Bloomberg Talks

Dan Ives, Global Head of Technology Research at Wedbush Securities and Chairman of Eightco Holdings, dives into the launch of the iPhone 17 Air, highlighting its innovative design and potential impact, especially in China. He discusses Apple's cautious AI strategy amid fierce competition from players like OpenAI and Google. Ives also touches on the success of a new AI-focused ETF and warns against market hype, encouraging investors to seek out true leaders in the evolving tech scene.

Colin Hunt, CEO of Allied Irish Banks, shares insights into the current Irish economy and its evolving trade policies. He discusses how recent shifts in the bank's ownership are fostering new relationships with U.S. investors. The conversation also delves into Dublin's commercial real estate dynamics post-COVID, revealing challenges in office returns. Hunt further highlights Ireland's thriving pharmaceutical sector and the innovations reshaping its airline industry, particularly how Aer Lingus connects Ireland with the U.S. market.

Hélène Conway-Mouret, a French Socialist Party Senator, shares her insights following a confidence vote that toppled Francois Bayrou's administration. She discusses her party's vision for France's next government amidst a backdrop of political instability. The conversation delves into the tension between socialist policies and the private sector, along with the implications of tax reforms. Conway-Mouret also addresses how France's political challenges affect its international standing, particularly regarding security and diplomacy in light of the Ukraine conflict.

Fabrice Le Saché delves into the chaos following the collapse of the French government, examining potential successors and their influence on the business landscape. He highlights the urgent need for political compromise to rejuvenate France's economy under Emmanuel Macron's leadership. The discussion also warns about the risks a socialist prime minister might pose to entrepreneurship and private investment, emphasizing how stable governance is crucial for cultivating a favorable business environment.

Roblox is shaking things up with a new feature that lets players share their in-game moments through short videos, much like TikTok. CEO Dave Baszucki reveals how AI advancements are empowering game creators, leading to higher revenues and easier development processes. The conversation also dives into Roblox's commitment to safety, showcasing AI tools designed to protect its young audience by estimating ages and filtering communications. These innovations highlight Roblox's focus on enhancing user experience while staying ahead in the gaming industry.

Farooq Kathwari, Chairman, President, and CEO of Ethan Allen, shares insights on how the furniture industry is navigating the challenges posed by tariffs and a slowing housing market. He discusses the company’s strategic focus on North American manufacturing, which offers an edge amid tariff uncertainties. Kathwari also addresses rising prices and declining store traffic, highlighting the importance of strong client relationships and innovative workforce strategies in U.S. manufacturing. His perspective sheds light on adapting to a rapidly changing market.

Steven Englander, Global Head of G10 FX Research at Standard Chartered, shares insights on a weak dollar and forecasts a 50bps Federal Reserve cut in September. He emphasizes the challenges of interpreting labor market data and the impact of AI on productivity. The discussion delves into the reliability of government economic data and its influence on market perceptions. Englander also explores how upcoming economic releases could shape inflation metrics and their wider implications for the stock market.

Austan Goolsbee, the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, dives deep into the vital topic of Fed independence, stressing its importance amidst political scrutiny. He discusses recent jobs data and its implications for potential interest rate cuts in the upcoming FOMC meeting. Goolsbee also highlights the intricate relationship between labor markets and monetary policy, emphasizing diverse indicators over simple metrics. With optimism for economic growth, he points to immigration and labor participation as key factors in reaching full employment by 2026.

Cristiano Amon discusses Qualcomm's game-changing partnership with BMW on the Snapdragon Ride Pilot, focusing on automated driving safety and performance. The conversation highlights the development of advanced driver-assistance systems certified across 60 countries. Amon shares insights on Qualcomm's impressive $45 billion expansion within the automotive sector and the importance of a resilient supply chain in the face of new chip tariffs. Exciting future collaborations with tech giants like Intel are also on the horizon, promising further innovation.

Howard Lutnick, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, dives into pivotal trade developments with Japan, including a groundbreaking $550 billion agreement aimed at revitalizing domestic manufacturing. He reveals a forthcoming proposal from Switzerland to enhance tariff rates. The conversation also touches on the U.S.-India trade dynamics, highlighting concerns over India's oil imports from Russia and their implications. Additionally, Lutnick calls for reforms at the Bureau of Labor Statistics to improve the accuracy of crucial economic data.