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World Business Report Podcast

English, Economic, 1 season, 792 episodes, 18 hours, 47 minutes
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The latest business and finance news from around the world from the BBC
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OpenAI value almost doubles to $157bn

OpenAI's value surges to $157bn in funding deal where the maker of ChatGPT raised $6.6bn from a pool of investors that include Microsoft. We also hear from North Carolina, where damages caused by hurricane Helene could have serious implications for the tech-industry. And we take a look at the effect that the latest conflict in the Middle East is having on Israel’s economy.
10/2/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Iran launches ballistic missiles at Israel

The attacks come after Israeli troops invaded Lebanon, in a ground operation against Hezbollah. Thousands have crossed from Lebanon to Syria seeking shelter. What could this mean for these countries whose economies are already struggling? Plus, Canada’s international trade minister talks about fears of ending up in a trade war with China.
10/1/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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US dockworkers go on strike

Tens of thousands of dock workers in the US walk out in a dispute over pay and automation. Will Bain hears from our North America business correspondent Michelle Fleury, who's at the port of Newark. We also hear how the dispute could affect global supply chains, and the CEO of one of the world's biggest warehouse firms, Prologis, on how it could affect them. In the Middle East, the Israeli military has been carrying out what it describes as limited, localised raids against Hezbollah across its border with Lebanon. We hear from a Lebanese economist on how the Middle East's economy is likely to react, and hear about a jump in oil prices following the US' announcement that there are signs that Iran is preparing to launch an imminent missile attack against Israel. Plus we're in Paris to find out about the city's fashion week - and the luxury market's challenges with declining sales.
10/1/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Strike poised to shut down major US ports

US ports brace for shut down as dockworkers strike is set to halt container traffic along the east and gulf coasts. We get the latest. The markets haven't welcome the arrival of Japan's new Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba. We find out why. And we take a look at the 10-billion merger of the last two remaining satellite TV providers in the US.
9/30/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Japanese stocks fall after new PM calls snap election

Japan’s new PM has called an early election. Roger Hearing hears how the markets reacted to the surprise win of Shigeru Ishiba in the race to become president of the Liberal Democratic Party. The auto company Stellantis which owns Aston Martin, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat and Jeep has become the latest European car manufacturer to issue a profit warning And global rice prices have been falling on Monday, following India's recent decision to resume exports.
9/30/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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US imposes tariffs on Chinese goods

From today, a range of Chinese goods entering the US will have to pay steeps tariffs. The Biden administration has imposed a 50% duty on solar cells and 25% on steel, aluminium, EV batteries and key minerals. There is a 100% duty on electric vehicles to protect the American auto industry. So, can the American auto companies fill the gap by making affordable electric cars?Meanwhile, there is trouble is brewing in the US East coast. Ten of the busiest North American ports are at risk of shutdown next week due to a union strike. And the international gold price recently soared to record highs. How long will the gold boom last?
9/27/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Is a trade war brewing between China and the US?

Is another trade war brewing between the world's two biggest economies? The United States has just increased the level of border taxes - tariffs - on electric vehicles as well as on solar panels and batteries from China. Beijing has vowed to respond. Rob Young looks at the reasons behind the move.Also, Japan has suffered what's often called three lost economic decades. Well, it's about to get a new prime minister. So, what's his plan for the world's fourth biggest economy?And we look at the workers being fooled by artificial intelligence clones of their boss. Would you be able to tell the difference?
9/27/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Japan’s hotly-contested leadership election

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party will choose its new leader on Friday, after Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s surprise announcement that he’s stepping down. But what do we know about those vying to take over from him? And how will a new leader effect the economy?Meanwhile, in Spain, union groups have taken to the street in support of a law that would shorten the workday. Unions gathered around the country to put pressure on the national employer’s confederation to back the law, which would reduce the working week to 37.5 hours. And, you might have thought Elon Musk would be a prime candidate to be invited to the British government's inaugural International Investment Summit attracting investment to the UK. But the BBC understands he has - very purposefully - not been invited.
9/26/202426 minutes, 38 seconds
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Will China’s economic slowdown affect outside investment?

Devina Gupta looks at how China's slowing economy is helping some countries…Also, from cooling economies to cooling appliances that are becoming dangerous for our planet we look at the latest UN report and find out how a business in India is using solar energy to run a cold storage unit.And - South Korea's plan to make dog meat farmers move away from their profession.
9/26/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Pakistan’s IMF bailout package

Pakistan looks ahead to an anticipated $7bn IMF package as the country emerges from one of its worst economic crises since independence. Now, the government has amped up its efforts to raise nearly $46bn in taxes for the year - we hear from the former governor of the country’s state bank about what needs to happen next.Meanwhile, in the US, the main presidential candidates are setting out their vision for the economy. Donald Trump currently has a 6% poll lead over Kamala Harris on the economy, but she’s been making gains. And, US plane maker Boeing faces more turbulence after a warning from the safety regulator, which has told US politicians that they won't let the company boost production until it addresses a series of issues. We hear from a former Boeing employee about his concerns, and how he expects the current struggle between the company and workers to play out.
9/25/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Is an IMF bailout ever enough?

We hear from a doctor in Pakistan who says he sees parents who do not have enough money to take their dead children home, highlighting the growing and devastating pressures poor families face as rising costs leave them unable to afford basic medication. Devina Gupta finds out if an IMF bailout package can help the country’s health care system.Also, what does an IMF bailout look like for Bangladesh?And in Ghana where an IMF bailout may have slowed inflation, food prices are still rising, we find out why…
9/25/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Is China’s central bank doing enough to revive its economy?

New stimulus measures are being introduced by China’s central bank to reduce interest rates on existing mortgages. Devina Gupta speaks to lead economist Betty Wang.Also, is fashion giant Shein benefiting from tax loopholes in the UK? The boss of a popular clothing chain Superdry thinks so, we find out more…And - Singapore sees the biggest corruption scandal in its recent history, we look at why this conviction has had a huge global interest.
9/24/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Sri Lanka elections: A change for the better?

We are heading to Sri Lanka which has a new president but long-standing economic problems – Devina Gupta speaks to the country's former finance minister Eraan Wickramaratne.Also, with the growing transmission of Mpox in Africa, businesses are having to consider how they can manage to continue operations, we find out more…Plus, could strikes at a Samsung factory in India cause supply problems as we head into the festive season?
9/23/202426 minutes, 21 seconds
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What next for Lebanon?

Tensions continue to rise in Lebanon and there is growing fear of escalating conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. Over the past decade Lebanon’s economy has shrunk dramatically, the currency has collapsed, and prices have skyrocketed. Many are living under fear and uncertainty. We hear from Lebanon's business community on how they are coping in the current climate.Elsewhere, in Kenya a court has ruled that Facebook's parent company Meta can be sued over the dismissal of content moderators. These workers say they were fired for trying to form a union and that they were blacklisted from new jobs when Meta changed contractors. And Leanna Byrne looks at the strike by Boeing production workers, which has already racked up over half a billion dollars in losses.
9/20/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Can a new CEO make Nike cool again?

The boss of the world's largest sportswear maker, Nike, is to step down as the company's market share falls and rivals produce more innovative footwear.Also in Lebanon, the country's economy minister says the situation is escalating by the hour. Lebanon had already endured one of the worst financial meltdowns in history. Rob Young hears from the minister, a business owner and get a briefing on the state of the country's economy amid a slide towards -- what many fear will be -- an all-out war.And we look at why tensions have resurfaced between China and Japan, Asia's biggest economies.
9/20/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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The view from Beirut as tensions soar

Under the shadow of conflict is normal life possible in Lebanon? The country has had a major economic crisis for almost a decade, and there is growing fear of escalating conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. We hear from Lebanon's business community on the challenges of working under the shadow of increasing violence.Also, in the programme, Roger Hearing looks at the ongoing legal dispute between Brazil and the social media platform X. The company, which has more than 22 million users in Brazil, has appointed a new lawyer who has told the BBC that the company has decided to comply with all the court orders. Elsewhere, the sportswear brand Nike has just announced its CEO John Donahoe will retire next month and will be replaced by Elliott Hill, a veteran former Nike executive.
9/19/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Flooding in Europe: mounting pressure for more funding

“There’s no playground, no place to play football, and no wedding venue anymore. It’s all been washed away,” the words of a hotel owner just south of Wrocław, in Poland, hit by the worst floods in 25 years. You’ll be hearing more about her story…Also, in today’s tech-focused episode Sam Fenwick will be discussing the United Nations’ call for stronger regulation of artificial intelligence.You'll hear a special report on who tech titans might be backing in the US election. And how have global investors reacted to the big interest rate cut in the United States?
9/19/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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US Federal Reserve cuts interest rates for the first time in four years

The US Federal Reserve has slashed interest rates by half a point, the first reduction in more than four years. We talk to experts and businesses about the impact this will have in the economy.A second wave of blasts have taken place in Lebanon, leaving at least 14 dead and more than 450 injured. We hear more about the exploding devices and their origins.And reports of X being available again for users in Brazil have emerged weeks after the social platform was temporarily banned by a judge in the country. We look into what is happening.
9/18/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Are consumers still feeling the pinch?

Over the past four years, consumer prices worldwide have been on the rise. In the United States, inflation soared to 9.1% in June 2022, marking its highest rate since November 1981. Similarly, advanced economies have faced significant inflationary pressures. Later today, the US central bank, the Federal Reserve, will announce its latest decision on interest rates and is expected to cut rates for the first time in more than four years. Elsewhere, the UK has announced inflation figures of 2.2%, but are consumers feeling any better off? Presenter Sam Fenwick examines if businesses have also been struggling with higher prices for energy and raw materials along with increased wages.
9/18/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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How far will the Federal Reserve cut interest rates?

