Squawk Pod

Mystery art collector MetaKovan spent $69 million on Beeple’s NFT in mid-March. The man behind MetaKovan and NFT collection Metapurse, Vignesh Sundaresan, joins Joe, Andrew, Becky, and CNBC’s Robert Frank to explain his bet on blockchain-based digital art. Wall Street is still unearthing parts of the Archegos Capital forced liquidation fiasco, which prompted stock sell-offs and major losses for big banks. The latest chapter: questions about a charity run by former hedge funder Bill Hwang, the man behind the swaps and leveraged holdings that triggered the drama. Plus, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns is releasing a new series, “Hemingway.” He offers a peek into his newest work and shares his perspective on this particular moment in history, as colored by decades of documenting all things Americana. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Family office Archegos Capital was forced to liquidate tens of billions of dollars in stock holdings, sending U.S. media stocks and Chinese tech stocks into selloff mode, and leaving big financial players on the hook for billions. Archegos founder and former hedge funder Bill Hwang is at the center of the Wall Street whirlwind; Joe, Becky, and Andrew track the series of falling financial dominoes that led to the ViacomCBS, Discovery, Tencent Music, and Baidu losses, from swap strategies and over-leveraged books to block trades at Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. Former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Sue Gordon considers the implications of the liquidation trade for the rest of the global financial system. Amazon workers in Alabama are voting on a union contract, and Insider Inc. CEO Henry Blodget discusses how the results could impact the company and other workers across the country. Plus, the cargo ship in the Suez Canal has finally been freed. Now, the world is set to assess the damage. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Coworking company WeWork has announced it will finally go public via SPAC merger with BowX Acquisition Corp. WeWork CEO Sandeep Mathrani and Bow Capital’s Vivek Ranadive discuss the deal and their bet on an office space resurgence post-pandemic. Twitter, Alphabet, and Facebook CEOs answered lawmakers’ questions about disinformation dissemination and social media accountability in a marathon virtual House hearing on Thursday. Axios media reporter Sara Fischer and tech and press industry veteran Niki Christoff digest the comments from Jack Dorsey, and Sundar Pichai, and Mark Zuckerberg, and consider what legislation may come next. Plus, Warren Buffett’s made a pitch to Texas, the Suez Canal--and the global shipping industry--is near chaos, and Bernie Sanders is pushing Alabama Amazon workers to unionize. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big banks are appeasing their overworked junior staff with perks, from Zoom-free Fridays to $20,000 bonuses. CNBC.com’s Hugh Son discusses the domino effect the “Goldman Sachs 13” have had, up and down Wall Street. AstraZeneca is struggling to maintain public trust after a series of transparency and communication missteps surrounding its otherwise effective Covid-19 vaccine. President Biden’s tax plan continues to fuel debate across the political aisle; President Trump’s former Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney and Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY) consider whether political ties and promises will win over dollars and cents. Plus, fintech startup Greenwood is getting buy-in from major banks to close the racial wealth gap. CEO Ryan Glover shares his company’s newest funding raise and his plans for a more equitable financial system. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Operation Hope founder John Hope Bryant is working with former SEC Chair Jay Clayton to expand financial literacy and inclusion across the country, in an effort to shrink poverty and the wealth gap in the U.S. Nonresident Fellow at Brookings and NBC News contributor Dr. Kavita Patel considers what a third wave of Covid in Europe may mean for the pandemic trajectory here at home. A Covid-free world, she suggests, may not be the post-pandemic reality. Investors are eyeing GameStop after its quarterly earnings call; Hightower CIO and Portfolio Manager Stephanie Link weighs the risks of the meme stock trade. Plus, Elon Musk is midnight tweeting, and the markets are digesting comments from Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AstraZeneca’s good vaccine news is tempered by federal health officials voicing concerns about the company’s data. CNBC’s Meg Tirrell digests the news and considers the blow’s impact to the vaccination timeline in the U.S. A year after U.S. stocks plummeted on fears of the coronavirus pandemic, markets have bounced back, in what Mike Santoli calls their best year since the 1930s. CEOs are facing tough decisions as they plan office reopenings; KPMG CEO Paul Knopp shares results from his survey of 140 other U.S. CEOs, addressing C-suite concerns for safety, employee demands for flexibility, and workplace vaccination disclosures post-pandemic. Plus, March Madness has spelled good fortune for the newest addition to the S&P 500: Penn National Gaming. CEO Jay Snowden discusses bets, brackets, and expanding American gambling. