In this enlightening talk, Vivi Friedgut, CEO of Blackbullion, shares her insights on financial literacy, emphasizing its critical role in student success. She advocates for integrating money management into educational curriculums and discusses the challenges of teaching financial skills today. Vivi explores the impact of tuition fees on social mobility and the importance of networking. With a focus on modern student anxieties, she urges universities to equip students with practical financial tools for their futures.

Lionel Barber, former editor of the Financial Times and author of 'Gambling Man', dives into the audacious world of Masayoshi Son, SoftBank’s CEO. They explore Masa’s bold investments, like Alibaba and ARM, showcasing his unique knack for spotting future tech stars. Barber discusses the risks and cultural nuances that shaped Masa's strategies, alongside the shifting landscape of venture capitalism in a post-globalization era. The conversation also touches on the tension between innovation and traditional values in Japan, offering a fascinating glimpse into high-stakes investing.

Edward Chancellor, a financial historian and author of "The Price of Time," delves into the fallout from historically low interest rates, including unaffordable housing and rising inequality. He warns that the worst economic impacts might still be ahead. Chancellor discusses the role of interest rates in fostering 'zombie companies' and the widening wealth gap. He also critiques the exploitative nature of payday loans amid these trends and offers insights into navigating current market dynamics, especially for tech valuations and investment strategies.

Anthony Emmerson, Director at Trinity Financial, shares his expertise on navigating the UK mortgage landscape. He highlights common pitfalls for first-time buyers, emphasizing the importance of financial preparation and credit scores. The discussion explores the challenges of securing mortgages in Manchester’s competitive market and breaks down mortgage fees and market dynamics. Emmerson also addresses how inflation and interest rates affect borrowers, offering valuable strategies for making informed mortgage choices.

A listener shares their costly investment blunder, revealing how years of careful planning led to a major financial setback. The discussion uncovers the emotional toll of money management and the lure of influencer advice that can sway investment choices. Personal stories highlight the importance of resilience, community support, and the need for careful discernment in selecting financial advice. Mistakes become valuable lessons, underlining the significance of education and shared experiences in navigating the investment landscape.

Join Andrew Craig, author and founder of Plain English Finance, as he unveils the hidden crises in the UK economy. He discusses the alarming decline in stock market value and the need for financial literacy to support local businesses. Explore the promising future of biotechnology and its potential to reshape industries while addressing pressing global challenges. Craig also highlights the struggle of small businesses with cash management and urges a focus on investing in undervalued biotech firms to revitalize the economy.

Join Paul Johnson, Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, and Claer Barrett, Consumer Editor at the Financial Times, as they dissect the intricacies of the UK Budget 2024. They discuss the impacts of recent tax hikes and spending changes on individuals and businesses. Topics include challenges for first-time home buyers due to stamp duty changes, the complexities of pension reforms, and the pressing need for comprehensive tax reforms. The duo also critiques the balance between economic growth and green investments amid rising public service demands.

George Agan, a Chartered Financial Planner with extensive experience in guiding individuals towards financial security, dives into proactive retirement planning. He discusses generational financial disparities, highlighting challenges for baby boomers versus younger adults. Agan shares insights on the importance of treating time as an asset and adopting versatile strategies for income generation. He emphasizes smart investments, maximizing tax efficiency, and the evolving nature of work for long-term stability, encouraging adaptability and continuous self-education in financial planning.

Liam Byrne, Labour MP for Birmingham Hodge Hill & Solihull North, is a prominent voice on wealth inequality and author of 'The Inequality of Wealth'. He passionately discusses the urgent need for a wealth tax to address economic disparities impacting young people and working-class individuals. Byrne critiques current government policies and emphasizes the necessity of radical reforms. He also highlights the overwhelming influence of money in politics and calls for better financial education to empower youth in navigating their financial futures.

Explore how to stay motivated while saving for long-term goals. Learn about the critical role of workplace pensions and the magic of compounding interest. Dive into the optimistic outlook for urban growth in the UK, especially in cities like Manchester. Discover strategies to maximize your pension benefits, including the importance of employer contributions and choosing the right funds. Plus, navigate the challenges of economic growth in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis.