FT News Briefing

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.

Rishi Sunak steps into the spotlight as the youngest and first ethnic minority prime minister of the UK, facing the challenge of stabilizing the Conservative Party. His unique background and communication style are reshaping British politics. Meanwhile, Chinese technology stocks are reeling from a sharp sell-off amid Xi Jinping's third term, with investors wary of new regulations and economic uncertainties. The podcast dives into the intertwining of leadership styles and market reactions in these two significant global narratives.

Boris Johnson's exit from the Tory leadership race sends shockwaves through UK politics. Profit warnings soar among FTSE-listed firms, the highest since 2008, revealing economic strains. Meanwhile, the airline industry grapples with significant jet shortages, impacting operations. Toyota, once a leader in hybrids, now faces hurdles transitioning to fully electric vehicles, struggling with its first model, the BZ4X. Their innovative leasing approach for EVs in Japan highlights an intriguing strategy amid market challenges and the quest for sustainability.

Sarah Germano, a US sports business correspondent at the Financial Times, dives into the evolving landscape of gender inclusion in sports. She discusses the introduction of a non-binary category at the Boston Marathon and the varied policies on transgender athlete participation across different sports. The conversation also touches on the delicate balance between fairness and inclusivity. Additionally, the podcast reflects on the lasting impact of Jane Austen's novels, exploring modern adaptations and her significance as a feminist icon.

Liz Truss's resignation has sparked a fierce battle for leadership within the Conservative Party, with potential successors such as Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt emerging. The fallout is not just political; economic challenges loom as the UK faces a cost of living crisis that’s impacting everyday citizens. The podcast sheds light on the urgent need for the new Chancellor to restore market confidence amid rising energy costs and inflation, while personal stories reveal the struggles faced by many, especially younger homeowners.

Lauren Fedor, FT's Deputy Washington Bureau Chief, shares insights on the US midterm elections and the Republican Party's strategy to leverage inflation concerns. She explores how economic issues are dominating voter priorities, overshadowing topics like healthcare and abortion rights. The podcast also discusses early voting dynamics and contrasting campaign narratives from both parties, as well as the shifting political landscape in China under Xi Jinping, which affects global perceptions and economic interactions.

Netflix rebounds with 2.4 million new subscribers, surprising investors. Meanwhile, Russia employs Iranian drones in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, raising tensions. CVC Capital Partners is gearing up for a public listing, marking a bold shift from its traditionally private roots. This transition sparks discussions on accountability for performance in private equity. The political landscape complicates matters further, particularly with U.S. export controls impacting the chip manufacturing sector.