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AstraZeneca has unveiled new data on its Covid-19 vaccine, revealing that it’s 79% effective at preventing symptomatic cases. CNBC’s Meg Tirrell explains the news, and AstraZeneca U.S. SVP and President of the Biopharmaceuticals Business Unit Dr. Ruud Dobber shares details and implications from the new study. Some of Wall Street’s junior bankers are banding together to shine a light on the 100 hour work weeks taking a toll on their physical and mental health. New York Times reporter Kate Kelly and Vanity Fair special correspondent William Cohan discuss the generational divide on Wall Street, from work ethic to work-life balance. The wealthiest Americans are finding ways to avoid their taxes, ARK’s Cathie Wood has a new price target for Tesla, and the Kernens are betting on their (individual) basket brackets. Plus, happy 90th birthday William Shatner! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

States across the country are relaxing of pandemic rules as more Americans are vaccinated against Covid. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy discusses vaccine eligibility, reluctance, and efficacy as he reopens business across his state. Union Square Hospitality Group and Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer says the restaurant industry has learned helpful lessons from the pandemic despite its struggles. “When we get to the point where we’re 100% indoor, plus outdoor dining, shipping, takeout, delivery, it’s going to be better than it’s ever been.” Plus, the Biden team has its first meeting with China, the NFL’s locked a $100 billion deal, and March Madness is ready for its comeback. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Description: In a surprise move, Ulta Beauty CEO Mary Dillon announced her departure from the company she’s led since 2013. She reflects on the business’s massive turnaround under her leadership, and she considers the future of beauty, above and below the mask line. In a conversation recorded exclusively for Squawk Pod, Becky Quick discusses Dillon’s legacy on Wall Street. CNBC’s Jon Fortt offers both sides of the NFT debate: growing bubble, or blockchain braintrust? Plus, the Fed’s moving markets, movie theaters are back in action, Joe’s making pizza, and Andrew’s ordering in. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fashion icon Diane Von Furstenberg shares her “secret to life” in a conversation about her new book; she discusses “owning it” and dressing to impress ourselves in a post-pandemic world. Plus, in a conversation exclusive to Squawk Pod, Andrew Ross Sorkin is spilling his wardrobe secrets to this at-home Zooming, broadcasting, reporting reality. Tom Gimbel, CEO of staffing and recruiting firm LaSalle Network, reveals results of a C-suite survey about office life after the pandemic and discusses employer and employee expectations, post-Covid. On the anniversary of our first fully remote experience, Dr. Scott Gottlieb outlines safety measures and vaccination strategies for offices hoping to reopen. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One year after markets tanked on fears of the coronavirus pandemic, stocks are looking up, and travel is picking up. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby and CNBC’s Phil LeBeau discuss why the airline industry is optimistic about long-term travel demand as more and more people get vaccinated, and why a global minimum tax rate for corporations could mean industry turbulence ahead. Sotheby’s is partnering with digital artist PAK for its first sale of NFTs, or non-fungible tokens. CEO Charles Stewart considers the art world’s journey to digital assets and the audience and aesthetic opportunities this new crypto-art offers. Plus, countries are suspending use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, Moderna is testing its own vaccine on children and babies, and as vaccinations ramp up, offices plan their reopening strategies Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

