Bloomberg Businessweek

Microsoft's cloud business soared with a surprising 39% sales increase, fueled by record AI infrastructure spending. Meanwhile, Meta's strong earnings exceeded expectations, leading to a surge in its stock value. The discussion revolves around the potential of AI to reshape advertising strategies and drive growth for both tech giants. Insights into the competitive landscape of big tech reveal how these companies are navigating challenges and leveraging AI for future success. Investors are reacting positively, reflecting confidence in the tech industry's direction.

Pascal Soriot, CEO of AstraZeneca and former CEO of Genentech, shares insights on his company's remarkable performance driven by cancer drugs. He discusses the 12% revenue rise to $14.5 billion, fueled by a focus on the U.S. market. Soriot delves into the landscape of pharmaceutical manufacturing in the U.S. and the importance of strategic investments for innovation. He reflects on leadership in the industry and AstraZeneca's commitment to advancing cancer treatments and other medical breakthroughs.

Joining the discussion are Oliver Crook, Bloomberg News Europe Correspondent, who shares insights on the latest U.S.-China tariff negotiations, and Brooke Sutherland, Boston Bureau Chief with a keen eye on industry trends. Kabir Nath, CEO of Compass Pathways, discusses the groundbreaking potential of synthetic psilocybin for treating depression. They dive into U.S.-China trade dynamics, the strategic interests at play, and the promising future of psychedelic therapy, highlighting both economic and mental health impacts.

Rick Welts, CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and a Basketball Hall of Fame executive, dives into the exciting new era with top draft pick Cooper Flagg. He discusses the Mavericks' strategy to rejuvenate fan engagement and community trust, particularly after the controversial Luka Doncic trade. Welts also shares plans for a new arena and explores the evolving landscape of basketball media and gambling legislation. Excitement builds around Flagg's entry as the team aims for resurgence, set against the backdrop of a changing NBA.

Nancy Lazar, Chief Economist at Piper Sandler, shares insights on the global economic outlook and the impacts of recent trade agreements. Andrew Bishop discusses U.S.-China trade dynamics, emphasizing China's leverage amid domestic pressures. Ethan Bronner, Bloomberg News Israel Bureau Chief, delves into the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and President Trump's food aid initiative. Finally, Andrejka Bernatova, CEO of Dynamix, elaborates on her firm's merger with The Ether Reserve, highlighting its innovative potential in the digital asset landscape.

Rob Kaplan, Vice Chairman of Goldman Sachs and former President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, dives into the intriguing dynamics of White House pressure on the Federal Reserve. He discusses Trump's recent visit to the Fed, highlighting its implications for monetary policy and the central bank’s autonomy. Kaplan analyzes the U.S. economic landscape, marked by sluggish growth yet solid fundamentals, and emphasizes the need for a careful balance between political influence and economic decision-making.

Laura Martin, a senior analyst at Needham & Company, provides insights on Alphabet's latest quarterly sales, discussing competition in the AI arena. Ross Gerber, CEO of Gerber Kawasaki, shares his mixed feelings on Elon Musk's management at Tesla. Max Chafkin unpacks the challenges facing Musk's empire. Thomas Carroll explores opportunities in the multifamily real estate and solar development sectors. Daniela Satori highlights Starbucks' turnaround efforts, while Kate Crater dives into the rise of YouTube chefs and how CEOs optimize their sleep routines.

Mike McKee, an expert in international economics and policy, joins Christina Padgett from Moody's and Google Cloud's COO Francis deSouza. They dive into the upcoming trade deal discussions between the EU and the U.S., exploring tariffs and their potential impact on inflation and manufacturing. The conversation also touches on the shifting relationship between the government and the Federal Reserve, the influence of AI on business growth, and the challenges of financial leverage in today's economy, highlighting how technology is reshaping industries.

Jennifer Ewbank, former CIA Deputy Director for Digital Innovation and founder of Andaman Strategic Advisors, discusses alarming cybersecurity threats. She highlights a recent ransomware attack linked to a Chinese hacking group exploiting Microsoft SharePoint vulnerabilities, affecting hundreds of organizations. The conversation delves into the implications for national security and U.S.-China cyber relations, revealing the evolving landscape of digital warfare. Ewbank also shares vital tips on preventing ransomware, emphasizing proactive security measures and timely updates.

Tensions rise as Donald Trump and Jerome Powell clash during a tour of the Federal Reserve's renovation, with Trump pushing for lower interest rates. The discussion reveals differing economic policies, highlighted by Trump's critique of costly overruns. Expert commentary uncovers the subtle dynamics between the White House and the Fed, and the unique pressures faced by Powell under intense presidential scrutiny. Amid playful jabs and serious implications, the conversation explores the delicate balance of power in monetary policy.