Slate Money

A stunning jewel heist at the Louvre stole the spotlight, with thieves executing a daring seven-minute theft in broad daylight. The hosts discuss why this crime captivated the public and the challenges the thieves face in monetizing the stolen jewels. Meanwhile, the ongoing government shutdown creates significant data shortages, impacting services and economic reporting. Silicon Valley is embracing the controversial 996 work schedule, raising concerns about its effects on diversity and productivity in the fast-paced tech industry.

The hosts delve into the fallout from First Brands and Tricolor's bankruptcies, questioning banks and private credit firms' accountability. They explore the rising prices and sales in the auto industry, highlighting how EV incentives have shifted market dynamics. Discussion tightens around the peculiar marketing strategies of the QQQ ETF, revealing its unusual structure and low profits for Invesco. Plus, a curious look into the complexity of matcha prices adds a flavorful twist to the conversation!

Andrew Ross Sorkin, a journalist and author known for his insightful views on financial history, dives into the 1929 market crash in this engaging discussion. He draws alarming parallels between that era and today's market, emphasizing systemic risks we face now. Sorkin warns that excessive leverage remains a lurking danger, much like the rampant borrowing before the crash. He also explores the implications of modern financial products, crypto trends, and the lasting legacy of the Great Depression's policies. History's lessons are as timely as ever!

Gold prices have soared past $4,000 an ounce, prompting speculation on the reasons behind this spike. With Intercontinental Exchange investing $2 billion in Polymarket, discussions arise about the rise of prediction markets and their blurred lines with traditional betting. The hosts also delve into the quirky market for Bob Ross paintings, examining how charity auctions can skew art values and the implications of increased inventory on perceived rarity. It’s a fascinating look at contemporary financial trends and the art world!

Discover why the Trump administration bailed out Argentina with a surprising $20 billion, examining the political motives and implications for U.S. soy farmers. As the U.S. government shuts down, learn how markets defy expectations and which parts of the economy truly suffer. Delve into Jared Kushner's role in a massive $55 billion deal that brings Saudi Arabia into the gaming world. Finally, ponder the future of Electronic Arts under foreign ownership and the potential benefits of private status amidst shifting market dynamics.

Doug Woodham, former president of Christie's Americas and author, dives into Basquiat’s remarkable rise in the art market. He discusses how Basquiat was initially undervalued but became an icon through key collector endorsements that stabilized his market. Woodham highlights how institutional skepticism and collector strategies shaped perceptions. He also explores the impact of the 1996 film on Basquiat's fame and the role of recent high-profile sales in boosting market demand, all while questioning whether collectors or Basquiat's genius created his value.

Max Chafkin, a BusinessWeek/Bloomberg writer, joins the discussion to unpack NVIDIA's staggering $100 billion investment in OpenAI, hinting at the possibility of an AI bubble. He also delves into the chaos surrounding the Trump administration's new $100,000 H-1B visa fee and its broader implications for immigration policy. Additionally, Max shares the wild tale of how an Enron parody morphed into a memecoin disaster, raising questions about the value of memes in the cryptocurrency world. It's a whirlwind of tech, finance, and unexpected satire!

Neil Irwin, an economics reporter at Axios and Fed expert, joins the hosts to unravel the complexities of a recent Federal Reserve meeting marked by unexpected dissent. He examines the implications of new political pressures and the challenges faced by the Fed's independence. The conversation shifts to the rising costs of premium credit cards, exploring why brands like Amex are hiking fees and the allure of exclusive perks. They also tackle the bankruptcy of Publishers Clearing House and the fallout for 'lifetime' winners who now face uncertain futures.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Gary Rivlin as he unpacks the thrilling competition among tech giants like Microsoft and Google in the AI sector. Rivlin discusses the emotional connections users form with AI, spotlighting the highs of GPT-4 and the letdowns of GPT-5. He navigates the contrasting views of techno-optimism and skepticism regarding AI's future, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas and job market impacts. With insights drawn from decades of tech coverage, he offers a nuanced outlook on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

This week, a chaotic ICE raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia raised concerns about foreign investment in the U.S. and strained diplomatic ties with South Korea. Meanwhile, Oracle's stock soared thanks to a groundbreaking AI deal with OpenAI, bringing Larry Ellison close to the title of the world's richest man. The hosts also critique JP Morgan's opulent new skyscraper, comparing it to Vegas hotels, while discussing the evolving landscape of corporate work culture and rising energy costs.