FT News Briefing

Wall Street's major players are undeterred by US-China tensions, pushing forward with investments in China's markets. The European Central Bank grapples with the strong euro, facing challenges without its top tools. Meanwhile, LVMH's attempts to finalize a $16.6 billion acquisition of Tiffany face legal hurdles, highlighting the intricate dance of luxury markets amid changing valuations and the impact of the pandemic. The complexities of corporate strategies in turbulent times take center stage.

Apple's legal battle against Epic Games takes center stage as the tech giant countersues, labeling Epic a "corporate Robin Hood." Meanwhile, Slack faces a challenging revenue forecast amid a downturn, raising concerns about customer losses. The conversation shifts to SoftBank’s influence in the tech market, characterized as the "Nasdaq whale." Additionally, Brexit tensions escalate as the UK risks jeopardizing its withdrawal agreement with the EU, compounded by a significant political resignation. The implications for the market and vaccine trials are also highlighted.

Six months into the coronavirus pandemic, significant shifts in the global economy and the medical industry are examined. The podcast reflects on diverse government responses and rising public discontent, highlighting civil unrest tied to economic hardship. Reporters share their challenges adapting to the swiftly changing landscape. Additionally, the discussion dives into the complex effects of COVID-19 beyond lungs, especially concerning children's health, and the ongoing quest for effective vaccines amidst uncertainties.

U.S. tech stocks face a significant downturn, causing investors to reevaluate market stability. Apple takes a bold step by introducing a human rights policy focused on freedom of expression, amid scrutiny over its practices in China. Meanwhile, the U.S. military is gearing up for potential threats from space-based weapons, highlighting a pressing need for modernization in defense strategies. Join in as experts dissect the challenges and implications of these critical developments in technology and national security.

The strength of the euro is raising alarms at the European Central Bank, potentially impacting economic recovery. DHL reveals a worrying forecast—two-thirds of the global population may struggle to access frozen Covid-19 vaccines. Meanwhile, KKR is intensifying its focus on Japan's market as cash-strapped firms look to offload assets. In a surprising turn, Trump is scaling back his harsh rhetoric on U.S.-China trade relations, hinting at changing political dynamics in the wake of the pandemic.

Investors are bracing for a wild ride with the looming U.S. presidential election, raising concerns about market volatility. Meanwhile, Nicola Sturgeon is reigniting discussions on a second Scottish independence referendum, reflecting a surge in public support. In other news, former McDonald’s franchisees are suing the company over discrimination claims. Additionally, the weak U.S. dollar is sparking debate about its global economic implications, particularly impacting trade and emerging markets.

Argentina has successfully restructured nearly all of its $65 billion debt, receiving near-unanimous support from creditors. Global equities are soaring, marking the best August in decades. In Lebanon, a new prime minister has been appointed amid calls for governance reform. Meanwhile, Europe faces significant challenges with contact tracing as COVID-19 cases surge, complicating travel plans and pushing for a unified system to ensure safety. The airline industry is also adapting by eliminating change fees to encourage more travelers.

The European Commission raises alarms over the EU's heavy dependence on imported raw materials, urging a shift towards local production. Japan is poised for a leadership change as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe steps down, prompting speculation about his successor. Meanwhile, the auditing industry's struggles are highlighted, particularly in the wake of the Wirecard scandal, with calls for significant reforms to prevent future failures. The challenges and implications of these developments are explored, shedding light on political and financial landscapes.

Walmart is teaming up with Microsoft to make a bold move on TikTok's US operations. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve is shifting its inflation policy to accommodate temporary rises in prices. Athletes in the US are taking a stand, refusing to participate in games to highlight police brutality and racial injustice. This activism among players is reshaping the discussion around social responsibility in sports and business. The episode dives into the implications of these developments for investors, brands, and the broader culture.

Concerns are rising as the WHO team skips Wuhan while investigating COVID-19 origins. EU Trade Commissioner Phil Hogan has resigned amid a scandal related to a COVID misstep. Hurricane Laura is poised to threaten US oil refinery hubs with its ferocity. Additionally, there’s a preview of the all-virtual Jackson Hole symposium, focusing on how central bankers will navigate the pandemic's economic fallout and the importance of informal discussions among policymakers.