Business Daily

In this insightful discussion, Matthew Kenyon, a reporter specializing in cocoa, joins Albert Smith, a bean-to-bar chocolate operator, along with Martin Bron, a former global head of cocoa trading, and Comrade Adiola Adigoke, a leader representing cocoa farmers. They dive deep into the EU's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and its potential impact on cocoa prices and sustainability. The guests explore traceability challenges, the role of consumers, and how regulations may ultimately support or hinder cocoa producers, emphasizing the importance of ethical sourcing in the chocolate industry.

Jack Adamovich-Davis, an investigative reporter focused on Cambodia, and Jason Tower, a senior expert on transnational crime, dive into the world of scam centres in Southeast Asia. They discuss shocking revelations about forced labor and human trafficking for fake crypto investments. Adamovich-Davis highlights the Prince Group's troubling ties to these operations, while Tower analyzes the geopolitical implications of recent military actions and the challenges of enforcing law against such powerful syndicates. Together, they question whether significant progress against these scams is on the horizon.

Cristian Alberto Caballero Chacon, Head of Operations at Consetor, dives into the controversy surrounding Machu Picchu's tourism revenue and local transport. He discusses the expired bus contract sparking protests and monopolistic claims leading to tensions in Aguascalientes. The conversation highlights the challenges locals face, including ticketing confusion and the struggle for fair revenue distribution. Cristian also explores innovative ideas like a cable car to Choquequirao to ease visitor pressure, ensuring a sustainable future for this iconic site.

Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund, emphasizes the critical need for ongoing donor funding for combating HIV, TB, and malaria. He highlights how cutting aid puts lives at risk and calls for sustained investments to ensure health security. Meanwhile, Chipoka Malenga, Zambia's Minister of Commerce, discusses his country’s innovative strategy to fill the aid gap through investments in mining and critical minerals. He acknowledges the long transition time needed but remains optimistic about self-reliance and economic growth.

Explore the impact of cuts to US foreign aid and meet inspiring beneficiaries in Rwanda and Nepal whose projects were on the brink of closure. Discover how a mystery donor stepped in with generous funding and the challenges that lie ahead. Delve into the reasons behind the skepticism of foreign aid and the innovative strategies employed to prioritize critical projects. As global aid budgets shrink, what does the future hold for these vital initiatives?

Join cricket experts Prakash Warkhankar, Dos Munda, Jessica Howarth, and Russell James as they dissect the financial landscape of cricket. Warkhankar highlights the IPL's massive economic impact, while Munda reveals South Africa's challenges with Test scheduling due to financial realities. Howarth discusses the growing commercial interests in women's cricket following T20's success, and James emphasizes the cultural and marketing significance of the Ashes. Together, they explore the future of both formats in a changing sports economy.

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet Inc., leads the charge in AI and infrastructure development. He discusses the potential 'AI bubble' and how industry dynamics may overshoot. Pichai reflects on AI’s role in job automation, even possibly affecting CEOs, urging the next generation to embrace this change. He shares insights on AI's impact on climate goals and the necessity for trustworthy systems. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration between tech and governments for societal benefits.

Diane Gilpin, Founder and CEO of Smart Green Shipping, discusses the potential of wind-assisted propulsion in reducing shipping emissions. Vincent Clark, CEO of Maersk, shares insights on industry strategies and the impact of regulations on decarbonization. Tim Wilkins from InterTanker highlights the challenges tanker owners face with new regulations. The trio delves into the recent setback at IMO meetings, the role of technology and consumer willingness in clean shipping, and practical steps the industry can take to achieve net-zero goals.

Will Blyth, a former British Army major and co-founder of Arundyte, dives into the intersection of AI and modern warfare. He shares his journey from military service to founding a tech company aimed at enhancing battlefield capabilities. Discussing the shift from traditional military platforms to an array of drones and sensors, Will explains how Arundyte's mission-management software facilitates rapid, coordinated responses in combat. He emphasizes the importance of human oversight in lethal systems and his commitment to democratic values in defense technology.

Stacey Petitjohn, Director of the defense program at the Center for a New American Security, delves into drone warfare trends. Oleg Vornik, CEO of DroneShield, shares insights on counter-drone technology and its rapid growth, especially in Ukraine. Ksenia Kalmas, a former floral artist turned drone manufacturer, discusses her venture, Clin Drones, highlighting production challenges amidst conflict. Together, they explore how drones are reshaping modern warfare, the advantages of jamming technology, and the rise of DIY drone production in Ukraine.