FT News Briefing

Amateur traders from Reddit shift their focus to silver markets after the GameStop frenzy, raising questions about market manipulation. Meanwhile, Republican senators propose a $600 billion stimulus deal, significantly smaller than the president's plan. The founder of Bellingcat shares insights on combating misinformation and the challenges of investigative journalism. They discuss the group's innovative methods and notable cases like the MH17 tragedy, highlighting Bellingcat's impact in challenging official narratives.

The EU is grappling with a COVID-19 vaccine crisis as supply shortages halt inoculation efforts in several regions. Meanwhile, amateur traders on platforms like Reddit are turning the stock market upside down, challenging the financial elite and reshaping traditional trading dynamics. Additionally, a North Korean defector sheds light on how international sanctions are straining Kim Jong Un's regime and affecting diplomats. These developments create a fascinating narrative of resilience, disruption, and geopolitical tension.

Amateur stock traders are shaking up Wall Street, causing chaos for hedge funds with surging stock prices of GameStop and AMC. Meanwhile, the Fed's concerns about the economy contribute to a dip in major indexes. The podcast also investigates the landscape of COVID-19 vaccines, highlighting varying efficacy rates and availability issues, especially in developing nations. Additionally, it examines BlackRock's sustainability initiatives amid scrutiny and Walmart's innovative moves to compete in the retail space.

The EU is grappling with vaccine export restrictions amidst slow vaccination rates. Tensions rise as Indian farmers protest agricultural reforms that threaten state control. A deep dive into the stock market reveals fears of a bubble, with inflated valuations and the instability of assets like Tesla and Bitcoin at the forefront. Meanwhile, Beyond Meat's exciting partnership with PepsiCo adds a twist to the plant-based food narrative. Get ready for a mix of economics and social issues that’s sure to spark conversation!

In a whirlwind start to 2021, companies raised a staggering $400 billion, driven by low interest rates and the rise of SPACs. Leon Black's resignation from Apollo Global Management, sparked by his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, raises eyebrows in the financial world. Meanwhile, protests in Russia following Alexei Navalny's arrest reflect growing public discontent with corruption. Lastly, the struggles of Zoom with Chinese authorities serve as a cautionary tale for multinationals navigating complex international waters.

The US is taking a tougher stance on Russia in response to recent protests. Congressional Democrats are pushing for a swift deal on a $1.9 trillion stimulus plan before addressing Trump's impeachment. The WHO warns that richer nations jeopardize their own recoveries by neglecting vaccine distribution to poorer countries. Meanwhile, the journey toward accessible self-driving cars remains challenging, with Waymo's leader comparing the task to space exploration, highlighting the stark gap between ambitions and reality.

President Biden's push for the U.S. to rejoin the Paris climate accord faces significant hurdles in carbon emission reduction. The European Central Bank is adapting its bond-buying strategies amid rising economic challenges. Meanwhile, the global art market is proving its resilience, pivoting to virtual sales and live streaming to survive the pandemic while balancing digital and traditional viewing experiences. Insightful predictions about the art market's future highlight the ongoing transformations in response to these unprecedented times.

Corporate leaders are gearing up for a showdown with the Biden administration over proposed tax hikes and regulations. Meanwhile, big U.S. banks are celebrating strong profits, fueled by a trading boom. On the tech front, Margrethe Vestager warns that Big Tech must adapt or face a complex web of regulations in Europe. The discussion also dives into how economic recovery is reshaping strategies, with some banks thriving while others tread carefully in uncertain waters.

Joe Biden is inaugurated amidst significant challenges, including a global pandemic and economic turmoil. Janet Yellen urges Congress to implement an ambitious stimulus plan during her confirmation as Treasury Secretary. Meanwhile, a U.S. court eliminates previous pro-coal regulations, paving the way for possible emissions reforms. The EU's Margrethe Vestager discusses the future of tech regulation, warning major companies to cooperate or face a fragmented legal landscape. Plus, Netflix celebrates hitting 200 million subscribers.

Shipping costs from China to Europe have surged over 300%, disrupting global trade as demand hikes post-pandemic. In Russia, opposition leader Alexei Navalny faces imprisonment, raising concerns over political repression. Meanwhile, the real estate market is being viewed as undervalued, according to a prominent CEO, hinting at hidden investment opportunities as companies navigate through pandemic challenges.