The US Federal Reserve is likely to cut interests rates tomorrow. We discuss the implications with experts in the United States. And why the Indian Supreme Court is stepping into the row about female doctors' safety at the Kolkata Hospital where a young medic was raped and murdered on her rest break. And on the ground in Sri Lanka ahead of this weekend's election, we hear how the country's slow recovery from economic turmoil will be an important factor in the vote.
9/17/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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More funding needed for malnutrition crisis

Bill Gates has told the BBC that governments need to do more to help those living in extreme poverty. Since the pandemic many have cut their aid budgets. A report from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation warns that 40 million additional children will suffer from hunger in the coming years because of climate change and a drop in aid in Africa from nearly 40% of the global total in 2010 to just 25%.Elsewhere, Thailand’s new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced a $13.5 billion cash handout programme for low-income earners and vulnerable groups that will start next week, and will hopefully give the economy a boost. And twenty-four hour party people. How will Montreal's economy benefit from extending their drinking hours?
9/17/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Tik Tok's day in court

Tik Tok takes to the courts to fight the US Government's ultimatum to get rid of its Chinese parent company and more troubles for strike-bound Boeing; the Seattle aviation giant is cutting back on spending and may furlough white-collar staff. Also, in West Bengal, why people celebrating the state's most popular festival may not be able to enjoy their traditional fish treat
9/16/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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What to expect from the Pakistan economy?

Pakistan authorities have been trying to find the best way to achieve the IMF deal, bring down the inflation and safe the country from the default, but could things be about to improve? Also, we find out how China can produce affordable EVs for under $20,000 and why Elon Musk's social media company "X" moving to Texas?
9/13/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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China to raise retirement age as population ages and pension woes mount

China is set to gradually raise its retirement age for the first time in decades, as the nation grapples with an ageing population and a shrinking pension fund. Under the new plan, men will retire at 63 instead of 60, while most women will work until 58, up from 55.Plus, it's a challenging period for aircraft manufacturer Boeing, as workers have overwhelmingly voted to strike over a contract and pay dispute.And Kenya's president William Ruto is in Germany to sign a labour agreement that will enable up to 250,000 skilled Kenyan workers to travel to and work in Germany.
9/13/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Boeing faces potential strike in Seattle

Although Boeing executives and union representatives reached a deal earlier this week that includes a 25% pay rise over four years, the aviation giant facing the potential strike as it has yet to be approved by union members. We hear from the aviation consultant who is going to attend the Union meeting.Also, why the historic downturn of the Paraguay River can play crucial role for the Paraguayan economy? And what future can we see in the space travel business?
9/12/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Why are investors pulling back from China?

Chinese stock markets have fallen to a five-year low, with investors concerned about the health of its economy. Elsewhere, the European Central Bank cuts interest rates again. Boeing makes a last ditch appeal to workers ahead of their vote on a new contract which includes a 25% pay rise offer. And we examine the economic legacy of Peru's former president Alberto Fujimori who has died.
9/12/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Kenya Airport controversy causes passenger disruption

On today's programme, plans to modernise Kenya's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have prompted the aviation workers' union to go on strike. We look at what's behind the decision and how long passenger disruption is expected to last Plus, we look back at the market reaction to the U.S. Presidential debate, and Kamala Harris' vow not to ban fracking. And Starbucks’ new CEO, Brian Niccol, is looking to bring back that cozy community coffeehouse vibe as the world's largest coffee chain looks to turnaround its fortune.
9/11/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Ireland takes stock after Apple loses tax appeal

After an eight-year long dispute, Apple was told by the European Union’s top court that it is required to pay €13 billion in back taxes to Ireland. What does this mean for the iPhone maker, and Ireland's future as a destination for big technology companies?Plus, what are the key election issues for America’s younger workforce?And Kenya pauses a deal for a major Indian conglomerate to run Nairobi’s main international airport.
9/10/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Europe in need of investment

Former Italian Premier and former ECB chief Mario Draghi has authored a European Commission report calling for €800 billion euros of additional annual investment. The report says the EU needs this alongside more innovation and faster decision-making to avoid seeing living standards decline. A fall in Chinese producer prices has fuelled concerns that deflation may be taking hold in the world’s second-largest economy. Industrial producer prices fell 1.8 per cent in August, the most in four months. Steel and agriculture were among the sectors hit. Meanwhile, consumer prices rose 0.6 per cent. Apple releases the brand-new iPhone 16. We examine what are the latest features on offer, what makes it stand out from previous releases and is upgrading to latest model worth it for consumers?Also, in the programme, presenter Ed Butler discusses a shake up in the fashion world as Sarah Burton is appointed creative director at Givenchy.
9/9/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Chinese data fuels fears of deflation

A fall in Chinese producer prices has fuelled concerns grow that deflation may be taking hold in the world’s second-largest economy. Industrial producer prices fell 1.8 per cent in August, the most in four months. Steel and agriculture were among the sectors hit. Meanwhile, consumer prices rose 0.6 per cent.In Africa, the Africa CDC and WHO have launched a $600 million plan to combat mpox in 14 countries from September 2024 to February 2025. The initiative focuses on improving surveillance, laboratory detection, case management, infection prevention, and vaccination efforts to strengthen public health responses across the continent.Apple’s iPhone 16 series, made in India, will be globally available shortly after its sales launch, marking a milestone for India’s manufacturing sector and the Make-in-India initiative.
9/9/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Boeing's Starliner is returning without astronauts: what went wrong?

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft has begun its journey back to Earth - but the astronauts it was supposed to be carrying are staying behind on the International Space Station. What happened?US job growth was weaker than expected last month, with only 142,000 new jobs added. Is a recession imminent, and how might the Federal Reserve react?And in South Africa, the Post Office teeters on the brink of closure. Business rescue practitioners have been brought in, jobs have been cut, and the CEO warns that billions are needed to save the state-owned company. What went wrong?
9/7/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Concern over cooling of the US labour market

US job growth was weaker than expected last month, with only 142,000 new jobs added. Is a recession imminent, and how might the Federal Reserve react? Also, Boeing’s Starliner space shuttle will return to Earth soon, but not with its intended passengers. What happened, and what does it mean for commercial space travel?Plus, the Biden Administration is tackling the issue of difficult subscription cancellations—what are their proposed solutions?
9/6/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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US job growth slightly slower than predicted

We’ll be looking at the US economy following the release of closely watched jobs data.And, it's over 200 years old but it's on the brink of collapse: South Africa's postal office is looking to the government for a bail out. We speak to the man tasked with saving the institution. Plus, what does a Banksy artwork do to your house price? Our reporter speaks to home and business owners.
9/6/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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US Secretary of State visits Haiti to discuss democratic transition

The country is under a state of emergency as gangs try to expand their control over the capital, and other regions. We get the latest. As Elon Musk's X is banned in Brazil, rival BlueSky gains ground in the South American nation. We talk to its CEO, Jay Graber.And we get an insight on how airplane seats are made.
9/5/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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China offers Africa $51 billion

President Xi has offered $51 billion of Chinese finance for Africa and says it will create a million jobs... there are plenty of warm words about it but we'll examine who's getting the best deal.Andrew Peach to a Swedish government minister about why they're abolishing a tax on air travel despite environmental concerns.And why President Putin wants Russian cargo to make more use of a sea route which used to be blocked by ice before global warming.
9/5/202426 minutes, 23 seconds
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Nvidia: is the AI boom over?

Shares are down... with the tech giant Nvidia slumping almost 10%... is that because of fears about the US economy... or does it reveal wider concerns about artificial intelligence?And fifty African leaders are in Beijing, looking for investment and tourism in exchange for access to minerals. We speak to DRC’s minister of communications about what delegates may be looking for from China.And the German town worrying what will happen if VW closes the car plant their town depends on.
9/4/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Why's Europe's car industry stuck in neutral?

We start in Germany, where perhaps the biggest warnings yet about the pressure on Europe's car industry have come from one of the continent's biggest firms. Volkswagen - VW - has warned it could close factories for the first time in its history as it comes under increasing financial pressure.Also today the boss of one of the world's biggest delivery firms warns of disruption to global trade,And, fancy an AI dating - wingman?
9/3/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Donors and the US election

Campaign donations have been a key feature of the 2024 US election. Since Kamala Harris entered the presidential race huge donation figures have been widely reported in the media. One Republican donor tells us why he’s hoping for a Trump win. We examine where campaign donations are coming from and how decisive they might be in this election. Also in the programme, Rahul Tandon looks at the protests and general strike in Israel following the death of six hostages held by Hamas, and looking back at Mexico’s President Lopez Obrador’s economic record as he prepares to leave office.
9/2/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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How are strikes and protests affecting Israel's economy?

Businesses, schools, universities and transport across Israel have been disrupted by a general strike called to put pressure on the government to agree a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas. We find out how firms are operating and from one boss who's encouraging his staff to strike.Also, Thailand's war on an "alien" fish that it fears could cost its economy almost $300 million.And cries of foul play from fans of the band Oasis, after a ticketing meltdown and experiencing the rough side of dynamic pricing.
9/2/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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X braces for a ban in Brazil

Elon Musk's social platform X expects to be blocked in Brazil after missing a judge's deadline to appoint a new legal representative. We get the latest. As The Maldives see their credit rating downgraded by ratings agency Fitch, investors fear the archipelago could become the first country to default on a sukuk, an Islamic financial product similar to a bond. We hear more about the islands' situation. And as more young Africans are leave their countries in search of a better future, we find out what happens to the elderly parents who are left behind.
8/30/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Germany’s DAX Index at record high

Germany’s DAX Index, which tracks the country's 40 largest companies on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, has hit a record high as investors expect the European Central Bank to cut rates. Certain African countries have seen prices and taxes rise in the last few years, leading people to take the streets. We hear from people in Uganda, Nigeria and Kenya.And could a universal basic income help protect the Amazon rainforest?
8/29/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Chips giant Nvidia unveils latest bumper earnings

In the last half hour the artificial intelligence giants Nvidia has released earnings for April to June.. The chipmaker has seen huge growth over the last few years, driven by the AI boom. How will it impact world markets?Also, in the programme, Devina Gupta finds out how fin-tech company Klarna has already cut its workforce from 5,000 to 3,800 in the past year, and wants to reduce that to 2,000 employees by using AI in marketing and customer service.
8/28/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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Can the UK 'reset' relations with the EU?

