

Business Daily
BBC World Service
The daily drama of money and work from the BBC.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 1, 2024 • 18min
US Election: The view from the fields
Farmers from Montana, Iowa, and Georgia share their insights on the upcoming presidential election. They express their concerns over anti-immigrant policies impacting labor shortages and the need for bipartisan support. The discussion touches on how agricultural policies under different administrations affect their livelihoods, especially regarding rising costs. They also address the challenges posed by corporate control in the meatpacking industry and the reliance on immigrant workers. Lastly, they highlight the importance of soil health and water conservation amidst a divided political landscape.

Aug 29, 2024 • 17min
Business Daily meets: Football agent Kees Vos
Kees Vos is a prominent football agent known for representing key figures in the sports industry, including Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag. He reveals the inner workings of football's transfer market on deadline day, sharing stories behind major transfer sagas. Vos reflects on the changing landscape over the past two decades, discussing the balance between player welfare and commercial pressures while emphasizing the human side of player management. He also explores his journey from fan to influential agent and the emotional complexity of meeting sporting heroes.

Aug 28, 2024 • 17min
Is it getting too hot to work?
Rising temperatures are not just a summer nuisance; they are significantly affecting productivity across major cities. Workers, from market stall owners to office employees, are struggling to cope with extreme heat, prompting discussions on innovative solutions like heatwave insurance. Insights from Kuwait reveal how abnormal temperatures have redefined daily life and work challenges. The plight of informal workers in India highlights the urgent need for safety measures and collaboration to support the most vulnerable populations in our changing climate.

Aug 27, 2024 • 18min
The short-term rental clamp down
Cities around the world are cracking down on short-term rentals, aiming to preserve housing for locals. Barcelona plans to reclaim 10,000 apartments, sparking debates on tourism's impact. Meanwhile, Halifax's restrictions reveal unintended consequences, adding to the black market woes. A Scottish accommodation owner shares struggles with new regulations, highlighting the ongoing uncertainties faced by hosts. Dive into the complexities of Airbnb's influence on local markets and the broader implications for urban living.

Aug 26, 2024 • 18min
Have Swiss scientists made a chocolate breakthrough?
Explore Switzerland's chocolate industry, where scientists are innovating sustainable practices to secure the future of this beloved treat. Discover the potential of using the entire cocoa fruit to reduce sugar and enhance farmer income. Delve into the ethical dilemmas faced by Swiss chocolate producers amidst a colonial past. The discussion also hints at chocolate evolving into a luxury item, balancing taste and environmental responsibility while tackling the challenges of cocoa sourcing and climate impact.

Aug 22, 2024 • 17min
Business Daily meets: Brent Wisner
Brent Wisner, a trailblazing US lawyer and managing partner at Wisner Baum, gained fame for taking on pharmaceutical giants in high-stakes cases. He shares his fascinating journey from child acting to law and discusses a landmark battle against Monsanto over cancer risks linked to their weed killer. The conversation delves into the emotional dynamics in court, the challenges of combating corporate power, and how innovative legal practices, including contingency fees, shape the pursuit of justice. Plus, hear about the potential film inspired by his groundbreaking work!

Aug 22, 2024 • 17min
Why is Chinese EV giant BYD moving into Turkey?
A $1 billion investment by China's BYD is set to transform Manisa, Turkey, into a hub for electric vehicle manufacturing. The deal promises to create 5,000 jobs, providing a lifeline to a community grappling with high unemployment and inflation. Local officials are cautiously optimistic, balancing hopes for economic growth with concerns from past investment experiences. This move illustrates the shifting global trade dynamics and Turkey's strategic position between Eastern and Western economies.

Aug 21, 2024 • 17min
Remittances: Sending money back home
Indian expats share their stories of navigating life abroad, highlighting the emotional and financial ties to their families back home. Economists delve into the staggering impact of remittances, which have exceeded $100 billion, on India's economy. They discuss how these funds support local households, shape real estate markets, and the challenges of high transfer costs. Additionally, there's a focus on the balance between economic opportunities abroad and the loss of human capital in India, emphasizing the significant role of digital payment innovations.

Aug 19, 2024 • 18min
Reconstructing Chile’s botanical gardens
Following devastating wildfires that ravaged 90% of its land, Chile's oldest botanical garden is undergoing a heartfelt recovery. The resilience of dedicated staff and community volunteers shines through as they work to restore native plant species. Innovative planting strategies and local business support play a key role in the garden's revival. With an emphasis on sustainability and education, efforts are underway to engage visitors and protect this vital green space for future generations.

Aug 18, 2024 • 17min
The cost of the Red Sea crisis
The podcast dives into the recent Houthi attacks disrupting the shipping industry in the Red Sea. It explores the economic fallout and how cargo is being rerouted, with an uptick in Arctic shipping as a result. Experts discuss the daunting challenges faced by seafarers, including piracy and geopolitical tensions. Security measures are under scrutiny as the effectiveness of military responses to these threats is questioned. The evolving landscape of maritime trade is highlighted amidst safety concerns and shifting routes.


