FT News Briefing

Global stocks surged to record highs, buoyed by positive economic data from the U.S. Meanwhile, President Biden's new sanctions on Russia sent ripples through financial markets, prompting varied responses from investors. Dubai made headlines by becoming the first city to partner with an autonomous taxi manufacturer, signaling a bold move toward futuristic urban transport. Additionally, the landscape of cryptocurrency shifted with significant developments, including Coinbase's notable Nasdaq debut. Exciting times lie ahead!

Major US banks have shattered profit expectations, thanks to a booming economy and active trading. Deutsche Bank's impressive turnaround is making waves, transforming from the 'sick bank of Europe' to a renewed powerhouse. Meanwhile, the Suez Canal crisis continues as Egyptian officials seize the Ever Given, demanding over $900 million in compensation. The podcast also reflects on the legacy of Bernard Madoff following his recent passing, revisiting the aftermath of one of the most infamous Ponzi schemes in history.

Coinbase is on the brink of making waves by becoming the first major cryptocurrency exchange to list on a US stock market. The eurozone economy is adapting well to pandemic challenges, showing resilience amid lockdowns. Meanwhile, Toshiba is embroiled in a corporate battle fueled by private equity interest, with management shake-ups adding to the drama. The implications of these buyout offers could irreversibly change Japan's corporate landscape and highlight the growing trend of private equity investments.

An independent inquiry into the lobbying scandal surrounding David Cameron and Greensill Capital is underway, raising questions about government funding access. Meanwhile, Darktrace, a cybersecurity firm, is preparing for a big IPO in London. On the other side of the Atlantic, U.S. states are rapidly adopting online sports betting as a means to fill budget gaps post-pandemic, sparking discussions about its ethical implications. Additionally, the landscape for business travel is shifting, with a potential long-term decline as technology reshapes work dynamics.

David Cameron opens up about his missteps in lobbying for Greensill Capital. Meanwhile, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is ramping up its chip investments amid U.S. pressures. Microsoft is set to acquire voice tech pioneer Nuance for a staggering $16 billion. Investors are bracing for President Biden's looming corporate tax increases, raising concerns in the equities market. It’s a whirlwind of corporate maneuvering and economic implications that spotlight the evolving financial landscape.

Amazon is on track to defeat a historic unionization attempt in Alabama, sparking discussions about worker rights and corporate resistance. The Biden administration's global corporate tax plan is also under scrutiny as companies navigate its implications. Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs made a £75 million investment in Deliveroo to stabilize its IPO after a rocky start, revealing investor concerns about labor practices and market valuations. These events highlight the ongoing tensions between corporate strategies and worker welfare.

Discover the Biden administration's bold proposal for a global minimum corporate tax, aimed particularly at tech giants. Dive into the intriguing IPO plans of the biotech company behind the AstraZeneca vaccine, now facing unique market challenges. Meanwhile, Indian social media platform ShareChat is surging in popularity, thanks to TikTok's ban. Lastly, a privacy complaint against Google raises serious questions about user tracking in Europe, showcasing the ongoing battle for digital privacy rights.

The EU is set to investigate the ethical standards of clinical trials for the Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine. Meanwhile, Renesas Electronics faces pressure to diversify amid semiconductor industry challenges. In Brazil, President Bolsonaro grapples with political isolation and the ongoing impact of the pandemic on his leadership. Additionally, businesses are struggling with post-Brexit trade headaches, including a British nematode factory dealing with new export regulations. Global health and technology issues intertwine in a complex narrative.

Janet Yellen pushes for a global minimum corporate tax, aiming to curb tax haven exploitation. Meanwhile, bond investors are reaping rewards from pandemic-era investments. A Taiwanese chip company finds itself at the center of global semiconductor discussions, navigating political tensions while meeting rising demand. Additionally, GameStop's stock faces volatility as the company announces plans for a new share issuance amid mixed investor sentiment.

The surge in Bitcoin mining is driving up computer chip prices, exacerbating the global semiconductor shortage. Western brands find themselves in a difficult position, caught between U.S. sanctions and China's human rights abuses. The podcast delves into how these geopolitical tensions are affecting industries like gaming and fashion. It also discusses the ethical dilemmas that arise for companies trying to navigate their responsibilities in a rapidly evolving political landscape.