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The Big Take from Bloomberg News brings you inside what’s shaping the world's economies with the smartest and most informed business reporters around the world. The context you need on the stories that can move markets. Every afternoon.
Episodes
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49 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 17min
Trump’s Tariffs Force Europe to Rethink Ties With China
In this insightful discussion, Alan Crawford, a Senior editor at Bloomberg specializing in international relations, delves into the evolving dynamics between Europe and China. He highlights how recent EU leaders' visits to Beijing signify a major reassessment of trade strategies, prompted by U.S. tariffs. The conversation also touches on the historical context of EU-China partnership, the decline in Chinese investments, and the geopolitical tensions exacerbated by the Ukraine war. Crawford emphasizes the necessity for Europe to redefine its economic alliances in this shifting landscape.

46 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 28min
What Worries Former Pentagon Chief Robert Gates
Robert Gates, former Secretary of Defense and CIA director, offers his insights on today’s global challenges. He discusses the perilous state of international relations, especially regarding nuclear powers in Asia and Europe. Gates emphasizes the need for urgent reforms to address domestic divisions and security threats. He critically analyzes the limitations of military action in Iran and underscores the complexities of the Ukraine conflict. His thoughts on U.S.-China tensions highlight the necessity of open dialogue to avert future conflicts.

7 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 46min
Mayor Eric Adams on the Future of New York City
Eric Adams, the incumbent mayor of New York City and an independent candidate, discusses his vision for the city's future. He tackles pressing issues like affordability and urban development, highlighting the importance of community-focused housing reforms. Adams addresses the balance between public safety and cleanliness, touching on challenges like crime and homelessness. He also reflects on the role of financing in politics and the complexities of federal relations regarding immigration and public safety.

15 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 16min
How Locked Shelves Broke Shopping
Amanda Mull, a retail columnist for Bloomberg, dives into the increasingly common practice of locking up essential items in stores like CVS and Walgreens. She discusses the questionable effectiveness of this anti-theft strategy and how it has negatively impacted sales and customer experience. Mull highlights the chaotic effects of understaffing and how management's theft concerns have led to a frustrating shopping environment. She also points to innovative shifts in retail, advocating for customer empowerment over restrictive practices.

11 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 15min
What Is Jane Street? And Why Are Regulators Watching It?
Katherine Doherty, a finance reporter for Bloomberg, dives into the enigmatic world of Jane Street, one of Wall Street's most secretive and profitable trading firms. She discusses the recent allegations of market manipulation and the implications of increasing regulatory scrutiny. Doherty explains how Jane Street's innovative trading strategies leverage technology and coding while navigating the complex landscape of market regulations. Plus, she highlights their rapid expansion into India's options market, raising concerns over retail trader safety and industry practices.

Jul 16, 2025 • 18min
Murder on Rainbow Mountain
Marcelo Rochabrun, Bloomberg’s Peru bureau chief, sheds light on the stunning yet troubled Rainbow Mountain. He explores how this vibrant destination, significant to the Indigenous Quechua community, became a tourism hotspot since 2017. While the influx of visitors has brought economic growth, it has also led to community tensions and tragic violence among locals. An ambush tragically highlights the darker side of this tourism boom, prompting a discussion about the urgent need for balance between visitors and residents.

12 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 19min
The Leaked Phone Call that Plunged Thailand Into Crisis
Patpicha Tanakasempipat, a Bloomberg journalist based in Bangkok, dives into the explosive fallout from a leaked phone call that has rocked Thailand's political landscape. She discusses the implications of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's suspension and the ensuing mass protests. Patpicha sheds light on the enduring influence of the Shinawatra family and how entrenched power structures hinder real democratic progress. The conversation also touches on the economic ripple effects, including income inequality and sluggish growth, amid a tumultuous political climate.

22 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 17min
How Copper Tariffs Affect Everything You Touch
Joe Deaux, Bloomberg’s economic statecraft reporter, dives into the implications of President Trump's proposed copper tariffs. He explains how these 50% levies could impact everyday items like cars and smartphones, and even affect the electrical grid. The discussion highlights the complexities of domestic copper production and the increased reliance on foreign suppliers, especially from Chile. Deaux further explores the surprising beneficiaries of the tariffs, such as traders and miners, while addressing the economic uncertainties and inflation concerns at play.

8 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 20min
America’s Flood Mitigation Math Problem
Zahra Hirji, a climate reporter for Bloomberg, and Joshua Sachs, director of the adaptation program at the Georgetown Climate Center, dive into the recent flooding catastrophe in Kerr County, Texas. They discuss the emotional fallout for survivors and highlight urgent needs for better flood mitigation strategies. The guests explore how financial decisions and federal investments can significantly reduce disaster damages. They emphasize the complexities of flood risk assessments and the vital role improved communication plays in ensuring community preparedness against climate threats.

39 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 13min
Wall Street Banks Are Battling for Japan’s Top Young Talent
Lisa Du, Bloomberg's finance and investing reporter in Tokyo, dives into the fierce competition among Wall Street banks for Japan's top young talent. She reveals the extreme measures firms are taking, from extravagant dinners to pressure tactics, as they navigate a booming labor market. Discussion includes the shifting priorities of young professionals, who now seek work-life balance over just high salaries, and the challenges banks face in attracting and retaining the best talent amidst cultural dynamics.