The UK's Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, visits Germany to explore a 'reset' of relations with the European Union. But how easy is his quest? We find out. Ageing population is also a big concern in the UK, where 15 million people are over the age of 50 and economically inactive. As this trend rises, we look into what companies are doing to recruit these older workers. The National Football League (NFL) has taken a historic step which could transform the financing of American football. We hear the details.
8/28/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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The Greek-flagged crude oil tanker Sounion appears to be leaking oil

The Pentagon says an oil tanker in the Red Sea which was recently attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels is still on fire and appears to be leaking oil. The tanker was carrying about 1 million barrels of crude oil and this can put the fishing grounds and lead Yemen to the biggest famine of the 21st century.Also, in the programme, Roger Hearing talks about the rise in the US consumer confidence, and he finds out why Estonian authorities are planning to rent prison cells.
8/27/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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US national security advisor visits China

The US national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, is visiting China, where he'll meet with authorities to discuss Taiwan, and trade. We get the latest. As India becomes the most populous country on Earth, its population is ages rapidly. We take a look at businesses trying to cash in on the booming silver economy. And the construction of an airport in The Philippines has been delayed because due to a sand shortage. We hear about the relevance of sand for the construction industry, and the environmental implications this has.
8/27/202426 minutes, 5 seconds
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How messaging apps should be regulated?

Telegram is one of the world's biggest social media and messaging platforms along with Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok and WeChat. Pavel Durov, CEO of the app is to stay in French custody until at least Wednesday - French prosecutors say. What should we read into the detention of the owner of an app? Is this a new hardline in dealing with social media? Is it a blow against free-speech?We also hear from Jesper Brodin, chief executive at Ingka which operates IKEA stores and find out what it is like in the country that was the most populous on earth?
8/26/202426 minutes, 23 seconds
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Telegram: CEO Pavel Durov arrested in France

The owner of Telegram, Pavel Durov, has been arrested in France for offences related to the app. We get the latest. The oil tanker attacked by Houthi rebels last week is still on fire in the Red Sea. We find out the consequences this can have on the shipping industry. People in Australia can now refuse to respond to their employers outside working hours. We hear more about the countries new "right to disconnect" law.
8/26/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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How will the fed tackle joblessness?

As the US jobless claims rate rises to 4.3% and concerns over housing affordability grow, the head of the Federal Reserve signals that it might be time to cut interest rates. We explore what a shift towards job market support could mean for Americans.Plus, are tech giants ready to embrace open-source software? We delve into the potential impacts of opening up operating codes to developers.And, with Saudi Arabia hosting the Esports World Cup and offering a record $60 million prize pool, we discuss the controversy surrounding the event. Is it a case of sports-washing? We speak to Rod ‘Slasher’ Breslau, a prominent figure in the gaming community, for his insights.
8/23/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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What will Kamala Harris say about the US economy?

We hear what the Democratic presidential nominee could do for American voters on lower incomes, as she prepares to address the party's National Convention.Also, major disruption to Canada's rail freight network could be short-lived.And what's behind the sudden departure of Nestlé's top boss?
8/22/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Gold prices hit new record high

Gold prices hit new record high as investors pile back into the commodity ahead of expected interest rate cuts in the US. We look into the details. A month after the resignation of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, the BBC talks to former IMF economist and new central bank Governor, Ahsan Mansur, about the economic challenges the country faces. And we find out why protesters in Serbia are against a lithium mine that could cover 90% of the metal's demand in Europe.
8/21/202426 minutes, 31 seconds
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EU to set lower tariffs on Tesla's cars made in China

Tesla's Chinese-made electric vehicles imported into the European Union will be subject to lower tariffs than those produced by competitors. We listen to the EU's arguments, and look at the implications this can have on the European market. Ghana's president has launched the start of the construction of a multibillion-dollar petroleum hub in the west of the country. But landowners at the proposed site are not happy about it. We find out why. And 'Black Myth: Wukong', a new game made by Chinese developers, has become one of the most played ever on one of the top gaming platforms. We hear about the game's plot, and why it's so popular.
8/20/202426 minutes, 24 seconds
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Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago

The Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago, in a four-day event that will see Kamala Harris formally confirmed as the party's presidential candidate. We hear from correspondents on the ground. The government in Nicaragua has outlawed 1,500 civil society groups in one day. They're accused of failing to report their finances and face the confiscation of all their property. We hear about the economic implications. And British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch is among the missing along with his 18-year-old daughter after the superyacht they were sailing in sank in Sicily. We get the latest.
8/19/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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What would a Kamala Harris’ presidency mean for the US economy?

Kamala Harris has outlined her economic programme ahead of the US presidential election in November. She discussed what the so called "opportunity economy" would mean for Americans, and in particular the middle class, while also addressing the key issues of the campaign – health care costs and rising food inflation.The English Premier League is the most-watched sports league in the world, broadcasting in 212 territories to 643 million homes, with a potential TV audience of 4.7 billion people. But as the new football season kicks off, Rahul Tandon finds out why people in Peru support Manchester United rather than their local club sides. Thailand’s youngest-ever head of government, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, faces the difficult task of managing relations with the military, which constrains the power of elected governments.And we travel to the world's highest single arch railway bridge, which connects Indian-administered Kashmir with the rest of India for the first time by rail.The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.
8/16/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Will there be enough of the Mpox vaccine after the recent outbreak?

As Sweden's confirmed the first case of the new Mpox variant outside Africa, we spoke to Paul Chaplin, of drug manufacturer Bavaria Nordic who are the main producer of the vaccine, on whether there's enough of the vaccine to fight the disease.In the US the White House says its negotiated a big cut in the prices of some key medicines. The deal was reached with big pharmaceutical companies and covers ten medicines for conditions including diabetes and heart failure. But how has the US government achieved such a deal? Rahul Tandon speaks to a health policy professor in Tennessee.And we discuss the problem's facing India's economy, where issues of women in the workplace are back in the spot light after the rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata. The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.
8/15/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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WHO declares Mpox outbreak a global health emergency

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox outbreak in parts of Africa a public health emergency of international concern. We hear about the economic implications. Japan registered an annual GDP growth of 3.1% in the second quarter of the year, a figure above expectations. But can we say the country-s economy is back on its feet? We find out. And North Korea will soon open some areas of the country to new visitors after years of shut borders, according to some tour operators. We talk to one of them.
8/15/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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US inflation falls to 2.9% in July

New data shows inflation in US is slowing down. Will it mean the US central bank will cut interest rates in September? We speak to a panel of guests sharing their thoughts.And Japan is set for a new Prime Minister as Kishida bows out as party leader.
8/14/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will step down in September

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announces he will step down in September, once his party has elected a new leader. Rise in the cost of living and scandals in his party has plummeted his government's approval ratings. We get the latest. Many YouTube users in Russia report that the platform has either stopped working or they're being restricted access to certain channels. We hear about the impact this is having on businesses that rely on YouTube to get their income. In Seville, the city council says it will cut the water supply to unlicensed tourist apartments. We hear what residents think about this plan.
8/14/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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South Korea urges carmakers to disclose battery information in EVs

South Korea is advising carmakers to disclose EV batteries information after fire incidents caused concerns over their safety. We look into the details. Car leasing companies say they are having to take cuts when selling used electric cars. We hear about the impact this can have in the industry. And beer is at the heart of a dispute between the Democratic Republic of Congo, And Zambia. We listen to what is happening at the border of the two neighbouring countries.
8/13/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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ILO says youth unemployment rate is at a 15-year low

The International Labour Organisation says youth unemployment has fallen to its lowest level in 15 years but it warns challenges are bigger for young people in certain regions. We look into where this is happening. Inflation in India has dropped to 3.54% in July, and is now the lowest in almost five years. We hear about the reasons and the consequences of this decline. And the business travel industry has recovered from the pandemic blow despite companies making less trips. We look at how corporate travel is evolving after Covid.
8/12/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Venezuela: businesses call for transparency in election results

Fedecamara, the Venezuelan Federation of Chambers of Commerce, calls for transparency in election results to help businesses recover markets' trust and attract foreign investment. We talk to its president, Adan Celis. Voiceover and movement actors continue striking in the US. They want the videogame industry to agree to pay performers when their work is used by AI to generate new scenes. We hear from one of the union's negotiators. Colombian policymakers are pushing a bill to ban merchandise featuring the late drug lord Pablo Escobar, who has become a local attraction for international tourists in the last decade. We hear about the consequences this could have on tourism.
8/9/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Muhammad Yunus takes oath as leader of Bangladesh

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is sworn in as leader of Bangladesh’s interim government days after Former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina fled across the border to India. We get the latest. As US voters prepare to elect their new president, the cost of housing remains one of the main topics in the agenda. We take a look at the challenges Americans face to get on the property ladder. And Nasa is rushing to bring back to Earth two astronauts who blasted off on a test mission to the International Space Station, and whose spaceship is now considered unsafe for the trip back home. We hear how Elon Musk’s SpaceX might have the solution to Nasa’s problem.
8/8/202426 minutes, 20 seconds
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Bangladesh welcomes a new leader

After the celebrations on the streets and jubilant return to Bangladesh for Muhammad Yunus - we hear the economic reality facing the interim leader and his country...Also, we hear from Professor Lorna Woods, from the University of Essex as the UK authorities grapple with the part social media played in widespread anti-immigration riots.
8/8/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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Inside Out 2 helps Disney's profits, but there is trouble elsewhere

The runaway success of Disney's Inside Out 2 has helped boost the entertainment giant's profits, but there are troubles elsewhere in the Magic Kingdom. Roger Hearing will be finding out why consumer demand seems to be slowing. We hear how a tribe who live in the Bolivian rainforest may live a far healthier life than people with far more material wealth.And how much do Olympians really get paid if they win a gold, silver or bronze medal?
8/7/202426 minutes, 11 seconds
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Glencore ditches plans to sell off coal business

Under pressure from investors, mining giant Glencore is shelving its plans to sell off its coal-mining business. What does that say about the company’s commitment to a greener transition? We examine the cost of living in Nigeria, which has seen a week of protests. And why Elon Musk is suing companies who refused to advertise on his social media platform X.
8/7/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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How Tim Walz might change the US economy?

