Squawk Pod

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.

AMC stock is taking investors on a wild ride. In the midst of a retail investor trading frenzy, AMC announced a stock sale, tanking its share price in the latest chapter of the movie chain volatility. Miami is gearing up for a crypto-palooza, with 20,000 visitors expected to attend the world’s largest crypto conference in the city this weekend. Miami Mayor Francis Suarez says he’s betting on Bitcoin for the future of his city and the future of his portfolio. Hackers are holding up summer commuters, and President Biden is still working with lawmakers on a bipartisan infrastructure bill. Plus, Elon Musk is trying to save the world from bitcoin’s climate impact...while sending rockets into space. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Etsy has acquired fashion marketplace Depop for about $1.6 billion in a big bet on the coveted Gen Z demographic. Etsy CEO Josh Silverman discusses the acquisition as well as the company’s post-pandemic outlook. Fresh off its latest boost from Reddit-reading retail traders, AMC is launching “AMC Investor Connect,” an initiative that will put the movie theater chain in direct communication with its individual shareholders and even offers free popcorn. CNBC’s Robert Frank breaks down AMC’s rising fortunes amid the retail-trading boom. Grameen America, a leading micro-finance non-profit, wants to help close the racial wealth gap. Grameen America CEO Andrea Jung, announces a commitment of $1.3 billion in loans to 80,000 Black women entrepreneurs over the next ten years. Plus, Elon Musk is in dangerous waters with the SEC for his tweets - but the Tesla brand may be coming to a drive-in near you - and Amazon is adjusting its drug testing policy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In their first show from the same studio in over a year, Joe, Becky, and Andrew digest headlines from the long weekend: a cyber attack on a meat producer, a retail crypto trading frenzy in China, and airlines, back on the flight paths. Congress may be on recess, but CNBC’s Eamon Javers reports that the Hill is still abuzz with infrastructure bill negotiations. The New York Times columnist Tom Friedman discusses government spending and politics around the world, from China’s Covid-19 origin story to Israel’s and Palestine’s impact on the American Democratic Party. Plus, on the other side of the pandemic, shoppers are back in stores. Shopify President Harley Finkelstein talks entrepreneurship and says a vaccinated public won’t hinder the e-commerce boom. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC has unveiled its 2021 Disruptor 50 list! Coming in at #33: Clubhouse, an audio-only social app that’s similar to podcasts, but less prescriptive with its live, unfiltered content. In just a year, the company has seen explosive growth and forced industry incumbents like Facebook, Twitter and Spotify to introduce similar audio products, or in some cases, make strategic acquisitions within the space. Paul Davison, Clubhouse co-founder and CEO, discusses the company’s success during the pandemic and plans for monetization. At #36: logistics company Gopuff, which promises delivery of essential items in 30 minutes or less. Rafael Ilishayev, Gopuff Co-CEO and co-founder, details the company’s vertical business model and its partnership with Uber. Plus, a conversation you’ll hear only on Squawk Pod with the list’s founder CNBC’s Julia Boorstin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Martha Stewart discusses the cannabis industry and her new role as “official” strategic advisor for Canopy Growth. She shares her favorite CBD gummies for her pets and for her own nighttime ritual. CEOs of the six biggest banks in America were grilled by both sides of the aisle in Congress this week, defending fees, compensation, and their role in the U.S. recovery. Senior analyst at Americans for Financial Reform Alexis Goldstein digests the grilling with founder of Skybridge Capital Anthony Scaramucci in a conversation about stakeholder capitalism and Wall Street accountability. Plus, it’s the Little Engine No. 1 that could--and did. CNBC’s Leslie Picker shares details of the Exxon proxy battle, and CNBC’s Bertha Coombs reports on Ohio’s very literal vaccination lottery. 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 wake of George Floyd’s death, corporate America took a stand on racial inequality and committed billions of dollars to help close the racial wealth gap. A year later, JUST Capital Managing Director Yusuf George revelas new research on where corporations stand on pay equity today, and how far they still need to go. Most employers are getting ready to welcome workers back to the office, but not everyone wants to return. Mark Weinberger, former EY chairman and CEO, shares why over time, more employees will see the value in returning to the office. Amazon is buying MGM Studios, the companies announced, marking Amazon’s most ambitious move yet into the entertainment business. Plus, Uber prices are surging and Tesla is ditching radar for cameras. