ABC News Daily

Giles Parkinson, founder and editor of Renew Economy and The Driven, dives into the shifting dynamics of the electric vehicle market. He discusses how Jeff Bezos’s Slate, an affordable electric ute, could shake up the competition amid Tesla's declining sales. With 150,000 pre-orders, the innovative design and customizable features of Slate are revolutionary. Parkinson also explores the growing demand for electric utes in Australia, shaped by cultural preferences and government policies, hinting at a major shift in consumer attitudes toward EVs.

Ian Verrender, ABC's chief business correspondent, dives into the economic landscape with fascinating insights. He discusses the recent drop in interest rates and whether we've truly achieved a 'soft landing' after the pandemic. Verrender highlights how Donald Trump's global influence could disrupt these positive trends. The conversation also tackles the implications of interest rate cuts on households and employment, as well as the ongoing challenges posed by tariffs and inflation in the wake of Trump's policies.

Jacob Greber, ABC's chief digital political correspondent, dives into the explosive split between the Liberal and National parties following a devastating election loss. He unpacks the historical context of their coalition and highlights key policy disagreements like nuclear power. Greber also discusses the internal power struggles and how these changes could reshape Australian politics. With shifting alliances on issues such as renewable energy, the future landscape poses intriguing challenges for both parties.

Bruce Wolpe, a senior fellow at the United States Studies Centre, dives into Joe Biden's aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis and its potential cover-up by the White House. They discuss the implications of Biden's health on his political career and how it could have influenced historical events. Wolpe also reflects on Biden's electoral past against Donald Trump and the challenges facing the Democratic Party as they approach the 2024 elections, shedding light on the broader questions of health scrutiny and political accountability.

Jessica van Vonderen, an ABC News Queensland presenter, discusses the tragic case of Emma Lovell, whose murder by a teenager reignited calls for stricter youth crime laws. She explains how Queensland became the first state to adopt 'Adult Crime, Adult Time' legislation, allowing juveniles charged with serious crimes to face adult penalties. The conversation highlights the rising youth crime crisis, public outcry for accountability, and the potential for other states to follow Queensland’s lead in enacting similar laws.

Cassie Abel, Founder and CEO of Wild Rye, shares her firsthand experiences navigating the turbulence of Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods. She discusses the emotional and financial challenges faced by her women's outdoor apparel brand amidst shifting trade relations. Cassie highlights the costs of U.S. manufacturing and her shift to Chinese factories, emphasizing the need for strong partnerships. The conversation also critiques current tariff policies and the unpredictability they create for businesses, suggesting collaboration over competition for better outcomes.

Hussein Ibish, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, analyzes Donald Trump's recent Middle East tour, revealing its true focus on economic interests rather than peace. He discusses Trump’s acquisition of a luxury 747 from Qatar and substantial investment deals with Saudi Arabia. The conversation highlights the lack of dialogue about Gaza and the strains in U.S.-Israel relations amid escalating conflicts. Ibish further critiques the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the dire shortages exacerbated by ongoing tensions.

Sarah Ferguson, host of ABC TV's 7.30, dives into the challenges facing the newly appointed Liberal leader, Sussan Ley, as she seeks to revive the party after a significant election loss. They discuss the historical significance of having a female leader in the Coalition and the pressing need for policy renewal. The conversation also touches on the controversial future of nuclear energy in Australia's political landscape and Labor's internal power struggles following their recent victory.

Aparna Pande, a leading expert on India-Pakistan relations at the Hudson Institute, dives into the fraught dynamics between the two nuclear powers. She discusses the recent flare-ups in Kashmir, the historical roots of their enduring conflict, and highlights significant events, like the Pahlagam terror attack. Pande also sheds light on their contrasting nuclear policies, particularly India's no first use stance, and emphasizes the critical need for renewed diplomacy to ensure long-term peace in the region.

Angus Grigg, a Four Corners reporter, dives deep into Bunnings' market dominance. He reveals how Bunnings skillfully blends community ties with aggressive pricing strategies, making it a beloved choice among DIYers. The discussion highlights how smaller competitors struggle under Bunnings' shadow while showcasing the emotional journey of a worm farming couple betrayed by lost contracts. Grigg questions the supermarket-level scrutiny of Bunnings, pointing to potential gaps in oversight and the implications for suppliers and consumers alike.