A major Democratic party donor in the US tells us why adding Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to the Harris presidential ticket is the right pick for the party. We find out who is being lined up as Bangladesh's interim leader and what they want for their economy. And Uber was once a company synonymous with government rows but have managed to ride out the market storm - one taxi ride at a time.
8/6/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Kamala Harris picks Tim Walz as running mate in US elections

Kamala Harris has picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as running mate in the US presidential elections. The former high school teacher will be vice-president if she wins. We get the latest. Students in Bangladesh want the country's Nobel Peace Prize winner, Muhammad Yunus, to be named chief adviser of a new interim government. This comes a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country in the face of a popular uprising. We hear about Yunus's work and the state of the nation's economy. A US judge has ruled Google acted illegally to crush its competition and maintain a monopoly on online search and related advertising. We take a look at the consequences of the ruling.
8/6/202426 minutes, 21 seconds
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Global Markets Meltdown

Weak economic data from the US has fuelled speculation that the world's largest economy is slowing. In London, the FTSE 100 fell and stocks in Asia have tumbled. We take a look at what's perplexing investors around the world.The Bangladesh Prime Minister resigns following weeks of deadly anti-government protests we find out how the garment and textiles industry has been impacted.And we hear how product placement is being used at the Olympic Game after one brand became highly visible during the opening ceremony.
8/5/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Global stock markets fall

It's been a torrid day on the world's stock markets. Japan's Nikkei index leads the sell-off with a fall of over 12 percent. European and US markets are also down. And in Bangladesh, the prime minister resigns and flees the country just before protesters storm her official residence. What happens next, and will Bangladeshi businesses now be able to get back on their feet?
8/5/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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US jobs figures fuel fears over economy

As the US publishes disappointing jobs figures we look back at a week in which global stock markets have wobbled.Also, we look at how protests in Bangladesh have affected the country’s leading garment trade industry. Its’ taken a financial hit worth billions of dollars….And, as the athletics kicks off at Paris 2024 - how the super-shoe has become a controversial issue for athletes.
8/2/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Protests in Nigeria amid economic crisis

We report from Nigeria where young people are making their voices heard, as they protest about economic hardship.The Bank of England has cut interest rates for the first time in more than four years. We'll find out how the news is being received by British businesses.And when did airline safety videos turn into epic productions? We find out why one major airline has invested in a lavish production designed to keep passengers’ attention during those often tedious safety demonstrations…
8/1/202425 minutes, 59 seconds
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Middle East tensions hurting Lebanon’s economy

Lebanon and the Lebanese people are still suffering a debilitating economic crisis that has gripped the country since 2019. On Monday Israel struck a major blow against the Iranian backed Hezbollah with an attack on Beirut. There are fears this will further hurt an already weak economy. We hear from the local business owner who's struggling to run a restaurant.Also, in the programme, Ed Butler looks at the ongoing protests in Venezuela following Sunday’s Presidential elections, and finds out how the US sanctions are affecting Georgia.
7/31/202426 minutes, 20 seconds
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Boeing losses top $1 billion as new boss announced

We look at the reasons behind Boeings large financial decline and how this will affect its supply chainWe also look at why Japan is bucking the trend and raising interest rates. And we look ahead to the crucial US decision on interest rates later on Wednesday, as pressure grows for a reduction. Also, today we find out why some of the shares in the biggest tech companies on the planet have been slipping this week. And, why financial incentives attracting remote digital workers in South Africa are not proving popular with some of the locals...
7/31/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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How are sanctions affecting Venezuela?

Protests in Venezuela have been met by violent repression, as critics question the validity of election results that were declared in favour of the incumbent President Nicolas Maduro, who has presided over almost a decade of economic collapse. We'll get the latest from Caracas.Also, Microsoft's earnings for this quarter are up, but its cloud arm underperformed.And what 's happened to US consumer confidence, on the day before the Fed decides whether to lower interest rates?
7/30/202426 minutes, 20 seconds
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German economy falls back

We look at what's going on with Germany's economy… once Europe's driving force, new data today suggests its economy went into reverse from April to June. Also today, why a mega fine for one of the world's biggest holiday booking platforms could be the start of the latest round in the continuing battle between governments and Big Tech.
7/30/202426 minutes, 31 seconds
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Protestors take to the streets of Venezuela

The people of Venezuela face an uncertain future as president Nicolas Maduro claims victory in its presidential election - but the opposition has reacted with fury, and is claiming foul play.So what does this mean for citizens and businesses?And we hear from the widow of the pilot who died when Boeing 737 Max crashed.
7/29/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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Venezuela elections: Future for the economy?

We'll be looking at why Ethiopia has decided to allow its currency to be traded on international markets - and what that means in practice both at home and abroad Also, today, what impact could Venezuela's contested election have on the country's key industry - oil. And we'll be hearing from Amazon Web Services on how big tech, has entered the Olympic Games...
7/29/202429 minutes, 10 seconds
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Venezuela's Election: Democracy on Trial Amid Economic Turmoil

Venezuelans head to the polls amid growing concerns about election fairness and economic instability.Long: : Venezuelans head to the polls this Sunday for a presidential election fraught with concerns over fairness and transparency, against a backdrop of prolonged political and economic turmoil. The Paris Olympics are set to dazzle with a grand opening ceremony, despite earlier arson attacks on the train network raising security issues. The games are anticipated to inject 5 to 10 billion euros into the French economy.Plus Argentina’s strong peso is creating a unique economic challenge: inflation is surpassing currency devaluation, prompting many Argentinians to cross borders for cheaper goods in neighbouring countries due to high domestic tariffs.
7/26/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Will the Olympic Games provide a financial fillip to France?

In this special edition of World Business Report on the day of the opening ceremony in Paris, we're on the banks of the Seine where the event takes place, and hear from businesses who say that the security lockdown in the area has hit their trade badly.Will Bain also goes behind the scenes of what it takes to run a team involved in the Olympics. Each country has a Team Leader or Ambassador - or in Olympics terminology they're called Chef de Mission. we hear from Anindya Bakrie who has this role looking after the Indonesian team - he is CEO of Bakrie and Brothers, one of the country’s biggest conglomerates.And we look at how smaller brands are muscling in on the bigger names of fashion giants such as Ralph Lauren, Stella McCartney and Nike. This year’s games will see some smaller labels on the podium as athletes wear less-well known clothing brands.
7/26/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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US economy grows at speed

The US has reported a growth rate of 2.8% so is it enough to signal the end of fears about a recession? Roger Hearing speaks to Bonnie Wilson, Associate Professor, Department of Economics at Saint Louis University.Also find out why Donald Trump takes centre stage at this years Bitcoin conference. We find out why Mr Trump wasn’t always the staunch crypto supporter he is today.And, Venezuela’s presidential election takes place this Sunday, with a unified opposition hoping to remove President Nicolas Maduro from power. Catherine Ellis reports from the town of Barquisimeto
7/25/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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China and the Taliban come together to mine copper in Afghanistan

China begins mining copper in Afghanistan following a deal made years before the Taliban takeover in 2021. What could it mean for the Afghan people and for future investors?Plus, a UK cosmetic surgery firm drops its legal actions against former clients who criticised it in online reviews.And Salt Lake City celebrates getting the Winter Olympics in 2034.
7/24/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Global aviation flies high at Farnborough

Presenter Will Bain examines the ongoing turbulence in supply chains and the under-the-radar aviation deals at Farnborough in the south of England, where the biggest names in global aviation are convening for its renowned air show. We'll also delve into the continuing fallout from the global IT outage, focusing on what’s next for the company at the centre of it, CrowdStrike.Plus, we explore why luxury goods stocks are selling off, as shares in one of the industry’s biggest names, LVMH, take a hit.
7/24/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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India budget focuses on creating jobs

Presenter Devina Gupta examines India’s first budget for the new coalition government led by Narendra Modi. There are plans to grow the economy by creating jobs and attracting new investment from abroad. We are in Bangladesh to hear from an internet service provider about how he is trying to keep services going for businesses after protests turned violent in the country. And we hear how one of the main airlines in the US, Delta is struggling to get its operation back to normal after last week's IT outage. Cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike triggered the chaos with its faulty computer update.
7/23/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Donors back Kamala Harris in bid to become President

Presenter Devina Gupta speaks to a former campaign manager for Kamala Harris Jill Habig about the challenges that lie ahead for her in a bid to become US President. We hear how she is continuing to secure funds. We also examines India's newly elected government’s first budget. How will it play out given Narendra Modi’s poor showing in the polls and reliance on coalition partners? We also assess how the Chinese economy will fare after The People's Bank of China decided to cut short-term rates. Its hoped this will reduce borrowing costs and help businesses.
7/22/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Fundraising surge as Biden quits race

Donations to President Joe Biden's party saw a huge spike after he announced he was no longer running in the US election. Donors had pressured Mr Biden to step aside. But his departure from the candidacy leaves a number of questions - particularly when it comes to the vast sums of money required to secure a term in the White House. Also on the programme, Will Bain looks ahead to one of the aviation world's biggest events.
7/22/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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World IT outage: some cashpoints affected and flight cancellations top 5,000

