The Fin

James Thomson, a knowledgeable Chanticleer columnist for the Australian Financial Review, is joined by Joyce Moullakis, an Associate Editor covering corporate deals. They dive into the controversial $14 billion acquisition by James Hardie that occurred without shareholder voting rights. The discussion highlights investor backlash and the implications for corporate governance. They emphasize the need for transparency and shareholder participation, as major fund managers push back against the perceived disenfranchisement and call for rule revisions in the ASX.

Phillip Coorey, political editor at the Australian Financial Review, and John Kehoe, its economics editor, dive into Labor's remarkable election win. They explore the sweeping shifts in voter sentiment and the implications for the Coalition's leadership. The discussion highlights the impact of social media on campaigning and critiques the opposition's approach to energy policy, particularly nuclear debates. They also unpack vote counting controversies and assess how Labor's strengthened position could influence future governance and economic policies.

This week on The Fin podcast: Mark Di Stefano talks about the rise of one of Australian sport’s most powerful men and takes us inside the battle to control the future of racing and rugby league.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie BroadbandFurther reading:Inside the plot to ‘get rid’ of Peter V’landysIn his climb to the top of racing and rugby league, Peter V’landys has broken the rules and challenged the system. But now some in the system are fighting back.How Peter V’landys built a property empireOver two decades under the leadership of Peter V’landys, Racing NSW and the NRL have splurged millions of dollars on residential and commercial real estate.Racing royalty launch broadside against V’landys leadershipChampion trainers Gai Waterhouse and Chris Waller are among the authors of a scathing letter about racing governance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phillip Coorey and the panel on the seats that will decide the election, whether the AAA credit rating is really under threat and what Labor and the Coalition aren’t telling us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Geoff Raby, a Financial Review columnist and former ambassador to China, shares his expert insights on the US-China trade war and its implications for Australia. He explores why both nations might strike a deal, despite ongoing tensions. Raby discusses the strategic responses from China and the evolution of trade dynamics, especially in solar energy. He emphasizes the importance of transparent leadership in Australia as the nation navigates its diplomatic stance between superpowers. The conversation sheds light on the complexities of international relations and economic impacts.

Tom McIlroy, Canberra Bureau Chief at The Australian Financial Review, delves into the dynamics of the upcoming election. He discusses the coalition's bold defense spending plans while addressing the nation's security concerns. McIlroy highlights Labor's rising confidence and the coalition's struggles amid critical polling. He also touches on the effects of American political trends on Australia and the erosion of trust in institutions, providing a thought-provoking look at how these factors shape the political landscape as election day approaches.

James Thomson, Chanticleer columnist for The Australian Financial Review, dives into the turbulent impact of Trump's trade war on global markets. He discusses Australia’s precarious economic position and the heightened risks for investors heavily reliant on US equities. The podcast explores the chaos following new tariffs, the looming recession risks, and how the Reserve Bank of Australia is grappling with interest rates. Thomson highlights the clear winners and losers from the trade turmoil as shifting practices reshape the economic landscape.

Political insiders break down the housing policies from both Labor and the Coalition, highlighting their flaws and economic viability. They examine intense election strategies, especially in the affluent Koo Yong electorate, where candidate Amelia Hamer faces unique challenges. The discussion reveals tensions between immediate voter relief and long-term fiscal responsibilities. With a notable shift in polling trends, there’s a push for tax reforms to address intergenerational inequality. Effective communication amidst political complexities is deemed crucial!

Michael Smith, Health editor at the Australian Financial Review, discusses the looming crisis facing Healthscope, Australia’s second-largest private hospital operator. He highlights the complex battle between health insurers and private hospitals, exploring the financial struggles exacerbated by the pandemic. Smith addresses how private equity could disrupt healthcare infrastructure and the implications of potential ownership changes. With urgent calls for government intervention, he underscores the need for a balanced approach to sustain both public and private healthcare sectors.

Lidija Ivanovski, a former Labor advisor and AFR columnist, and Paul Karp, NSW political correspondent, dive into the shifting political landscape as the 2025 elections loom. They discuss how Trump's tariff decisions have unexpectedly reshaped campaign strategies, influencing voter sentiment and betting markets. The pair analyze the Liberal Party's challenges and Labor's rising momentum in polls. They touch on the significance of local engagement and forecast the impact of upcoming debates and campaign tactics on election outcomes.