Big Take

For decades, workers, disability advocates and employers have debated a program called 14(c), a section of employment law that lets companies pay certain employees with disabilities less than the federal minimum wage. Proponents say the program provides opportunities for people who might not find them elsewhere. Critics say it’s exploitative and stigmatizing.  On today’s Big Take podcast, Bloomberg senior reporter Josh Eidelson joins host Sarah Holder to dig into the debate over subminimum wage and the future of the program under President Trump. Read more: It’s Legal to Pay US Workers With Disabilities as Little as 25¢ an HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Enda Curran, a Global Economy reporter for Bloomberg, and Tom Orlik, Chief Economist for Bloomberg Economics, dive into the far-reaching impact of Trump's tariffs. They discuss the IMF's grim forecast of a 2.8% global GDP growth, which could deal a hefty blow to manufacturing-driven economies. The duo highlights the anticipated $2 trillion hit to global GDP, comparing it to the outputs of Brazil and Canada. They also touch on ongoing trade negotiations at the IMF, hinting at shifts in global economic partnerships amid the turbulence.

Chinese toy company Pop Mart is one of the hottest stocks this year thanks to the wild popularity of its Labubu dolls and other blind box toys. On today’s Big Take Asia podcast, host K. Oanh Ha talks to Bloomberg Opinion’s Shuli Ren about how the company’s business model could help it ride out the trade-war storm. Read more: China’s ‘Blind Box’ Magic Breeds Millions of Peter PansFurther listening: How China’s BYD Became King of the Affordable EVSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael McKee, Bloomberg's international economics and policy correspondent, and Saleha Mohsin, senior Washington correspondent and host of The Big Take DC podcast, dive into the explosive tension between former President Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. They discuss the legal ramifications of Trump's threats to fire Powell and explore how this conflict could destabilize the U.S. dollar and global markets. The episode further examines the risks posed to Federal Reserve independence and its impact on economic stability.

Amid tariff whiplash, renewed inflation concerns and turbulence in financial markets, Americans are left wondering: Do the economic vibes match our economic reality? And are we headed for a recession?Today on the show, Bloomberg senior markets editor and columnist John Authers joins host David Gura to discuss official and unofficial recession indicators and what the state of the economy tells us about what could be ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bloomberg’s John Liu, the executive editor for Greater China based in Beijing, discusses the high-stakes U.S.-China trade war. He dives into the differing negotiation styles of Trump and Xi, highlighting how personal and national pride shape their strategies. Liu also addresses China's economic resilience and its unexpected pushback against tariffs, suggesting that hardball tactics may falter this time around. The conversation emphasizes the critical need for strategic dialogue to navigate these complex tensions.

Sheridan Prasso, a Bloomberg reporter, delves into the troubling allegations of sexual coercion at Socfin's rubber plantations. She reveals how systemic poverty and power imbalances contribute to the exploitation of workers, particularly women. Prasso discusses the company's claims of improvement amid ongoing scrutiny, highlighting the challenges of enforcing labor rights in the industry. The conversation also touches on new EU regulations that could reshape corporate accountability and improve conditions for vulnerable workers.

Sheryl Lee, a Bloomberg reporter based in Singapore, and Dexter Low, Singapore's real estate reporter, dive into the dramatic feud within the Kwek family, owners of City Developments. They explore the lawsuit that shattered the family's image, revealing deep-rooted tensions and legacy concerns. The discussion highlights the ripple effects on investor confidence and the challenges faced by family-run corporations in Asia. The narrative draws parallels with the theme of 'Succession', showcasing the intricacies of family dynamics in the business world.

Bloomberg's Detroit Bureau Chief David Welch, an expert on the car industry and author of 'Charging Ahead', dives into the turbulent landscape of electric vehicles. He discusses GM’s bold commitment to EVs amid political and economic challenges, especially with changing tariffs and consumer sentiment. Welch contrasts GM's strategies against competitors like Tesla and BYD, exploring the implications of pricing pressures and supply chain disruptions. Can GM win over dissatisfied Tesla customers in this shifting market? Tune in to find out!

Discover the surprising economic insights behind the rising cost of a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. Unpack the challenges facing farmers and the wheat and egg industries amid market turbulence. Explore how climate issues impact coffee prices and why bacon is becoming the go-to alternative to beef. Listen to creative strategies from a coffee roaster navigating this inflationary landscape while analyzing the broader implications of breakfast pricing trends on consumer choices.