The podcast discusses how the Ukraine war diverted Russian security forces' attention from tackling Islamist threats, Boeing CEO's plan to step down amid safety concerns, and the transformation of infrastructure into a $1tn asset class. It also covers the UN resolution for a Gaza ceasefire and Israel canceling a visit to Washington.
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Quick takeaways
Russian security forces focused on Ukraine war, neglecting Islamist terrorism threats.
Infrastructure investment transformed into $1tn asset class due to global changes and low interest rates.
Deep dives
UN Security Council Demands Ceasefire in Gaza
The UN Security Council passed a resolution calling for immediate ceasefire in Gaza, with the US abstaining from voting, allowing the resolution to pass. This marked the first time since 2016 that the US permitted a resolution criticizing Israel. The resolution states that the ceasefire should last for at least two weeks, coinciding with the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The ceasefire resolution has significant implications and has led to diplomatic tensions, such as the cancellation of an upcoming trip to Washington by the Israeli government.
Challenges and Shifts in Infrastructure Investment
Infrastructure investment has evolved into a trillion-dollar asset class, driven by low interest rates and global economic changes. Historically controlled by governments, these assets are now managed by private investment groups. However, this rapid growth poses risks for investors and service users. Early infrastructure investment began in the 1980s and 1990s through government privatization efforts to stimulate economies. The sector saw a surge in the US before the financial crisis, attracting investments from firms like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. While successful post-crisis due to low interest rates, infrastructure investment faces uncertainties in today's competitive market and geopolitical landscape.
The UN Security Council passed a resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, the Ukraine war distracted Russian security forces from addressing Islamist terrorism threats, and Boeing chief executive Dave Calhoun plans to step down at the end of the year. Plus, the FT’s Antoine Gara explains how infrastructure went from an investment backwater to a $1tn asset class.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Kyra Assibey-Bonsu, Zach St. Louis, 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.