White House Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci is warning state leaders that the nation’s battle with the coronavirus is still “not in the end zone.” He urged Americans to adhere to public health measures despite the ramp-up of vaccinations, pointing to new infection spikes in Europe as a cautionary tale of relaxing too soon. Dr. Scott Gottlieb, member of the boards of Pfizer and biotech company Illumina and former FDA commissioner, says Europe’s rise in Covid cases isn’t predictive of the U.S. trajectory, due partly to the progress in vaccinating the nation. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan also discusses his decision to lift capacity limits on dining, retail and religious institutions, but mask mandates and distancing protocols remain in place in public spaces. Plus, airline travel picks up and Tesla CEO Elon Musk now has a new title. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A $69 million price tag for a digital piece has taken the art world by storm. CNBC’s Wealth Reporter Robert Frank shares details of Beeple’s enormous deal. Reddit co-founder and venture capitalist Alexis Ohanian weighs in on NFTs and Leore Avidar, founder and CEO of alternative assets, shares his vision of a world beyond cash. Plus, the Grammy Awards are this weekend; Kevin Liles, CEO of 300 Entertainment, the record label behind Megan Thee Stallion, Fetty Wap, and Young Thug, discusses live music in a post pandemic world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s been a year since the World Health Organization officially declared Covid-19 a pandemic on March, 11, 2020. In that time, there have been more than 29 million Covid cases in the U.S. and 527,720 people have died. Today, Pfizer said its Covid-19 vaccine blocked 94% of asymptomatic infections in an Israeli study – a result CEO Albert Bourla called “extremely important.” The study also found the vaccine was at least 97% effective against symptomatic Covid cases, hospitalizations and deaths. Plus, Becky and Joe’s pandemic recipes and Andrew’s favorite workout. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Eli Lilly says its Covid-19 antibody therapy reduced the risk of hospitalization and death by 87% in a study of more than 750 high-risk coronavirus patients. Dr. Scott Gottlieb, member of the boards of Pfizer and biotech company Illumina and former FDA commissioner, discusses the news from Lilly and the difficulties around distributing Covid antibody drugs. Kids online gaming company Roblox (RBLX) is going public today through a direct listing on the New York Stock Exchange. Roblox CEO, David Baszucki, discusses the listing, user growth, the path to profitability and why Roblox is so unique. Plus, Tesla’s on a wild ride and inflation has captured investor focus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Meme stock trading has changed the trajectory of GameStop, now pushing its own e-commerce transformation, but the trend may also change the game for legacy brands like Discovery and Disney. Sarah Needleman, reporter at the Wall Street Journal, and Nigel Vaz, CEO of one of the world’s largest advertising firms Publicis Sapient, consider which companies can ride the digital wave. Suitsupply CEO Fokke de Jong is betting that post-pandemic, we may finally turn our backs on our sweatsuit wardrobes. The company’s steamy head-turning ad campaign centered closeness in an optimistic vision of the future. Other post-pandemic hopes include: imminent stimulus checks, air travel, and pills for Covid-19 patients. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cue Health has received emergency use authorization from the FDA for over-the-counter and at-home use of its rapid Covid-19 test. CEO Ayub Khattak discusses his vision for at-home health and putting a price on safety. Author and professor Walter Isaacson is out with his new book, “The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race.” Isaacson shares the stories of scientists leading what he calls the third scientific revolution of the modern age and considers the ethics of gene editing technologies like CRISPR. Plus, Disney is digesting the first weekend of its newest film “Raya,” Microsoft is weathering a hack, and the world is watching Oprah’s royal interview. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fed Chair Jay Powell spooks the markets talking about inflation and the Senate is hiding a tax on executive compensation in the 600+ page stimulus bill. The semiconductor supply chain took a hit early in the Covid pandemic since much of the world’s chips are manufactured in places like China and Taiwan. Now the shortage is impacting several companies including Ford and GM. Mark Fields, former Ford president and CEO, discusses the auto industry’s electric future and the headwinds it may face due to the global chip shortage. The newest alternative investment getting attention are NFTs (non-fungible tokens) offering blockchain ownership over digital assets. Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of VaynerMedia, and CNBC’s Robert Frank offer takes on this brave new world of who owns what. Plus, Suit Supply has an (interesting) ad campaign for a post-vaccine world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After making a controversial decision to eliminate the mask mandate in Texas and completely reopen businesses in the state, Governor Greg Abbott has faced backlash from across the country. He defends his decision to the Squawk team, claiming vaccines and patterns of behavior render a state-mandated mask policy unnecessary. Plus, the markets reveal an investor’s hope for the pandemic’s end, and security concerns mount in the Capitol. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NBA Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Earvin “Magic” Johnson is teaming up with sports merchandising e-commerce giant Fanatics. Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises and Fanatics Executive Chairman Michael Rubin weigh in on the partnership, sports, and a new trend in sports collectibles. Plus, President Biden is pushing to vaccinate as many Americans as possible, as quickly as possible. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb expects vaccine supply to surpass demand before the summer. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In an extended interview, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) shares the details of her tax plan for the ultra-rich: paying 2 and 3 cents on every dollar over $50 million. She defends her plan as the fairest, most progressive option to level the playing field for Americans, and considers the country’s path forward with the resulting $3 trillion. Plus, Merck is teaming up with Johnson & Johnson to churn out vaccines for the U.S., and the Squawk team is doling out Zoom grooming tips. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Johnson & Johnson CEO Alex Gorsky discusses the drugmaker’s single dose vaccine as it begins distribution across the United States. 4 million vaccines are en route to Americans across the country, solving the logistical and administrative challenges posed by the dual-dose, refrigerated Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. In his annual letter to shareholders, Berkshire Hathaway’s Warren Buffett admitted mistakes, commented on the markets and offered some folksy wisdom. The legendary investor said, “despite some severe interruptions, our country’s economic progress has been breathtaking. Our unwavering conclusion: Never bet against America.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GameStop shares continue to climb today, keeping alive a rally that restarted this week. In a history lesson soaked in 1990s-nostalgia, Henry Blodget, co-founder and CEO of Insider, says “the entire market is actually at an extreme level relative to all history, including 2000 and that’s because of interest rates.” Etsy blew past earnings estimates. The online retailer has been one of the big pandemic winners with shares up 300% over the past year. Etsy CEO Josh Silverman discusses the company’s quarterly results and its outlook for 2021. Plus, awaiting the newest Covid vaccine from Johnson & Johnson and the latest on the debate to increase the federal minimum wage. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The online-driven trading frenzy around retailer GameStop ignited again following the announcement of next month’s departure of Chief Financial Officer Jim Bell. CNBC’s Jim Cramer questioned “are prices real?” on Wall Street anymore, as he exasperatingly tries to make sense of GameStop’s renewed rally. Democrats are set to advance President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion stimulus proposal on Friday without Republican support. David Rubenstein, a co-founder of the Carlyle Group, discusses the potential economic impacts of the legislation and the fight over the $15 federal minimum wage. Anheuser-Busch InBev reported better-than-expected revenue for the fourth-quarter, but AB InBev CEO Carlos Brito says consumers are itching for bars to fully re-open. Plus, vaccines, variants and the investing wisdom of 97 year old Charlie Munger. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev and Barstool Sports’ Dave Portnoy streamed a candid conversation on social media this week, and Wall Street is reacting to their exchange and the continued fallout of the GameStop short squeeze drama. House Minority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) is pushing back against President Biden’s stimulus plan and its minimum wage plan, but President of the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce Ron Busby says the sooner consumers have more in their pockets, the sooner small businesses will recover. Plus, Elizabeth Holmes is back in the news for yet another development in the unraveling of Theranos, and Michael Bolton is back in the sound booth for a comical ad that’s taken the businessworld by surprise. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Former Senior Advisor to President Obama and current President of the Barack Obama Foundation Valerie Jarrett discusses President Biden’s first 100 days in office, the metrics by which Americans will judge his success, and the latest iteration of the stimulus package. Bitcoin’s wild ride continues, catching the attention of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Plus, a former Tesla employee’s electric vehicle SPAC could be the tipping point for the hyped listing process, highlighting all that could go wrong in any public debut. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Music mogul and entrepreneur Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter is selling half of his Armand de Brignac “Ace of Spades” champagne to the Wine and Spirits arm of LVMH, Moët Hennessy. JAY-Z and Moët Hennessy CEO Philippe Schaus discuss the deal, the alcohol landscape, and the impact that both Moët Hennessy and JAY-Z have had on the world of luxury liquor. Plus, Bitcoin’s roller coaster continues, and former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb considers Dr. Anthony Fauci’s projection of mask-wearing through 2022. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two participants in the House Financial Services Committee “Game Stopped” hearing debrief on the marathon day on Capitol Hill. Ken Griffin, the billionaire CEO of hedge fund Citadel, defends his $2 billion investment in short seller Gabe Plotkin’s Melvin Capital amid the height of the GameStop mania. Griffin says that there is “no doubt” that the amount of short selling will be reduced thanks to the power that Reddit-fueled retail traders demonstrated with GameStop. Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.) discusses his concerns about the “democratization of financial addiction,” the subject of his questions to Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev during the House hearing. Plus, a big happy birthday to Andrew Ross Sorkin! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In an extended interview, business magnate and philanthropist Bill Gates discusses his new book, “How to Avoid a Climate Disaster” with Andrew Ross Sorkin. In a wide ranging conversation, Gates weighs in on Elon Musk and Tesla, the Reddit Rebellion and subsequent GameStop drama, vaccination strategies, Bitcoin, and President Biden’s policies for a greener future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Operation Hope’s John Hope Bryant and Shark Tank co-host Kevin O’Leary discuss what’s at stake in the House Financial Services Committee’s hearing on the Reddit- and Robinhood-fueled market volatility this week. Real estate developer Roderick Hardamon tells CNBC’s Diana Olick how he’s helping to rebuild Detroit and improve access to capital for women and minorities in his community. Plus, Bezos is back at the top of the billionaires list, Texas is weathering energy outages as the cold front wears on, and Dr. Anthony Fauci is clarifying the U.S. vaccination timeline. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President of the St. Louis Federal Reserve James Bullard shares his outlook for the U.S. economy in 2021, from vaccination and pandemic recovery to the tech sector’s sky high valuations. Haley Sacks, AKA the millennial investing influencer “Mrs. Dow Jones,” discusses social media’s role in gamifying the stock market. Plus, mainstream corporate interest has bumped Bitcoin up and over $50,000, and Texas temperatures are shutting the state’s oil refineries down. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cannabis stocks have been on a roller coaster this week, as Reddit traders piled into the biggest names in pot. CEO of Aurora Cannabis Miguel Martin discusses the Reddit-fueled market volatility and his hopes for the marijuana industry. Data shows remote work could become the norm for most companies. Adam Grant, organizational psychologist and author of “Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know”, discusses a post-pandemic work life balance and the benefits and challenges presented by remote work. Coupang, the e-commerce giant that has muscled Amazon out of South Korea, is planning what could become Asia's biggest IPO since Alibaba. Plus, investors swiped right on Bumble on its first day of trading. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi is betting on widespread vaccination to help the ride sharing business recover in 2021. He discusses UberEats, the competition, and accepting Bitcoin for rides. Surgeon at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and staff writer for The New Yorker Dr. Atul Gawande discusses vaccination strategies across the U.S., and considers best practices for reaching underserved populations. Plus, the team is craving PepsiCo’s snacks, Zillow’s hot for real estate junkies, and Bumble is hitched to the Nasdaq, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Strategist and pollster Frank Luntz breaks down America’s response to the “Reddit Rebellion,” and considers the collective power of the public, threatening to topple the U.S. financial system as we know it. New Jersey has vaccinated over 1 million people, and Governor Phil Murphy discusses the state’s (long) path to the end of the pandemic. Plus, Bitcoin is once again on the move after yet another celebrity tweet, junk bonds are back, and Colin Kaepernick is joining the SPAC wave. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As valuations for Tesla and Bitcoin climb higher and higher, Joe, Becky, and Andrew consider the roots of the hype and the consequences for the market. Operation Hope’s John Hope Bryant delves into what the “Reddit Rebellion” is teaching America about equity and financial literacy in this country. Plus, DoorDash is betting on restaurant robots; automation is coming soon to a salad near you. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Elon Musk’s Tesla announced that it has bought $1.5B in bitcoin, and the company plans to accept the currency as payment for its products. Galaxy Digital’s Michael Novogratz says this should be the first corporate move of many, but Tesla’s announcement intensifies concerns that Elon Musk is irresponsibly wielding his power to hype stocks and cryptocurrency--like Dogecoin--on his social media. South Africa is second guessing the efficacy of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine against a new coronavirus variant, and back in the U.S., Super Bowl LV used touchless security company Clear to keep attendees and health workers safe at this year’s game. Clear CEO Caryn Seidman Becker discusses Clear’s technology and its role in a post-pandemic, post-vaccine world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

23andMe is set to go public in a merger with a SPAC backed by Sir Richard Branson. Company co-founder and CEO Anne Wojcicki and Branson himself discuss the “delight” offered by the company’s genetic sequencing, and they look ahead to what they’re hoping is a lucrative future. In a special conversation exclusive to Squawk Pod, Joe Kernen reflects on his own family’s journey with 23andMe, including the highs and lows of finding long lost blood connections. Plus, Johnson and Johnson has asked the FDA for emergency use authorization for its vaccine, and former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb says an approval could hasten the country’s herd immunity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Apple is finally hitting the road, closing in on a deal with Hyundai-Kia to manufacture an Apple-branded autonomous electric vehicle in Georgia. Merck CEO and social justice leader Ken Frazier is stepping down from his role, effective in June. CNBC’s Meg Tirrell discusses his legacy while at the helm of the pharma giant, as well as his role in pushing progress in corporate America. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) has introduced a bill to take on Big Tech and bolster antitrust regulation. Plus, PayPal delivers big returns to its investors. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeff Bezos is stepping back from his role as Amazon CEO, passing leadership to AWS head Andy Jassy. Walter Isaacson, author of the introduction to Bezos’s book, “Invent and Wander,” discusses the Amazon founder’s infinite thirst for innovation and the transition of power at the “store” that changed everything. In the wake of the Redditor rebellion, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is calling for a meeting of financial regulators. Former Dallas Fed President Richard Fisher considers the regulators’ role in managing volatility, maintaining market fairness, and leveling the market’s playing field. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The endgame may be near for the GameStop squeeze trade as investing enthusiasm and volume wane. Silver prices, another hill in the battle between Redditor retail investors and Wall Street hedge funds, fell after hitting an eight-year high on Monday. Ray McGuire, Democratic candidate for New York City mayor and former Citigroup vice chairman, discusses his strategy for overcoming the pandemic and supporting businesses in crisis, including calls for police reform and more. Plus, SpaceX is prepped for its first all-civilian space mission. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Starting off a new week and a new month, Wall Street continues to weather concerns about the Reddit-sparked retail trading frenzy around GameStop. Joe Moglia, former chairman and CEO of TD Ameritrade, puts the Reddit traders’ short squeeze into perspective with the broader market. Elon Musk turned to social media audio app, Clubhouse, for a conversation with Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev about the retail investor rebellion. Paul Davison, CEO and co-founder of Clubhouse, the audio social networking app popular with Wall Street and Silicon Valley insiders, discusses social media’s role in the markets. Plus, could Silver be the new GameStop? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a conversation exclusive to Squawk Pod, singer, actress, activist, and Presidential Inauguration performer Lady Gaga shares her hopes for rebuilding community spirit post-pandemic. She and Becky Quick discuss her inauguration performance, mental health amid Covid, and the WELL Health-Safety Seal initiative to bolster consumer confidence in shared indoor spaces like live concert and sport venues. Plus, Elon Musk is moving markets, and The New York Times Columnist Tom Friedman gives a graphic, circle-of-life-inspired explanation of the RobinHood, GameStop, short squeeze drama. