FT News Briefing

Tensions rise as the Bank of England unexpectedly hikes interest rates for the first time in three years, shocking investors amid inflation fears tied to the Omicron variant. Meanwhile, Americans scramble for vaccine boosters, highlighting challenges in distribution. The show also discusses the public listing of TPG and its implications for private equity, alongside UEFA's efforts to support European soccer clubs facing financial strain due to the pandemic.

The Federal Reserve is set to raise interest rates three times next year to tackle inflation. Investors are flocking to inflation-linked assets like treasury bonds and REITs, anticipating continued price rises. Meanwhile, a shocking money laundering case involving garbage bags full of cash unfolds, revealing serious banking negligence. Also, a brewing legal battle sees a British retailer suing a German competitor over alleged copycat Christmas gin products. It's a mix of finance, legal drama, and retail rivalry!

The discussion highlights the Federal Reserve's upcoming rate hikes and its strategy to curb inflation. It also critiques misleading crypto advertising and its impact on companies like Coinbase. Cathie Wood’s bold bets on disruptive tech face new scrutiny as interest rates rise, revealing the risks of her high-stakes investment approach. The conversation delves into her unique influence on retail investors and the challenges her funds now encounter amidst market volatility.

The podcast dives into a fierce internal conflict at JPMorgan, sparked by a senior banker’s battle to retain wealthy clients. The controversy revolves around alleged poaching and the shifting dynamics within the bank. In a related discussion, Apple faces a serious investigation for allegedly retaliating against a whistleblower. The dialogue also touches on European gas prices rising due to regulatory concerns and Harley-Davidson’s strategic shift to spin off its electric motorcycle division.

The podcast dives into the soaring costs of air freight and the challenges faced by gig economy workers dealing with algorithmic misidentification. It highlights Shein's rapid ascent to the top of fast fashion, leveraging social media to engage young shoppers while raising ethical and environmental questions. Additionally, the discussion touches on Shein's competitive strategies and the troubling pay gaps between executives and employees, reflecting broader issues within corporate America.

Frederick Studemann, the literary editor at the Financial Times, brings us into the newspaper’s secret book vault, showcasing the excitement of discovering unreleased titles. He shares insights on the selection process for the best books of the year, highlighting climate change narratives like 'The Hydrogen Revolution'. Additionally, he reveals compelling recommendations, including 'Empire of Pain' about the opioid crisis. This engaging conversation leaves listeners with a rich reading list that spans diverse themes and genres.

US consumer prices are set to rise at the fastest rate in nearly four decades, igniting discussions about the economy. Meanwhile, investors seem unfazed by the Omicron variant, prompting a deep dive into market reactions and challenges faced by central banks. In labor news, Starbucks employees make history by unionizing, reflecting broader trends in corporate accountability. The episode also touches on the Sackler name's removal from art galleries, showcasing shifts in cultural legacy amid economic turbulence.

The big four accounting firms are thriving, enjoying their best performance since Enron, thanks to a surge in consulting services. Meanwhile, Apple is navigating a grey area in its new privacy policies, allowing developers to track user data. The podcast also dives into the unfolding crisis of Evergrande, with insights on how the Chinese government might be steering its slow-motion collapse, raising alarms about potential economic impacts and bondholder risks in the process.

Tensions rise as the U.S. and Russia engage in a heated exchange over Ukraine, with Biden issuing stark warnings to Putin. China’s impending regulations threaten the flow of foreign capital to tech companies. Meanwhile, Elliott Management flexes its muscles in corporate activism, successfully pushing for changes in board strategies while navigating challenges. This blend of geopolitical maneuvering and corporate power play highlights the intricate dance of global politics and business influences.

Explore the surge in carbon prices and climate policy shifts in Germany. Delve into the struggle of researchers trying to access Facebook data to study its social impact, highlighting the barriers to transparency. Discover how misinformation and political manipulation complicate the academic landscape. Also, hear about Carlos Ghosn's critiques of Nissan's direction and the emerging discussions around digital advertising and privacy issues.