FT News Briefing

In this engaging discussion, Tom Faber, FT's gaming critic renowned for his insights on the cultural impact of games, joins Jo Ellison. They delve into the art of mudlarking on the Thames, uncovering historical treasures that connect us to everyday life from centuries past. The conversation then shifts to the enduring appeal of games, exploring why some have captivated players for over 7,000 years, including the rise of modern board games that foster social bonds and promote collaboration.

Apple has set a record for holiday revenue, highlighting strong iPhone sales. Tensions rise as Western nations consider sanctions against Russia over potential aggression in Ukraine. There’s a critical discussion on Europe’s energy dependence on Russia and the economic fallout from proposed sanctions. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve hints at a tougher stance on inflation, stirring market volatility. Finally, the UK's new information watchdog aims to assert control over Big Tech in a changing regulatory landscape post-Brexit.

Tesla celebrated a record $2.3 billion profit but is grappling with supply chain issues. The Federal Reserve is preparing for possible interest rate hikes to combat rising inflation. Meanwhile, China's vaping queen faces a stock plunge due to government investigations, while Apple reclaims its position as the top smartphone brand in China amidst a market struggling with major regulatory challenges. The interplay of these events highlights a dynamic period for major players in the tech and finance sectors.

Google is shaking up the advertising world by overhauling its cookie policies, raising questions about privacy and future advertising strategies. Meanwhile, the owner of 7-Eleven is under pressure from investors to separate its brands. In Italy, Mario Draghi's potential presidential role is causing political turbulence, complicating the search for a successor in a fragmented government. The stakes are high as Italy faces challenges in utilizing critical EU recovery funds amid uncertainty about leadership.

U.S. stock markets experienced a surprising rebound after a sharp drop, with traders diving back in amidst Federal Reserve concerns. Peloton is facing challenges post-pandemic, influenced by an activist investor pushing for leadership changes while the connected fitness craze endures. Meanwhile, the UAE successfully intercepted missiles from Houthi rebels, raising alarms about regional security and its impact on investment and tourism. The intersection of fitness, finance, and geopolitical tensions makes for a fascinating discussion!

Tensions rise in Europe as major publishers call on the EU to intervene against Google's plan to phase out third-party cookies. Meanwhile, Unilever is facing internal strife after activist investor Trian Partners questioned its sustainability efforts, arguing for a return to profitability. On an exciting note, Sony is venturing into the electric vehicle market, aiming to integrate their entertainment tech into automotive design, promising unique sound experiences. The intersection of technology and sustainability sparks intriguing debates.

Join James Beard Award-winning chef Pati Jinich, known for her vibrant Mexican cuisine, as she discusses how food can serve as a unique diplomatic tool. She shares stories that intertwine culinary artistry with cultural identity. Alongside her, anthropologist and financial columnist Gillian Tett analyzes cultural behaviors that foreshadowed the 2008 financial crisis and explores the complex dynamics of cryptocurrency and cultural capital. Their insights shine a light on the intersections of food, culture, and power in today's society.

The Federal Reserve sparks debate on a central bank digital currency, raising eyebrows in the finance world. Luckin Coffee plots a comeback in the US after a major fraud scandal, showcasing resiliency in consumer behavior. Meanwhile, German Bund yields rise above zero for the first time since 2019, influencing market dynamics and central bank strategies. The intertwining of these financial developments highlights the evolving landscape of global economics and cryptocurrency regulations.

The U.S. Senate is gearing up to tackle Big Tech with new legislation targeting data issues and search biases. Meanwhile, banks like Bank of America are looking forward to benefiting from rising interest rates. In Russia, the economy is adapting to sanctions with resilience, revealing how limited these Western threats have proven to be. The podcast also delves into rising national sentiment in Russia, and a curious trend in Hong Kong where residents are hiring private jets to evacuate their pets. The discussions are timely and insightful!

Tensions are brewing in the car industry over France's health warning proposal for ads. Meanwhile, US telecom giants are postponing 5G rollout near airports to address safety concerns raised by airlines. The spotlight shifts to Microsoft’s ambitious $75 billion deal for Activision Blizzard, seen as a game-changer for the metaverse. Challenges lie ahead for Activision in corporate culture, while the need for engaging content becomes clear as gaming and market trends evolve.