FT News Briefing

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.

The intense technological competition between the US and China takes center stage, highlighting the race for global supremacy. President Biden's remarks on NATO and Russia's regime change create diplomatic ripples. The podcast also delves into national security concerns spotlighted by a Chinese scientist's arrest for espionage. Corporate espionage incidents involving Chinese nationals reveal tensions and fears of wrongful prosecutions, raising questions about the future of technology sharing amidst geopolitical rivalry.

Iryna Tsylik, a Ukrainian filmmaker who directed the acclaimed documentary "The Earth is Blue as an Orange," shares her experiences of capturing life in a conflict zone and the power of art during turmoil. She discusses the emotional complexities of identity and creativity amidst war. Louis Wise follows up with insights from his recent interview with renowned artist Anish Kapoor, exploring his grand plans for the Venice Biennale and the controversies surrounding his works, including the famed use of Vantablack.

Katie Martin, Markets Editor at the Financial Times, offers sharp insights into the reopening of Russia's stock market and the hunt for bargains among Russian and Ukrainian bonds. She discusses the Russian shares' fleeting rise and the ethical dilemmas facing investors amid the war. The conversation also dives into how US Treasury markets are grappling with rising interest rates and inflation. Additionally, Martin touches on Toshiba's leadership challenges and the implications for its future.

Tensions in energy markets soar as Russia demands gas payments in rubles. Volunteer armies in Ukraine emerge as a vital force, showcasing the resilience of Kiev's citizens amidst chaos. The historical roots of this volunteer spirit date back to the 2014 Maidan revolution. Meanwhile, Deutsche Bank's tangled relationships with significant shareholders raise questions about banking regulations and potential conflicts of interest. The implications of halted oil exports on global markets create an urgent backdrop to these unfolding stories.

Tim Judah shares firsthand accounts from Kyiv, revealing the unexpected calm amidst fierce conflict as civilians flee from Russian advances. Heartwarming stories of resilience highlight the strength of the Ukrainian spirit. Meanwhile, Claer Barrett delves into the allure of gold as a safe investment in turbulent times, exploring its historical significance and the concept of shrinkflation. Join the conversation about survival and strategies for financial security in uncertain landscapes.

Moscow is reopening its markets, stirring debate among Western companies about their operations in Russia. Nestlé faces backlash for staying put, citing employee welfare amid ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Pakistan grapples with crippling inflation and a political crisis, as Prime Minister Imran Khan's leadership is questioned. The show investigates the complex business and ethical decisions companies must navigate during geopolitical tensions, alongside the shifting dynamics of Pakistan's foreign policy as it strengthens ties with Russia.

Consumers in Russia are experiencing panic buying as prices soar and shelves empty, fueled by stringent sanctions. Germany has secured a long-term gas deal with Qatar, aiming to reduce reliance on Russian energy. Meanwhile, the EU is moving forward with new regulations targeting big tech companies, despite pushback from the industry. Additionally, a significant shortage of critical chip-making equipment is predicted, impacting the tech landscape for the next two years. These trends highlight the shifting dynamics in Europe amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Natalia Antelava, editor-in-chief of Coda Story and seasoned journalist, shares her insights on Russia's sophisticated disinformation tactics in Ukraine. She discusses the Kremlin's strategic manipulation of narratives to shape public perception, emphasizing the historical context since 2014. Antelava highlights the severe repercussions of fake news on local and global understanding of conflicts, including efforts to incite division in the West. The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing and combating disinformation amidst ongoing support for Ukraine.

Amid escalating tensions, a U.S. official dampens hopes for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, highlighting Russia's ongoing aggression. Meanwhile, JPMorgan navigates complex waters by processing crucial bond payments for Russia. The London Metal Exchange faces challenges as nickel trading experiences fresh disruptions, showcasing the far-reaching impacts of geopolitical conflicts on global markets. This turmoil not only affects the nickel sector but also ripples through oil and gas, stirring volatility in commodities trading.