

WSJ What’s News
The Wall Street Journal
What's News brings you the biggest news of the day, from business and finance to global and political developments that move markets. Get caught up in minutes twice a day on weekdays, then take a step back with our What’s News in Markets wrap-up on Saturday and our What’s News Sunday deep dive.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 13min
Why Toxic Fumes on Planes Are Being Blamed for Illnesses and Deaths
Ben Katz, an investigative reporter at The Wall Street Journal specializing in aviation and public health, discusses alarming trends in toxic fumes leaking into airplane cabins. He reveals a surge in reported incidents and emerging links between these exposures and serious health issues, including neurodegenerative disorders. Katz addresses the industry's response, including claims of low contaminant levels, and stresses the need for independent research. For anxious travelers, he offers practical advice on protective measures, such as using gas-and-particle rated masks.

8 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 15min
What’s Next in the Fight Over Healthcare Subsidies
Sabrina Siddiqui, a political reporter for The Wall Street Journal specializing in Congress and healthcare policy, delves into the current state of Affordable Care Act subsidies. She explains the potential consequences of Congress not renewing these subsidies, which could lead to increased healthcare premiums for millions. The discussion also touches on the political dynamics surrounding the issue, including the significant impact of Trump's position on the subsidy debate and the implications for both parties in the midterms.

10 snips
Dec 21, 2025 • 30min
The Struggle to Keep America’s Workers Safe
Delve into the challenges of workplace safety in America, where history meets current struggles. Explore the impact of tragedies like the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire and the Hawks Nest disaster that sparked reforms. Discover how Frances Perkins championed worker rights and the creation of OSHA. Learn about ongoing regulatory battles and the consequences of outdated safety standards. Hear success stories of companies embracing safety for profitability, while acknowledging persistent risks that workers face today.

15 snips
Dec 20, 2025 • 5min
What’s News in Markets: Memory Chips, Corporate Drama, Mega IPO
This discussion dives into Micron's impressive earnings, highlighting the surge in demand for memory chips driven by the AI boom. Tune in for insights into the corporate drama at Warner Bros. Discovery as it faces a hostile bid from Paramount, along with Lululemon’s strategic moves amid an activist investor push. Plus, Medline's dramatic IPO debut raises questions about the future of mega listings in the market. Get ready for a whirlwind of stock market news and expert analysis!

22 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 14min
DOJ Releases First Batch of Jeffrey Epstein Files
In this discussion, Wall Street Journal reporter Kelly Crowe shares insights on the evolving art market, revealing how younger buyers are reshaping auction tastes. She highlights the resurgence of auction-house sales, coupled with notable record prices for unique items like Klimt paintings and dinosaur bones. Crowe emphasizes that many under-40 bidders are shifting away from traditional blue-chip artworks, favoring novelty collectibles instead. This generational shift marks a significant change in the dynamics of art sales.

31 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 13min
EU Backs $105 Billion Ukraine Loan
Join Jason Douglas, the Wall Street Journal's Tokyo bureau chief, as he shares insights on Japan's recent interest rate hike—the highest in 30 years. He discusses how this shift could influence global borrowing costs and potentially lead to repatriation of Japanese investments. The episode also highlights the EU's substantial financial support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict, alongside OpenAI's ambitious fundraising plans aimed at navigating a cooling AI market. Don't miss these impactful topics shaping the economic landscape.

17 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 12min
Why Economists Are Urging Caution About November’s Inflation Report
Chao Deng, a Wall Street Journal reporter focused on the U.S. economy, dives into the recent inflation dip to 2.7% and discusses why this figure might be misleading. He shares insights on how the Fed is likely to maintain caution before adjusting interest rates. Meanwhile, Benoit Faucon, a security correspondent, explores ISIS's online radicalization tactics and the implications of a recent attack in Sydney, highlighting the shift from organized operations to inspired lone-wolf incidents. Together, they unravel complex stories affecting both economy and security.

8 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 14min
The ‘New Silk Road’ of Cheap Chinese Goods
Chelsey Dulaney, a trade and global commerce journalist at The Wall Street Journal, joins Luke Vargas to discuss the significant changes in global trade. She reveals how a U.S. crackdown on low-value imports has drastically rerouted Chinese exports to Europe. Chelsey highlights the emergence of new airlines and routes in Central Asia that facilitate this shift, transforming the logistics landscape. The conversation also touches on innovative drop-shipping methods and regulatory changes in the EU affecting low-cost goods.

15 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 13min
Frustrated Republican Centrists Join Democrats to Force ACA Vote
Frustrated Republican centrists join forces with Democrats to push for a vote on extending healthcare subsidies, impacting the upcoming midterms. In entertainment news, the Oscars are set to go digital with a new home on YouTube starting in 2029. Meanwhile, Paramount faces challenges after its hostile bid for Warner is declined, exploring alternative strategies for success. Additionally, alarming health trends arise from LA wildfires, linking air quality to spikes in emergency room visits.

Dec 17, 2025 • 13min
Trump Takes Aim at Venezuela’s Maduro With Tanker Blockade
Jorge Leon, head of geopolitical analysis at Rystad Energy, discusses Trump's blockade of Venezuelan oil tankers and its implications for the country's economy amid hyperinflation. Rachel Louise Ensign, a labor market reporter, dives into the rising anxiety among white-collar workers due to a cooling job landscape and fears of AI-driven layoffs. Together, they explore how these issues intertwine, reflecting broader trends in global markets and employment.


