Business Daily

Philippe Querrier, the strategy head at Thales, discusses France's dramatic shift to a 'war economy' amid rising global threats. He highlights the factory in Normandy that has pivoted from civilian to military production, responding to escalating defense demands. With military spending set to double, Querrier shares insights on innovations like mobile artillery and the Aster missile. He emphasizes Europe's need for localized defense manufacturing to reduce dependence on U.S. imports, ensuring a stronger and more independent European defense industry.

Sean Turnell, a university academic and former economic advisor to Aung San Suu Kyi, shares his striking journey from academia in Australia to imprisonment in Myanmar following the 2021 coup. He recounts the harrowing moment of his arrest and the harsh realities of life in prison, emphasizing the importance of literature and pacing for his mental survival. Turnell also reflects on Myanmar’s deepening economic crisis and expresses hope for the resilience of its people and the potential for a brighter future.

The podcast dives deep into the significant role of migrant workers in Thailand and Malaysia, who make up a fifth of the workforce. It highlights the tough conditions faced by Myanmar migrants, including police exploitation and economic dependency. The discussion shifts to the industrial landscape, celebrating the community's diversity while acknowledging labor challenges. Personal stories from Bangladeshi activists expose the exploitative practices and urgent need for immigration reform in Malaysia, revealing the emotional toll on these workers.

In Chile, grape harvesting is in full swing, but the wine industry faces a challenge in engaging younger drinkers. With global wine production declining, innovative strategies are key. From non-alcoholic sparkling wines to self-service selections, wine producers are adapting to new trends. The impact of climate change on viticulture is significant, prompting shifts towards lighter wines and biodynamic practices. A unique customization system even allows drinkers to create their own blends, appealing to a tech-savvy audience eager for personalization.

Trevor Samumba, an international development economist based in Lusaka, discusses the heavy reliance of Zambia on its copper industry. With the U.S. introducing a 50% tariff on copper imports, the potential impact on Zambia's economy can be significant. Samumba highlights how copper shapes employment and culture in the country, while addressing the broader implications for global trade. Despite price volatility, he remains optimistic about the long-term demand for copper, particularly in emerging tech sectors like EVs and data centers.

The podcast delves into the exodus of Syrian businesses in Istanbul's Little Syria as many refugees return home, altering the local economy. It highlights the emotional toll on remaining shop owners and the financial struggles faced by Syrian restaurants amid Turkey's economic challenges. The narrative also uncovers the cultural tensions and shifting dynamics as the Syrian workforce departs, leaving Turkish businesses to grapple with labor shortages. The potential for repatriation of Syrian entrepreneurs introduces new investment possibilities back in Syria.

Aishwarya Sandeep, a lawyer specializing in intellectual property from Mumbai, discusses the fallout from Prada’s controversial use of Kolhapuri chappals without acknowledgment. She delves into the challenges local artisans face against cultural appropriation and economic struggles in the luxury market. The conversation highlights the need for proper recognition, fair pay, and the importance of protecting artisan identities through legal frameworks. Aishwarya also advocates for ethical practices and transparency in the fashion industry's supply chains.

Ritesh Agarwal, the 31-year-old CEO and founder of OYO, shot to fame by revolutionizing the hospitality industry after starting his career selling SIM cards in Odisha. He shares how a fellowship from Peter Thiel set him on a path to entrepreneurship at just 19. The conversation delves into the resilience needed to navigate OYO's challenges, especially during the pandemic, and his unique leadership style that balances kindness with decisiveness. Agarwal reflects on how travel shaped his innovations and the company's future in hospitality.

Discover the groundbreaking journey of the first women's-only professional football team in the Netherlands, Hera United. Learn how the founders are attracting investors to reshape the sport and challenge the male-dominated landscape. Hear insights from the founder of Glasgow City FC, who faced similar paths decades ago. Explore the launch of Europe's first women's sports bar and how it's inspired by Hera's trailblazing mission. Delve into the potential growth of women's football and the importance of community support for a more equitable future in sports.

Children's films are revitalizing Hollywood, exemplified by the record-breaking success of the Minecraft movie. With sequels and animations in high demand, studios are pivoting to family-friendly content, tapping into nostalgia. The podcast explores how such films thrive during crises, like the pandemic, while also looking at the rise of streaming services and video game adaptations. The discussion includes insights from industry experts about the financial dynamics at play and the cultural significance of these cinematic shifts.