FT News Briefing

Amid fears of violence, thousands of National Guard troops brace Washington for Biden's inauguration. Mike Pompeo aims to strengthen his foreign policy legacy, potentially complicating Biden's plans. Meanwhile, Germany's political landscape shifts as Armin Laschet rises to lead, signaling a new chapter post-Merkel. The pandemic tech boom is revolutionizing urban logistics, with companies like DoorDash and Airbnb reshaping city infrastructure. Indonesia's savvy use of social media influencers promotes vaccination amid skepticism.

President Biden is pushing for a massive $1.9 trillion economic rescue plan to support a recovering U.S. economy. Federal Reserve Chairman Jay Powell reassures markets by committing to ongoing asset purchases. Meanwhile, major U.S. banks report significant earnings, with plans for buybacks on the horizon. In Germany, the race to succeed Angela Merkel intensifies, showcasing a clash between conservative and moderate factions within the Christian Democratic Union. Rising star Markus Söder adds to the uncertainty in the leadership contest.

Donald Trump makes history as the first U.S. president impeached twice, with unexpected bipartisan support. New York City cuts ties with the Trump Organization, shaking up local business dynamics. The clash between Jack Ma and Beijing raises questions about the future of China's private sector. Meanwhile, London unveils a recovery plan focusing on green technology and fintech in the post-pandemic landscape. Tune in for insights on political turmoil and its impact on business.

WhatsApp is battling privacy concerns after updates to its terms of service, prompting users to flee to alternative apps like Signal. Meanwhile, greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. saw a significant drop during the pandemic. The harsh working conditions in China's tech industry raise ethical questions, as tech firms face scrutiny. On another front, Microsoft Teams has exploded in popularity, growing from 13 million to 115 million users, positioning itself as a key player in the future of online collaboration.

U.S. companies are reconsidering their political donations after the Capitol attack, with major firms facing scrutiny. Meanwhile, the SolarWinds hack reveals links to a notorious Russian group, raising concerns about cybersecurity. In Turkey, President Erdogan's foreign policy has left the nation isolated from the West, impacting its global stance and economic relations. The internal political shifts since the 2016 coup continue to shape Turkey's national identity and military ambitions.

Big Tech's crackdown on Donald Trump raises questions about censorship and political divisions. The mass exodus of urban renters during the pandemic is impacting mortgage-backed securities, alarming some investors. Meanwhile, Europe is navigating a new investment deal with China amid ongoing diplomatic challenges. Finally, the Consumer Electronics Show makes a virtual debut, showcasing practical innovations that meet the demands of a changing world.

President Trump concedes power, prompting discussions about how Joe Biden can unite a divided nation. Despite political chaos, global stock markets continue to rise, driven by hopes for government stimulus. Boeing agrees to a $2.5 billion settlement over the 737 Max crashes, highlighting ongoing safety concerns. Meanwhile, music icon Neil Young cashes in on the streaming boom, selling half of his catalog. The podcast dives into these pivotal events shaping the political and economic landscape.

In this riveting discussion, Peter Spiegel, the U.S. Managing Editor of the Financial Times, delves into the chaos of January 6th, 2021. He explores how Trump supporters' actions interrupted the democratic process and links election fraud rhetoric to the violent outcomes. Spiegel contrasts law enforcement responses during the Capitol riots with those at Black Lives Matter protests, highlighting disparities in police tactics. Additionally, he examines Trump's isolation during the chaos and reflects on the resilience of American democracy in the face of such unprecedented events.

Saudi Arabia's bold move to cut oil production by 1 million barrels a day could reshape global prices. The resolution of tensions with Qatar signals a shift in the Gulf geopolitical landscape. Meanwhile, U.S. businesses are increasingly vocal against the Republican rebellion following the presidential election results, prioritizing accountability in political financing. As the country navigates these political storms, the implications for corporate donations and future elections are becoming clearer.

US stocks faced a major downturn as rising Covid-19 cases rattled investors. Brexit caused a significant shift in EU share trading away from London, raising concerns about the future of the financial hub. Meanwhile, China's currency surged, reflecting the nation's economic resilience. The OECD highlighted the urgent need for governments to avoid premature austerity and continue supporting the economy, urging a rethink on public spending limits to safeguard recovery.