This Friday was one of the least easiest for many people across the globe. A raft of global institutions - including hospitals, major banks, media outlets and airlines - have reported a mass IT outage, affecting their ability to offer services. Delays are still ongoing at many of the major world airports after thousands of flights were cancelled. Devina Gupta finds out how can anyone be prepared for anything like this? And who is going to pay for this IT disaster?
7/19/202426 minutes, 9 seconds
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Microsoft IT outage hits global businesses

As queues stacked up at airports, TV channels went off-air and medical appointments were postponed, anti-virus firm Crowdstrike quickly became a household name when it confirmed a bug in its software was to blame for IT issues on Microsoft devices across the world. Gideon Long speaks to businesses affected by the outage.
7/19/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Bangladesh: High Security alert issued for the whole country

A High Security Alert has been issued for the whole of Bangladesh, as violent clashes between students and police continue. The capital Dhaka is in the midst of a near-total internet blackout, with phone lines also down. On Thursday evening, several thousand protestors stormed the state broadcaster BTV, vandalising furniture, smashing windows and lights and setting parts of it on fire. We speak to Ali Riaz, Professor at the Department of Politics and Government at Illinois State University.Angel City FC has become the world's most expensive women's sports team following a $250m takeover. The Los Angeles-based side have been taken over by a US couple, Willow Bay and Bob Iger - he's the CEO of the Walt Disney Company – and they will become the new controlling owners of the club. Their star player Christen Press gives her reaction. Also, in the programme, we talk about a new minimum wage in Nigeria and look at the final day of the 2024 Republican National Convention in the US city of Milwaukee.
7/18/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Bangladesh protests expand beyond student movement

Protests in Kenya and Bangladesh which were ignited by high prices and increasing job insecurity have evolved into political movements. In both countries, people are challenging the role of their elected leaders. Sam Fenwick explores if fragile economies influenced the demonstrations.Also, Ursula von der Leyen has won a second term as European Commission President, pledging great prosperity for EU citizens.
7/18/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Trump's Taiwan Defence Remarks Rattle Semiconductor Stocks

Donald Trump's recent comments suggesting Taiwan should pay for its own defence have sent shockwaves through global markets, leading to a significant drop in semiconductor stocks.In the UK, the King's Speech in Parliament has proposed a dramatic shift in the transportation sector by suggesting the nationalisation of the railways. And presenter Roger Hearing dives into the world of sports as the WNBA finalises its next national media rights package, set to bring in approximately $2.2 billion over the next 11 years.
7/17/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Deadly unrest over job quotas grips Bangladesh

University students have been holding rallies for days against the system of reserving some public sector jobs for the relatives of war heroes, from when the country gained independence from Pakistan.Some jobs are also reserved for women, ethnic minorities and people with disabilities.Also, Britain's King Charles opens parliament, and the new government promises to "take the brakes off Britain" -- by boosting house building. Will it lead to more investment? We'll hear from a building firm. And the luxury fashion brands being investigated for how they treat workers in their supply chains.
7/17/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Bangladesh shuts down schools after student protests

Presenter Rahul Tandon explores what lies ahead for Bangladesh after the government indefinitely closed all schools and colleges. Six people have died in student protests over a quota system for government employment.French President Emmanuel Macron’s government has resigned . It follows political deadlock in France as it prepares to host the Summer Olympics.Rwandan leader Paul Kagame is poised to extend his 24-year reign. Provisional election results indicate he has secured a fourth term with 99 percent of the vote.
7/16/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Businesses reel from fresh protests in Kenya

Elsewhere, Devina Gupta looks to the debate around low-carbon fertilisers, and in Turkey, the government is set to approve a new bill hoping to steady the country's shaky economy. And what's it like being a delivery company on Amazon Prime Day? We speak to one firm in India.
7/16/202426 minutes, 23 seconds
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Former President Trump announces his Vice Presidential running mate

Presenter Rahul Tandon discusses the announcement of Iowa Senator JD Vance as Donald Trump’s pick to be his running mate in November’s Presidential election.Rahul speaks to Vivek Ramaswamy - who himself was a candidate for the Republican Presidential nomination.And we hear about the new law in Indonesia where maternity leave has been extended from 3 months to six months for certain people.
7/15/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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U.S markets react to attempted Trump assassination

We look at how U.S markets have reacted since the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.Elsewhere, Devina Gupta looks to China where a key Communist party meeting is taking place, against a backdrop of sluggish spending which is also causing headaches for luxury brands such as Burberry. We also hear about new maternity leave rules in Indonesia, and the potential challenges.
7/15/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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President Biden faces calls to abandon his political campaign

Presenter Rahul Tandon discusses the ongoing debate about the future of Joe Biden. One of Donald Trump’s biggest supporters Vivek Ramaswamy assesses the shortcomings of the current President. Saudia Arabia has boosted imports of the dirtiest type of oil after hot weather. We hear why the world’s biggest crude exporter buys fuel oil for power plants.French Football is facing a financial crisis because it cannot find a TV deal. We find out what impact this could have on the professional game in the country.
7/12/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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What happens if the Democratic donors turn away from Biden?

Pressure appears to be building on Joe Biden to step aside in November’s electoral contest with his Republican rival Donald Trump.We look at the role that donors have been playing in this election, and what it means if they stop funding the president.Also, it's the biggest wedding in India - we take you to Mumbai where Asia's richest man is splurging millions of dollars for his son's nuptials.
7/12/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Biden steps up to the mic

Rahul Tandon hears from Democratic donors and swing state voters as President Biden prepares for a high-stakes news conference following the NATO summit in Washington DC. We also examine Kenya's financial situation - as the President dismisses the cabinet following the deadly riots over tax changes.
7/11/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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The financial donors behind the US election

Will he stand in November, or won't he? US president Joe Biden under even greater pressure to step back amid fears about his mental and physical fitness. We hear from Morris Pearl, Chairman of the Patriotic Millionaires group. Also, we hear from the trade union movement in South Korea on the indefinite strike hitting Samsung. And with two major football finals on the horizon, we look at how demand for classic shirts has taken off.
7/11/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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President Biden: Donor says it's "crunch time"

Rahul Tandon hears from Biden donor Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, who says it's "crunch time" for the President as pressure mounts over whether he should try for re-election. Meanwhile the US administration imposes tariffs on Mexican steel imports - those which have been partly made in China. Is this an anti-China move - or a election ploy? We also find out why the charge is very much reduced on lithium-ion batteries - with prices down 51% in China, this year alone.
7/10/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Strike at Samsung Electronics is going on indefinitely

After a three-day strike at the world's largest maker of semiconductors, smartphones and TVs, the labour union at Samsung Electronics in South Korea has declared an indefinite strike.The union, which has 30,000 members, claims the strike has impacted production, but Samsung denies this. We hear from Professor Daejong Kim from the Graduate School of Business at Sejong University.Also, Roger Hearing finds out why India's prime minister Narendra Modi is visiting Austria and why the global alcohol industry is obsessed with celebrity-owned drinks.
7/10/202426 minutes, 24 seconds
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NATO leaders meet against gloomy backdrop

NATO leaders meet in Washington, amid a rising deathtoll in Ukraine and a debate around the future of US President Biden. What will come from the reunion of the alliance?Elsewhere, Vivienne Nunis looks at the successful launch of Europe's newest rocket, and why the non-alcholic beer market has investors' attention.
7/9/202426 minutes, 24 seconds
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NATO members gathering in Washington

The US president Joe Biden is welcoming the heads of NATO member states to Washington today, for its annual summit. Among the key topics on the agenda are affirming support for Ukraine and strengthening deterrence and defense. We speak to Sweden’s Minister for Defence Pål Jonson. Also, in the programme, we find out what new trade deals between India and Russia have been discussed in Moscow today and the European Space Agency joins the space race.
7/9/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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French elections 2024: How are businesses feeling?

France which is Europe's second largest economy - woke up to an unexpected result in the second round of its general election. Projections showed the far-right National Rally had failed to win a majority. It had been the largest party after first-round voting - but today, the left-wing coalition, the New Popular Front, has most seats, while President Macron’s centre alliance came second. Sam Fenwick gets reaction from businesses and economists about what the result of a hung parliament in France could mean. So, from one election without a clear winner to another with a very clear outcome; UK Labours new Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, outlines her plans for delivering economic growth. And Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge stemming from two crashes of 737 Max jetliners that killed three hundred and 46 people. As part of the plea deal, Boeing will pay a criminal fine of nearly $250 million.
7/8/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Who is Rachel Reeves - Britain’s first female finance minister?

