FT News Briefing

Financial Times
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Jan 9, 2024 • 10min

Can Boeing get back on track?

Boeing shares plummet after a mid-flight incident raises concerns about safety and inspections. The podcast dives into the ongoing production struggles that could shift the aerospace industry landscape if Boeing falters. Meanwhile, Afghan women and girls cleverly navigate Taliban restrictions to access online education, showcasing resilience amid oppression. Biden also urges Israel to rethink its military approach in Gaza, adding another layer of complexity to international relations.
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Jan 8, 2024 • 12min

Football clubs are pouring billions into stadiums

The financial landscape for major US banks is under pressure due to escalating bad loans. Meanwhile, European football clubs are investing billions in stadium renovations to enhance fan experiences and transform venues into year-round entertainment hubs. Notably, Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu is undergoing a significant facelift. The trend raises questions about accessibility for everyday fans and highlights the financial strain on smaller teams trying to keep up with luxury upgrades.
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Jan 5, 2024 • 10min

Local Chinese banks get a lifeline

A major gold producer has ousted its CEO for serious misconduct, sparking questions about corporate governance. In China, regional banks received a staggering $31 billion to bolster their fragile positions amidst economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, German inflation has surged to a three-month high, complicating financial strategies. A concerning study reveals that untracked fishing vessels are wreaking havoc on marine ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory reforms in the fishing industry.
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Jan 4, 2024 • 11min

Convertible bonds are so hot right now

This discussion highlights the Federal Reserve's commitment to maintaining high interest rates for an extended period. It also delves into the surge of convertible bonds, showcasing how they are becoming a go-to fundraising tool for corporations. Recent bomb attacks in Iran that killed over a hundred people add a somber note. Additionally, the troubling trend of violent offenders returning to Russian communities after military service raises questions about justice and societal safety. It's a mix of finance, tragedy, and moral dilemmas.
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4 snips
Jan 3, 2024 • 10min

BlackRock and Vanguard duke it out over ETF market

Russia launched a second wave of airstrikes on Ukraine, escalating tensions in the region. In Israel, political divisions are deepening following a controversial court ruling on judiciary reforms. Meanwhile, the U.S. exchange-traded fund market is seeing fierce competition as Vanguard challenges BlackRock's long-time dominance. As investor preferences shift towards lower-cost options and active ETFs, the dynamics are changing rapidly, reshaping the financial landscape.
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5 snips
Jan 2, 2024 • 13min

Markets, elections and AI in 2024

The discussion kicks off with an analysis of economic forecasts for 2024, spotlighting crucial elections and the rise of artificial intelligence. Surprising market trends in 2023 reveal resilience amid recession fears. Key elections in the U.S., U.K., and Asia promise to reshape geopolitics. The conversation dives into the booming AI industry, weighing monetization opportunities against regulatory challenges. Expect a fascinating exploration of how all these elements might influence the markets and politics in the coming year.
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Dec 29, 2023 • 29min

From “What Next”: Wait, China’s Taking Our Pandas Back?

E. Elena Songster, a professor of environmental history and author of Panda Nation, discusses the fascinating impact of pandas on U.S.-China relations. She explores the emotional farewell at the National Zoo, particularly for the beloved Xiao Qi Ji. The podcast reveals the history of 'panda diplomacy' as a tool for fostering goodwill, but also highlights recent challenges, including incidents at the Memphis Zoo. As pandas prepare to return to China, Songster reflects on their significance in international relations and evolving geopolitical tensions.
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8 snips
Dec 28, 2023 • 29min

Superintelligent AI: can chatbots think?

Exploring whether generative AI like ChatGPT truly possesses intelligence, the discussion questions the nature of reasoning in machines. Experts reveal the impressive capabilities of models like GPT-4, especially in legal reasoning, while cautioning against misconceptions about their understanding. The podcast highlights the limitations of chatbots and challenges the idea of artificial general intelligence. Concerns about the existential risks of superintelligent AI and its potential dark societal impacts add gravity to this fascinating exploration.
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Dec 27, 2023 • 26min

Culture chat: ‘Napoleon’ with historian Simon Schama

Historian Simon Schama, renowned for his captivating storytelling on history, joins Raph Abraham, a film expert from the Financial Times, to dissect Ridley Scott's epic portrayal of Napoleon, starring Joaquin Phoenix. They delve into the film's historical accuracy, discussing its depiction of Napoleon’s complex character and relationship with Josephine. The conversation also touches on the ongoing cultural fascination with historical epics and the balance of artistic expression versus historical truth, reflecting on both cinema and personal insights.
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Dec 26, 2023 • 30min

Hot Money: The New Narcos

A lavish wedding at the Burj Al Arab reveals hidden ties to an international cocaine cartel. The podcast dives into the gritty intersection of organized crime and legitimate business, highlighting the Dubai super cartel's grip on Europe’s drug scene. A seasoned crime reporter shares his experiences in Amsterdam, balancing beauty with underlying criminality. The mysterious murder of Ali Matamid unfolds, unraveling a thread of mistaken identities and organized crime. Dark connections between murder brokers and state-sponsored assassinations reveal unsettling global implications.

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