World Business Report

Archana Shukla, a journalist focused on India's cybersecurity initiatives, raises concerns about the government's mandatory tracking app for mobile phones. Daniel Rosney, a business reporter, delves into the evolving significance of music videos in the streaming era and their impact on marketing. Tui Gray, a passionate Tamagotchi enthusiast, shares the toy's nostalgic charm and recent resurgence in Japan, highlighting its social appeal and connection during times of loneliness.

In this captivating discussion, Guy Delany, a BBC correspondent with firsthand insights into energy issues, examines the impact of sanctions driving Serbia's only oil refinery to shut down. He delves into the country's heavy reliance on this refinery and the potential for economic fallout. Meanwhile, Ross Benes, a senior analyst at eMarketer, shares his expertise on Netflix's ambitious bid for Warner Bros Discovery assets, exploring the strategic significance behind the deal. An unexpected mention of a rare Fabergé egg auction adds a touch of glamour to the conversation.

Susan Spence, Chair of the Institute for Supply Management, highlights alarming trends in US manufacturing, with nine months of contraction driven by tariffs. Peter Jankovskis warns that while consumer spending surged on Cyber Monday, it might hurt future spending. Vivek Pandya dives into online shopping trends, revealing popular purchases ranging from tech to home goods. Guy Delaunay reports on Serbia's looming fuel crisis due to US sanctions affecting their key refinery. Together, they paint a vivid picture of an economy in tension.

Zelina Zeng, Head of Asia Strategy at a credit research firm, discusses the implications of a significant data breach affecting nearly 34 million customers at South Korea's Coupang. She explores the unexpected contraction in China's factory activity and the factors behind weak industrial demand, like government subsidies. Zeng casts doubt on the potential impact of subsidies to enhance domestic consumption. The podcast also touches on India's mandate for a non-deletable cybersecurity app preloaded on smartphones, showcasing worldwide cybersecurity concerns.

Theo Liggett, an international business correspondent, and Scott Hamilton, an aviation consultant, delve into the implications of Airbus's urgent software fixes. Beatrix Klein, director at the CAR Centre, discusses Germany’s plea to delay the EU's combustion engine ban amid EV adoption challenges. George Conboy shares insights on market reactions and consumer spending amidst economic uncertainties. Finally, Michelle Meyer highlights shifting Black Friday consumer behaviors influenced by inflation and tech, while Michelle Fleury reports on the unprecedented low seasonal hiring in U.S. retail.

Join Arunaday Mukherjee, an insightful India business correspondent, and Michelle Fleury, BBC's North America business correspondent, as they delve into India's impressive 8.2% GDP growth sparked by robust consumption. Arunaday highlights the optimism in Indian businesses despite trade challenges, while Michelle reveals shocking trends in US retail with record low seasonal hiring. Discover how consumer behavior shifts as the holiday season approaches. Tune in for a fascinating look at global economic dynamics!

In this discussion, fire engineer Ross Timpson highlights safety measures for tall buildings, emphasizing the risks of bamboo scaffolding and the need for better fire management. Guillermo Moreno covers how the deterioration of US-Venezuela relations is disrupting airline operations. Bill Blaine provides insight into JP Morgan's London HQ and recent corporate reputational challenges, while Jane Dougal exposes the thriving counterfeit Premier League shirt market and its ties to organized crime.

Asahi's cyberattack raises concerns over data risks and the company's financial disclosures. An expert discusses how language barriers and AI threats exacerbated the impact. Meanwhile, Venezuela's ban on six international airlines creates a stir in global travel, while a surprising tariff deal between Switzerland and the U.S. faces backlash. Additionally, insights emerge on Japan's evolving market sentiment and a legal challenge by teenagers regarding social media regulations in Australia. Tune in for a fascinating dive into these critical global issues!

David Aikman, Director at NIESR, and Paola Subacchi, Chair in sovereign debt at Sciences Po, discuss the UK budget's implications on global debt challenges. Aikman places the UK’s rising debt within a G7 context, emphasizing shifting fiscal priorities amidst higher interest rates. Subacchi contrasts productive borrowing with reckless spending, calling for policy reforms. They also explore how the post-Covid landscape complicates debt management for advanced economies, revealing the complex interplay between fiscal decisions and economic stability.

In this discussion, Andrew Verity, a BBC economics correspondent, shares insights on the UK's £2.6 trillion debt and the recent £34 billion tax increases aimed at reducing it. He analyzes who will gain and lose from these tax changes, particularly pensioners and energy bill payers. Ross Mould, a market commentator from AJ Bell, explores market reactions, emphasizing how investors are responding positively to fiscal credibility. They also explore Australia's legal battle over social media use for teens and Iran's unusual fuel pricing changes.