Business Daily

BBC World Service
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Jun 19, 2025 • 18min

Why are Westerners moving to Thai care homes?

Many Western retirees are moving to Thailand for more affordable and compassionate elder care, driven by dissatisfaction with their home countries' systems. The appeal of Buddhist values and quality healthcare is attracting increasing numbers, particularly for those with dementia. However, this trend raises ethical questions about exploiting lower-wage labor and the potential impact on local healthcare resources. Personal stories from residents highlight both the joys and complexities of making such a life-altering decision.
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Jun 18, 2025 • 19min

Thailand's casino gamble

Thailand's gambling scene is heating up as the government debates legalizing casinos to boost tourism. While some see potential, others warn of cultural clashes with Buddhist values and risks of addiction. The underground lottery thrives in markets, showcasing the complex relationship Thais have with gambling. Concerns about corruption and social implications linger, as experts discuss the potential fallout of such reforms. This clash between tradition and modernity underscores the nation's deepening gambling culture.
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7 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 17min

Thailand’s battle against e-waste

Thailand is grappling with a massive influx of e-waste from developed nations, leading to significant environmental challenges. Illegal processing plants, often foreign-owned, are harming local communities and agriculture. A farmer shares how pollution from an unlicensed smelter has damaged his crops. The podcast dives into the dire need for stricter regulations and explores local recycling habits. It highlights personal stories as well as government initiatives aiming to tackle the growing e-waste crisis.
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Jun 16, 2025 • 20min

Thailand and Malaysia: Growth under pressure

Explore how Thailand and Malaysia are grappling with the economic fallout of U.S. tariffs. Delve into the struggles of Thai rubber farmers facing fluctuating prices and trade impacts on their livelihoods. Discover the vibrant yet financially strained atmosphere of Chinatown amidst rising living costs. Hear how Malaysian businesses are navigating fierce competition from Chinese firms and the geopolitical tensions affecting their industries. The conversation even touches on innovative technologies, bringing a lighthearted note to serious trade issues.
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Jun 15, 2025 • 18min

Thailand: An economy on hold?

Danakorn Kassetsran, Chairman of Thailand's National Shippers Council, shares his expertise on Thailand’s economy, a vital player in Southeast Asia’s export market. He discusses the significant challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of U.S. tariffs. With trade relations in limbo, Danakorn highlights the delicate balance Thailand must maintain between its superpower partners, China and the U.S. He also delves into the stark economic contrasts within the country, showcasing the struggles of rural citizens amid a thriving agricultural sector.
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8 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 17min

Business Daily meets: Activist investor David Webb

David Webb, an activist investor and founder of Webb-site, has dedicated his career to fighting for investor rights in Hong Kong. In this engaging conversation, he discusses the challenges of corporate governance and the monopolistic practices affecting investors. David reflects on his terminal cancer diagnosis, sharing insights into the importance of living a fulfilled life without regrets. He examines the future of Hong Kong under the 'one country, two systems' principle, emphasizing the need for transparency and change in the financial landscape.
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Jun 11, 2025 • 17min

Has sports arena advertising gone too far?

Advertising in sports venues is evolving, with flashy LED boards capturing attention. Fans and marketing experts debate whether this innovation enhances the game or distracts from the action. The shift from local ads to high-profile brand campaigns illustrates the commercialization of sports. The Indian Premier League showcases cutting-edge advertising techniques, increasing engagement and revenue. As technology continues to advance, the future of sports marketing blurs the lines between entertainment and the traditional sports experience.
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Jun 10, 2025 • 17min

The craft brewers and tariffs

The podcast dives into the impact of tariffs on the craft beer industry across North America. Brewery owners from Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. discuss rising costs of imports, including aluminum and grains. As consumers face fluctuating prices, many are shifting toward local brews. Insights reveal how tariffs complicate supply chains, prompting brewers to adapt their sourcing strategies. The conversation also highlights the importance of trade agreements and celebrates the resilience of local breweries amidst economic pressures.
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Jun 9, 2025 • 17min

The cost of a can of beer in the US

Beer is a quintessential part of American life, but tariffs imposed during Trump's presidency are reshaping its landscape. Local breweries are struggling with rising production costs as ingredient sourcing becomes more complex. The cultural significance of beer intersects with economic strategies, revealing patriotism and the challenges faced by small, family-run breweries. Consumer preferences are shifting amid these changes, raising questions about the future of both local and imported options in this dynamic craft beer market.
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Jun 8, 2025 • 17min

Could categorising heatwaves help businesses?

Heatwaves are increasingly impacting lives and economies yet lack proper categorization. A unique initiative in Seville is aiming to change that by naming heatwaves to boost public awareness and enhance economic readiness. Businesses are exploring how this categorization can help them adapt and become resilient in the face of rising temperatures. Discussions also touch on proactive strategies for tourism companies to ensure safety and customer satisfaction during extreme heat, emphasizing the need for localized responses to climate challenges.

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