After a momentous change for British politics, the new Prime Minister, Labour's Keir Starmer has been welcoming in his new cabinet. And amongst the members of his top team was the country's first ever female finance minister. Also, in the programme, Devina Gupta looks at the big elections showdown in France this weekend. And the boss of Esports World Cup joins us from Saudi Arabia to talk about allegations of Sports washing.
7/5/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Kier Starmer scoops UK election result

On World Business Report we have a panel of experts who have been there and know how it works to explain how markets have reacted to the news of a new UK government, ways to boost economic growth and how, practically does Britain's new finance minister get started in a new job?France also prepares for the second round of its election on Sunday, we hear how businesses are trying to navigate the current political uncertainty there.
7/5/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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UK votes being counted

Millions of people voted at the UK General election. Rahul Tandon finds out what the exit polls tell us about how the contest could go and what it means global economy.
7/4/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Fighting malaria could offer global economic boost

Will Bain finds out more about the malaria vaccine that scientists and economists think could save some economies millions…Also, those EU tariffs on Chinese electric cars have come into force - we'll look at what that might mean next…And finally, we're off for a spot of wine tasting.
7/4/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Hurricane Beryl hits Jamaica

Hurricane Beryl has hit Jamaica, bringing with it catastrophic damage. A number of people have already been killed in the path of the storm, including in Grenada, as well as St Vincent and the Grenadines. Devina Gupta talks to local business owners and finds out how climate change is impacting insurance companies across the globe. Also, in the programme, we talk to Austin D. Goolsbee, president of the Chicago Federal Reserve. We also take a look at the UK’s general election and one of the big voter issues - the price of buying a home.
7/3/202426 minutes, 21 seconds
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UK general election 2024

The UK is less than 24 hours away from polls opening in a landmark general election. The next government will inherit a low growth economy and a complicated relationship with its biggest trading partner, the European Union. Waiting lists within the National Health Service, and rise in the cost of living have been among the major issues during the campaign.
7/3/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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President Joe Biden has called on major drug companies to cut the price of weight loss drugs

President Joe Biden has called on major drug companies to cut the price of weight loss medication Hurricane Beryl, a category 5 storm is heading towards Jamaica. We hear more from disaster modeller Enki Research And Jayson Tatum will sign a five-year deal, worth $314 million dollars with the Boston Celtics, making it the largest contract in NBA history.
7/3/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Energy chief issues stark warning

The head of IEA Dr Fatih has told World Business Report that unless the thousands of currently operating coal plants around the world are retired early the world has zero chance of keeping global warming within 1.5 degrees. He speaks exclusively to Rahun Tandon on this issue.Sri Lanka is set to save $5 billion following a restructure of its bilateral debt, much of which is owed to China. A deal has been reached to cut the interest rates Sri Lanka pays.And people in the United Kingdom are getting set to cast their votes in the general election on Thursday.The Conservative party have been in government for 14 years, but they're behind in the polls - so there could be a change of leadership in the UK over the next few days – former USA ambassador to the UK Matthew Barzun explains how a change in government can affect trading relationships between the US and the UK.
7/2/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Victims lawyers say Boeing must pay $240 million fine

Lawyers representing family members of victims tragically killed in the Boeing plane crash say they will be offered financial compensation. Rahul Tandon speaks to Paul Njoroge who lost his family in an Ethiopian plane crash.Plus, we get French market reaction to the first round of the country's elections....and South Africa's new cabinet is announced - what will be first on its economic to-do list?
7/1/202426 minutes, 57 seconds
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US Supreme Court strikes down 40-year Chevron precedent

In a 6-3 vote, the US Supreme Court killed a legal precedent that conservatives have attacked for decades, known as the "Chevron deference". The court decided in 1984 that judges should defer to federal agencies in interpreting ambiguous parts of statutes. However, from now on the courts alone will decide. Roger Hearing speaks to our reporter Nada Tawfik who tells us more about the Chevron Deference and a scientist who is among those opposing the judgement.As Iran votes in a new president, what are the economic challenges the new man will face? Kenyan police have arrived in Haiti to try to tackle the endemic gang violence there - a Haitian professor tells us what difference they're likely to make. We hear from a gang leader and Professor in Haiti. And it was the busiest day ever for American air travel - a big post-covid recovery - but do the airlines and airports have enough capacity?
6/28/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Argentina’s Javier Milei wins senate approval for economic reforms

President Javier Milei’s plans to slash public spending has been approved by Parliament. Devina Gupta speaks to reporter Natalio Cosoy based in Argentina about what this controversial approval could mean for ordinary citizens.We head to India's capital city - Delhi which has seen its highest rainfall in over 80 years.And find out how investors are reacting to two big upcoming elections - the US and France.
6/28/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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US courts block Purdue Pharma settlement

The Supreme Court has blocked a $6bn settlement that shielded the Sackler family, who own Purdue, from future legal action. The pharmaceuticals company is widely blamed for the US opioid crisis. We dig into what the ruling means.Meanwhile, we speak to two executives heading the $2bln Korean company behind "webtoons", which has just launched on the Nasdaq stock exchange. And India's government looks into reports that iPhone maker Foxconn is excluding married women from working at its main factory.
6/27/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Kenya faces renewed protests

We head to Kenya where a day after President Ruto rolled back controversial tax increases, young protestors are still out on the streets . As police fire tear gas to try and disperse crowds, Devina Gupta finds out what the impact has been on daily life and businesses. Also, how families in Zambia are struggling with rising costs, driven by a prolonged drought. From the US - what to expect in the first presidential debate today, and why pharmacy chain Walgreens is shutting a significant number of stores.
6/27/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Bolivia faces attempted coup

In Bolivia, factions of the military have attempted to enter the presidential palace in what's being described as an attempted coup. We dig into what might be behind the movement. Elsewhere, Roger Hearing looks at the latest in Kenya following deadly riots. And we hear from the Dubai boss of one of the world's largest free trade areas, who has defended its policy to continue trading even with countries locked in conflict.
6/26/202429 minutes
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Kenya’s President Ruto refuses to sign finance bill

Kenya’s President has declined to sign a contentious finance bill that has sparked nationwide deadly protests. The bill has been sent back to parliament for amendments. Leanna Byrne speaks to a Kenyan influencer who explains how the proposals could affect her work.Volkswagen has jolted the electric vehicle industry by partnering with an EV start-up... We'll get the ins-and-outs of that deal. And the Japanese yen has dropped to its lowest level in 34 years, which has people wondering: Will the government intervene?
6/26/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Protesters in Kenya angry over tax rises

Presenter Rahul Tandon examines the widespread protests over tax rises taking place in Kenya. Many young people are involved in the demonstrations across the country.We hear from an informal advisor to Donald Trump about what the former President’s economic vision will be if he is elected again. Deadly heat waves are becoming more intense and frequent across different parts of the globe. We are in India to hear how this is affecting the rural poor.
6/25/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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The music industry takes on AI

Some of the world's largest music labels are suing two artificial intelligence firms, claiming they are training their models with copyrighted music.Elsewhere, Rahul Tandon looks into the latest fight Apple is facing in the EU, and why there's trouble rumbling in the Premier League.
6/24/202426 minutes, 31 seconds
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What the cost of the slave labour?

A Swiss court has sentenced four members of the UK's richest family to prison sentences ranging from four to four-and-a-half years.Prakash and Kamal Hinduja as well as son Ajay and his wife Namrata were found guilty of exploitation - usury in the Swiss penal code - and illegal employment.Also, in the programme, Rahul Tandon finds out how Canadian farmers working during extreme heat and a deal looks finally sealed to sell Queen's back catalogue...the most valuable in rock.
6/21/202426 minutes, 13 seconds
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Travel agents under pressure after Hajj deaths

We look into the booming religious tourism sector and its challenges, amid hundreds of pilgrim deaths in Saudi.Elsewhere, Rob Young looks into the latest US inflation data and asks why a former football star is turning his eye to African fintech.
6/21/202425 minutes, 57 seconds
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Why is inflation so stubborn in the United States?

The inflation is the rate at which prices increases - so when we say the inflation rate is slowing down it does not mean that prices are falling . So we wanted to discuss why inflation is still so sticky with someone in the US who has been looking at it for some time - someone involved in those crucial decisions on interest rates Rahul Tandon spoke to Austin Goolsbee President of the Federal Reserve bank of Chicago one of 12 Reserve banks in the US.
6/20/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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A tit for tat over trade between Europe and China?

EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles could backfire, after Chinese car companies called on their government to introduce import taxes on EU petrol cars, in response. Vishala Sri-Pathma dives into whether this is a sign of things to come.Elsewhere, we look at protests in Kenya over a slew of unpopular tax proposals. And we examine the prospects for closer economic ties between Russia and Vietnam after President Putin’s visit to Hanoi.
6/20/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Five hundred and fifty pilgrims have died during Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca

There has been devastating human and economic consequences of the heatwaves in several parts of the world. At least five hundred and fifty pilgrims have died during the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca In the UK inflation has come under the 2 per cent target for the first time in three yearsAnd the surging prices of luxury goods have turned off turned off some shoppers. We ask why?
6/20/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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Car giant Citroen talks up plans to take on China

Citroen CEO Thierry Koskas tells the BBC about its plans to compete with Chinese manufacturers, and why it's "confident" it can beat them on home turf.Elsewhere, Roger Hearing looks at whether Nvidia - now the world's most valuable company - is in a price bubble. And he hears from South Africa's new coalition about plans to boost the country’s economy.
6/19/202426 minutes, 32 seconds
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Nvidia becomes the world’s most valuable company

Chip-maker Nvidia has become the world’s most valuable company after its share price climbed to an all-time high. It is now worth $3.34tn with the price having nearly doubled since the start of this year.Also, Devina Gupta takes a look at President Joe Biden's new policy that is likely to change the lives of tens of thousands of migrants married to US citizens, and finds out why stock exchange workers are going on strike in Italy.
6/19/202426 minutes, 23 seconds
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Russia and North Korea's growing economic bond

Russian leader Vladimir Putin is in North Korea for his first talks there in almost a quarter of a century. We hear what two of the world's most sanctioned nations have to offer each other's economies.Roger Hearing finds out why Boeing's CEO is likely to get a grilling when he appears before the US Senate.With another US electric vehicle start-up filing for bankruptcy, what does it mean for the industry? Meanwhile, how can a new AI tool help fruit growers improve their profits by predicting their harvest?The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.
6/18/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Calls for warning labels on social media sites

United States Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has called for a warning label to be placed on social media platforms advising of the damage to adolescents’ mental health. We hear from a whistleblower on his experiences of working in a social media company. Our colleague Ed Butler explores ‘over tourism’, where locals feel left out of tourist hotspotsAnd The Pixar film Inside Out 2 has dramatically exceeded ticket sales predictions on its opening weekend, bucking a trend of poor performances from new film releases. Rahul Tandon asks why.
6/18/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Thomas Piketty on France’s elections

The economist Thomas Piketty – author of international bestseller Capital in the Twenty-First Century – joins Roger Hearing to discuss the upcoming French elections, as fears of a far right election win make markets nervous.We also take a look at the world’s second largest economy, China. Its premier Li Qiang is on a visit to Australia to try to repair a fractured relationship that has caused major problems for trade. Meanwhile China seems poised to impose tariffs on EU pork - is this just retaliation for tariffs on Chinese electric cars?
6/17/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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G7 leaders threaten China with further sanctions over Russia war

In their closing statement - G7 leaders have issued their starkest warning yet to China over its support for Russia, attacking Beijing for “enabling” Russia’s war in Ukraine, and threatened more sanctions if Beijing keeps transferring material used by Moscow’s defence industry.Smartphones outnumber people now, according to the World Economic Forum. We talk with 'The Phone Lady' who's business aims to help people overcome their phone phobia.Our Europe Correspondent Nick Beake reports from Munich after hosts Germany have won their opening game of the 2024 European Football Championships, with a huge 5-1 win over Scotland.We also discuss America's third largest bank - Wells Fargo - after they fired more than a dozen employees following allegations that some were faking keyboard activity to fool the firm into thinking they were working.
6/15/202455 minutes, 24 seconds
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Will entrepreneurship fix South Africa's economy?

