Boycotts of Western brands by Muslim countries are causing significant revenue declines for major multinationals like Coca-Cola and Starbucks. Meanwhile, a surprising poll reveals that more Americans trust Kamala Harris over Donald Trump to manage the economy. The podcast also highlights how mid-tier U.S. accounting firms are adjusting their strategies to adapt to international demands, and discusses the evolving trends in business travel as executives embrace a new normal.
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Boycotts of Western brands in Muslim countries, driven by perceived political ties, are leading to significant revenue losses for multinationals.
Mid-tier US accounting firms are restructuring their global operations to better serve the growing needs of international clients amid increasing competition.
Deep dives
Decreasing Natural Gas Storage in Ukraine
Natural gas storage facilities in Ukraine are experiencing a significant decline in capacity compared to previous years, primarily due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. This summer, companies are storing only about one-tenth of the gas they had last year, raising concerns about the economic repercussions for Ukraine. The war has targeted critical energy infrastructure, creating hesitation among traders who fear further strikes on storage sites. This reduction in storage could severely impact Ukraine's economy, which relies on income generated from these resources.
Transformation of Mid-sized Accounting Firms
Mid-sized US accounting firms are reevaluating their global operations to adapt to clients with international needs, driven by the increasing globalization of mid-market companies. Firms like Grant Thornton are exploring more integrated strategies, even considering acquisitions of their international counterparts to better serve their clients. This movement represents a departure from the traditionally separate national organizations within the accounting industry, reflecting a need for coordinated global services amid growing competition. As these firms innovate their network structures, they aim to enhance their competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
Widespread Boycotts Impacting Western Brands
Boycotts against Western brands such as Coca-Cola and Starbucks are gaining momentum across Muslim countries due to perceived support for Israel, affecting the bottom lines of these multinational companies. The boycotts, largely fueled by social media and movements advocating for boycott, divestment, and sanctions, have led to significant revenue drops for local franchise operators. For instance, one franchise operator in the Middle East reported a 40% decline in profits attributed to growing consumer resistance. While larger corporations might not feel an immediate financial strain, the ongoing situation exemplifies the volatile nature of global business and consumer sentiment.
More Americans trust Kamala Harris to handle the US economy than Donald Trump, European traders this summer are using only a fraction of Ukraine’s vast natural gas storage, and boycotts of western food and drinks brands in Muslim countries are hitting the revenues of multinationals. Plus, we look into why mid-tier US accounting firms are under increasing pressure to overhaul their networks.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Molly Nugent, Siona Jenkins, Breen Turner, 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.