Business Daily

Join Sarah Quinn, an Associate Professor of Sociology specializing in financial markets, and Kenneth Rogoff, a Harvard Economics Professor and former IMF Chief Economist, as they unveil the world of bonds. They discuss how these seemingly dull IOUs have shaped economies and financed wars throughout history. Discover the origins in 12th-century Italy, the risks of today’s complex bond market, and the political power that comes with debt. There are fears about a looming crisis as governments grapple with massive liabilities and rising interest rates.

Constantijn van Oranje, a Dutch prince and tech advocate, discusses the vibrant startup culture in the Netherlands, driven by a unique blend of innovation and equality. He shares insights from his role at TechLeap, emphasizing the importance of supporting entrepreneurs while balancing royal duties. Constantijn highlights challenges Europe faces in fostering disruptive innovation and critiques high venture carry taxes that could stifle investment. With an eye on social risks, he remains optimistic about the future of tech and its impact on society.

In this discussion, Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, emphasizes the UAE's strategic investments in Africa, focusing on clean energy, logistics, and social impact. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of DP World, shares insights on optimizing logistics and their extensive presence across the continent, while Dr. Josie Di Lima Masano from Angola discusses her country's need for economic diversification and the role of UAE investments. They explore the balance between equity and lending in partnerships, shaping a promising future for UAE-Africa relations.

Zoe Kleinman, BBC Technology Editor, and Lily Jamali, Silicon Valley correspondent, dive into the future of tech. They explore whether the AI investment boom is sustainable and the environmental impact of AI data centers. Predictions fly about mainstream gadgets by 2026, including robots and AR glasses. Lily discusses geopolitical tech dynamics, the rise of open-source models in the US-China tensions, and how big tech is shifting to content. Additionally, they highlight NVIDIA's Jensen Huang's role as a tech diplomat amid chip industry challenges.

Suranjana Tewari, an Asia business correspondent, and Arunoday Mukharji, who reports on India's economy, dive into the economic landscape of 2026. They discuss the fallout from 2025's tariff shocks on supply chains and the innovative partnerships emerging as a result. India's challenging trade negotiations with the US are highlighted, along with its strategic pivot to other nations. The duo also explores investments in AI infrastructure across Asia and contrasts growth prospects between Asia and stagnating Western economies.

Gideon Long, a veteran Latin America correspondent, shares his insights on Venezuela's oil situation following recent political upheavals. He discusses the country's vast reserves, their challenging extraction process, and the implications for U.S. oil companies. The conversation dives into the historical context of nationalization, the damage done by sanctions, and the role of China in the oil market. Long highlights the staggering investment needed to revitalize the industry and addresses the skepticism surrounding the potential return of American firms.

Tariffs and trade wars dominated 2025, but what does the year ahead have in store? And what about the prospect for rising prices we’ve seen around the world? The BBC’s Deputy Economics Editor, Dharshini David, and North America Business Correspondent, Michelle Fleury, pick through what we learned last year and explore the trends likely to shape the global economy in 2026. If you would like to get in touch with the programme, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.ukPresenter: Will Bain Producer: Matt Lines(Picture: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, US President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the G7 summit in Kananaskis on June 16, 2025. Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Dr. Alex Wood, an economic sociology expert from the University of Cambridge, joins delivery riders Joshua Cavallaro and Bryce, known as London Hustle, to discuss the gig economy. They reveal the high stakes of delivery work, including unpredictable pay and safety risks. Bryce and Joshua share their experiences with unusual deliveries and the impact of tipping culture. Dr. Wood highlights survey findings on riders' mental health and the need for better labor protections. Together, they explore why many continue in this precarious yet flexible line of work.

Ned Guinness, or Lord Iveagh, is the Fourth Earl of Iveagh and a member of the illustrious Guinness family. He shares his journey of managing family legacy while growing crops and brewing beer for his two pubs in rural England. Ned reflects on the pressure of family expectations and the rich history behind the Guinness brewery. He discusses innovation in the brewing industry, including non-alcoholic options, and emphasizes the importance of community values. His passion for the perfect pint and stewardship of the Elvedon estate shines through his stories.

Han Lin, China Director at The Asia Group, discusses Yiwu's unique role in global trade, highlighting its massive market with 75,000 traders. Ashley Dudarenok, founder of a research consultancy, shares insights on how local entrepreneurs shaped Yiwu's dominance in Christmas goods. Mac Harmon, CEO of Balsam Hill, reveals how US tariffs are impacting pricing and orders for festive decor. The conversation navigates trade tensions, the shift in market focus, and a cautious optimism among traders adapting to new opportunities.