FT News Briefing

Incredible cash inflows into exchange-traded funds have shattered previous records, signaling market momentum. Elon Musk’s backing of Donald Trump hints at his rising political clout and the intertwining of corporate ambitions with politics. Meanwhile, Thames Water faces a financial maelstrom, caught between hedge fund proposals and the pressure for risky loans. The struggle underscores a broader concern over predatory lending practices, raising questions about customer impact and corporate responsibility.

Joe Lei, FT's China Bureau Chief, discusses China's recent $1.4 trillion fiscal stimulus, emphasizing its focus on local government debt instead of consumer support. Kira Nugent, FT's correspondent in Buenos Aires, highlights the legal challenges facing Argentina's new president, Javier Milei, and their implications for economic recovery. They delve into the ripple effects of the U.S. elections on global markets and Bitcoin's surge, revealing how political changes are shaping financial landscapes across continents.

James Politi, Washington Bureau chief for the Financial Times, and Rana Foroohar, global business columnist, dissect the recent Republican victory in the elections and the significance of economic sentiment among voters. They analyze Trump's disruptive economic agenda and its potential implications, including tax cuts and rising inflation. The conversation touches on the Democrats' struggle to connect with working-class voters and the historical patterns of market reactions following electoral outcomes, hinting at economic challenges ahead.

Jennifer Hughes, FT's U.S. markets editor, and Atrakta Muni, FT's climate correspondent, dive into the impact of Donald Trump's election on the markets. They discuss the exuberant rally in U.S. stocks overshadowed by bond market caution and potential inflation fears. The conversation shifts to political ripple effects in Germany following government collapse and upcoming snap elections. Muni highlights how Trump's victory could hinder climate actions, setting a challenging stage for the UN COP29 summit, particularly for developing nations seeking climate finance.

Joining the discussion are Lauren Fedor, FT's Deputy Washington Bureau Chief, and Sam Fleming, FT's economics editor. They unpack the implications of Donald Trump's recent election victory, including a record surge in Wall Street stocks. Fedor explores shifting voter demographics, while Fleming dives into the potential fallout of Trump's tariff policies on global trade and inflation. Together, they paint a vivid picture of a divided America bracing for a transformative economic landscape.

Steph Chavez, a Washington reporter with on-the-ground insights from Wisconsin, shares the emotional landscape of voters during a historically tight U.S. election, highlighting key issues like reproductive rights and immigration. Meanwhile, Guy Chazan, the Berlin bureau chief, delves into Germany's budget crisis, discussing the potential collapse of the coalition government and its implications for Europe. The podcast captures the chaotic dynamics of both the U.S. elections and Germany's political arena amid ongoing financial struggles.

James Politi, FT's Washington Bureau Chief, shares insights on what to expect as US election results are released, emphasizing market reactions and key battleground states. He discusses the uncertainty surrounding the election amidst legal battles. Anu Adeoye, FT's West Africa correspondent, highlights the rise of the Nigerian fintech company MoneyPoint as it achieves unicorn status, addressing the innovation in banking solutions tailored for a cash-centric economy and its potential impact across Africa.

Join Stephen Foley, FT's U.S. accounting editor with deep insights into corporate financial strategies, and Amanda Chu, energy analyst specializing in clean hydrogen. They discuss the staggering $250 billion in corporate taxes at stake due to the upcoming U.S. election and the contrasting futures facing major corporations. The conversation pivots to the clean hydrogen industry, grappling with stalled projects and collapsing share prices, underlining the significant investment challenges ahead.

Joining the discussion are Lauren Fedor, Deputy Washington Bureau Chief at the Financial Times, and Oliver Roeder, Senior Data Journalist specializing in election analysis. They dive into why polls are static as the election nears. The conversation highlights unique voter motivations, particularly Trump and Harris's strategies to energize their base. They also touch on the potential of prediction markets and the complexities of swing voters in this polarized political climate. Insights into anxiety management around elections offer a refreshing perspective.

Barney Jopson, the Financial Times' Spain and Portugal correspondent, dives into Spain's rapid economic growth, highlighting how it's set to become the world's fastest-growing advanced economy. He discusses the role of foreign investment, immigration, and tourism in this boom. The conversation also touches on the geopolitical tension with North Korea's potential combat support for Russia and its implications for Europe. Jopson provides insight into the lessons Spain's recovery can offer to the struggling Eurozone.