The podcast explores the potential of using data to predict mortality, touches on tax cuts and the impact of the Red Sea conflict. It also discusses an algorithm that predicts lifespan and explores the implications of AI technology on decision-making.
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Quick takeaways
UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt considers implementing tax cuts before election to boost economic growth.
Ongoing conflicts in the Red Sea disrupt global trade, causing longer shipping times and potentially higher consumer prices.
Deep dives
UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt considers more tax cuts
UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is considering implementing more tax cuts before the upcoming general election. The conservative party, which is currently trailing in the polls, is pressuring Hunt to announce tax cuts as a means to boost economic growth. Hunt has emphasized that he would not fund the tax cuts through borrowing, as previous attempts to do so have resulted in financial turmoil and a short-lived prime minister.
Conflicts in the Red Sea affecting global trade and shipping
The ongoing conflicts in the Red Sea, particularly involving Yemen's Houthi rebels and the US, have significant implications for global trade and shipping. Approximately 15% of global sea trade passes through the Red Sea, including critical commodities like oil and grain. Due to the conflicts, there have been disruptions in shipping routes, causing significant diversions around the Cape of Good Hope. These diversions have led to longer shipping times and increased shipping costs, ultimately affecting businesses and potentially resulting in higher consumer prices.
Algorithm developed to predict lifespan raises ethical concerns
Researchers in Denmark have developed an algorithm that can predict an individual's lifespan based on various life events and data. Although the algorithm shows promise in outperforming traditional methods, such as actuarial tables, concerns have been raised regarding the use of this technology by insurance companies. The ability to accurately predict mortality on an individual basis could complicate the pooling of insurance risk, potentially leading to higher premiums for individuals. The researchers suggest a need for further public discussion on the ethical use of this technology and its implications for individual control over destiny.
UK chancellor Jeremy Hunt has signalled he wants to cut taxes further in the coming months, the conflict in the Red Sea is rekindling fears over oil and inflation, and the FT’s Anjana Ahuja says scientists have developed artificial intelligence models to predict how long people will live.
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.