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Airbnb has announced a major slate of updates to its platform just in time for an expected surge in travel. Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky discussed the update and what he expects from the post-pandemic travel surge. CNBC’s Phil LeBeau also reports airline passenger levels are inching closer to where they were before the pandemic. Moderna said its Covid-19 vaccine was effective in a study of adolescents ages 12 to 17, making it the second shot behind Pfizer’s to demonstrate high efficacy in younger age groups. CNBC’s Meg Tirrell reports on the emergency approval. Plus, Amazon nears a deal to buy MGM Studios for nearly $9 billion and Florida has become the first state to regulate how tech companies moderate speech online. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Space tourism company Virgin Galactic logged a successful spaceflight test over the weekend, complete with flips in microgravity and a stock surge to match. Offices are ready to return to normal, and staffing agency Lasalle Network CEO Tom Gimbel says the “new” normal will likely look a lot like the old one. He shares his expectations for hybrid work, as well as the pros and cons of remote work for employees and managers alike. The U.S. may finally be turning a corner in the pandemic; former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb discusses masking for kids, the Covid-19 origin story, and the likelihood of a winter resurgence. Plus, cryptocurrencies are emerging from a hell week, and Phil Mickelson has won the PGA Championship, a victory that makes him the oldest major champion in golf history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ten years and $260 million later, IAC Chairman Barry Diller and his wife, fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg have unveiled Little Island, the floating park along the west side of Manhattan. In Squawk Box’s first on location interview in over a year, Andrew Ross Sorkin sits down--outside and 6 feet away--with Barry Diller in the 2+ acres of green space now open to the public. The two discuss New York’s sunny reopening after a long, dark year. Plus, the media mogul shares his thoughts on the AT&T-Discovery deal, Amazon’s play for MGM Studios, and where media consolidation leaves Comcast, Disney, and Netflix. Ahead of the Apple vs. Epic Games courtroom drama, Diller weighs in on tech power and regulation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Swedish oat milk brand Oatly makes its market debut on the Nasdaq after pricing its initial public offering at $17 per share and raising $1.4 billion, the top of the expected range. Oatly CEO Toni Petersson discusses the company’s sustainability mission and business outlook. The Federal Reserve is hinting at pulling back from its pandemic-prompted bond buys. David Rubenstein, co-founder and co-executive chairman of the Carlyle Group, discusses the resulting market whiplash, crypto's roller coaster ride, and post-Covid investor sentiment. Plus, Colonial Pipeline made a $4.4 million ransom payment to its cyber attackers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Target CEO Brian Cornell shares the retailer’s big quarterly results; with sales up over 20% Cornell says American shoppers are finally back--and buying--in stores. Cryptocurrencies are selling off, with bitcoin hitting three month lows. Joe, Becky, and Andrew break down the bitcoin and ethereum meltdowns and consider the risks of speculative assets. Plus, website builder Squarespace went public on the New York Stock Exchange via direct listing. CEO Anthony Casalena explains building the internet, and his company’s path forward as a public, profitable company. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Retailers are reporting a boom in consumer demand in their quarterly results; Walmart and Home Depot impressed Wall Street with their most recent financials, and they’re betting that the shopper appetite is healthy and here to stay. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) considers the country’s post-Covid employment realities as job opportunities grow faster than hiring. Plus, CNBC’s Eamon Javers reports on the group pushing back on American CEOs getting involved in politics; he explains “woke capitalism” and why this cohort of conservatives is campaigning against it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a surprise move, AT&T has announced a $43 billion deal to merge WarnerMedia with Discovery Inc. Joe, Becky, and Andrew digest the news and what it means for media, from Hollywood to Wall Street. Media watcher and LightShed Partners co-founder Richard Greenfield considers content and business possibilities for the new entity and explains how he sees the deal affecting HBO Max and Discovery Plus subscribers. Plus, the “new” normal is finally on its way: former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb says that by June, most Americans won’t be wearing masks, and vaccinated people have very little reason to continue wearing them. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jet.com founder Marc Lore left his post heading Walmart’s e-commerce business for his own adventures in entrepreneurship and investing. In his first interview since his departure, Lore shares his vision for venture capital (with Alex Rodriguez) and his expectations for online shopping in a post-pandemic world. Tech stocks have had a rough month so far, but Insider CEO Henry Blodget says the tech sector may finally be settling into realistic valuations. He tracks bitcoin’s journey to 2021 and where crypto may go from here. Plus, Elon Musk is tweeting about dogecoin (again), and masks up--or down! The CDC says it’s your choice, if you’re vaccinated. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a surprise reversal, Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced that his EV company will no longer accept Bitcoin as payment for its cars. His move comes as concerns about crypto’s environmental impact ring louder and louder: 1 bitcoin transaction has the same carbon footprint as over 735,000 Visa transactions and over 55,000 hours on YouTube. In an exclusive interview, SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son speaks to Andrew Ross Sorkin about his winning--and losing--bets, from Uber, Alibaba, and DoorDash to WeWork. The legendary tech investor admits that he missed out on opportunities like Airbnb, and explains some of his investment philosophy. Plus, the Japanese billionaire reveals his own concerns about the Tokyo Olympics. 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 wake of the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack, Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Mark Warner (D-VA) plans to introduce bipartisan legislation that requires mandatory cyber incident reporting. Sen. Warner discusses the need for a coordinated cyber response team to protect American companies from malicious foreign actors employing cyber warfare. A set of NFTs sold for $17 million at a Christie’s auction this week; CNBC’s Robert Frank shares details of the CryptoPunks sale and explains how tech stock performances have affected the Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos fortunes. Plus, Wall Street is reeling from inflation concerns and a market sell-off. 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, CNBC exclusive interview, billionaire investor and hedge fund manager Stanley Druckenmiller shares his concerns about the Federal Reserve’s extended accommodative monetary policy over a year into the pandemic. He considers risks to the markets and to the US dollar, and he highlights foreign bond buys, retail sales, and historical statistics in his case against the Fed Powell’s current course of action. Plus Druckenmiller, CEO of Duquesne Capital Management, ponders the next big thing in crypto and his exit from the US stock market. Pfizer’s Covid vaccine is approved for teens and children, and inflation anxieties mount on and off of Wall Street. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The United States’ largest fuel pipeline has been shut down since Friday after a cyber attack, and it’s not clear how long the outage will last. CNBC’s Brian Sullivan reports that the outage could lead to spot shortages of gas, diesel, and jet fuel, and CNBC’s Eamon Javers details the “DarkSide” hacking group reportedly responsible for the attack. The disappointing April jobs report sparked debate about why American hiring hasn’t picked up as quickly as economists expected. CNBC’s Steve Liesman and Rahel Solomon discuss whether the U.S. economy might experience a lasting shortage of labor after the jobs miss. Anthony Scaramucci, founder of Skybridge Capital, says unemployment benefits are not to blame; most Americans want to work. Scaramucci also recaps Elon Musk’s appearance on “Saturday Night Live” and the resulting dogecoin nosedive. The Biden administration announced last week that it supports waiving intellectual property protections for Covid-19 vaccines in order to address the global shortage. Dr. Scott Gottlieb, member of the boards of Pfizer and biotech company Illumina and former FDA Commissioner, says the patent won’t solve the immediate problem of global vaccine distribution. Gottlieb also discussed his thoughts on the quickly-changing federal guidance on coronavirus restrictions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his first major interview as Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Gary Gensler discusses his approach to bitcoin, the GameStop volatility, and the Archegos scandal. He identifies gaps in America’s regulatory ecosystem and emphasizes freshening the SEC’s rules to handle modern technology. While Elon Musk preps for the Saturday Night Live stage this weekend, Gensler shares his own view of media and celebrity roles in the markets. Plus, Twitter has introduced a new Tip Jar feature, and the Squawk Box anchors swap strategies to up engagement--and repair relationships with the new offering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.