The Fin

This week on The Fin podcast, editor-at-large Michael Stutchbury and economics correspondent Michael Read on why the Reserve Bank cut rates this week, whether Bullock is ‘one and done’ and how this affects the timing of the election.This podcast is sponsored by IG.Further reading:RBA rate cut more about politics than economicsAfter roughing up the central bank, Anthony Albanese and Jim Chalmers should take whatever sliver of bacon the RBA will give financially squeezed voters.Bullock shifts rate cut expectations after line-ball decisionPrime Minister Anthony Albanese now has just days to decide whether to call a snap election to capitalise on the RBA rate cut or delay to woo voters further.RBA opens a window for the PM, but will he take the chance?Anthony Albanese may seek to capitalise on Tuesday’s rate cut with a March 29 election, but he could also decide that it is not enough to sway voters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brook Turner, an AFR magazine contributor and expert on the co-education debate in Australia, dives into the heated controversy surrounding single-sex versus co-educational schools. She discusses why Sydney has become a focal point for this issue, particularly the polarizing decision by Newington College to admit girls. Turner highlights the cultural ramifications and the clash between traditional values and modern educational practices, while shedding light on parental concerns and the implications for gender roles in Australian education.

The podcast dives into DeepSeek, a Chinese startup shaking up the AI landscape. Australia has banned its technology for government use due to security concerns. The discussion highlights the risks for U.S. tech stocks, especially for companies like NVIDIA facing fierce competition. It raises questions about our current AI ambitions and whether they truly align with public needs. Additionally, ethical implications and data ownership challenges loom large in this rapidly changing market.

Hans van Leeuwen, Europe correspondent for The Australian Financial Review, reports from Davos, unraveling the impact of Trump 2.0 on global business dynamics. He discusses how CEOs are experiencing a blend of anxiety and optimism, especially regarding diversity programs amid political shifts. The declining presence of Australians at Davos is highlighted, alongside significant AI investments reshaping the corporate landscape. Van Leeuwen emphasizes the changing narrative around DEI and its future amidst the evolving geopolitical context.

This week on The Fin, Travel editor Fiona Carruthers discusses the outlook for tourism, why flights are getting cheaper, which airlines are likely to give you the best deal and why Greenland is suddenly on everyone’s list.Further reading: Europe calling? A guide to predicting the cheapest faresIf you’re wondering whether to book your 2025 flights now or to wait, recent average prices are a handy benchmark.The hottest travel spots as the economy turns coldJapan is cool, Bali is always warm, but Vietnam is so hot right now. The cost-of-living pinch is driving Australians to make sure their overseas holiday hits the mark.Why Australians should ditch Europe this ChristmasAfter a dire year for the currency, those heading to the northern hemisphere should consider looking elsewhere to get the most bang for their buck.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Critics share must-watch films and TV shows perfect for the holidays, spotlighting gripping narratives like 'Challengers' and 'Industry.' They dive into the fascinating themes of survival in Robbie Arnott's 'Dusk.' The podcast also explores Australia's cultural identity through essays and music, featuring emerging artists and the significance of independent sounds. Plus, discover how a Belfast music group tackles youth issues through their Irish songs. It's a treasure trove of recommendations for a cozy break!

Myriam Robin, the outgoing editor of Rear Window for The Australian Financial Review, shares captivating insights into Australia's housing crisis led by an ambitious megalomaniac. She discusses the column's biggest scoop and highlights the tensions among elite clubs grappling with new norms of inclusion. The fallout from the PWC tax leak and Qantas’s struggles reveal deep corporate vulnerabilities. With a reflective take on her impactful career, Myriam provides a compelling overview of scandals and power plays defining Australia's business landscape.

James Eyers, a Senior reporter at The Australian Financial Review, discusses Bitcoin's recent milestone of surpassing US$100,000. He explores the intriguing relationship between Donald Trump and the crypto world, emphasizing the evolving regulatory landscape. Eyers highlights Bitcoin's significant rise and the factors behind its surge, including the impact of institutional interest and retail access. He also delves into the risks associated with this volatile market and the transformative shift in financial systems as cryptocurrencies gain traction.

In this conversation, James Thomson, a Chanticleer columnist for The Australian Financial Review, teams up with reporter Hannah Wootton to dissect the turmoil in Australia’s superannuation sector. They explore the significant lawsuit against Cbus for insurance claim delays, questioning accountability and customer trust. With super funds facing a governance crisis, they discuss the emotional toll on Australians due to poor claims handling. The duo also examines the urgent need for enhanced customer service and governance reform to restore faith in the system.

This week on The Fin podcast, Technology editor Paul Smith and media and marketing reporter Sam Buckingham-Jones on why the ban is being introduced, what it means for children and parents and whether it could cause a rift with the new US President.This podcast is sponsored by UNSWFurther reading:Why this former TikTok executive wants a strict social media banTikTok hired Felicity McVay to convince Disney, Universal and the AFL to use the platform more. Now she’s campaigning to get children off it.Canberra takes on big tech – and Gen Alpha – with social media bansAll Australians could be forced to register official identity documents with social media giants to prove they are over the age of 16.Trump may use tariffs to hit back at PM’s tech crackdownAmerican and Australian officials are warning the Albanese government that its crackdown on social media platforms could anger the incoming US president into putting tariffs on $33 billion of exports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.