South Africa's newly formed national unity government need to get the economy growing again. We hear from entrepreneur and outspoken critic of the ANC Rob Hersov on what can be done.Meta has halted its AI models in Europe after the Irish privacy regulator told it to delay its plan to harness data from Facebook and Instagram users. We look at what happened and why. Also, Devina Gupta turns to Venezuela where Presidential elections are set for July 28. Edmundo Gonzalez, a little-known former diplomat has been chosen by various parties to be their candidate after the most prominent opposition leader had been barred from running.
6/14/202426 minutes, 24 seconds
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How South Africa's unity government will change the economy?

South Africa's main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), says it has agreed a deal with the governing African National Congress (ANC) to form a government of national unity. How will it change the economy? Also, in the programme, Rahul Tandon finds out why Japan is become very popular tourism destination and how it affecting local businesses.
6/14/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Supreme Court backs Starbucks on workers’ rights

The U.S. Supreme Court has backed Starbucks challenge to a judicial order to rehire seven Memphis employees. They were fired as they sought to form a union. Presenter Devina Gupta examines the implications of the verdict. Disney and Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida agree to end a feud over $17 billion in planned development at Walt Disney World. Disney say the deal will fuel new investment. New York has passed a pair of proposed laws that aim to make social media less harmful to children. We hear what the legislation might mean if it is signed off by the State governor.
6/13/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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G7 summit: What "important decisions" are being made?

The G7 is a group of the world's most powerful and economically advanced democracies, and G7 leaders have now arrived for a summit in Italy. Top of the agenda is a plan to use fifty billion dollars in interest from frozen Russian assets as a loan for Ukraine.And Russia penalised by new Western sanctions - this time aimed at the Moscow stock exchange. But will any of it really hurt the Russian economy?Roger Hearing also finds out why Spanish restaurant workers under pressure because everybody eats so late.
6/13/202426 minutes, 11 seconds
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The US Federal Reserve hold rates, but signal one to come

The U.S. economy is not out of the woods yet with inflation forecasted to rise and interest rates holding. Sam Fenwick speaks to local business owners in Texas about the knock on affect it’s having on their business.Over to China now and shares in several Chinese electric car companies have taken a hit after the European Union imposed new tariffs. So how might China react?And the US Senate investigates whether BMW has been using parts made by forced labour. The U.S. Senate Finance Committee has found evidence the German carmaker imported at least 8,000 Mini Coopers into the United States, which contained parts from the Chinese supplier. We speak to Committee Chairman, Ron Wyden, about what prompted the investigation.
6/12/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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EU set import tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese EVs

The EU invented new import tariffs - up to 38% on Chinese electric vehicles triggering a potential trade war with China. With Chinese car makers having plenty of surplus capacity and moving into international markets, the EU lawmakers fear their own companies will be unable to compete. They claim hefty subsidies for domestic production allow Chinese firms to keep prices at a level other firms will struggle to match.Also, in the programme, Will Bain talks about Ukrainian reconstruction conference in Berlin.
6/12/202426 minutes, 46 seconds
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Support grows to rebuild Ukraine

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has opened the latest international donors’ meeting to help rebuild Ukraine. During the conference, Ukrainian allies promised to support the protection of its cities from Russian missiles, while Mr. Scholz urged international businesses to put their faith and money into post-war reconstruction.The Mexican peso takes another tumble. It's fallen nearly 10 percent in a week. Sam Fenwick talks to one of the country's former deputy finance ministers about what's scaring investors. And finally, the attention turns to the rebuilding of Baltimore bridge. Is it time to future proof bridge constructions following the aftermath of its collapse?
6/11/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Who is investing in Ukrainian post-war reconstruction?

At the international conference on the country’s long-term reconstruction EU leaders announced agreements with banks worth 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) to help attract private investment for Ukraine at a conference in Berlin.Investors are going to offer a business case for investing, and talk up Ukraine's potential in sectors including renewables, IT and pharmaceuticals.Also, Rahul Tandon finds out why a court in the US has ordered one of the world's biggest banana producers to pay nearly $40 million in damages in Colombia and why Singapore Airlines offers compensation to passengers after the turbulence.
6/11/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Apple joins the AI race

From Apple iPhone’s to Call of Duty 6 we have blockbuster names from the world of tech for you today - including a controversial plan to sell the new video game via a subscription model. How will that work? Also today, we hear from a former Indian finance minister about the challenges facing the new one as Prime Minister Narendra Modi starts a third term in office. And we consider BP's plan to make all its employees come clean about their workplace love affairs.
6/10/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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EU elections shakes economy

European stocks fell on Monday as traders reacted to initial results from the EU Parliament elections and the surprise call for parliamentary elections by French President Emmanuel Macron. Rahul Tandon finds how an early EU election results indicate that populist, far-right parties could have a bigger hand in European policymaking and affecting economy. Also, in the programme, we are talking about Japanese carmakers crisis and finds out why India is returning to a coalition government.
6/10/202426 minutes, 23 seconds
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Samsung union takes rare strike action

Union workers at Samsung Electronics are holding the first ever strike in the company's five decade history. We find out why, and what impact it could have on. Elsewhere, Rob Young looks at oil giant Aramco's secondary listing, which was priced below expectations. And finally, we look at the multi billion-dollar drug industry focused on weight loss
6/7/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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The European Central Bank cuts interest rates

The European Central Bank has announced a cut in its main interest rate from an all-time high of 4% to 3.75%. A Norwegian mining group has confirmed that it's discovered the largest deposit of rare earth minerals in Europe. And Virgin Australia plans to break new ground by allowing dogs and cats to fly in the main cabin on flights. The BBC’s Phil Mercer tells us morePhoto by FRIEDEMANN VOGEL/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock. European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde addresses a press conference
6/6/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Will the ECB unstick the Eurozone?

The European Central Bank has cut interest rates for the first time in five years, but what does it mean for the Eurozone?We hear about the fall of one of India's biggest start-ups, and the BBC's Devina Gupta also looks at the story of online education company, Byjus, as its US lenders kick off bankruptcy proceedings.The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.
6/6/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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UN head calls for end to fossil fuel adverts

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called coal, oil and gas corporations the “godfathers of climate chaos” who had distorted the truth and deceived the public for decades. He said that just as tobacco advertising was banned because of the threat to health, the same should now apply to fossil fuels. Also in the programme, Rahul Tandon talks about Canada's interest rate cuts and finds out why a Hollywood film studio is refusing to release a film.
6/5/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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The "Russian Davos" kicks off

The St Petersburg International Economic Forum gets underway, with Russia hoping to woo investors from the Middle East, Asia and Africa - amid Western sanctions. We look into why the Chinese-Russian trade boom is now under the spotlight. Elsewhere, Will Bain looks into the latest electric vehicle player hoping to take on Tesla, before talking to the creator of the AI chatbot that mirrors the "future you..."
6/5/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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India election: the economy reacts as Modi claims victory

Modi-led alliance claims victory in India’s general election despite having many critics of high unemployment figures and slow economic growth there. What look at what this means for the Indian economy. We hear from local reporters, economists and business owners in India.
6/4/202426 minutes, 10 seconds
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How investors react to Mexico’s first female president

Mexico's first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, breaks a political glass ceiling and she wins the election. However, following the victory, investors have been reacting rather negatively. They’ve been selling off pesos—Mexico’s currency—over fears of radical constitutional changes. The peso slipped about 3% against the dollar, its lowest level since November last year. How will it affect local business owners and the economy?Also, in the programme, Sam Fenwick finds out why the boss of the World Bank, Ajay Banga, thinks it’s time for emerging economies to stop relying on infinite streams of cash from other governments.
6/3/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Nigeria's union's fight for a better minimum wage

On World Business Report Will Bain hears from one of the main unions leading today's action on why they have called for an indefinite strike.Plus, in an exclusive interview with the BBC, the head of the World Bank tells us that developing nations cannot bank on the deep pockets of wealthier Western NationsAlso find out why Mexico's currency is slipping on a landslide win for a Presidential candidate promising more of the same And Shein has changed fast fashion and become a favourite with shoppers all round the world - so why is where it sells its shares proving so controversial?
6/3/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Republican donors pledge millions after Trump guilty verdict

Major Republican donors have backed Donald Trump despite his conviction in a hush money case. Presenter Devina Gupta examines why there is still huge financial backing for the former President.Voters go to the polls in Mexico. The country’s new President is the be the first ever woman to lead the nation. We look at the economy she inherits, and what are her economic priorities likely to be.The owner of the hit online game Wordle is legally challenging a geography-based spinoff called Worldle.The New York Times, purchased Wordle for a seven figure sum in 2022. It accuses Worldle of attempting to capitalise on "the enormous goodwill” associated with its own brand.
5/31/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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South Africa: ANC set to lose parliamentary majority

