FT News Briefing

Investors are rediscovering confidence in China's stock market after a significant sell-off. OPEC is set to ramp up oil production, influenced by U.S. pressure. Meanwhile, a thought-provoking discussion unfolds about Africa's potential to grow without fossil fuels. Can countries like Kenya, with its geothermal success, lead the charge towards renewable energy, while nations like Nigeria remain tied to oil? The podcast highlights the pressing climate change dilemmas facing Africa, emphasizing the need for global support and responsibility amid these challenges.

Western tech sanctions are turning Russian businesses into relics, crippling supply chains for essential tech like semiconductors. Meanwhile, the U.S. aims to stall Russia's progression in Ukraine while managing the risks of escalating conflict. Back in the UK, pint prices have skyrocketed post-pandemic, now exceeding eight pounds in some pubs, prompting discussions among listeners about how they've adapted their spending habits in response to inflation.

A high-profile resignation at EY reveals internal turmoil within the Big Four firm. German police step in, raiding Deutsche Bank over serious greenwashing claims. Meanwhile, Hungary's Viktor Orbán is pushing for a 'superbank' to tighten his grip on the financial sector. This move raises questions about its implications for public welfare and stability amid shifting political landscapes. The podcast also highlights growing concerns around accountability in ESG reporting, sparked by a whistleblower's revelations.

The discussion highlights Qualcomm's interest in investing in Arm, amidst tech rivals like NVIDIA and Intel. It also delves into Glencore's struggles to restore its reputation after significant bribery and market manipulation issues. A probing look reveals doubts about the sincerity of corporate diversity commitments made since George Floyd's murder. Personal stories from employees underscore ongoing challenges of microaggressions and the quest for genuine inclusivity in the workplace. The quest for change in corporate culture remains a vital topic.

Ethan Wu, an FT reporter with keen insights into the crypto world, dives deep into the intricate role of stablecoins amidst current market shifts. He discusses the challenges faced by major players like Terra and Tether and their impact on investor confidence. The conversation highlights the fragility of Tether's peg to the dollar and how market sentiment sways trading dynamics. Wu also breaks down the differences between algorithmic and asset-backed stablecoins, emphasizing the need for timely decision-making in this volatile landscape.

Karina Urbach, a historian and granddaughter of the late Alice Urbach, shares the emotional tale of her grandmother's stolen cookbook, highlighting issues of cultural appropriation and culinary legacy during the Holocaust. Elizabeth Strout, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, discusses her creative process and the intricacies behind her beloved characters, Olive Kitteridge and Lucy Barton. She reflects on the deep connections between authors and their characters, and the thrill of bringing stories to life, promising new journeys ahead with her writing.

China is stepping in to support Sri Lanka with crucial funding amid its economic crisis. Meanwhile, Wall Street reacts to Snap's poor earnings report, causing a ripple effect in the tech sector. In Colombia, a former guerrilla fighter turned economist is poised to shake up the political landscape as voters express dissatisfaction with the status quo. This potential leftist victory could echo broader anti-incumbent sentiments taking root across Latin America, raising both hopes and concerns about future reforms on the continent.

Hedge funds are grappling with losses in the wake of a tech stock downturn. The ongoing war in Ukraine is exacerbating a dire global food crisis, prompting calls for urgent action. Meanwhile, the story of a crypto pioneer and the collapse of the Terra and Luna stablecoins is unraveling, revealing intense investor fallout and a controversial leader. The tumult in these financial sectors underscores the immense pressure and personality-driven narratives shaping modern investing.

Global political shifts are on the rise, with Hungary declaring a state of economic emergency and Australia welcoming a new Labor prime minister. Meanwhile, Atlanta's restaurant owners are creatively tackling a tight labor market, revealing innovative hiring practices. However, the economic landscape remains challenging, as high inflation outpaces wage gains, putting pressure on workers. Insights into Amazon's impending meeting also highlight shareholder anxieties about transparency and executive pay.

World leaders at Davos are concerned that three decades of globalization may be reversing. Business executives discuss how geopolitical tensions are reshaping investment strategies, with a spotlight on Toshiba's potential sale as a key corporate asset in Japan’s energy sector. The podcast also delves into the evolving attitude towards mergers and acquisitions, and highlights the rise of virtual experiences in entertainment, particularly soul-searching amidst the decline of live events. Exciting changes are happening across multiple sectors!