FT News Briefing

Discover Apple and Goldman Sachs' new high-interest savings account that promises rates over ten times the national average. Delve into the complex power struggle in Sudan, where military leaders clash amid economic interests and historical tensions. Explore the implications of regional influences from the UAE and Saudi Arabia on Sudan’s stability and governance. Additionally, learn about a Chinese genetics company's ambitious US expansion despite rising political tensions. Stay informed on pressing global issues!

Turkish voters are increasingly losing faith in President Erdoğan, particularly in the heartland as economic struggles mount. The podcast discusses the political landscape's shifting allegiances, revealing a blend of frustration and uncertainty among voters. Meanwhile, over $200 billion has been pledged to U.S. manufacturing projects, and a major investor has sold off a substantial stake in Charles Schwab amidst banking turmoil. Additionally, Poland and Hungary are taking drastic steps by halting grain imports from Ukraine to appease domestic farmers.

In the final episode of this Tech Tonic series, we hear how radical quantum ideas are reshaping our fundamental understanding of the universe. Nobel Prize winner Anton Zeilinger tells the FT’s Madhumita Murgia about the future of teleportation and the quantum internet; quantum computing pioneer David Deutsch makes the case for the theory that we live in a multiverse; and FT innovation editor John Thornhill speaks to physicist Carlo Rovelli about relational quantum mechanics.Presented by Madhumita Murgia and John Thornhill, produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon and Edwin Lane. Executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Sound design by Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.We're keen to hear more from our listeners about this show and want to know what you'd like to hear more of, so we're running a survey which you can find at ft.com/techtonicsurvey. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and you will get a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort Earbuds.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BP has launched a new $9 billion offshore platform, signaling a strategic shift in fossil fuels amid a recovering global equity market. Meanwhile, experts are raising alarm bells about the latest version of OpenAI's chatbot, ChatGPT. The discussion delves into the 'Red Team' tasked with ensuring AI safety by identifying potential biases and dangerous outputs. As AI capabilities grow, the importance of oversight rises, highlighting the dual-edged nature of technological advancements.

Donald Trump's legal battle with his former lawyer heats up as he sues for $500 million. Meanwhile, U.S. inflation dips, yet core prices pressure the Federal Reserve for potential interest rate hikes. The podcast highlights a staggering situation where 91 of the poorest countries will dedicate over 16% of their revenue to foreign debt repayments, raising alarms about financial stability and repayment crises. Discover how global issues and Chinese loans are exacerbating the challenges for these struggling nations.

EY's failed attempt to break up its audit and consulting arms sparks debate on industry standards and conflict of interest. Meanwhile, the IMF warns of a potential global economic hard landing if inflation persists. The podcast also highlights the daunting €800 billion cost for the European aviation industry to meet net-zero goals, along with the challenges of implementing sustainable aviation fuels. Additionally, it contrasts China's post-COVID recovery with the UK's economic struggles, painting a complex picture of global financial dynamics.

Amid a climate of fear in wartime Russia, citizens are increasingly reporting on one another, driven by government rhetoric. This unsettling environment is contrasted with corporate struggles in the U.S., including an anticipated drop in S&P 500 earnings. Additionally, concerns arise around proposed changes in Europe that could affect pharmaceutical investment and access to new drugs, as companies warn of potential impacts on treatment for chronic conditions. Tupperware's financial woes highlight ongoing challenges in the market.

In this discussion, Raya Jalabi, the FT's Middle East correspondent, reveals the dramatic rise of Asma al-Assad, showcasing her transformation from a British banker to a key figure in Syria's socio-political landscape. Jalabi explores how Asma leveraged her circumstances, navigating health struggles and a deepened bond with her husband to gain influence. The conversation uncovers her role in seizing assets from the merchant class and controlling foreign aid distribution, highlighting the intricate power dynamics within the Syrian regime.

Quantum computers aren’t the only form of groundbreaking technology that use quantum physics. Madhumita Murgia hears from Dr. Margot Taylor, neuroscience researcher at The Hospital for Sick Children, who’s using quantum sensors to unpick the mystery of how autism first appears in the brain And we speak to Matthew Brookes, physics professor at Nottingham university in the UK, who helped build the quantum brain scanner she’s using. Plus, John Thornhill speaks to Stuart Woods from Quantum Exponential about the potential for quantum sensors to change our understanding of the world around us, and to Jack Hidary from Sandbox AQ about how sensors and communications networks might fit into a wider quantum technology ecosystem.Presented by Madhumita Murgia and John Thornhill, produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon and Edwin Lane. Executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Sound design by Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. Special thanks to The Hospital for Sick ChildrenWe're keen to hear more from our listeners about this show and want to know what you'd like to hear more of, so we're running a survey which you can find at ft.com/techtonicsurvey. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort earbuds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ukraine is gearing up for a counteroffensive in Crimea, with hope for renewed talks with Russia if successful. Amidst this, the public remains resolute against any territorial concessions, reflecting a strong national sentiment. On a different note, companies are seeing a rise in 'boomerang CEOs' returning to lead during crises, raising questions about succession planning. Plus, brands continue to invest in TikTok, despite looming threats of a U.S. ban, highlighting the platform's enduring appeal in marketing.