FT News Briefing

China pressures McDonald's to adopt a digital renminbi system before the Olympics, showcasing the growing role of e-currencies. Meanwhile, alarming data reveals that a significant portion of U.S. infrastructure faces flooding risks, putting municipal debt in peril. The downfall of Austria's former chancellor highlights issues of media manipulation and its effects on democracy. Lastly, WeWork prepares for its stock market debut, marking a pivotal moment in its history while the podcast receives a nomination for a Lovie Award!

Japan is making bold moves to reinvigorate its semiconductor sector in response to fierce global competition. They are developing a long-term strategy to enhance supply chain resilience and attract foreign investment. The launch of a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund is set to revolutionize how regular investors engage with cryptocurrency. Meanwhile, China's recent hypersonic missile test has raised alarms, prompting a reassessment of military strategies in the U.S. as tensions continue to escalate in the tech race.

Rising fuel costs threaten airlines' recovery post-pandemic, creating challenges for investors. The link between population growth and economic advancement is more complicated than it appears. Environmental impacts and the airline industry's role in climate change are crucial topics. Declining birth rates raise concerns about an aging population and economic sustainability, particularly in Western nations and Japan. The podcast delves into necessary adaptations for a resilient future.

Japan's new prime minister outlines a reform agenda aimed at income inequality. A controversial study suggests that a company's entry into the S&P 500 might be influenced by its relationships with S&P Global. Meanwhile, the leadership lessons from 'Ted Lasso' gain traction, illustrating empathetic management styles that inspire positivity and connection during challenging times. The podcast sheds light on leadership qualities like humility and recognition while highlighting the stark contrast with ineffective bosses.

Women entrepreneurs continue to face significant barriers in securing start-up financing, remaining largely excluded from the male-dominated venture capital landscape. In contrast, Latin American tech startups are booming, attracting over $6.5 billion as the region embraces digital innovation. This growth is transforming nations like Brazil and Mexico, highlighting a stark contrast in funding opportunities. Discussions also delve into initiatives aimed at bridging the financial gap for women entrepreneurs, spotlighting the urgent need for equity in funding access.

The podcast dives into the IMF's warning about persistent inflation risks and the need for central banks to act. It highlights a groundbreaking solar project in Pueblo, Colorado, designed to provide sustainable energy for a local steel mill, addressing economic issues like poverty. Additionally, it discusses the early onset of the holiday shopping season in the U.S., driven by resurgent consumer demand and strained supply chains, reshaping retailer strategies and consumer expectations.

Discover how soaring oil prices mirror the resurgence of demand against limited supply. Delve into the leadership changes at KKR and their influence in corporate America. Unpack Elon Musk's ambitions with SpaceX and its Starship project, aiming to revolutionize space travel. Explore the competitive dynamics of the space race, where Musk leads the pack amid increasing fears from rivals. Plus, learn about the groundbreaking work of this year's Nobel Prize-winning economists.

Tensions are rising as divisions between the US and Europe spiral over the future of the IMF's chief, Kristalina Georgieva. Meanwhile, Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD is soaring with innovative battery tech and expansion plans. In an exciting breakthrough, researchers are testing deep brain stimulation to tackle severe depression, potentially transforming mental health treatment. Each of these topics uncovers pivotal moments at the intersection of global finance, technology, and healthcare.

Charlie Penner, Head of Active Engagement for Engine No. 1, discusses his hedge fund's groundbreaking proxy campaign against ExxonMobil. He highlights how a small fund effectively challenged the oil giant's climate stance, marking a significant shift in activist investing. The conversation dives into Exxon's evolving strategies and the increasing role of smaller investors in driving sustainability initiatives. As Engine No. 1 pushes for climate-aware board members, the podcast explores the new era of activism in the corporate world.

Ireland's historic shift to a 15% corporate tax rate marks a significant loss in revenue and aligns with a global agreement. Energy market instability has exacerbated concerns of returning stagflation, impacting economic recovery. Meanwhile, insights from a Facebook whistleblower raise serious doubts about the accuracy of the platform's user metrics, sparking fears about declining engagement among younger audiences. The ripple effects of these developments are felt across markets and investor confidence.