Phil Aldrick, a senior reporter for Bloomberg covering the UK economy, delves into the recent turmoil plaguing UK assets. He discusses the plummeting pound and soaring gilt yields, attributing these issues to waning investor confidence in government financial strategies. Aldrick explains the challenges of rising borrowing costs and their implications for public services. He also draws parallels with historical crises, emphasizing the need to restore trust in the markets amidst political uncertainties and tight fiscal constraints.

Rachel Evans, Managing Editor for Foreign Exchange and Rates at Bloomberg, and Dan Hanson, Chief UK economist at Bloomberg, dive into the recent turmoil in the UK markets. They discuss the surging government borrowing costs and the looming political implications for Rachel Reeves. The conversation covers investor confidence, the impact of quantitative tightening, and the challenges of navigating austerity measures. Together, they unravel how economic stability intertwines with political decisions and what this means for the UK’s financial future.

The chair of the Business and Trade Committee, Liam Byrne, told fast-fashion giant Shein he has 'almost zero confidence' in the integrity of their supply chain, amid allegations that it uses cotton tied to forced labour in China. The company denies the claims, but is facing extra scrutiny ahead of a potential stock market listing in London. Our retail reporter Jennifer Creery joins us to discuss. Hosted by Stephen Carroll and Yuan Potts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK is grappling with escalating bond issues, as government spending and borrowing soar while growth stagnates. With gilt yields hitting highs unseen since the '90s, pressure mounts on Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The discussion delves into the tension between fiscal strategies and market responses, alongside global influences like U.S. interest rates. Skepticism surrounds proposed economic strategies amid a backdrop of past failures and external distractions, while market volatility raises significant concerns for personal finance.

Join Alex Wickham, Bloomberg's UK Political Editor, as he breaks down Elon Musk's explosive influence on UK politics. Discover why Prime Minister's response to Musk has raised eyebrows, especially regarding Jess Phillips. Explore the political fallout for Nigel Farage after Musk's shifting support. Wickham delves into the internal struggles within Reform UK fueled by Musk and Tommy Robinson's presence. Finally, hear about the dynamic between Musk and Trump, and how their relationship might reshape political alliances.

The government's decision not to compensate women who say they were unfairly treated over changes to the pension age has sparked a backlash from opposition politicians and some backbench Labour MPs. Is the decision over the WASPI campaign the latest example of the government alienating a core constituency of voters? Our Associate Editor Ailbhe Rea joins us to discuss. Hosted by Stephen Carroll and James Woolcock.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2024 saw major political moments, including the first Labour government in 14 years, a Conservative meltdown and an electoral breakthrough for Nigel Farage's Reform UK. Bloomberg's UK Political editor Alex Wickham joins us to review the year and look ahead to 2025. Hosted by James Woolcock and Stephen Carroll.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iain Duncan Smith, Conservative MP and former party leader, is known for his strong stance on China and human rights. He delves into the alarming scale of Beijing's espionage in the UK, emphasizing the threats to national security. Duncan Smith also discusses the UK's complicated ties with China, reflecting on both past policy failures and the pressing need for a robust human rights stance. Additionally, he suggests that the Labour government should implement practical measures amidst rising tensions and economic pressures.

There are almost 3,500 children's homes in England, and it's overwhelmingly the private sector providing services to the most vulnerable. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has called out private providers for making "excessive profits". How do promises of a crackdown sit with Labour's pledge to attract more private investment to the UK? Our UK business reporter Sabah Meddings joins us with details of her investigation. Hosted by Stephen Carroll and Yuan Potts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Leonard, co-founder and director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, discusses shifting UK attitudes towards the EU. He reveals how growing global uncertainties are fostering a pragmatic approach, with most voters supporting compromises on free movement for trade benefits. The conversation explores a renewed desire for closer UK-EU ties, particularly in defense and economic matters, highlighting the public's inclination toward aligning with Europe rather than the US.