Big Take

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.

Charlie Wells, a Bloomberg personal finance reporter, breaks down the recent turbulence in global markets triggered by U.S.-China trade tensions. He discusses the rollercoaster ride of stock prices and the challenge this poses for retail investors. Wells emphasizes the importance of maintaining investment strategies amidst chaos and shares practical advice on monitoring 401k plans and assessing risk tolerance. He also explores smart financial moves like diversification and strategic purchasing to weather the uncertainty ahead.

Join Liz Capo McCormick, Bloomberg's chief correspondent and bond market expert, as she delves into the recent chaotic week for global markets. Liz explains how President Trump's tariff talks triggered a sell-off in U.S. Treasuries, heightening anxieties among investors. She discusses the ripple effects of rising treasury yields on mortgage rates and consumer borrowing. Additionally, she examines the Federal Reserve's strategies in navigating inflation while balancing economic stability amidst uncertainty. An insightful look into the complexities of today’s financial landscape!

In this discussion, John Boudreau, Bloomberg Southeast Asia editor based in Ho Chi Minh City, and John Liu, senior executive editor for Greater China in Beijing, explore the fallout of Trump's tariffs on Asian economies. They highlight how China faces a staggering 50% tariff, triggering economic tremors across the region. The duo examines the 'China plus one' strategy as nations adapt to shifting trade dynamics and geopolitical tensions. They also shed light on the alarming effects on Vietnam and neighboring countries, with rising job losses and diplomatic challenges.