Business Daily

For most people travelling abroad by plane, the airport experience can feel fairly nondescript - something to be endured rather than enjoyed. But for those with certain credit cards, a luxury experience awaits. Around the world, card issuers are spending large amounts of money building high-end lounges in airports and prime city centre locations, in a bid to attract and keep customers. And their attempts are getting more and more extravagant. But who’s paying for all of this? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.ukPresented and produced by Rowan Bridge(Picture: Dining area at the American Express Centurion New York restaurant in New York, US, occupying the 55th floor of the One Vanderbilt skyscraper. Credit: Getty Images/Bloomberg)

Explore the devastating impact of natural disasters on businesses, from California to Fiji and the UK. Hear personal stories of struggle with rising insurance premiums and companies denying coverage. Discover innovative solutions like parametric insurance, which promises quicker payouts based on specific conditions. The podcast highlights the urgent need for new approaches, especially in regions plagued by flooding, and discusses the potential of Islamic insurance to improve coverage in vulnerable communities.

Discover how Hungary transformed into a top film destination after its Soviet era. The country's generous tax incentives attract major filmmakers, drawing productions like 'Dune 2' and 'Poor Things'. The evolution of local studios showcases Hungary's creative potential and adaptability. With Budapest emerging as a vital hub, the podcast highlights the balance between opportunities and challenges, especially post-pandemic. Get insights into the local industry dynamics and what it takes to navigate this booming film landscape.

Tsunekazu Ishihara, the President of the Pokémon Company, shares insights on the franchise's nearly 30-year journey from a Game Boy game to a billion-dollar global phenomenon. He addresses the unique challenges of counterfeits and brand protection, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in this vast market. Ishihara also reflects on the cultural impact of 'Pokemania,' the decision to keep the company private, and the innovative strategies that drove Pokémon's evolution, especially with successful ventures like Pokémon Go.

Discover the secrets to rescuing struggling brands, from Stockport's inspiring transformation to Skoda's bold image overhaul. Explore how honest messaging and community engagement can shift public perception. Dive into the lessons learned from BP's crisis and the lasting impact of provocative advertising, including Benetton's thought-provoking campaigns. The conversation also pays tribute to a visionary in advertising and activism, celebrating creativity as a powerful tool for identity and change.

The Philippines has emerged as a leading outsourcing powerhouse, especially in the call center sector. As AI technologies evolve, traditional jobs face disruption, prompting a shift in the job landscape. The government is responding by investing in infrastructure and encouraging foreign investment. Personal stories reveal the challenges faced by workers in the BPO industry, including salary disparities. Despite these hurdles, the youth and government support create a promising environment for growth and innovation, making the Philippines an attractive hub for businesses.

Over 2.3 million Filipino workers abroad are the backbone of their economy, sending vital remittances that sustain households and boost GDP. Their sacrifices often come with emotional tolls, yet they enable significant improvements in education and healthcare back home. Personal stories highlight the ripple effects of these contributions, showcasing resilience as some return to start businesses, like a chef who opened a takeaway during the pandemic. This dynamic reflects the intertwining of Filipino families' welfare with overseas employment.

Germany's small and medium-sized enterprises face a crucial crossroads amid upcoming elections. Business owners call for reduced bureaucracy and significant reforms, inspired by global examples. In Berlin, innovative startups at a science park are battling political uncertainty while grappling with operational crises. Hamburg's firms are modernizing, yet rising insolvencies threaten the economic backbone. The struggles emphasize the need for stability, better infrastructure, and support tailored for the Mittelstand to thrive in a challenging landscape.

Germany's car industry is facing tough times, battling high costs and fierce competition from Chinese manufacturers. With elections looming, the conversation shifts to what politicians can do to revive this crucial sector. The emotional impact on workers amid wage cuts and potential factory closures is also highlighted. Historical ties between towns like Wolfsburg and major manufacturers play a significant role, while the urgency to adapt to electric mobility and bureaucratic hurdles is emphasized for a successful future.

Explore the vibrant world of cosplay, where fans transform into their favorite characters with incredible craftsmanship. Discover how this once niche hobby has blossomed into a lucrative industry, driven by conventions and the rise of pop culture. Meet passionate cosplayers who share their journeys and the inclusive community that thrives around this art form. Delve into the evolution of cosplay, examining its impact on identity and self-expression, all while navigating challenges like copyright in the digital age.