects. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Disruptor investing app Robinhood has finally filed to IPO after years of upending the retail trading industry and months of regulatory and legal scrutiny. Founder and managing partner of venture capital firm Bedrock Capital Geoff Lewis shares his outlook for the company, its roadshow, and all the investors who want a piece. Virgin Galactic founder Sir Richard Branson is headed to space, just days before his fellow billionaire, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, was scheduled to lift off himself. CNBC.com space reporter Michael Sheetz discusses the billionaire race to the edge of space. As millions hit the roads and runways across the country ahead of the July 4th holiday, former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb considers risks of the Covid-19 Delta variant. Plus, the price of oil is nearing three-year-high, and OPEC+ is meeting to determine a global energy policy. Happy Independence Day! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One of 18 IPOs this week alone, donut chain Krispy Kreme has debuted for public trading on the Nasdaq. Joe, Becky, and Andrew snack their way through the morning coverage, and Krispy Kreme CEO Mike Tattersfield shares the company’s 84-year journey to its second IPO. As China celebrates the 100th anniversary of its Communist Party, President Xi Jinping resolved to stand up to foreign powers who may “bully” China, and laid out goals for the country’s next 100 years. CNBC’s Beijing Bureau Chief Eunice Yoon considers how Chinese and global citizens are responding to President Xi’s plans, and the direction in which he’s pushing the Communist Party. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Covid-19 Delta variant is on the rise, but travel is, too. Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel discusses activity on his portfolio of travel and activity sites, from Kayak and Priceline to OpenTable. Billionaire investor and philanthropist Leon Cooperman reveals his concerns for the market, taxation, and inflation as we enter the second half of 2021. The Biden administration is preparing an executive order directing agencies to strengthen oversight of industries they believe to be dominated by a small number of big players. The crackdown on the lack of competition could hit big tech and a number of other sectors. Plus, traffic is back in New York, and Tony Soprano is soon to be back on the screen in “The Many Saints of Newark.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

United Airlines has placed the biggest aircraft order in its history; CEO Scott Kirby and CNBC’s Phil LeBeau discuss what the 270 jet purchase means for a post-pandemic travel rebound and for passenger comforts. After a standout year at Ark Invest and a rocky start to 2021, Wall Street’s star stock picker Cathie Wood is launching a bitcoin ETF. Plus, Facebook has joined the $1 trillion club, Juul is settling for $40 million, and CNBC Disruptor and App store favorite Duolingo is going public. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Covid-19 Delta variant is now the dominant strain of the virus in the UK, and other countries may not be far behind. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb discusses vaccine efficacy against the strain, in light of data suggesting that the Delta variant is more contagious than other strains. As part of a major economic package proposal, Democrats are considering changes to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction, potentially helping high-tax states like New York, New Jersey, and California. CNBC’s wealth reporter Robert Frank maps out the various options for lifting or repealing SALT. New Jersey Representative Josh Gottheimer presents his stance on SALT, taxes, and retaining his state residents. Plus, the infrastructure deal is still coming together, gas prices are rising, and the box office is finally back. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Joe Biden has endorsed the bipartisan framework for an infrastructure bill, but he’s warned Congress that he won’t sign the bill for bridges, roads, and broadband unless his other social programs are make it to his desk. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg discusses the collaboration across the aisle on the hill, and the long road ahead. As live events, bars, and restaurants reopen in full force, Anheuser-Busch InBev is preparing for a busy summer of sips. The world’s largest brewer is up 50% since March of 2020, and in his exit interview, CEO Carlos Brito says his outlook recovery is just as rosy. Plus, banks--and Joe Kernen--are prepared for their worst case scenarios, and it’s a 21st century space race: Bezos versus Branson. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new ProPublica report reveals that tech mogul and PayPal founder used a Roth IRA account to turn $1,700 to $5B, tax free. CNBC wealth reporter Robert Frank shares more on how he did it, and Skybridge Capital founder Anthony Scaramucci discusses tax loopholes and capital growth for the wealthy. Senators have struck a deal for a bipartisan infrastructure bill framework; Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) discuss the road still ahead, mapping out speed bumps and red light issues along the way. Plus, eccentric tech entrepreneur turned fugitive John McAfee’s long and dramatic story has come to an end. After over two decades of coverage at CNBC, Joe, Becky, and Andrew unpack the strange and stranger of McAfee’s journey from software to a prison sentence in Spain. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The House Judiciary Committee is debating a number of antitrust bills that could break up tech’s biggest players. OZY co-founder and CEO Carlos Watson and “Big Technology” Substack founder Alex Kantrowitz discuss the scope of antitrust legislation in 2021, and anticipate changes to Apple, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft as lawmakers inch nearer to regulation. In a new note, Warren Buffett announced that he’s halfway to his goal of donating all of his Berkshire Hathaway shares; he’s donated $41 billion to five philanthropies in the past 16 years, and he’s set to continue at the same pace. In a reflection on billionaire wealth and charitable giving, Buffett admits that Congress should reevaluate taxes for wealthy philanthropes. He also will resign from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Plus, unruly airline passengers are endangering other travelers and airline staff, and the markets are digesting the most recent comments from Fed chair Jerome Powell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More Americans are quitting their jobs than ever; contributor for The Atlantic and podcast host Arthur Brooks considers the post-pandemic work-life balance employees are seeking, and whether hybrid work is the key to a fuller life. Luxury electric vehicle company Lucid Motors is opening a showroom in downtown Manhattan. CEO Peter Rawlinson explains why, despite competing with Tesla and others, all the EV players are driving for the same team. As the markets await Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s testimony on his pandemic relief programs, Joe, Becky, and Andrew unpack the last week of treasury yields, dot plots, and more. Plus, Bumble is battling employee burnout with extra vacation, and Joe is back from a big fish battle on vacation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bill Ackman’s SPAC Pershing Square Tontine Holdings has acquired 10% of Universal Music Group, the label behind Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, and Drake--valuing the company at $40 billion. Tontine is the biggest ever SPAC, and Becky, Andrew, and Mike Santoli discuss the financial engineering behind a deal of this size. Staff writer for The Atlantic Joe Pinsker spoke to companies around the world successfully experimenting with a four-day workweek. He explains what could be the next step in the post-pandemic workplace evolution. As bipartisan negotiations for an infrastructure bill wear on in Washington, Republican Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and Congresswoman Susie Lee (D-NV) discuss the plan’s “pay-fors” and each party’s non-negotiables. Plus, as China cracks down on crypto mining, prices are falling. And, cruise lines are set to weigh anchor, but American Airlines is struggling to keep up with travel demand without sufficient staffing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

America celebrates its newest federal holiday: Juneteenth. Commemorating the day that enslaved African-Americans were informed of their freedom two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery and acknowledges the work left to be done in the road to racial justice. CNBC reporter Frank Holland details the role of Black banks in achieving financial inclusion and economic equality in the United States. Darrin Williams, CEO of Southern Bancorp, one of the few Black-led banks in the country, discusses the significance of Juneteenth and how corporate investments can help communities of color achieve financial equity. New research suggests that Covid-19 may cause long-term loss of brain tissue. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb considers lasting physiological effects of the virus and whether a survival of global variants will prompt a case surge in the autumn. Plus, commodity prices are tumbling and cruise line stocks are soaring. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Federal Reserve has raised its expectations for inflation this year and brought forward the time frame for when it will next raise interest rates: likely in 2023. CNBC’s Ylan Mui digests the Fed meeting and Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks with Becky, Andrew, and Mike Santoli. At CNBC’s annual Evolve Summit, Dick’s Sporting Goods CEO Lauren Hobart explains the pandemic’s impact on her business strategy. In a conversation with Becky Quick, she reflects on the Covid-prompted changes to her company’s trajectory. Former CEO of the NYC-based nonprofit Robin Hood is making a bid for Maryland’s Governor office. Wes Moore, a combat veteran and author, discusses eliminating economic inequality through philanthropy and public office. Plus, Microsoft is doubling down on Satya Nadella’s leadership, and Democrats are sticking to their commitments to fight climate change as they negotiate the infrastructure bill on the Hill. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Eamon Javers reports on President Biden’s first summit meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the ground in Switzerland. The three hour meeting likely covered cyber hacks, human rights, nuclear weapons, and election interference, but The New York Times columnist Tom Friedman says, Putin is like America’s “ex-boyfriend from hell.” Plus, investors are poised for a milestone Fed meeting, employees are poised to return to the office in full force, and former Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes is poised for trial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alibaba co-founder and Brooklyn Nets owner Joe Tsai discusses the global economic recovery, the NBA playoffs, founding the Asian American Foundation, and the role of sports teams in fighting for social justice. Tsai offers insight into the abruptly mysterious life of fellow billionaire and Alibaba founder, Jack Ma. Plus, investors are prepping for a momentous Fed meeting, and mask on, mask off: uncovering post-vaccination etiquette. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Billionaire hedge fund titan Paul Tudor Jones talks inflation, market memes, and bitcoin bets in an extended interview. Ahead of the Federal Reserve’s next meeting, Jones shares his money plays, from commodities and gold to crypto. As a billionaire himself, Jones weighs in on ProPublica’s explosive tax story and the wealthy’s “fair share.” As founder of the Robin Hood Foundation, Jones explains how supporting New Yorkers hardest hit by the pandemic will help rebuild the city as a whole. Plus, a lucky winner is headed to space with Jeff Bezos after a $28 million bid for the seat, and CNBC’s Eamon Javers reports on what the world can expect from the Biden-Putin summit in Geneva, Switzerland. