Big Take Asia

Saritha Rai, a Bloomberg journalist specializing in AI in Asia, sheds light on the enigmatic Liang Wenfeng, founder of DeepSeek. They discuss how his reclusive nature contrasts with the ambitious AI advancements of his company. The conversation reveals DeepSeek's innovative R1 model and its implications for global tech competition, particularly between China and the U.S. They also delve into how export restrictions impact AI development and the challenges DeepSeek faces amidst fierce competition. A captivating look into the future of AI.

In this insightful discussion, Dan Flatley, a Bloomberg Treasury reporter, unpacks the recent US-China trade negotiations. He highlights a stunning reduction in tariffs and what it means for the global economy. Flatley dives into the factors fueling the new cordiality in talks and the cautious optimism it brings to Wall Street. The conversation also touches on the importance of ongoing dialogue amid political pressures and anticipates the potential challenges once the 90-day reprieve expires. Will this ‘total reset’ hold, or is uncertainty ahead?

Dan Strumpf, a Bloomberg senior reporter based in New Delhi, dives into the recent intensifying conflict between India and Pakistan. He discusses the unprecedented military confrontations and the sudden ceasefire triggered by Donald Trump. Strumpf sheds light on the historical context of the Kashmir dispute, the nuclear threats involved, and the roles of the U.S. and China in mediation efforts. His insights illuminate the complexities of regional stability and the delicate nature of diplomacy between these two nations.

David Ramli, a Bloomberg investing reporter based in Singapore, dives into the shocking downfall of Gibran Huzaifah’s fish-feeding startup, eFishery. Ramli details how financial desperation led Gibran to fabricate numbers, initially attracting massive investments but ultimately resulting in a $300 million wipeout. The discussion highlights the risks of venture capital, the ethical dilemmas faced by entrepreneurs, and the broader implications of deceitful practices within startup culture. Transparency emerges as a vital necessity in business.

Alice Kempton, an Australian woman on a quest for motherhood, shares her heartfelt journey through the complex world of egg donation and IVF. She reveals the emotional toll of infertility, the pressures of repeated miscarriages, and the financial strains they faced. The couple sought donors abroad, highlighting the quest for transparency and connection with their chosen donor. Their story unfolds with gut-wrenching setbacks but ultimately culminates in the joyful birth of their son, Rupert, emphasizing hope and the intricacies of family creation.

Vernon Silver, an investigative reporter at Bloomberg, dives into the murky waters of the human egg trade, having traveled to Greece to uncover shocking truths. He discusses a scandal where a fertility clinic allegedly stole eggs from 75 women, sparking ethical concerns and global repercussions. The podcast addresses Greece's dual role as a fertility tourism hub, highlighting both its appealing costs and significant ethical dilemmas. Silver elaborates on the vulnerabilities within the largely unregulated industry, emphasizing the critical importance of trust.

Natalie Obiko Pearson, an investigative reporter for Bloomberg and former India correspondent, sheds light on the harrowing world of the human egg trade. This gripping discussion reveals the shocking exploitation of vulnerable individuals, particularly young girls drawn into the trade by economic pressures. Pearson explores the booming fertility industry in India, unearthing ethical dilemmas and dark stories of manipulation. The podcast emphasizes the urgent need for accountability in an unregulated, global market that commodifies women's bodies.

Shuli Ren, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and expert on Chinese markets, discusses the impressive rise of Pop Mart, a toy company capturing global attention with its Labubu dolls and blind box collectibles. She highlights how celebrity endorsements, particularly from K-pop star Lisa, fuel demand. The conversation also delves into Pop Mart's innovative strategies, its resilience amid economic challenges, and how it inspires other Chinese brands to navigate international markets. This is a fascinating look at how a toy company is impacting China's economy.

As the trade war between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping continues to escalate, economists around the world are asking who will blink first. On this episode of the Big Take podcast, Bloomberg’s John Liu and Jennifer Welch join host David Gura to discuss what it will take for both presidents to come to the negotiating table, how the current state of China’s economy impacts its positioning in the trade war and why hardball tactics are unlikely to work this time around.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dexter Low, a Bloomberg real estate reporter, delves into the dramatic feud within Singapore's Kwek family, owners of a major developer. The discussion reveals how a lawsuit filed by the family patriarch against his son has rocked the image of this once-stable dynasty. They explore the fallout for investors amid internal conflicts and risky business decisions, shedding light on the complex dynamics that can challenge family-run enterprises in Asia. The conversation also touches on the broader implications for investor confidence and wealth management in such turbulent environments.