Topics include carmaker investing in Indonesian nickel, meme-stock resurgence, new Russian defense minister, China's $140bn debt sale to boost economy
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Quick takeaways
Stellantis considers investing in Indonesian nickel for electric vehicle batteries, highlighting the importance of securing sustainable raw material sources.
Russia appoints economist Andrei Belousov as defense minister, signaling a strategic focus on managing defense budget and resources effectively for prolonged conflict.
Deep dives
Stellantis Explores Investment in Indonesian Nickel
Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, Fiat, and Chrysler, is considering investing in Indonesian nickel, a crucial component in electric vehicles. By collaborating with mining and processing companies in Indonesia, Stellantis aims to secure the nickel necessary for building electric vehicle batteries. Indonesia holds a significant portion of the world's nickel resources, making it essential for automakers looking to establish an electric vehicle battery supply chain. The move signifies a strategic decision by Stellantis and other Western car manufacturers to ensure a sustainable source of raw materials for future electric vehicle production.
Russia Appoints Economist as Defense Minister Amid Ukraine Conflict
Russia's President Vladimir Putin appointed Andrei Belousov, an economist, as the new defense minister, a decision that surprised many. Belousov's background in economics and state intervention in the economy suggests a focus on managing Russia's defense budget effectively. With Russia's defense spending increasing significantly during the Ukraine conflict, Belousov's role involves overseeing resource allocation for military operations. Putin's choice reflects a strategic emphasis on ensuring ample resources for sustaining the war effort, indicating a prolonged conflict that requires careful resource management and long-term planning.
The carmaker behind Fiat and Peugeot is in talks to invest in Indonesian nickel, the meme-stock movement came back to life, and Chinese authorities have kicked off plans to sell $140bn of long-dated bonds to stimulate the economy. Plus, what Russia’s new defence minister means for the country’s war effort
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.