Defense sector sees surge in hiring, G7 unity on major issues, Chinese companies turning to convertible bonds, and investors returning to high-yield bonds in emerging markets. Analysis includes global security agreements, political shifts post G7, and investor interest in risky local currency bonds.
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Quick takeaways
Defense sector companies are hiring on a massive scale due to increased military spending globally.
G7 leaders reached agreements on supporting Ukraine and taking a tough stance against China, revealing underlying vulnerabilities in their unity.
Deep dives
Global Defense Companies Hiring at Record Pace
Top companies in the US and Europe are on a massive hiring spree in the defense sector, with plans to recruit tens of thousands of workers this year. This surge in employment is fueled by increased military spending worldwide, particularly in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Ammo-producing companies are especially active due to depleted government stockpiles. This hiring spree marks the most significant growth in the defense industry since the end of the Cold War.
G7 Summit Outcomes and Geopolitical Challenges
Key agreements from the recent G7 summit include a $50 billion loan to Ukraine and a strong stance against China for supporting Russia in the conflict. The summit also saw the US committing to a 10-year security pact with Ukraine. Despite these agreements, the G7 leaders face domestic challenges that may impact their geopolitical strength. The summit highlighted unity on the surface with underlying vulnerabilities, indicating potential shifts in leadership dynamics and geopolitical positions in the near future.
Major defence companies are recruiting workers at the fastest rate since the end of the cold war, global leaders were able to reach a consensus on major issues during the G7 summit, and big Chinese companies are turning to the convertible bond market. Plus, investors are flocking to the local currency bonds of one-time emerging market pariahs.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Denise Guerra, Breen Turner, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Our intern is Prakriti Panwar. 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.