FEAR & GREED | Business News

Amid rising trade tensions, investors are flocking to gold and silver as safe havens. The government and opposition are collaborating on urgent hate speech legislation following a tragic event. Airlines are blaming airports for skyrocketing airfares while calling for regulatory reforms. Australia now boasts 48 billionaires, sparking discussions on wealth inequality and Oxfam's proposed tax on the wealthy. In sports, the Australian Open raises concerns about college rules affecting player prize money.

Dr. Charles Miller, a Senior Lecturer at the ANU School of Politics and International Relations, dives into the impacts of Donald Trump's second presidency. He evaluates Trump's mixed legacy, cautioning against attributing stock market highs to him while discussing the complexities of U.S.-Venezuela relations. Miller highlights Trump's Jacksonian foreign policy approach and the unpredictability of his decisions. He also expresses concerns over tariffs and national security risks, asserting that allies are hesitant to break from the U.S. despite challenges.

The ASX experiences a dip as fears of a trade war escalate, with safe-haven assets gaining traction. In political news, support for One Nation surges, overtaking the coalition in polling. The government's housing targets face a cost blowout, raising doubts about their feasibility. Meanwhile, the UK is considering a social media ban for under-16s, reflecting increasing regulatory scrutiny. Additionally, ChatGPT is set to display ads in the US, steering clear of sensitive topics. Tune in for these intriguing developments!

The podcast dives into Trump's controversial tariffs tied to Greenland, sparking reactions from European allies. It highlights the shifting political landscape in Australia, particularly the shelving of racial vilification legislation. Cancer recovery rates are on the rise, showcasing remarkable progress in treatment. Additionally, insights into surging tourism and migration trends offer a glimpse into Australia's recovery, all while the Australian Open gears up with exciting prizes and attendance expectations.

Join economist Stephen Koukoulas, known as 'The Kook' for his insightful commentary on macroeconomic trends, as he dives into the complexities of today’s economy. He explains the impactful distortions of Black Friday on inflation data and discusses the rise in household spending linked to improved cash flow. Koukoulas also highlights what businesses should monitor in 2026, urging them to focus on economic activity and consumer confidence rather than inflation fears. Finally, he unpacks the current state of the housing market and its limited downside risks.

Dylan O'Brien, a luxury travel expert at Luxury Escapes, discusses the evolution of luxury travel beyond just top-tier hotels. He emphasizes that in 2026, luxury is defined by unique experiences, exceptional service, and wellness offerings. The Maldives shines with its overwater villas and premium amenities, while Australia’s Central Coast offers accessible luxury. Dylan also shares how partnerships make luxurious vacations more affordable for everyday Australians, naming the Grand Hyatt Bali as a top recommendation for all-inclusive pampering.

Simon Kuestenmacher, co-founder of The Demographics Group, dives into Gen X's quest for work-life balance. He explores how the generation's upbringing influenced their values and obsession with reduced work hours. Surprising findings from global trials show productivity can stay stable or even improve with a four-day work week. Simon also highlights the potential for increased employee well-being and how organizations could attract talent during labor shortages. However, he cautions against the challenges faced in sectors needing constant coverage.

Lachlan Halloway, an equity market strategist at Morningstar, dives deep into the world of dividend investing. He discusses why franking credits make dividends attractive for Australian investors and examines the current ASX yields in comparison to historical data. Lachlan emphasizes the importance of sustainable dividends over simply chasing high yields from last year. He shares criteria for picking quality stocks, highlighting companies like BHP and AGL, while advocating for stability in income over aggressive growth.

The federal Opposition and Greens push back against controversial hate speech legislation. Air traffic chaos ensues due to a shortage of controllers, prompting discussions on AI's potential role in the sector. Meanwhile, households report increased spending, with a notable 15-month streak of growth. In Hollywood, Zoe Saldana makes history as the highest-grossing actor of all time, raking in $15.5 billion thanks to her blockbuster roles. Plus, NASA conducts its first medical evacuation from the ISS, showcasing rapid advancements in space travel.

Luci Ellis, Chief Economist at Westpac, dives into the intricate dynamics of global trade and macroeconomic forces, particularly the impact of the US and China on Australia. She reveals the underappreciated $9 billion success of Australia's software licensing exports, which are set to skyrocket by 2025. Luci emphasizes the need for Australia to diversify beyond iron ore, focusing on services and critical minerals as future growth areas. It's an enlightening discussion on navigating new economic landscapes!