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Wall Street to Main Street to Washington, everyone is talking about inflation, which is having a real-life impact on all of our wallets. CNBC’s Kristina Partsinevelos reports on the increasing cost of daily life. Meanwhile, the billionaires in the ProPublica report, on the shocking low taxes paid by the wealthiest individuals, didn’t use complicated strategies to shrink their tax bills. For the most part, they used plain, vanilla deductions. CNBC’s Robert Frank discusses why any attempt to reform the system won’t be easy. Plus, It’s been a year since corporate America pledged to focus on diversity and make institutional changes. A recent analysis shows some progress is being made in boardrooms, though the level of Black directors on corporate boards remains low. Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, discussed what she would like to see from corporate America when it comes to speaking out about diversity, equity and inclusion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GameStop, Clover Health, and AMC trades are fueled by buzz on social media, but Reddit co-founder turned venture capitalist Alexis Ohanian says the trading momentum of these “meme stocks” is hardly new. Ohanian shares his outlook for tech startup investing and the blockchain, social media’s role in market surges, and mental health in the workplace. The second Roaring Twenties may be upon us, and furniture retailer RH, formerly Restoration Hardware, is cashing in. Plus, CNBC’s Jane Wells details pork prices and popularity from the World Pork Expo in Iowa. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Instagram is making a big play for influencers, rolling out new money-making features for content creators in its first ever “Creator Week.” Instagram head Adam Mosseri, discusses the new tools and his social media strategy, and he compares Facebook’s approach to revenue with Apple’s. ProPublica is reporting data from the IRS, revealing how American billionaires like Warren Buffett, Carl Icahn, and Elon Musk have avoided paying income taxes. Jesse Eisinger, senior reporter and editor for ProPublica, shares his team’s motivation for publishing the data and his vision for its impact. Plus, meme stock mania continues to rock Wall Street and Reddit, rising labor costs could be hitting your Chipotle budget, and El Salvador is taking cryptocurrency seriously. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Billionaire businessman and hedge funder Marc Lasry breaks down his outlook for the Federal Reserve, meme stock mania, and the bitcoin roller coaster of 2021. Lasry, a co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, weighs pros and cons of getting back in the game for the Olympics--either his players, or himself. Former NYSE President and Chairman of Far Peak Thomas Farley talks basketball and interest rates with Lasry, Becky, and Andrew. The FDA has approved the first Alzheimer’s drug in nearly two decades, but Biogen faces tough questions from investors about the drug and its pricing. CNBC’s Meg Tirrell and CFRA Analyst Kevin Huang break down Wall Street’s concerns about the drugmaker’s next steps. Plus, Apple is out with new gadgets and features, President Biden is unkinking the supply chain, and hackers, hacked: the U.S. government is headed for the Darkside Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is headed for space; he has a seat on Blue Origin’s first human space flight, and the rocket lift off is in July. As cyber attacks ramp up, White House Cyber Adviser Anne Neuberger shares the government’s efforts to keep American companies safe--but she needs the private sector’s cooperation. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb considers the summer slowdown in U.S. vaccinations, but he expects low Covid-19 prevalence to, for the most part, keep the public safe. Plus, the G-7 nations have agreed to back a globally coordinated tax rate, and economists have their eye on U.S. inflation and consumer optimism. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Retail investors have driven much of AMC Entertainment’s stock roller coaster, and they’re calling themselves “apes.” One of the most vocal of those apes: host of YouTube channel “Trey’s Trades,” Trey Collins. Just hours after his YouTube interview with AMC CEO Adam Aron, Collins shared his outlook for AMC stock and the meme stock movement. He believes the fundamental value of the movie theater chain’s shares will be between $20 and $25 at the end of 2021, although shares of the company hit an all-time high this week, topping out at $72.62. Squawk Box anchors Joe Kernen, Becky Quick and Andrew Ross Sorkin go inside the general shift happening in the stock markets -- it’s about more than free popcorn. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June marks the 100th anniversary of the 1921 Tulsa Massacre -- one of the worst incidents of racial violence in US history, claiming the lives of 300 African-Americans living, working, and thriving in a neighborhood known as Black Wall Street. After a white mob prompted two days of deadly violence, the events were largely forgotten for decades. A century later, in the wake of 2020’s racial justice protests and George Floyd’s murder, survivors of the massacre shared their experience with Congress. CNBC’s Frank Holland reports from Tulsa, Oklahoma, reflecting on those survivor testimonies and the legacy of Black Wall Street. In a conversation about Black representation in finance and beyond, BET Founder and RLJ Companies founder Robert Johnson considers the impact--and the intention--of businesses pledging money and support to the Black community. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.