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Squawk Pod bonus episode, Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev returns to speak to Andrew Ross Sorkin following the free brokerage’s controversial decision to suspend buying of certain volatile stocks like GameStop. Near the end of a wild week, Tenev is getting criticism from a virtual army of Reddit-reading retail investors for the move. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian reflects on social media’s role in the GameStop short squeeze drama. He considers the evolution of the Internet and the advent of a new normal where equity investing and communication are democratized. Plus, Mavericks owner, entrepreneur, and investor Mark Cuban weighs in on the Wall Street heat, the role of regulators, and the importance of an investing education--wherever we can find it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Retail investing Redditors are gaming GameStop. The social media-driven roller coaster ride for the GameStop stock has lost Wall Street’s biggest short sellers billions of dollars--and has made everyone else a hefty profit. The Squawk Box team breaks down why it’s happening, what it means, and which stock might be next. In an interview with Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev, Andrew Ross Sorkin discusses the rise and role of the retail investor, from the GameStop drama to expanding access to the U.S. financial system. Plus, Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan is leveraging capitalism to advance sustainability goals. In an extended interview, Moynihan stresses corporate America’s influence on achieving environmental and equity goals in the U.S. and beyond Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Biden’s director of the National Economic Council, Brian Deese, shares the new administration’s strategy for combating the simultaneous crises now facing the nation. Axios reporter Sara Fischer discusses MyPillow’s Twitter drama, Washington’s agenda for Big Tech, and hurdles for bipartisan tech regulation. CNBC’s Leslie Picker reports on Wall Street’s ties to infamy: Apollo’s Leon Black’s $150 million payment to Jeffrey Epstein. Plus, Harriet Tubman is coming (not so soon) to a $20 bill near you, and Elon Musk loves his dog’s new hat--and Etsy, the platform where he bought it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Former Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein speaks out on President Biden’s minimum wage pitch, the SPAC frenzy, and cryptocurrency regulation. He considers the trajectory of markets under a new administration and weighs in on the Fed’s moves in 2021. Presidential-turned-mayoral candidate Andrew Yang discusses New York City’s road to recovery amid the pandemic. He shares his plans for keeping NYC strong, from vaccine distribution to supporting the local talent pool. Plus, the Squawk team is kicking their anchorman habits--or at least, trying. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY), co-chairs of the Problem Solvers Caucus, discuss the legislative path forward under the Biden administration. After a divisive start to 2021, they’re urging for bipartisanship. Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary and Galaxy Digital’s Michael Novogratz debate President Biden’s proposed $15 minimum wage; the two weigh the benefits of higher wages against the pressure they would place on small business employers. Plus, IBM and Intel are struggling to keep up with big tech’s newest players, and James Bond’s “No Time to Die” is (still) waiting for its time in the movie theaters. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Just over 24 hours in office, President Biden has signed a series of executive actions on the pandemic, immigration, and climate change. CNBC’s Eamon Javers breaks down his agenda to get the nation past the pandemic and back on its feet, some parts of which are a direct rollback of Trump-era policies. New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu discusses President Biden’s $1.9T relief plan and expresses his own state’s hopes for the new administration. CNBC’s Meg Tirrell reflects on the year since the CDC’s first confirmed case of Covid-19 in the U.S. It’s been a heartbreaking road, but with continued scientific funding, experts are hopeful for a brighter 2021. Big tech has also had a bumpy road through 2020, weathering multiple hearings on Capitol Hill and proposals for regulation. Journalist Joanne Lipman and Axios reporter Sara Fischer consider what Silicon Valley giants can expect from the new administration. Plus, bitcoin’s had a wild ride in 2021 so far, but the Squawk team’s lessons from childhood suggest that things might get rougher still. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Billionaire investor and philanthropist Leon Cooperman, Chairman and CEO of Omega Family Office, discusses his vote for President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Cooperman considers where and when he’ll find alpha in the markets under the nation’s new leader. Plus, CNBC’s Eamon Javers recaps Donald Trump’s last acts in office: a string of pardons. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.