FT News Briefing

Italy is making a bold shift in its approach to Russia, spurred by the Ukraine conflict. This transformation reflects a broader change in European foreign policy and highlights the diminishing influence of historical ties. Meanwhile, Germany is advocating for a ban on Russian oil imports, raising urgency in the EU. On another front, food companies are facing pressure to address nutrition and obesity, while green innovations in steelmaking are emerging. The intersection of health, sustainability, and geopolitical tensions is reshaping industries across Europe.

In this discussion, Josh Gabert-Doyon, a podcast producer, and Danilo Krivokapic, director of the SHARE Foundation, delve into Serbia's adoption of Chinese surveillance technology following a tragic hit-and-run incident. They explore the implications of Huawei's facial recognition systems on civil liberties and privacy. The local resistance against these technologies is highlighted, along with the broader context of China's growing influence through its Belt and Road Initiative, raising important questions about the future of governance and human rights in authoritarian regimes.

Dan Brooks, a writer known for his incisive commentary on social media, discusses how we've become adept at recognizing moral failings but struggle with personal morality. He uses everyday analogies to illustrate the complexities of ethical behavior online. Jing Tsu, a Yale professor and author, shares the fascinating journey of China's language standardization, transforming an intricate system into something usable on keyboards, which played a pivotal role in making China a tech powerhouse. Their conversation delves into morality and modern digital communication.

The U.S. dollar has hit a 20-year high, while the economy unexpectedly contracted—marking its first decline since mid-2020. Amazon is grappling with sluggish revenue growth as high costs weigh down earnings. Additionally, Twitter admits to overstating its audience figures for three years, raising questions about credibility under new ownership. The podcast also discusses how U.S. interest rate hikes impact currency strength compared to Japan's low rate strategy amid global inflation.

Tensions skyrocket as EU leaders accuse Russia of blackmail after gas supply cut-offs to Poland and Bulgaria drive prices up. Poland's determination to reduce Russian energy dependence highlights the need for EU unity. Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine lends urgency to Western support amidst Putin's aggressive strategy. In the streaming world, Spotify navigates its financial landscape, distancing itself from Netflix amid subscriber shifts and industry challenges. Additionally, a major management overhaul at a Swiss bank signals a fresh start after significant scandals.

Tech stocks are facing a significant decline, casting a shadow over the market. Brexit is creating hurdles for small UK businesses, leading to a steep drop in trade with the EU. Meanwhile, China's aggressive strategy in the South Pacific raises eyebrows, particularly its security pact with the Solomon Islands. Local perspectives reveal political divisions surrounding China's influence, as residents grapple with the dual challenges of geopolitical tension and climate change. It's a fascinating blend of economics, politics, and global issues.

Elon Musk's audacious $44 billion takeover of Twitter is a focal point, raising questions about the platform's future and shareholder reactions. Meanwhile, the EU considers capping payments for Russian oil to counter Kremlin revenues, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tensions. French President Macron faces significant challenges in implementing economic reforms amid rising living costs, creating a complex balancing act. The discussion captivates with the interplay of technology, politics, and global economics.

Emmanuel Macron's re-election signals a pivotal moment for centrist politics in France. The rise of far-right movements poses challenges for his governance. Meanwhile, the EU's new rules put pressure on Big Tech to combat misinformation effectively. Sri Lanka grapples with a severe economic crisis, prompting discussions on debt restructuring and potential UN aid. The conversation also touches on the establishment of an independent watchdog for UK football, aiming to promote ethical ownership and fan engagement.

Demetri Sevastopulo, the FT's US-China correspondent, shares insights from his remarkable scoop on China's hypersonic weapon test that reshaped global geopolitics. He dives into the fierce US-China space race, highlighting developments in satellite technologies and military capabilities. The podcast also discusses the potential for cooperation in space amidst rising tensions, particularly regarding Taiwan. It raises thought-provoking questions about how these technological advancements are influencing international dynamics.

Top chefs Daniel Humm and Alice Waters discuss their evolution beyond traditional kitchens, including Humm's bold move to a fully plant-based menu. They explore culinary responsibilities and the role of chefs in fostering community. The conversation takes an intriguing turn with the concept of spite architecture, featuring tales of buildings created out of revenge. Additionally, tips on curating vintage decor from an antiques market provide insight into creating a charming home. It's a delightful blend of food, design, and purpose.