FT News Briefing

A dramatic power shift unfolds in Syria as rebels seize Damascus, forcing President Assad to flee. Meanwhile, South Korea's president faces treason charges amid political turmoil. The EU and four South American nations celebrate a significant trade deal, navigating complex challenges and shifting alliances. As global trade agreements gain momentum, historical parallels reveal the hurdles governments encounter in promoting economic collaboration. Tune in for insights on these pivotal developments!

Explore the battle for semiconductor supremacy as the U.S. aims to reclaim its manufacturing edge amid rising tensions with China. The CHIPS Act promises support, but what happens with future leadership? Discover how TSMC's factory in Arizona is pivotal to both local economies and national strategy. Delve into the historical shifts in chip production and the quest for skilled labor, all while realizing that America's tech future hinges on its ability to innovate and adapt in this critical industry.

Nikou Asgari, the FT’s digital markets correspondent, dives into the evolving relationship between Donald Trump and cryptocurrencies. Once deemed a 'scam' by Trump, Bitcoin now thrives under the possibility of a supportive presidency as it recently hit $100,000. The conversation centers on potential SEC shifts with crypto advocate Paul Atkins at the helm, contrasting current regulatory tensions. They also explore how a pro-crypto leader could reshape market dynamics, stirring excitement amidst institutional interest and political currents.

Corporate security is under scrutiny after the tragic murder of a U.S. insurance executive. Meanwhile, the election results have unleashed almost $140 billion into U.S. equity funds, sending stock markets soaring. OPEC+ is also making headlines by scaling back production plans amid fluctuating oil prices. In Mexico, the new president is pursuing a bold agenda despite looming tariffs. And on a brighter note, Notre-Dame is set to reopen, symbolizing resilience in the face of challenges.

Donald Trump has chosen cryptocurrency advocate Paul Atkins to lead the SEC, potentially reshaping regulations in the crypto space. Meanwhile, political unrest in South Korea and France has captured attention. A major UK investigation has unveiled a massive money laundering operation linked to organized crime, connecting European drug traffickers and Russian hackers. This podcast also highlights the murky ties between cryptocurrency and global crime networks, alongside Google's new AI weather forecasting model that outstrips traditional methods.

France's prime minister confronts a critical no-confidence vote amidst budget controversies. Meanwhile, South Korea plans to lift martial law, signaling a shift in political climate. In the Sahel, military juntas are grappling with rising violence and failing to deliver promised security, leading to increased fatalities. The podcast also dives into the quirky rise of cryptocurrency ‘memecoins,’ where digital tokens featuring iconic animals are capturing the attention and investment of enthusiasts.

Intel and Stellantis face leadership upheavals, reflecting struggles in the tech industry. OpenAI considers advertising as a revenue boost, provoking debate over user experience. Meanwhile, Shanghai's aspirations to become a leading financial hub are challenged by strict regulations and geopolitical tensions. The city’s ambition faces scrutiny following a history of market instability and shifting policies. How these dynamics unfold will shape the future landscape of technology and finance.

The podcast dives into the aftermath of the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, revealing the devastation in Lebanon and the mixed emotions of its people. It highlights Hezbollah's declaration of victory despite severe losses. Additionally, the struggles of Airbus to meet delivery targets amid supply chain challenges are discussed, while Boeing's difficulties loom large. The legal job market sees a rush as US government lawyers seek corporate positions ahead of a political shift. Lastly, there's a look at emerging coalitions in Irish politics.

Kimberly Clausing, a UCLA professor and former lead economist in the Biden administration's Office for Tax Policy, sheds light on the potential impacts of Trump's proposed tariffs. She discusses how tariffs could affect multinational corporations, consumers, and the economy at large. Clausing challenges the belief that foreign exporters will absorb costs, emphasizing that U.S. consumers often bear the brunt. She also critiques the current U.S. tariff strategy, highlighting its favoritism towards large corporations and arguing for a fairer economic approach.

French bond markets are facing significant turmoil, with yields now exceeding those of Greece, signaling deep political concerns. Meanwhile, Russia escalates tensions by threatening missile strikes on Kyiv, complicating the geopolitical landscape. In Ireland, upcoming elections feature a notorious criminal candidate shaking up traditional politics. Hong Kong is making waves with plans for crypto tax breaks aimed at attracting the wealthy. These intertwining narratives highlight a mix of economic anxiety and shifting political dynamics across Europe.