FT News Briefing

Central bankers are poised to make important announcements at the Jackson Hole symposium, with all eyes on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Global stock markets face a rocky month, losing $3 trillion in value. There's uncertainty surrounding U.S. growth as interest rates rise, while China's cautious monetary policy raises questions about its $56 trillion banking system. The podcast also touches on the political landscape, including Trump's plans for the upcoming GOP primary debates.

The ongoing sell-off in US government bonds raises concerns about interest rates. Silicon Valley start-ups are hopeful that Arm's IPO could revitalize the market for initial public offerings. The geopolitical landscape is shifting, particularly with the changing dynamics between the US and China. Discussions also highlight the expanding BRICS group and the challenges of unifying diverse nations. Amid these trends, how Arm's listing may influence investor sentiment in the tech sector remains a key focus.

The global shipping industry is grappling with severe drought conditions impacting the Panama Canal, leading to increased delays and rising costs. Private equity firms are transferring ownership of companies to rival creditors as distress rates climb. Meanwhile, Iran struggles with the paradox of ultra-cheap petrol, facing unsustainable energy subsidies amid economic challenges. The conversation highlights the intersection of climate issues with international trade and the urgent need for adaptive solutions.

Mortgage rates in the U.S. have hit a staggering 21-year high. Retailers like Walmart and Target share mixed signals on consumer behavior. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are aggressively acquiring Nvidia chips to boost their AI capabilities. The race to harness advanced technology comes with challenges in attracting talent and ethical concerns about AI sales to authoritarian regimes. Additionally, the underground screening of 'Barbie' in Russia sheds light on piracy issues and the complexities of media consumption.

Discover the fascinating life of Sergei Leontiev, an exiled Russian banker living in New York City. His escape from Russia unveils a tale of intrigue, personal conflict, and political challenges. The discussion highlights the stark contrasts between how he's perceived in the West versus in Russia, as well as the complexities of his ongoing legal battles. This narrative not only sheds light on Leontiev's story but also offers insights into the broader tensions between East and West in today's world.

Dive into the turmoil of China's property sector, marked by missed payments and rising fears of economic fallout. Explore the impact of lower energy costs in the UK driving a significant drop in inflation, while the UK's core inflation remains a challenge. The struggles of companies like Country Garden raise questions about the government's response and future stability in real estate. The discussion also touches on wage growth and its influence on monetary policy, revealing the complexities of managing ongoing inflation.

US stocks have hit a five-week low as concerns about bank ratings rise. China is tackling local government debts with expert help, revealing the tensions within its economy. Interestingly, the majority of clean energy investments are flowing into Republican states, highlighting a political irony. Voter awareness of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Chips Act remains low, despite their significance. The podcast also touches on innovative communication techniques for non-verbal individuals, merging technology with social progress.

Markets in Argentina are reeling after shocking election results, creating turbulence for investors. Foxconn’s pivot to India highlights the complexities of diversifying from China. Meanwhile, U.S. regulators are tightening their grip on ESG investing, focusing on transparency and the risks of greenwashing. The SEC is ramping up scrutiny to ensure asset managers stay true to their sustainability commitments. Additionally, UBS's hefty settlement over mortgage bond mis-selling adds another layer to the ongoing financial landscape.

The rouble has hit a 16-month low as military spending rises and exports fall. U.S. airlines are teaming up with farmers to lobby for subsidies to promote corn-based jet fuel. The demand for minerals crucial for green technology is changing the geopolitical landscape, especially in energy. The complexities surrounding alternative fuels are explored, highlighting the contrast between sustainable aviation fuel and ethanol, along with the challenges farmers face. The podcast also dives into how resource-rich nations are adapting to the shift towards sustainable energy and battery minerals.

The podcast dives into the future of social media, examining how platforms are evolving into marketplaces, which affects genuine user interactions. TikTok's growing influence and its foray into e-commerce are highlighted, especially regarding differing user behaviors in Asia versus the West. The conversation touches on the struggles of Twitter under new leadership and the emergence of Meta's Threads as a contender. Additionally, the potential integration of AI and virtual reality shapes the uncertain landscape ahead, blending innovation with user trust concerns.