Slate Money

A celebrity feud has escalated into a legal battle, revealing the intricate relationship between PR strategies and reputation management in Hollywood. The decline of net neutrality poses challenges for smaller businesses in favor of major corporations. Meanwhile, changing trends in alcohol consumption highlight a growing shift away from traditional drinking habits, leaving the tequila industry in a surplus. The discussion flips between light-hearted anecdotes and serious business implications, providing an entertaining yet thought-provoking look at modern consumer behavior.

Join Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman as he dives into the complexities of tariffs and trade, particularly during the Trump administration. He reveals the impacts of a 20% tariff on China and the renegotiated USMCA on U.S. relations with Canada and Mexico. Krugman also discusses the evolving relationship between political decision-making and economic theory, and how Biden’s policies are reshaping the economic landscape. Plus, he offers insights on the American healthcare system, comparing it to global models and addressing public sentiment for reform.

Mary Childs, co-host of Planet Money and author of "The Bond King," dives deep into the complexities of stock market predictions using the Fama-French model. She highlights the shifting nature of financial numbers and the clash between empirical finance and legal perspectives. Discussions also include the historical performance of value stocks versus growth stocks, challenges in creating reliable datasets, and philosophical questions about the reality behind financial numbers. Childs' sharp insights make this exploration of finance both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Richard Milne, Nordic and Baltic bureau chief for the Financial Times, shares insights on Northvolt, the ambitious Swedish battery startup that recently filed for bankruptcy. He discusses Northvolt's meteoric rise and the fierce competition from Asian manufacturers that led to its fall. The challenges of establishing a local supply chain and the impact of management issues and financial missteps are examined. Milne also reflects on the broader implications for Europe’s battery industry and electric vehicle market in the wake of Northvolt's collapse.

Misinformation from a billionaire caused a government shutdown, showcasing the power of social media in politics. The team delves into Brazil's economic crisis and insights on the recent Fed rate cut, highlighting global economic dynamics. Labor strikes at Amazon and Starbucks bring attention to the evolving landscape of workers' rights and union negotiations. As economic policies shape trade and currency strength, exciting discussions on market timing and cryptocurrency trends unfold.

The discussion dives into the controversial trend of debanking, particularly affecting the crypto industry, debunking conspiracy theories about government attacks. Netflix's recent change in parental leave policies raises questions about its corporate culture and future strategy. Meanwhile, Spotify celebrates its first profit amidst shifting music consumption trends and its evolving business model. The team also touches on adaptive technologies and critiques of philanthropy in the tech space, revealing the complexities of contemporary corporate practices.

Hugh Son, a CNBC reporter with deep insights into the Synapse scandal, breaks down the chaos following the collapse of the fintech company. He discusses the alarming $95 million shortfall and the failures of regulators in protecting consumers. The conversation highlights the complexities of FDIC insurance and how many users were left vulnerable. Accountability among banks is scrutinized, as well as the dire need for reform in the regulatory landscape to safeguard fintech users against similar disasters in the future.

This week, discussions spark around the shocking assassination of a healthcare executive, highlighting public discontent with the U.S. healthcare system. Chaos unfolds in South Korea and France, raising questions about democratic resilience. The hosts dive into the safety hazards of overly bright headlights, balancing visibility and risks for drivers. Amid all this, they amusingly connect driving tales to the iconic McRib and trends in Boston beer preferences, blending serious topics with light-hearted banter.

This discussion dives into the intriguing appointment of new cabinet officials while pondering their potential impact on the economy. The hosts dissect the bizarre $6.2 million banana art piece, urging a reevaluation of how we perceive value in conceptual art. They also explore Warren Buffett's hefty philanthropic plans, questioning family dynamics in wealth distribution. With compelling insights, the conversation weaves through the absurdities of consumerism and the intersection of art, wealth, and charity.

Simone Foxman, a seasoned finance reporter at Bloomberg News, dives deep into the current challenges facing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs. She explores the backlash against DEI from conservatives and what potential changes could arise under a second Trump term. The discussion touches on the historical context of workforce diversification, the emergence of new challenges to traditional DEI practices, and the ongoing political discourse surrounding legal battles. It's a vital conversation about the future of inclusivity in a rapidly shifting landscape.