Marketplace Morning Report

Darshini David, the BBC's Deputy Economics Editor, and Michelle Fleury, North America business correspondent, dive into the turbulent global economy facing 2026. They discuss how unexpected U.S. tariffs have disrupted global trade and predict their effects will become evident this year. Michelle highlights the AI-driven 'K-shaped' recovery, illustrating stark economic divides in the U.S. They also explore the risks associated with massive AI investments amid fears of a potential market bubble.

Nancy Marshall-Genzer, a health policy journalist, discusses the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies leading to drastic premium hikes for millions. Premiums may soar from $888 to $1,900, with middle-income families facing the steepest increases. This financial strain could push healthier individuals to drop coverage, exacerbating the issue. Additionally, there's a glance at the 2025 generative AI boom, highlighting the growing concerns over trust and copyright issues in the media landscape.

Stephen Roach, a numismatist from the American Numismatic Association, dives deep into the fascinating world of the penny. He discusses the historical significance of the Coinage Act of 1792 and how minting technology has evolved over the centuries. Roach reveals that it currently costs 3.4 cents to produce a single penny, yet the coin is still suspended, not demonetized. Interestingly, despite the U.S. Mint halting production, he predicts the penny will linger in circulation for decades, much to the delight of collectors who are paying top dollar for the last minted coins.

Will Chalk, a journalist specializing in AI developments, dives into the impactful strike by app-based delivery workers in India, demanding fair wages and safer working conditions as New Year's Eve approaches. He also discusses a British company's exciting progress toward manufacturing materials in space. The conversation shifts to the tumultuous landscape of AI in 2025, highlighting trust issues, censorship debates, and the creative potential of AI in music production, touching on copyright controversies and the evolving relationship between artists and technology.

Amy Scott, a Marketplace reporter specializing in housing market insights, dives into the sluggish 2025 housing market. She discusses how, despite lower mortgage rates, affordability remains a hurdle, keeping potential sellers from entering the market. Excitingly, forecasts hint at a modest pickup in sales for 2026, but there are uncertainties surrounding job stability, inflation, and tariffs that could impact this outlook. Additionally, the podcast touches on the recent cyberattack on Jaguar Land Rover, highlighting vulnerabilities in the global auto supply chain.

Nancy Marshall-Genzer, a veteran Marketplace reporter on international affairs, discusses the Trump administration's $2 billion pledge to the U.N. but highlights a demand for bureaucratic reforms. Henry Epp dives into the resurgence of IPOs in 2025, drawing insights from industry experts on upcoming public offerings. Zachary Turner covers the looming expiration of federal solar tax credits, sharing installer worries about future demand and potential local programs that could sustain their business amidst these challenges.

In Tehran, shopkeepers are protesting against soaring inflation over 40% and a rapidly devaluing currency. This economic turmoil is leading to widespread public dissent and government changes. Meanwhile, a cyberattack on Jaguar Land Rover has exposed vulnerabilities in the global auto supply chain, causing significant production halts. South Korea is cracking down on unfair business practices to protect small enterprises affected by the economic pressures. Experts discuss how interconnected global markets make economies susceptible to such disruptions.

Julia Coronado, founder of Macro Policy Perspectives and an expert in macroeconomic analysis, discusses the divisions within the Federal Reserve and their implications on future monetary policy. Caroline Ballard shares her on-location reporting from Salt Lake City, where a community 'Free Blockbuster' initiative has sparked nostalgia and joy, while consumers reconsider streaming costs. They explore how this new model encourages sharing and community engagement, alongside insights on changing media habits and the impact of rising expenses on consumer choices.

Stephen Juno, a Senior Economist at Bank of America, dives into the economic forecast for 2026. He highlights reasons for continued U.S. economic growth, driven by AI and fiscal support. Juno addresses inflation concerns, discussing how tariffs and labor supply impact job growth. He also speculates on the implications of potential Supreme Court rulings on tariffs, which could alter economic dynamics. Plus, the rise in adjustable-rate mortgage applications reveals shifting borrower strategies in today's economy.

Archana Shukla and Joe Tidy, on-the-ground BBC reporters, delve into a massive data breach that affected Coupang, South Korea's leading e-commerce platform, impacting two-thirds of the population. Shukla reveals a shocking compensation deal of $1.18 billion for customers. They discuss the breach's delayed detection, suspicions of insider involvement, and the wider context of cyberattacks in 2025. Tidy highlights the rise of teenage hacking culture and stresses the urgent need for companies to bolster their defenses against social engineering threats.