Squawk Pod

ASML anticipates a significant sales drop in China next year, raising eyebrows in the semiconductor industry. Meanwhile, LVMH reports a surprising growth after recent declines. Boston Fed President Susan Collins warns that a robust job market threatens interest rate cuts. Apple is shifting its manufacturing focus to countries like Vietnam. Lastly, OpenAI plans to launch a less-censored version of ChatGPT for adults, igniting discussions about verification challenges for age and mental health.

Joaquin Duato, the CEO of Johnson & Johnson, shares insights on the company’s strong earnings and a strategic split of its orthopedics business. He discusses the impact of FDA warnings on their treatment Carvykti and highlights exciting new products in the pipeline. Meanwhile, Andrew Ross Sorkin, a prominent financial journalist, promotes his new book, 1929, which delves into the dramatic stock market crash and its lasting effects on capitalism. He shares behind-the-scenes stories and the challenges of researching this tumultuous period.

Pat Gelsinger, former Intel CEO and current general partner at Playground Global, delves into the U.S. government's financial ties to semiconductors and the implications of the CHIPS Act. He shares insights on the AI chip race and warns of a potential bubble in AI enthusiasm. Amos Hochstein, former Middle East negotiator, discusses the recent Gaza ceasefire, the dynamics of regional stability, and the complexities of disarming Hamas. He analyzes the effects on global oil prices and international perceptions of Israel.

JPMorgan unveils a bold, decade-long investment strategy focusing on key U.S. companies. Jefferies reassures investors with news of limited losses from bankrupt auto parts maker First Brands Group. In China, Qualcomm faces scrutiny for not properly disclosing its acquisition of Autotalks. Disney's Tron: Ares surprisingly tops the weekend box office, despite missing expectations. The podcast also pays tribute to the late Oscar-winner Diane Keaton, reflecting on her impact in Hollywood.

Congressman Mike Lawler reveals his clash with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries over extending Affordable Care Act tax credits amid the government shutdown. He argues this extension is crucial to prevent premium spikes. Meanwhile, Tade Oyerinde, founder of Campus, shares insights on their acquisition of Sizzle, highlighting the synergy of AI and human coaches to enhance student support and boost graduation rates. Oyerinde emphasizes the importance of personalized learning paths in the fight against rising student debt.

China has launched an investigation into Qualcomm for potential antitrust violations, stirring up the tech world. Levi Strauss defies expectations with rising profits, despite facing tariff challenges. In an unexpected twist, Ford has reversed its electric vehicle tax credit plan. Meanwhile, President Trump is considering billionaire Jared Isaacman for a NASA leadership role. The spotlight also shines on Maria Corina Machado, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in advocating democratic rights in Venezuela.

Eamon Javers, CNBC reporter, shares insights on the U.S. role in brokering a significant Israel–Hamas phase-one agreement involving hostage exchanges. Meanwhile, Senator John Thune expresses a Republican willingness to negotiate health care subsidies post-government shutdown, while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stands firm on protecting American health care. Michael Froman discusses the complexities of future phases in the agreement and explores the roles of regional players in Gaza's recovery efforts. There's a lot at stake in both politics and international relations!

Jensen Huang, the visionary CEO of NVIDIA, leads the charge in AI infrastructure. He dives into the company's strategic investments in projects with OpenAI and xAI, emphasizing the ever-pressing U.S.-China AI competition. Huang discusses recent profitability trends in AI models and what they mean for future demand. He advocates for a nuanced U.S. chip export strategy, while also reflecting on talent retention in a post-wealth corporate culture. Get insights on how AI's evolution shapes the hardware landscape and NVIDIA's role in this fast-paced world!

SoftBank is making waves by acquiring the robotics division of ABB for $4 billion, signaling a strong interest in physical AI. Fed Governor Stephen Miran advocates for quicker interest rate cuts, backed by Treasury market trends. Intel is gearing up to unveil details about its new Panther Lake chip to boost investor confidence. Meanwhile, Amazon is stepping into healthcare by launching pharmacy kiosks in collaboration with One Medical in Los Angeles, showing its commitment to healthcare innovation.

Sean Duffy, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, discusses the significant impact of the government shutdown on air travel, highlighting controller stress and staffing shortages. He emphasizes the need for urgent funding and modernization of air traffic control systems. Tim Walsh, KPMG's Chair and CEO, shares insights from a survey of 400 CEOs, revealing growing confidence in AI investments and supply chains despite current uncertainties. He notes a shift in workforce dynamics due to AI and ongoing recruitment efforts for new graduates.