FT News Briefing

Facebook faces a stock plunge as growth hits a decade low amid new privacy regulations. Scientists are racing against time to develop a vaccine for the coronavirus, navigating hurdles in clinical trials. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve maintains interest rates, and Tesla and Microsoft exceed revenue expectations. Finally, Boeing reports its first annual loss in over 20 years, shedding light on the ongoing challenges posed by the 737 MAX crisis.

Apple breaks revenue records during the holiday season, while Starbucks shuts down over half of its locations in China due to the coronavirus. Tensions rise in politics as GOP leaders attempt to block witnesses in Trump's impeachment trial, coinciding with his new Middle East peace proposal. Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs shifts focus towards consumer banking, aiming for transparency and diversification, all while preparing for its first-ever investor day in a bid to meet investor expectations amidst market challenges.

Airbus is close to settling a major bribery investigation with multiple regulators. Concerns over Huawei's influence in the UK mobile network are intensifying for Boris Johnson. In the political arena, Trump's legal team is trying to redirect attention from explosive revelations by John Bolton during his impeachment trial. Meanwhile, the economic impact of the Coronavirus is being felt globally, with significant drops in equity markets and oil prices. Insights from Wuhan reveal the city's daily challenges amid strict travel restrictions.

Deutsche Bank is under scrutiny for paying $1.1 million to secure ties with a Saudi royal, raising questions about corporate misconduct. As the coronavirus spreads in China, concerns about public health mount. Tensions between the U.S. and EU escalate over a proposed carbon tax, prompting threats of punitive measures. Meanwhile, the UK is set to officially leave the EU, leading to anticipated trade challenges and negotiations. The complexities of post-Brexit trade relations with both the EU and the U.S. highlight both risks and opportunities.

Intel's data center division ignites hope with a surprising earnings report, hinting at a rebound in the chip industry. Meanwhile, former Wells Fargo CEO John Stumpf faces a hefty $17.5 million settlement over a fake accounts scandal. The European Central Bank embarks on its first strategic review in 16 years, addressing inflation and financial stability. Additionally, the sentencing of Insys' founder raises concerns about accountability in the pharma sector, suggesting tighter legal scrutiny may be on the horizon.

Chinese authorities are taking drastic measures to contain a deadly virus outbreak, shutting down transport in Wuhan. Meanwhile, Tesla's stock has soared past $100 billion, positioning it as a leading car manufacturer. Boeing's new CEO remains optimistic about the 737 MAX's future. The food delivery app market is heating up, with big players like Deliveroo facing regulatory scrutiny and evolving competition from rivals. The dynamic environment showcases challenges and opportunities for companies vying for customers' orders.

The Senate's rejection of subpoena bids marks a contentious start to the impeachment trial of Donald Trump. Netflix faces challenges with slowing subscriber growth in the U.S. as global digital tax tensions rise, particularly with the UK's new plans against U.S. tech giants. In a shocking twist, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is implicated in a hack of Jeff Bezos's phone. Meanwhile, Boeing's 737 Max remains grounded, and the first case of a Sars-like coronavirus has been confirmed in the U.S.

The U.S. Senate trial for Donald Trump kicks off, sparking intense political drama as contentious rules are laid down. Meanwhile, Huawei's Meng Wanzhou fights extradition claims, labeling them as mere fiction, stirring U.S.-China tensions. France signals a potential thaw in digital tax disputes with the U.S., seeking a mutually beneficial resolution. On the Brexit front, heated negotiations unfold as the UK faces the prospect of fines if it breaches trade deal terms with the EU, bringing uncertainty to its post-Brexit trade landscape.

The rise of circumvention software in Iran showcases increasing digital activism. The UK's move to diverge from EU regulations raises eyebrows across Brussels. SpaceX's successful simulation signals exciting times ahead for astronaut launches. At the World Economic Forum, climate change and Big Tech's influence loom large. Donald Trump’s strategies and tech firms’ regulatory challenges are also on the table as companies gear up to address their environmental footprints in light of sustainability pressures.

Alphabet's stock skyrocketed past $1 trillion, capturing investor attention. NBCUniversal is launching a free streaming service, stirring excitement in the media landscape. Italy's plummeting birth rates pose significant challenges for the future. A government watchdog announced that the White House illegally withheld military aid to Ukraine, impacting political accountability. As the impeachment trial unfolds, key Republican senators may join Democrats to influence the proceedings and bring crucial witnesses into the spotlight.