FT News Briefing

Apple's latest quarterly results reveal a slight beat against Wall Street's expectations, despite iPhone sales challenges. SoftBank is eyeing a massive $25 billion investment in OpenAI, signaling its commitment to the AI landscape. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank is cutting interest rates amid economic concerns in the Eurozone. The discussion also highlights the implications of China's hukou system, which creates barriers for migrant workers and stifles urban consumption, adding complexity to the country's economic dynamics.

Big Tech is making waves with impressive earnings, yet concerns linger over future revenue. The Federal Reserve holds steady on interest rates, resisting pressure from Trump, emphasizing its independence. Meanwhile, Syria is seeking reparations from Russia, adding to geopolitical tensions. Activist short-selling is on the decline, raising questions about market dynamics and integrity. Dive into the financial landscape as these stories unfold!

A new AI model by DeepSeek triggers a sell-off in energy stocks, highlighting the volatility in the sector. Trump’s Treasury secretary advocates for a 2.5% universal tariff, leading to debates on trade policy. Boeing faces its second-largest annual loss due to labor issues. A revealing study shows that ETFs are enhancing market pricing efficiency, countering past criticisms about their role in market fluctuations. Investors are encouraged to adopt a top-down approach in stock market strategies amid these shifting dynamics.

Recent advancements from China’s DeepSeek are causing significant concern in the U.S. tech sector, leading to a sharp sell-off of stocks like NVIDIA. The emergence of this competitive AI player raises questions about America’s future in artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, Latin American leaders prepare for an urgent summit in light of tough immigration policies. On the retail front, Starbucks is tightening its access policies amid ongoing sales struggles, aiming to improve customer experiences while adjusting to changing consumer habits.

Pressure is mounting on the EU to relax its sustainability goals amidst rising oil prices. Wall Street is pushing back against calls for a new oil boom, creating tension in the industry. Meanwhile, the U.S. faces diplomatic challenges as tariffs are imposed on Colombia. In a parallel discussion, OpenAI wrestles with its complicated path towards profitability while ensuring its mission remains aligned with public benefit, highlighted by valuation dilemmas and potential structural changes.

James Politi, the Financial Times' Washington Bureau Chief, and Stefania Palma, its U.S. legal correspondent, dive into Donald Trump's return to the White House. They discuss his aggressive tactics aimed at reshaping the federal government and targeting critics. The conversation highlights the erosion of democratic norms and the potential chaos stemming from Trump’s unconventional management style. With a focus on loyalty over dissent, they explore how these actions may impact governance and the implications for America's political landscape.

A federal judge has halted Trump's bid to end birthright citizenship, stirring legal debates. Meanwhile, Trump's threats of retaliatory taxes could shake international business dealings. The podcast also delves into the cooling interest in anti-obesity drugs, as investors pull back from once-promising stocks. Novartis and Eli Lilly face market turbulence following disappointing results. Lastly, the competitive landscape of the Oscars shines a light on the broader cultural context in which these pharmaceutical challenges unfold.

European banks are announcing their largest dividends in years, while President Trump's decision to freeze $300 billion in clean energy funding raises urgent questions about U.S. climate efforts. Concerns loom over the potential impact on renewable projects and clean tech companies. Meanwhile, military regimes in Africa's Sahel region intensify pressures on international mining companies, complicating profit-sharing and safety. In a lighter twist, AI is revolutionizing drug discovery, shortening timelines and addressing everyday health challenges.

Netflix's record addition of 19 million subscribers, driven by live sports, highlights a vibrant streaming market. Meanwhile, the U.S. stock market reacts positively to the new presidential administration, reflecting investor optimism. On the tech front, ByteDance plans a hefty $12 billion investment in AI chips, shaking up the landscape. However, in China, citizens express skepticism about the government's economic growth claims, revealing a disconnect between official statistics and public sentiment.

Belgium is investigating allegations that a major tech company profits from 'blood minerals' in the Congo. The implications of ethical sourcing raise questions about corporate responsibility and human rights. Meanwhile, Donald Trump's policies are reigniting discussions on democracy and trade. Toyota faces challenges in promoting hydrogen vehicles, as consumer acceptance lags behind electric alternatives. The podcast also touches on recent dynamics in climate collaboration within the banking industry, highlighting shifting priorities in sustainable practices.