FT News Briefing

The podcast dives into the pressing climate crisis and the promise of technology as a potential savior. It explores groundbreaking innovations aimed at combating climate change, from carbon capture methods to the exciting potential of nuclear fusion. The discussion raises critical questions about whether these technologies can deliver in time or if they are simply speculative investments at a crucial juncture. Listeners are invited to consider the importance of embracing green technologies while confronting the ongoing challenges of climate action.

The US labor market shows signs of cooling, while the Bank of England makes a historic interest rate hike. A surprising return of Russia to the grain export deal from Ukraine adds to geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, Germany is reevaluating its dependency on China as businesses face challenges amid policy shifts. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's planned visit to Beijing is a pivotal moment in the evolving relationship, highlighting internal divisions and the need for a more cautious approach.

The Federal Reserve has made headlines by raising interest rates again, increasing fears about the economy's future. Meanwhile, a concerning trend of election denialism is surfacing ahead of the US midterms, particularly in Arizona. Candidates who echo false claims about the 2020 election challenge the integrity of the democratic process. As local election officials work under threat, the risks to American democracy become more apparent. This intersection of economic and political tensions sets the stage for a pivotal moment.

Interest rates are climbing as the Federal Reserve takes decisive action to combat inflation for the fourth time in a row. Pfizer is adjusting its sales forecast, banking on price increases for its Covid-19 vaccine despite waning demand. Meanwhile, Elon Musk juggles managing multiple companies, with Twitter presenting unique challenges in free speech and content moderation. Can he effectively navigate these pressures while keeping his diverse ventures afloat?

Biden demands more from oil companies, suggesting higher taxes to address soaring gas prices. Brazil's political landscape remains tense as Lula's victory over Bolsonaro stirs uncertainty about economic direction. Meanwhile, Renault and Nissan inch closer to a restructuring deal aimed at revitalizing their longstanding partnership, navigating cultural and competitive complexities. The dynamics of global energy, Brazil’s political polarization, and automotive alliances make for a riveting discussion.

Moscow's exit from the Black Sea grain deal is predicted to cause a spike in prices, raising concerns over global food security. Meanwhile, the financial landscape is shifting as banks offer higher interest rates to attract deposits. Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter is putting Wall Street under pressure, with banks navigating risky debt challenges. Compounding these issues, thousands of Chinese workers have fled an iPhone factory due to strict lockdowns. A fascinating mix of political and economic topics unfolds!

Cathy Schulman, an Academy Award-winning producer known for her work on films like Crash, discusses the groundbreaking film The Woman King, which features an all-female army led by a powerful Black woman. She shares insights on the challenges of funding and the importance of diverse narratives in Hollywood. Amiko Terrazono, a commodities correspondent, dives into the rise and fall of plant-based meat. They explore its initial hype, current market struggles, and potential innovations, questioning if these products can appeal to a broader audience.

This week, Big Tech took a massive hit, losing nearly $1 trillion in valuation due to disappointing earnings. Credit Suisse revealed a bold restructuring plan amid financial instability. Meanwhile, troubling accounts have surfaced from expatriates at KPMG's Saudi Arabian office, raising serious concerns about their working conditions. Whistleblower allegations clash with the firm's claims of prioritizing employee welfare, highlighting a tense atmosphere in the office. Tune in for a deep dive into these pressing issues.

The International Energy Agency predicts a peak in fossil fuel consumption by the decade's end, alongside an expected rebound in US GDP growth. Republicans are strategically targeting Hispanic voters, particularly in Pennsylvania, highlighted by new community centers and bilingual campaign efforts. This initiative aims to resonate with immigrant identities, as Democrats scramble to counteract potential voter shifts, reflecting the competitive landscape ahead of the midterms.

Alphabet faces a sharp decline in ad revenue, particularly from YouTube and search ads, signaling changes in consumer demand. Meanwhile, Microsoft shines with cloud offerings that buffer against PC market weaknesses. The European Central Bank prepares to address its balance sheet amidst bond market challenges. Additionally, critical Supreme Court cases could redefine liability for businesses and reshape public policy under a more conservative court, adding uncertainty to the corporate legal landscape.