World Business Report

BBC World Service
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Oct 29, 2025 • 26min

Can South Korea meeting ease US China trade tensions?

Dr. Henry Wang, a former advisor to China's State Council, discusses the stakes of the much-anticipated Trump–Xi summit, focusing on trade stability and cooperation against fentanyl. Jeff Moon, a trade strategist, provides insights on the fragility of any potential agreements and their ramifications for small businesses, as highlighted by Peter Moses, who shares how tariffs impact his coffee roastery. Meanwhile, tech correspondent Lily Jamali covers major earnings from firms like Alphabet, detailing AI's role in their success and hinting at future challenges.
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Oct 28, 2025 • 27min

Hurricane Melissa hits Jamaica

Dean Jones, a realtor on Jamaica's north coast, shares a gripping firsthand account of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, detailing the chaos of sheltering and communication failures. Milton Walker from the Jamaica Gleaner highlights the economic toll, including closed airports and agricultural destruction. Walter Todd discusses the impact of US–China relations on market expectations and the role of rare earth elements. Laura Bicker offers insights from South Korea, covering protests during high-stakes presidential visits and the delicate geopolitical balance.
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6 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 26min

Handshakes and trade deals as Trump tours Asia

Archana Shukla, a BBC correspondent, reveals the dire impact of US tariffs on Indian shrimp farmers, risking nearly a million jobs. Isabel de Bray, from the Associated Press, discusses Javier Milei's surprising midterm victory in Argentina and its potential for economic reform amidst public frustration. Patricia Ortiz, a winemaker from Mendoza, shares insights on how currency volatility and inflation are reshaping her business landscape. Together, they offer a deep dive into the repercussions of international trade and political shifts.
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Oct 24, 2025 • 26min

US federal workers miss their first paycheques since shutdown

In this discussion, Chris, a federal worker from the Department of Defence, shares the stark realities of missed paychecks due to the government shutdown, highlighting the impact on morale and finances. Sam Liccardo, a Democratic congressman, weighs in on the controversial H-1B visa fee hikes, warning that it could stifle innovation in startups. Mikhail Kasyanov, former Russian prime minister, offers insights on the potential consequences of new sanctions on Russia's oil sector and the broader economic fallout. It's a deep dive into the intersection of politics and personal lives.
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Oct 24, 2025 • 9min

Trump says trade talks with Canada 'terminated'

Mikhail Kasyanov, the former Prime Minister of Russia and a vocal critic of Putin, shares insights on Russia's economy amidst international sanctions. He discusses the significant impact of sanctions on Russia's oil revenues and budget, expressing skepticism about their long-term effects. Kasyanov also examines the limited influence of business leaders on Kremlin policies, emphasizing the disconnect between central bank actions and ground realities in the economy. His candid analysis highlights the challenges facing Russia in a turbulent global economic landscape.
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4 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 26min

NBA stars and mafia arrested in illegal gambling crackdown

Jonathan Cohen, author of "Losing Big," examines the unchecked risks of rapid sports betting legalization in the U.S., arguing it fuels integrity scandals. Meanwhile, Jason Russell advocates for increased transparency and regulation in the sports betting market. Nada Taufik provides a chilling report on the FBI's investigation into illegal gambling linked to NBA figures like Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups, who are accused of rigged poker games and insider betting. The conversation delves into the dramatic rise of sports gambling and its impacts on player behavior and fan trust.
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Oct 23, 2025 • 9min

US and EU increase pressure on Russian energy sector

Joining the discussion are Alexei Kalmykov, a BBC News Russian reporter with insights on sanctions affecting Russia's energy sector, and Narendra Taneja, Chairman of the Independent Energy Policy Institute, offering a glimpse into India's energy strategy. They explore the ramifications of the latest US and EU sanctions on Russian oil giants like Rosneft and Lukoil. Kalmykov details how Russia is adapting, while Taneja discusses India's approach amidst potential shifts in global energy demand, specifically addressing consumer price impacts and China's strategic economic goals.
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Oct 22, 2025 • 26min

Starlink cuts services to Myanmar scam camps

In this discussion, George Conboy, Chairman of Brighton Securities, and Kerry Bingham, Director at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, dive into serious international issues. They talk about Elon Musk's Starlink cutting off services to scam compounds in Myanmar and its broader implications. Additionally, Conboy analyzes investor sentiments regarding Argentina's potential currency devaluation linked to a $40 billion US bailout. The conversation wraps with insights on the UAE's strategic pivot to U.S. AI partnerships over China.
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Oct 22, 2025 • 9min

What's the beef with Beyond Meat?

Retail traders are stirring up excitement by boosting Beyond Meat's stock, but will it lead to sustainable profits? The podcast dives into the trading strategies behind this meme stock phenomenon and the motivations of those investing. Meanwhile, a cyber attack on Jaguar Land Rover raises concerns over estimated costs, and scandalous uses of Starlink devices in Myanmar are uncovered. Plus, the latest insights on Netflix's fluctuating shares and the pop culture impact of viral dolls add to the lively discussion.
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Oct 21, 2025 • 27min

Is Warner Brothers Discovery for sale?

Warner Brothers Discovery is contemplating a sale after receiving multiple unsolicited offers. The discussion dives into the implications of media consolidation, including its potential impact on consumer choice and prices. In political news, a unique mayoral candidate in NYC could transform the city's financial landscape. Meanwhile, the podcast explores the rising demand for pistachios, fueled by a viral chocolate trend, and delves into water usage and tariff issues. Additionally, the challenges surrounding a notorious jewellery heist from the Louvre are examined.

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