FT News Briefing

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump share a skepticism towards mainstream media, albeit in vastly different ways. The conversation dives into the evolving media landscape and how social media is reshaping political communication. There’s a focus on the decline of local news and its implications for democracy. The discussion also addresses the political divides in the U.S., as illustrated by California's recent decisions on gender identity. Tune in for insights on how these dynamics influence voter engagement and the future of journalism.

Turkey's booming stock market is losing steam as high interest rates draw savers away. Meanwhile, Telegram emerges as a crucial communication tool for both Russian and Ukrainian forces amid the conflict. The potential impact of central bank digital currencies is explored, particularly through Thailand's innovative $12 billion digital payments initiative aimed at aiding low-income families. The discussions raise important questions about the future of money and government oversight in digital finance.

Nvidia's fireworks included record earnings, but investors weren't impressed. Meanwhile, China's renminbi is gaining traction in global trade, marking a big shift against the dollar. Berkshire Hathaway has crossed the $1 trillion market cap threshold, breaking the tech monopolies. On the other hand, Ford is hitting bumps on its road to profitability, struggling with electric vehicle strategies and warranty issues. Can CEO Jim Farley steer the company back on course amidst all these challenges?

Tensions are rising as a Japanese company defends itself against a takeover bid while China tightens its grip on semiconductor exports, affecting global supply chains. Klarna announces massive layoffs as it pivots towards artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, NASA faces challenges with Boeing's Starliner, which has left astronauts stranded, and turns to SpaceX for a timely rescue. The intricate interplay of US-China relations and tech disruptions is highlighted, shedding light on the future of both industries.

The arrest of Telegram's CEO in France has reignited a heated debate over free speech and online safety. This incident raises questions about social media governance, particularly concerning content moderation practices. Meanwhile, oil prices soar due to Libya's shutdown of crude exports, and Grenada invokes a unique 'hurricane clause' to pause debt repayments in light of climate challenges. The discussion highlights the delicate balance between protecting free speech and ensuring online safety amid increasing scrutiny.

Small-dollar donations are pouring into Kamala Harris’s campaign, signaling a dramatic shift in grassroots fundraising. Meanwhile, Israel intensified military actions in Lebanon. The podcast also explores the booming aerospace and defense sectors expected to see record profits. Additionally, AI innovations are revolutionizing coding technologies, attracting nearly $1 billion in funding. However, the impact on junior programming roles raises questions about the industry's future.

Lauren Fedor, Deputy Washington Bureau Chief at the Financial Times, joins the discussion to unpack the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. They dissect Kamala Harris's acceptance speech, emphasizing her commitment to strengthening U.S. leadership. The conversation highlights contrasts in campaign strategies between Harris and Biden, and addresses the challenges of maintaining unity within a diverse Democratic Party. With tensions rising and potential infighting on the horizon, Fedor provides keen insights into the future direction and viability of the party.

Kamala Harris captivates with a call for unity at the Democratic National Convention, setting the stage for her upcoming debate. Meanwhile, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve summit in Jackson Hole, where leaders are navigating interest rates amid economic uncertainty. Interestingly, gold prices surge as investors turn to it for safety, defying expectations during a thriving U.S. economy. This podcast dives into the dynamics of gold's rise and the intriguing interplay between interest rates and market trends.

PwC is facing a six-month ban in China due to issues with Evergrande's audit. Meanwhile, Mexico's judges are striking against controversial reforms by the president. A potential takeover bid for 7-Eleven could reshape Japan's M&A landscape, signaling a new era for foreign acquisitions. Japan's updated regulations aim to foster corporate consolidation but also spark debates on the impact of increased foreign investments.

China's major effort to revive its struggling housing market hits a slow start, raising concerns about the effectiveness of a $42 billion fund. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund shifts its focus toward domestic investments, indicating a strategic pivot that could reshape global finance. The discussion also touches on the evolving tipping culture in the U.S., where many are experiencing tip fatigue as service industry norms shift post-pandemic. These topics highlight significant economic changes both locally and internationally.