FT News Briefing Friday, January 17
Jan 17, 2020
Alphabet's stock skyrocketed past $1 trillion, capturing investor attention. NBCUniversal is launching a free streaming service, stirring excitement in the media landscape. Italy's plummeting birth rates pose significant challenges for the future. A government watchdog announced that the White House illegally withheld military aid to Ukraine, impacting political accountability. As the impeachment trial unfolds, key Republican senators may join Democrats to influence the proceedings and bring crucial witnesses into the spotlight.
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Alphabet Joins the Trillion-Dollar Club
- Alphabet, Google's parent company, reached a $1 trillion valuation.
- This achievement follows Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon, highlighting Google's growth and potential under CEO Sundar Pichai.
Peacock: A Different Streaming Approach
- Comcast's NBCUniversal is launching a new streaming service called Peacock.
- Unlike competitors, Peacock will be mostly free, rely on ads, and resemble traditional TV.
Italy's Declining Birth Rate
- Italy's birth rate hit its lowest point since 1861, impacting the potential workforce.
- This decline raises concerns about economic stagnation and the burden on public debt and pensions.