Microsoft's unexpected rebound in Azure cloud growth, environmental campaigners' concerns over EU's hydrogen plans, UN chief denounces violations of international law in Gaza, companies turning to former diplomats for help amid rising tensions
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Microsoft's Azure cloud computing platform experienced an unexpected rebound in growth, leading to a 5% increase in its share price.
Companies across various industries are seeking advice from former diplomats and public sector officials to navigate increasing geopolitical risks and protect their supply chains and target markets.
Deep dives
Alphabet's earnings disappoint investors
Alphabet, the parent company of Google, reported mixed third-quarter earnings with its cloud division narrowly missing sales forecasts. However, advertising revenue exceeded expectations. Despite this, Alphabet's shares fell 6% in after-hours trading. In contrast, Microsoft beat estimates with its cloud computing platform, leading to a 5% jump in its share price.
Environmentalists criticize EU's hydrogen project plan
Environmental campaigners are unhappy with the European Union's list of priority energy projects, which includes many hydrogen projects. While hydrogen has potential as an energy carrier for industries like steel and chemicals, it is still unproven, and the infrastructure required for its use remains uncertain and costly. Critics argue that these projects enable gas companies to continue using their infrastructure indefinitely, instead of focusing on alternative options like electrolysis or building renewable power grids.
Companies seek geopolitical advice in an increasingly unstable world
Businesses are facing increasing geopolitical risks as the world becomes more unstable. Companies are turning to expert advice from former diplomats and public sector officials with experience in geopolitics. This trend is not limited to industries traditionally familiar with geopolitical risks, such as oil and gas companies. Construction companies and other sectors are now also seeking to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape in order to protect their supply chains and target markets.
Microsoft registered an unexpected rebound in growth in its Azure cloud computing platform during the third quarter, environmental campaigners have attacked a critical part of the EU’s plans to green its energy supply, and the UN's secretary-general is denouncing what he calls “clear violations” of international law” in Gaza. Plus, the FT’s Arjun Neil Alim explains why companies are turning to former diplomats for help.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Monica Lopez, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. 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.