FT News Briefing

Historian Timothy Garton Ash, known for his insights on European integration and the end of communism, joins the discussion on Europe's current crises. He explores how Russia’s invasion marks a new era and the missed chances with Russia post-2014. Garton Ash reflects on Angela Merkel's legacy and the mixed responses of European leaders. He highlights Europe’s military support for Ukraine while noting the continent’s geopolitical limitations. The conversation raises questions about Europe's future amidst rising populism and the need for unity against external threats.

David Keohane, Financial Times Tokyo correspondent, and Leo Lewis, Tokyo bureau chief, delve into the evolution of private equity in Japan. They discuss the dramatic shift from skepticism in the early 2000s to mainstream acceptance today, highlighting how firms like Bain and KKR have reshaped corporate landscapes. The duo explores the impact of an aging workforce, rising deal activity, and government policies favoring PE. They also address potential risks, including the cultural clash in management styles and the need for sustainable practices in the Japanese market.

In this insightful discussion, Anna Gross, FT politics correspondent, Stephen Bush, political columnist, and Chris Giles, FT economics commentator, delve into the tumultuous year for the Labour party under Keir Starmer. They explore Starmer's plummeting popularity, the impact of budget leaks, and how trust in government has waned. The panel also analyzes fiscal strategies and the political fallout from the budget, including the potential for a leadership challenge and the rise of Reform UK. Join them as they assess the future of UK politics in a year of chaos.

David Gems, a researcher at University College London, sheds light on the intriguing world of ageing. He discusses the pivotal role of C. elegans in ageing research and critiques the decline of oxidative damage theory. Gems highlights how longevity treatments have transitioned from elite circles to mainstream wellness trends, underlining practical anti-ageing measures like dental care and vaccines. With insights into Silicon Valley's biohacking culture, he raises questions about the future of longevity and the importance of ongoing fundamental research.

This discussion features Nobel laureate Paul Krugman, a prominent economist from City University of New York. He and Martin Wolf delve into the rising challenges posed by globalization and increasing inequality. They critique the growing political power of plutocrats and explore the implications of US federal debt on global markets. The conversation also touches on China's economic future, Europe's defense spending, and the potential impact of AI on India's IT sector, making for a thought-provoking dialogue on contemporary economic issues.

Claer Barrett, the Financial Times’ consumer editor, dives into the financial strains of the holiday season. She explores how rising inflation, stagnant wages, and job uncertainties leave many feeling financially pressured. Claer shares clever strategies like Secret Santa and prioritizing experiences over material gifts. She also highlights the financial challenges faced by younger generations, urges donations despite tighter budgets, and recommends setting flexible financial intentions for the new year.

Chris Kay, Mumbai Bureau Chief at the Financial Times, discusses India's 'Goldilocks' economy, where growth thrives as inflation declines. He highlights India's central bank governor's projections for sustained low interest rates and the impact of US trade policies on potential GDP growth. Ryan McMurrow, Deputy Beijing Bureau Chief, explains why global brands like Starbucks are partnering with private equity in China, driven by fierce competition and the need for localization. Together, they unravel key economic trends shaping today's markets.

Josh Franklin, U.S. banking editor at the Financial Times, delves into JPMorgan's strategic withdrawal of nearly $350bn from Fed reserves to buy Treasuries, emphasizing the liquidity risks involved. Rachel Reese, a Markets reporter, highlights the bullish sentiment among investors as fund managers' cash holdings plummet to record lows amid an AI-driven stock market surge. They also discuss the implications of rising unemployment and the intriguing rally in Venezuela's defaulted bonds tied to hopes for regime change.

Join Andy Bounds, an FT journalist focused on European trade, and Amelia Pollard, an FT U.S. investment correspondent, as they navigate the intricacies of the EU-Mercosur trade deal. Bounds discusses the potential fallout of delayed approval and the growing concerns from French farmers. Pollard highlights the shift of hedge funds into physical commodities as they seek new returns amidst market volatility. Together, they unravel the broader implications of these developments on Europe's credibility and the global trade landscape.

Kate Duguid, U.S. markets editor at the Financial Times, dives into the surge of credit default swaps as investors seek protection against potential fallout from heavy AI-related borrowing. She explains how these swaps work and why investors are hedging rather than fleeing from AI stocks. Meanwhile, Michaela Tendera, an investigative journalist, sheds light on the challenges faced by UK whistleblowers, featuring compelling stories like that of George Patelis, who endured significant personal and professional repercussions after reporting misconduct.