FT News Briefing

A surge in emergency funding is reshaping how companies navigate the economic fallout from the pandemic, with over 130 businesses borrowing staggering amounts. Europe grapples with tough choices on whether to keep businesses open or shut down to combat the virus. Meanwhile, SoftBank is in the spotlight as it weighs a potential buyout while responding to pressures for share buybacks and enhanced governance. The interplay between public health and economic stability is palpable as various sectors adapt to unprecedented challenges.

The Federal Reserve is making waves with its plans to buy corporate and government debt. Meanwhile, Wall Street eagerly anticipates a fiscal stimulus deal. Columnist Rana Foroohar emphasizes that any bailout should prioritize individuals and small businesses first. The discussion reflects on past crises and the urgent need to balance support for corporations and everyday people.

US lawmakers are grappling with a nearly $2 trillion stimulus package as the pandemic wreaks havoc. Meanwhile, alternative economic indicators, like restaurant bookings and traffic patterns, offer insights into real-time activity amidst traditional statistics. Additionally, the tension in Occidental Petroleum's boardroom unfolds as CEO Vicki Hollub faces pressure from activist investor Carl Icahn, all while navigating the challenges of declining oil prices and corporate strategy.

Republicans propose over $1 trillion in fiscal stimulus to combat the economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak. Sir Paul Tucker warns that policymakers must brace for wartime conditions if the situation worsens. Central banks are highlighted for their vital role in stabilizing markets, while ethical concerns arise over the skyrocketing prices of potential COVID-19 treatments. The discussion also touches on the risks of shadow banking and the pressing need to prioritize economic demand.

The European Central Bank announces a massive €750bn bond purchase to tackle the chaos from the pandemic. Shifting markets reflect pressing economic concerns, including alarming unemployment forecasts. A notable oil price plunge further complicates the scenario, exacerbated by a price war between Russia and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, healthcare supply chains are under severe strain, highlighting critical shortages of testing materials and ventilators as nations struggle to secure necessary resources.

Western governments are unleashing trillions in stimulus to combat the pandemic's economic impact. A deep dive reveals the need for targeted fiscal aid to support vulnerable workers. Meanwhile, Impossible Foods raises $500 million to navigate these turbulent times. Political action heats up as Joe Biden solidifies his lead against Trump, even as the pandemic complicates voter engagement. All these developments paint a complex picture of resilience and challenge in an era marked by uncertainty.

Governments are imposing strict lockdowns to combat the coronavirus, causing a significant impact on daily life and financial markets. The Federal Reserve's emergency measures haven't prevented a stock plunge. An analysis reveals critical weaknesses in healthcare systems in the US and UK that could lead to collapse under pressure. Discussions also revolve around economic responses, including cash aid and airline bailouts, raising questions about prioritizing corporate over public interests. There's a focus on the challenges ahead in stabilizing economies and restoring confidence.

The Federal Reserve has taken dramatic steps to combat economic fallout by cutting interest rates to zero. As the pandemic spreads, the airport industry is experiencing one of its worst months ever, leaving many in turmoil. In a surprising twist, Air Liquide is now seeking higher bids for its hand sanitizer unit, highlighting the soaring demand for hygiene products. The discussions reveal the interconnectedness of financial and travel markets amidst global crises.

US stocks experienced a shocking drop, marking their worst performance since 1987, triggered by fears surrounding the coronavirus and a travel ban. Airlines are urgently seeking government support to navigate their escalating crisis. The podcast highlights a massive financial intervention aimed at stabilizing the treasury market. Moreover, the surge in corporate debt has raised alarms amongst investors, revealing vulnerabilities in heavily affected sectors. Companies now face a dichotomy: stronger firms may thrive, while weaker ones risk financial distress.

As COVID-19 is declared a global pandemic, the U.S. imposes a travel ban on Europe to curb its spread. The stock market takes a hit, with Boeing experiencing major financial losses. Discussions pivot to the economic effects of lockdowns, oil market fluctuations, and the upcoming measures from the European Central Bank, especially regarding small business loans. The need for coordinated fiscal policies to spur economic recovery is highlighted amid the growing uncertainty.