Stanley Pignol, The Economist's European business and finance correspondent, discusses corporate payouts in the pandemic era. He critiques companies for prioritizing dividends over employee support during economic downturns. The impact of COVID-19 on wildlife is also explored, revealing how lockdowns led animals to reclaim urban spaces. Pignol highlights ongoing environmental issues, notably the severe coral bleaching affecting the Great Barrier Reef, emphasizing the interconnectedness of corporate practices and climate challenges.