Harriet Hastings, co-founder of Biscuteers, shares the unique challenges biscuit manufacturers face amid economic fluctuations. Will Walker-Arnott discusses investment trends as the pound dips and borrowing costs rise. Rupert Soames highlights business confidence in the UK, while Patrick Duvill examines the insurance market's response to wildfires in California. Together, they explore how global issues, government policies, and climate change shape various industries, offering insights into resilience and adaptation in today's economic landscape.

Laura Evans, Owner of Fathom IT, dives into AI's transformative role in business automation. Emma Wall, Head of Platform Investments at Hargreaves Lansdowne, discusses the impact of ESG factors on investment strategies. Hannah Darley, Director for AI and Security Strategy at Darktrace, outlines the UK's ambitious AI action plan and its implications for cybersecurity. The conversation highlights the need for ethical governance, skilled workforce development, and balancing innovation with public trust in the face of rapid AI advancements.

Kirstie Davies Chinook, managing director at Professional Polishing Services, sheds light on the manufacturing sector's challenges. Tom Keel, CEO of UK Music, tackles the detrimental effects of ticket touting on fans and the music industry, pushing for regulatory changes. Paul Swinney from the Centre for Cities highlights the economic potential of Bradford’s 2025 City of Culture designation, discussing the optimism and skepticism surrounding it. Together, they explore concert costs, market dynamics, and the emotional journeys of fans navigating ticket purchases.

In this discussion, Altaf Qasim, Head of Investment Strategy at State Street Global Advisors, uncovers the reasons behind soaring borrowing costs in the UK. Becky Berry, an Oxfordshire farmer, shares the mounting pressures on agriculture from government policies and climate change. Dr. Steve Nolan, a Senior Lecturer in Economics, provides deep insights on the impact of high borrowing costs on economic policy and fiscal management. Together, they explore the crossroads of economic stability and the challenges faced by the farming sector.

Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, discusses a major £300 million investment aimed at advancing electric vehicle production. Dean Forbes provides insights into the tech sector and UK economy, particularly the implications of rising government borrowing. Sunaina Sina-Haldea analyzes the broader economic challenges amidst flooding impacts, while Andy Spencer shares personal experiences of business disruption due to severe weather. The conversation weaves through changing social media governance at Meta and its potential effects on political discourse.

Gary Plummer, founder of Target Darts, shares insights on the surge of interest in darts, fueled by young champions like Luke Littler. He discusses how innovative sponsorships influence the sport's growth. Chimi Kazazi, a restaurant owner known for heroism during a flood, emphasizes community resilience and the challenges businesses face in crisis. Their conversation highlights the interconnectedness of sports and business, showcasing bravery and the role of young talent in redefining industries.

The most wide-reaching survey of UK business since the budget paints a gloomy picture. Sean Farrington has the latest.Elsewhere, WWE Raw makes its debut on Netflix; and we hear about the turns the housing market could take in 2025.

News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.

With the World Darts Championship upon us, Will Bain dives deep into the world of professional darts, exploring the business side of the sport.

Dominini Sharma, CEO of the OM Group, sheds light on the booming construction industry, tackling labor shortages and legislative hurdles. Lucy Cootes, an Investment Director, discusses the retail sector's struggle with closures and innovative responses. Professor Joshua Banfield highlights the changing retail landscape and consumer trends. Peter Barnflat-Hanson shares insights on the battery technology revolution for electric vehicles. The conversation wraps up with a look into the surge in gym memberships and the motivations for healthier New Year's resolutions.