FT News Briefing

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.

Toshiba faces backlash from major shareholders over its plan to break into three companies, sparking a heated debate. Meanwhile, European auto suppliers warn that an EU ban on combustion engines could threaten 500,000 jobs. Delving into Tesla's influence, the discussion highlights how its market power may stem from a complex web of financial relationships rather than just its stock value. Additionally, the podcast examines challenges in Singapore's cryptocurrency landscape, including regulatory struggles following the suspension of a troubled exchange.

Join political editor George Parker as he dives into the complex world of the House of Lords, revealing its unelected nature and hereditary traditions that still dominate British politics. He highlights the challenges this poses to modern democracy. Meanwhile, acclaimed director Pablo Larraín discusses his film 'Spencer,' offering a fresh perspective on Princess Diana by focusing on a pivotal moment in her life. Together, they explore the nuances of fame and legacy, making for an engaging conversation about history and representation.

Brazil's finance minister shines a hopeful light on the country’s economy despite a technical recession. OPEC's decision to ramp up oil production ties into the complexities of US-UK trade negotiations. The conversation also delves into Brazil's new minimum income program aimed at supporting impoverished families. Meanwhile, there's a notable discussion on influential women and ongoing women's rights advocacy, showcasing strides in the fight for equality.

Tennis tournaments in China face suspension as the WTA reacts to player safety concerns. Meanwhile, hedge funds are in a talent war, offering inflated salaries to attract top traders after the pandemic. In France, local protests over an offshore wind farm have escalated into a national debate. Amidst this, Isfahan is witnessing significant protests triggered by a severe water crisis, exposing governmental mismanagement and raising urgent questions about water scarcity in Iran.

Robin Wigglesworth, Global Finance Correspondent for the Financial Times, shares his insights on stock market fragility. He discusses how low interest rates have led to increased investor risk-taking, contributing to market volatility. The conversation touches on the challenges posed by rising interest rates and inflation, and the potential for unexpected corrections. Additionally, Wigglesworth comments on Inditex's leadership transition and Morrisons' innovative move to create carbon-neutral eggs, reflecting broader trends in retail and sustainability.

Jack Dorsey has stepped down as CEO of Twitter after 15 years, paving the way for Parag Agrawal. The leadership transition highlights the pressures of corporate accountability in tech. Meanwhile, Glencore faces calls to divest its thermal coal business amid rising environmental concerns. Additionally, Pfizer's dominance in the COVID-19 vaccine market is explored, revealing both its strategic advantages and the challenges of equitable distribution in a fast-evolving pandemic landscape.