Business Daily

Fani Titi, CEO of Investec, shares his inspiring journey from a farm in apartheid South Africa to leading a global banking group. He reflects on the lessons learned as a middle child in a large family and how education became his escape route. Titi discusses the daring leap he took to switch careers, nearly cashing in his pensions for an MBA. He also talks about steering Investec through the 2008 crisis and the challenges of becoming CEO during COVID, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and long-term strategic choices.

Switzerland faces a startling rise in US tariffs, now at 39%. Officials struggle to negotiate a deal as the economy slows. Key sectors, including pharmaceuticals and watchmaking, are feeling the pinch. The podcast delves into how Swiss precision manufacturing ties into advanced medical tech, highlighting innovations like an artificial heart pump. With strategic diversification in new markets underway, Switzerland opts not to retaliate, while both nations confront the potential losses of this trade clash.

Travelers are experiencing more delays as airport and airline IT systems falter. Discussing the roots of these outages, experts point to cyberattacks, aging software, and staffing shortfalls. Public frustration is rising, prompting political scrutiny. Best practices in software updates and recovery plans are essential for future resilience. Innovations like AI for baggage screening might offer hope, while discussions on air traffic control reveal critical staffing issues. The need for investment in technology and personnel looms large to prevent systemic disruptions.

A government shutdown brings major challenges for federal workers, who face unpaid essential work and financial strain. The podcast highlights disrupted services, with parks closed and refunds halted. As political blame shifts between parties, experts discuss the shutdown's economic toll, including potential recession risks and rising inflation linked to labor shortages. The shutdown's impact on public confidence is examined, revealing wider consequences for the economy, travel, and benefits, leaving essential workers uncertain about their future.

Cyprus is rolling out an initiative to attract expatriates back, specifically in science and tech sectors. The country offers tax breaks and highlights the advantages of returning home. Discussions include balancing career motivations against living costs. Concerns arise about a potential two-tiered system and housing barriers for returnees. The government aims to use returning talent to entice foreign firms. Comparisons to other nations' diaspora strategies reveal a trend in global talent acquisition. Will these measures convince enough professionals to relocate?

Explore the struggles of Afghan women as they navigate life under the Taliban regime. Hear personal stories of lost ambitions and the fight for education. Shopkeepers and tech workers share how they adapt to severe restrictions while seeking income. Discover the challenges faced by NGOs and the emotional toll of working in a hostile environment. Despite adversity, women demonstrate resilience and maintain hope for a better future, all while addressing the international community's response to ongoing abuses.

Join award-winning Thai chef Pichaya Soontornyanakij, also known as Chef Pam, as she shares her incredible journey from childhood in a Thai-Chinese-Australian family to becoming the best female chef in the world. Listen as she takes a vibrant tour of Bangkok's Chinatown, explores the cultural significance of Thai-Chinese cuisine, and reveals the challenges and triumphs of running her Michelin-starred restaurant, Potong. Discover her passion for sourcing local ingredients and the heartfelt story behind the restaurant's historic setting.

In Middletown, Ohio, the clash between industry and politics unfolds with Donald Trump's executive order halting renewable energy subsidies. Residents share their struggles with pollution and the missed opportunity of a hydrogen-powered furnace that could create jobs and cut emissions. Local reactions reflect disappointment as Cleveland Cliffs withdraws from the upgrade, revealing complexities of green investment and economic trade-offs. The episode dives into how hometown voting influences policies and the town's uncertain future.

Explore the hidden dangers of economic abuse as personal stories reveal the pain of financial control in relationships. Discover how lack of funds can trap people, especially women, in harmful situations. Experts discuss the links between economic dependence and physical danger, and highlight the long-term consequences for survivors. Learn about the role of financial institutions in combating this issue and the progress being made globally. Finally, hear a powerful message of hope for those who have escaped and are rebuilding their lives.

The challenges and opportunities of an aging workforce in Chile take center stage. A café exclusively hiring women over 50 showcases a supportive work environment. Discussions reveal how outdated biases affect hiring seniors in sectors like security. A coalition aims to influence policy for older talent, while a biotech firm blends youthful innovation with veteran experience. Insights into cultural and policy shifts needed to embrace an aging population are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in the workplace.