In this podcast, the hosts discuss the implications of the SEC's X account hack and the state of the US economy. They delve into the basics and significance of the inverted yield curve as a signal for a recession. They explore the delayed recession and the possibility of a soft landing. They also highlight Fujitsu's involvement in the UK Post Office scandal and the launch of a new podcast edition focused on US politics and the upcoming presidential election.
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Quick takeaways
The recent hacking incident with the SEC's X account highlights the importance of enabling multi-factor authentication to enhance security in the cryptocurrency market.
The inversion of the yield curve on government bonds is a cause for concern as it historically precedes recessions, suggesting that despite positive signs in the US economy, a recession may still be a possibility.
Deep dives
SEC's X Account Hack and Implications for Cryptocurrency
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently disclosed that its X account was hacked, leading to confusion in the cryptocurrency market. The hacker gained control of the account by executing a SIM swap, transferring the phone number to another device without permission. The SEC also revealed that it had disabled multi-factor authentication prior to the attack. This incident highlights the importance of keeping multi-factor authentication enabled to enhance security.
Inverted Yield Curve and Its Significance for the US Economy
The US economy has been showing positive signs with lower inflation, signals from the Federal Reserve on interest rates, and a strong stock market. However, economists are concerned about the inversion of the yield curve on government bonds, which historically precedes recessions. The yield curve has consistently predicted recessions, except once since 1960. Although there may be a lag between the inversion and the onset of a recession, experts suggest that the massive government stimulus post-pandemic may have delayed the recession. While a soft landing without a severe recession is possible, a technical recession with negative economic growth for two consecutive quarters cannot be ruled out.
Fujitsu's Involvement in the UK Post Office Scandal
A recent television drama in the UK brought attention to the wrongful conviction of post office workers for fraud, attributed to a software glitch. Fujitsu, a Japanese IT company, provided the faulty software for the UK post office. This scandal has put Fujitsu in a difficult position. While Fujitsu's financial liability and compensation for the victims are yet to be determined, analysts believe the impact on the company's overall finances will be limited. However, the scandal has raised concerns about the reputational damage and potential questions regarding the reliability of Fujitsu's technology in general.
An inverted yield curve is sending jitters across the US economy, Japanese IT conglomerate Fujitsu is in hot water over its involvement in the UK Post Office scandal, and new details have emerged over how the SEC’s X account was hacked.
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, Gavin Kallmann, and Josh Gabert-Doyon. 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.