FT News Briefing

US inflation continues to slow down, raising hopes for economic stability. Major fraud charges have been levied against former FTX chief Sam Bankman-Fried, drawing significant public interest. The complexities of FTX’s alleged fraud unravel, highlighting the challenges faced by creditors. In a more optimistic turn, scientists have made strides toward nuclear fusion, achieving a net energy gain. While the future of fusion power looks promising, practical implementation still remains on the horizon.

Sam Bankman-Fried's dramatic arrest in the Bahamas sends shockwaves through the crypto world, raising questions about legal accountability. Goldman Sachs is contemplating significant job cuts amidst a turbulent financial landscape. A corruption scandal involving Qatari officials unfolds in Europe, linked to the World Cup, revealing deep political entanglements. Meanwhile, Germany grapples with its overdependence on Russian gas, prompting companies to rethink their production strategies in search of more affordable energy sources. The economic ripples from these events are wide-reaching.

Greenpeace is challenging the UK government's bid for new North Sea oil licenses, highlighting the clash between energy independence and environmental concerns. Meanwhile, U.S. investors are increasingly attracted to European oil companies, seeing them as undervalued compared to American stocks. In Israel, the politically tumultuous landscape may be a turning point for NSO Group, as it hopes a Netanyahu win could revitalize its controversial Pegasus spyware business amid global scrutiny.

The US FTC is suing to block Microsoft's hefty $75 billion deal for Activision Blizzard, raising concerns over competition in the gaming landscape. Meanwhile, KLM is advocating for train travel to cut emissions, revealing the hurdles of shifting short haul passengers from air to rail. In Ukraine, long-range drone strikes are reshaping military dynamics, showcasing resilience amid ongoing conflict and the need for robust support as winter approaches.

The U.S. bond market indicates expectations that the Federal Reserve will maintain its inflation strategy. In Peru, a political crisis unfolds as the president is impeached after attempting to dissolve congress. Meanwhile, Germany faces tensions from a right-wing conspiracy aimed at government disruption. On a positive note, U.S. supply chains are improving, leading to lower inflation and shipping costs, benefiting retailers and consumers as the holiday season approaches.

US stocks are tumbling as Brent crude prices hit their lowest since January. China's elderly are emerging as a significant hurdle for Xi Jinping's pandemic strategy, with many refusing vaccinations. Meanwhile, in the UK, economic struggles are driving more women into sex work, raising concerns about safety and reform. The episode dives into the intertwining issues of health, economy, and social shifts, painting a vivid picture of the complexities faced in both China and the UK.

US stocks stumbled as the services sector showed unexpected growth. PwC is aiming to attract top talent from rival EY amid growing competition. The discussion shifts to the four-day workweek, highlighting rising interest post-pandemic. Insights from New Zealand’s pilot program reveal both potential benefits and challenges of this new model. Can a shorter workweek improve work-life balance? Current trials around the world are examined, uncovering how this concept may reshape workplace practices.

Dive into the heated discourse between EU and US officials as they tackle green subsidies and the threat of a trade war. Discover how OPEC Plus is maintaining its production targets amid geopolitical tensions. Fund managers share firsthand insights on the trials they face in a high-rate era, grappling with investment strategies while adapting to shifting market dynamics. It’s a whirlwind of global economic challenges, raising questions about competitiveness, energy stability, and investor sentiment.

Brussels is pushing for a $60 price cap on Russian oil, stirring up economic discussions. Emerging markets are making a strong comeback, defying past challenges. Meanwhile, corporations are feeling the heat over net zero commitments, with the UN calling for more genuine efforts. Lastly, Hawaii's Mauna Loa has erupted after nearly 40 years, offering a thrilling spectacle and new opportunities for scientific research.

The Federal Reserve is hinting at slowing interest rate hikes, which could ease market tension. Emmanuel Macron is in Washington discussing the economic impacts of the Ukraine war. Meanwhile, Eurozone inflation has dipped unexpectedly, a sign of potential relief. The crypto world feels the aftershocks of the FTX collapse, highlighted by BlockFi's bankruptcy. Amidst this turmoil, art investments are thriving at Art Basel Miami Beach, showcasing an intriguing contrast in the financial landscape.