FT News Briefing

Traders react to the potential for stronger sanctions against Russia, causing a sell-off in government debt. Meanwhile, President Biden announces a partnership with the UK and Australia for hypersonic weapons development. In Shanghai, public frustration grows over strict zero-COVID lockdowns, leading to profound impacts on daily life and the economy. Delivery challenges and emotional distress during the lockdown reveal the severe toll on residents, with essential workers navigating overwhelming difficulties amidst a strained healthcare system.

Sequoia Capital is shaking things up with new leadership. Meanwhile, Elon Musk is making waves by acquiring a nearly 10% stake in Twitter, stirring discussions in the market. French President Emmanuel Macron is pushing for a ban on Russian oil and coal, raising questions about Europe's energy reliance. The podcast also delves into how billionaire investments can dramatically shift company dynamics and market trends, alongside significant updates on Huawei and exciting breakthroughs in fusion energy.

The European Union is gearing up for new sanctions against Russia following shocking reports of atrocities in Ukraine. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron cautions supporters not to take his re-election for granted amidst a rising challenge from Marine Le Pen. The podcast also highlights growing tensions within NATO linked to a shift towards Euroscepticism. Additionally, the crisis in China’s property sector is spotlighted, marked by significant auditor resignations and delays in financial disclosures.

In the first episode of this season’s six-part series, the FT’s Global China Editor James Kynge tracks China’s dramatic transformation from the manufacturing workshop of the world to the next global superpower. The driver of that change is technology, sparking a battle between China and the US over who will dominate. Numerous ethnic Chinese scientists working in the US have found themselves ensnared in this bitter rivalry, including US-based physics professor Xiaoxing Xi, wrongly accused of industrial espionage, amid accusations that China’s tech prowess has been built on the theft of US innovation. How deep is the rift between the two countries over tech and what does that mean for the world?Check out stories and up-to-the-minute news from the Technology team at  ft.com/technologyGet 50% off an FT subscription at ft.com/briefingsaleAnd check out FT Edit, the new iPhone app that shares the best of FT journalism, hand-picked by senior editors to inform, explain and surprise. It’s free for the first month and 99p a month for the next six months.Presented by James Kynge. Edwin Lane is senior producer. Josh Gabert-Doyon is producer. Manuela Saragosa is executive producer. Sound design is by Breen Turner, with original music from Metaphor Music. The FT's head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.News clips credits: CNBC, CGTN America, NBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the Financial Times, shares insights on the challenges and quick decision-making in covering the Ukraine war. Russian poet Maria Stepanova reflects on how the conflict has affected Russian intellectuals and her own experiences as a dissenter. The conversation highlights the emotional toll of war reporting and the complexities of cultural identity amidst the chaos. Stepanova also discusses the uncertainty of Russia’s future and the cultural conversations sparked by this turmoil.

The White House is making headlines with a major oil release from emergency reserves, aiming to lower soaring prices amid ongoing economic pressures. Tension is brewing as the Biden administration juggles the need for energy security while trying to maintain its environmental goals. Meanwhile, the inversion of the yield curve raises eyebrows as it hints at potential recession worries, showing signs of turbulence in the treasury market. The interplay of these factors could shape the political landscape as midterm elections approach.

Tensions rise as Russia threatens gas supply to Germany, demanding payments in rubles. The looming gas crisis could push Germany into recession amid soaring inflation. Journalist Catherine Belton discusses how sanctions impact Russian oligarchs, affecting their influence and Putin's authority. The precarious financial future is unfolding, highlighting the intricate web of politics, energy, and economic stability in Europe.

Russia is scaling back military operations near Kyiv, sparking discussions about the future of peace in the region. Meanwhile, Barclays has faced a staggering £450 million loss due to a clerical error that led to an unauthorized issuance of financial products. The war in Ukraine continues to disrupt the global economy, affecting energy costs and inflation. Experts analyze how these events are intertwined, stressing the need for a cohesive global economic response amidst an already struggling post-pandemic landscape.

Discover the troubling data collection practices of Russia's leading tech company, exposing how millions are affected. Learn about the hidden dangers of SDKs in VPNs that may compromise user privacy, especially for anti-war activists. Meanwhile, explore the obstacles faced in China's vaccination efforts, leaving many elderly citizens vulnerable to COVID-19. Finally, dive into the interconnectedness of U.S. politics and its widespread implications on global affairs.

Dive into the fierce competition between the US and China for technological dominance. Explore how espionage and the influence of Taiwanese companies shape this rivalry. Uncover the implications of this battle on our everyday technologies and governance. The quest for global tech supremacy is not just about innovation, but also about who will control the future.