Morning Brew Daily

A fierce battle brews as Paramount makes a bold move to acquire Warner Bros., challenging Netflix's dominance. In another twist, China's trade surplus hits a staggering $1 trillion, prompting questions about Trump’s tariffs. Meanwhile, farmers find relief with a $12 billion bailout. And in a quirky turn, tech bros flock to etiquette camps to polish their style and social skills, learning all about suits, ties, and the fine art of ordering wine. Plus, a three-year-old chess prodigy is making waves with an impressive FIDE rating!

Netflix's monumental $83 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery is shaking up Hollywood, sparking concerns about job losses and regulatory scrutiny. Meanwhile, Apple faces a leadership exodus as rival companies lure away its top talent amid fierce AI competition. In lighter news, Japanese micro cars catch Trump's eye for potential US roads, even as safety regulations loom. Additionally, a unique robot dog installation by Beeple at Art Basel brings digital art to the forefront, blending technology with creativity.

Small businesses faced significant layoffs last month, a stark contrast to larger firms adding jobs. The FIFA World Cup draw is approaching, promising to generate billions and posing logistical challenges. In stock news, American Eagle shines with strong Q3 sales, while Netflix's cash bid for Warner Bros. Discovery raises investor eyebrows amidst regulatory scrutiny. The podcast also touches on Google's trending searches and Meta's cuts in Reality Labs spending, highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of business and tech.

Trump's proposal to roll back fuel efficiency standards sparks a lively debate on its impact on car sales and consumer choices. The team dives into Spotify Wrapped, dissecting listener stats and the new features that showcase musical tastes. Waymo's self-driving cars are highlighted, revealing impressive safety data that advocates for policy support. Meanwhile, Boston's declining rents are analyzed, as well as the renewed search for Malaysia Airlines Flight 370. All this and a warning about an impending cold snap make for a jam-packed discussion!

Michael and Susan Dell's groundbreaking $6.25 billion pledge aims to establish investment accounts for 25 million children, potentially transforming childhood savings. Meanwhile, Costco is suing the Trump administration over tariffs, raising questions about the chaotic logistics of refunding nearly $90 billion. The conversation also explores how companies are incentivizing AI adoption, despite employee resistance, and dives into the end-of-year recap trends from platforms like YouTube and Wikipedia.

A landmark Supreme Court case unfolds as major music labels clash with internet providers over copyright liability. New York City celebrates the approval of three casino licenses, sparking discussions on economic impact and community concerns. Meanwhile, Airbus faces challenges with quality issues on its A320 aircraft. In fashion, a revival of quarter zips signals a shift towards a more relaxed yet professional look for young men. To top it off, Shopify's outage disrupts merchants on Cyber Monday, leaving many scrambling.

Discover the generational divide in Black Friday shopping habits, with Gen Z and millennials leading the charge while older generations hesitate. Unpack the controversial claim that the poverty line should be set at $140,000, sparking debates on consumer comfort versus actual poverty. Plus, explore Google's groundbreaking AI hurricane model, which outshines traditional forecasting methods. Lastly, get a taste of the upcoming week’s events and market predictions, featuring stock rallies and spending trends.

Guest James Zahn, editor-in-chief of The Toy Book and known as 'The Rockfather', delves into the fascinating world of toys. He discusses the potential threat of AI companions and the challenges they pose for traditional toys. The rise of the Kidult economy is explored, highlighting how adult collectors are reshaping the market. Zahn also examines the close relationship between Hollywood and toy manufacturing, revealing how pop culture drives toy trends. Plus, he shares his thoughts on holiday shopping and his picks for iconic toys.

Get ready for the busiest Thanksgiving travel weekend in 15 years, as the hosts discuss the push for better airline etiquette. Discover the growing popularity of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and its cultural significance. They delve into the fascinating world of cranberries, from harvest to your holiday table. Post-feast, learn about the quirky tradition of 'fart walks' and 'cousin walks' to digest your meal. Finally, enjoy some spicy hot takes on football and Thanksgiving festivities!

Sellers are increasingly choosing to delist homes rather than lower prices, reflecting a changing housing market. Meanwhile, Google's advancements in AI chips are shaking up the industry and affecting Nvidia's dominance. Retailers are reporting strong earnings even as consumer spending shows signs of slowing down. On a lighter note, AI-generated recipes are leading to culinary chaos, and British interest in Thanksgiving is on the rise, showcasing a cultural shift.