Big Take

This podcast explores the upcoming elections in over 60 countries and their impact on democracy and the global economy. It covers topics such as the potential consequences of elections in Russia, Venezuela, and India, the US-India partnership, global threats, shifting global power dynamics, and the influence of elections on the global economy. It also delves into housing policy, industrial policy, recovery efforts, and upcoming elections in Taiwan and the US presidential primaries in Iowa.

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, is rumored to have used drugs, causing concerns within his companies. However, many are not genuinely worried, as Musk laughed off the report. The alleged drug use had little impact on investors due to the profits made during that period. The podcast also touches on Elon Musk's behavior, key man risk, drug use by people in power, and the feud between Musk and Mark Cuban.

Wall Street's predictions for the US economy in 2024, including a mild economic slowdown and efforts to maintain growth. Factors influencing the stock market in 2023, such as declining interest rates and the rise of AI. The surprise strength of the American consumer and its potential impact on consumer spending. The impact of disruptive forces, AI outlook, and upcoming elections on the global economy. Experts' opinions on the future state of the market in 2024, ranging from a potential hard landing to all-time highs and a Goldilocks economy.

Taylor Swift, a pop star and billionaire, is discussed in this episode. The podcast covers her rise to billionaire status through her music, her influence on NFL viewership, evaluation of her wealth and business structure, and her personal connection with fans. The episode also mentions her upcoming international tour.

Evan Ratliff, Bloomberg Businessweek contributor, shares the thrilling story of a $500 million catalytic converter theft ring and how law enforcement shut it down. Topics include the rise of catalytic converter thefts, the valuable metals they contain, the investigation into the global supply chain, the sourcing and locations of stolen converters, the detailed workings of the criminal operation, and challenges in tracing and preventing converter theft.

Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw and Sohee Kim talk about Bang Si-Hyuk, South Korea's successful music mogul known for building a K-pop empire. They discuss his plans to expand globally with a new act based in the US. The podcast explores the rise of BTS, their global impact, and the formation of a US-based international girl band. It also highlights the importance of building a fan base for musicians and the potential for replicating the K-pop mogul's success in the US market.

The podcast explores the challenges of preserving a democratic Taiwan amidst rising tensions with China. It analyzes the upcoming presidential election and its significance in relation to Taiwan's relationship with China. The episode also discusses Taiwan's diplomatic relationships, the limitations faced by Taiwan and US officials in freely visiting each other, and Taiwan's approach to China. It delves into the controversy over exporting chip making in Taiwan and explores Taiwan's view on the relationship with China and the risks of war. The chapter also discusses China's stance on Taiwan's election and its impact on the global economy.

Bloomberg journalists Pratik Parija and Kai Schultz discuss the packaged food industry's focus on India and its impact on public health. They explore the tactics used to target Indians with processed foods, the presence of major junk food brands, labeling challenges, rising obesity rates, and the potential for government regulations to address the issue.

Bloomberg journalist Kelly Gilblom discusses Mattel's $100 million Barbie movie, its impact on the company's brand, and the goal of reclaiming the No.1 spot in the global toymaker market. The podcast explores the decline and resurgence of Barbie, the need for new accessories to match the new Barbie body types, and the decision-making process behind creating the movie. It also delves into the unconventional script that humorously targets Mattel executives, the complexities of the Barbie movie, including the introduction of a diverse cast, and Barbie's journey into the real world and her existential crisis.

The podcast explores the challenges of controlling rat populations in big cities like Chicago, Washington, DC, and New York. It discusses the efforts made by cities, including hiring a rat czar in New York. The podcast features interviews with a rat control squad, a rodentologist, and the New York Sanitation Commissioner. It highlights the difficulty of controlling rats due to their rapid reproduction and human behavior. The podcast also explores the importance of understanding rat behavior, estimating rat populations, managing waste, and controlling their food supply.