The South African election is moving ever closer to a result, and it looks like the ANC will have to start talking to potential coalition partners. What could that mean for the economy there? Plus, we're getting reports of another major cyber-attack, this time affecting a major bank. And how does it feel when your niche web project becomes the focus of a trademark claim from a very large company with a very large legal budget?
5/31/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Donald Trump found guilty on all counts in criminal trial

Donald Trump becomes the first former or sitting US president to be convicted of a crime. Presenter Devina Gupta examines what this will mean for his bid to become President again.Plus, extreme heat is causing chaos in South Asia. What does this mean for businesses and workers in Pakistan and India?(Picture: Donald Trump Credit: Eduardo Muñoz/Reuters)
5/31/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Australia looking into alleged Ticketmaster hack

There's confusion today surrounding a claim by a notorious hacking group that they have accessed personal details of more than half-a-billion people who use the US website Ticketmaster – but is it true?Two months after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge cut off the port of Baltimore, transportation businesses are counting the days until it can reopen. Plus David Harper finds out how Thailand is trying to encourage Digital Nomads to travel there to work. Finally, we explore whether having a famous resident can be a blessing or a curse for your town?
5/30/202426 minutes, 5 seconds
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India endures severe heatwave

Provisional reports say that Temperatures have reached fifty-two degrees centigrade in the Indian capital, Delhi, as an intense heatwave sweeps across the north and west of the country. Rahul Tandon looks at how it’s affecting the lives of people there - and the economy.The price of heavily subsidised bread in Egypt is to quadruple from June. The BBC’s Sally Nibil explains just how significant the news is and why the subsidy is such an important source of government support for the less well off. Unionised workers of Samsung Electronics in Seoul are to strike next week in what will be the first-ever strike in the tech giant’s five decades of history - we look at the reason why.
5/29/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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The mercury hits over 52 degrees in India’s capital

Record breaking heat in northern India as temperatures hit 52 degrees.It's election day in South Africa and it's a crucial vote because the ANC could lose its majority for the first time since 1994 so could this call have a lot to do with the country's economy?Find out why Union workers at Samsung Electronics say they're going to hold the first ever strike since the company was founded over five decades ago... And one billionaire is making waves as he plans to travel down to the Titanic wreck in a submersible. Yes, we've got questions too…
5/29/202427 minutes, 30 seconds
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Argentina's Milei courts big tech in Silicon Valley

We speak to the founder of Argentina's top start-up about the country's tech scene as its president, Javier Milei, meets with the CEOs of Google, OpenAI, Meta and Apple. Elsewhere, Rahul Tandon looks into what the latest disruption in the Red Sea means, and he looks ahead to the South African elections.
5/28/202426 minutes, 32 seconds
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Child labour in cosmetic industry’s supply chain.

In Sri Lanka, tea pickers have received a pay rise mandated by the Government, and, a BBC investigation reveals child labour in beauty industry supply chain.Also, Sam Fenwick discovers whether new EU border controls will improve security, or lead to travel chaos?Plus, a discussion on the challenges of running a small business in South Africa – is it worth the investment?
5/28/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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South Africa's economy braces for elections

South Africa's economy is under the spotlight, ahead of the elections there this week. The vote could see the ruling party ANC win less than 50% for the first time in its history. Elsewhere, Rahul Tandon looks at the AI battle heating up, with Elon Musk's new company raising $6 billion. And he goes inside the disruption facing business in Iceland, amid rising volcanic activity.
5/27/202427 minutes, 33 seconds
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Dealing with Africa's debt

Africa's wrestling with a $1.2tn debt, while global interest rates are at a 40-year high. This week’s African Development Bank summit is focusing on this debt crisis. What solutions are on the horizon, and how are businesses coping? Elsewhere, Sam Fenwick is looking at the global cost of shipping containers. They are on the rise again this month causing European retailers to order now to make sure stuff arrives in time for Christmas.The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.
5/27/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Weight-loss drug producer invests $5.3 billion in Indiana

Eli Lilly announced investing another $5.3 billion in a manufacturing plant in Lebanon, Indiana. It will help company to expand the supply of its highly popular weight loss drug Zepbound, diabetes treatment Mounjaro and other medicines in its pipeline. How will it affect the local economy? Devina Gupta finds out why electricity prices are gone up in Texas and how the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), which governs university sports in the US, has reached a deal that could lead to college athletes getting paid.
5/24/202426 minutes, 12 seconds
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Inside the Ukraine economy

We take a look at the Ukrainian economy as G7 leaders meet to discuss how to finance the recovery of the war-torn nation. Elsewhere, Rahul Tandon explores the key issues at stake ahead of South Africa's election next week, and looks at the new deal that could lead to U.S college athletes finally getting paid.
5/24/202427 minutes, 36 seconds
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US regulators sue Live Nation

US regulators have sued Live Nation, accusing the entertainment giant of using illegal tactics to maintain a monopoly over the live music industry. The lawsuit from the Department of Justice said the firm's practices had kept out competitors, and led to higher ticket prices and worse service for customers.Also, Devina Gupta finds out how Russian president Vladimir Putin could use US property in the country to compensate for frozen Russian assets. And why one of Australia’s biggest banks, the Commonwealth, is predicting the country will become cashless by 2026.
5/23/202426 minutes, 23 seconds
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The German economy looks like it's in trouble

Germany's post-Covid recovery has not gone as planned, according to a damning new report by the country's commerce chamber.Elsewhere, Roger Hearing looks at news reports that the US is planning to sue Ticketmaster-owner Live Nation over anti-competitive practices. And we look inside the first state visit by an African leader to the US in over 15 years.
5/23/202427 minutes, 35 seconds
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UK General Election called for July 4th

UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has defended his political and economic record in the wake of some relatively positive inflation numbers. So, is this the right moment for a General Election? Find out how Brazil's farmers are adapting to climate change. While Ugandan farmers are adapting to elephants trespassing from South Sudan.
5/22/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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UK inflation edges down, but are people feeling it?

UK inflation hit its lowest in 3 years, but was still hotter than analysts expected. In this special episode, we record live from a Manchester food hall to talk to businesses and their customers about the price changes they're seeing. they're seeing. We also speak to experts about what this means for central bank rate cuts, and how the UK is faring compared to major global economies.
5/22/202426 minutes, 31 seconds
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EU agreement to use Russian assets to help Ukraine

As EU countries adopt a plan to use profits from frozen Russian assets for Ukraine defences and rebuilding, Ed Butler, looks at how the scheme might work and whether the idea risks undermining the rule of law. Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson is taking legal advice after a new version of the AI bot, Chat GPT, was released with a voice she claims is eerily similar to her own - how can AI seek to develop while staying on the right right side of copyright laws? And, Red Lobster, was once one of the world's largest seafood chains but as it files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, how did the once successful seafood franchise end up in such deep water?
5/21/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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EU approves landmark AI rule

European Union’s landmark rules on artificial intelligence will enter into force next month The AI Act imposes strict transparency obligations on high-risk AI systems while such requirements for general-purpose AI models will be lighter.
5/21/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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What next for Iran after President Raisi's death?

growing speculation over who will eventually replace President Raisi begins as Iran enters 5 days of mourning.Plus, could Saudi Arabia’s largest aviation deal signal a snub to Boeing?Also, the ship that destroyed the bridge in Baltimore back in March is finally on the move.And we have a special look at the economies of Latin America with our reporter Gideon Long.
5/20/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Challenges for Taiwan's new president

Taiwan's newly inaugurated president William Lai has called on China to stop threatening the island and accept the existence of its democracy.But Taiwan’s relationship with China is not the only thing that William Lai has to tackle. there are a number of economic challenges ahead of him like rising property prices and encouraging young Taiwanese people to stay and work in the country instead of heading to other prosperous Asian cities.
5/20/202426 minutes, 17 seconds
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Boeing: Shareholders approve $33 million package for outgoing CEO

Shareholders of plane maker Boeing approved a pay package of nearly $33 million for outgoing CEO Dave Calhoun - the highest ever agreed by the company - at its AGM on Friday. Mr Calhoun was also re-elected to stay on the troubled company’s board.Cubans are enduring some of their bleakest economic times since the Cold War – amid worsening inflation, a scarcity of basic goods and a decades-long US economic embargo. The BBC’s Correspondent, Will Grant, looks at how the situation has impacted on one of Cuba’s most quintessential industries – sugar – to see how tough the situation has become.
5/17/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Country Garden: can the company survive?

China's real estate industry is facing major financial problems, leaving many empty or half-finished unused buildings. One of China’s largest real-estate companies, Country Garden of the verge of liquidation. Also, Roger Hearing finds out what's happening with businesses in New Caledonia. And we hear how the economic growth in India affecting people's life.
5/17/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Baltimore Bridge Collapse Update

Two months after a container ship crash saw the collapse of a road bridge in Baltimore, killing six workers, Rahul Tandon speaks to the Executive Director of the Baltimore International Seafarers’ Centre about why staff on the ship are still stuck aboard.As the Dow Jones hits a record high we look at how a strong stock market is helping some to retire earlier than expected and on the day that Singapore Airlines announces staff bonuses worth nearly eight months' salary we look at how they came to receive such a generous payout.
5/16/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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How close is the friendship between Russia and China?

Chines leader Xi Jinping has been rolling out the red carpet for the Russian President Vladimir Putin during his two days visit. A Large portion of the meeting focused around the two countries' trade relationship. What do these two huge economies want from each other?Also, in the programme, Sam Fenwick looks at Kenya where the government announced a new tax policy that will increase the price of staples like bread, mobile phone data and money transfers.
5/16/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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President Putin in China to boost strategic ties

What’s the importance of the Russian President Vladmir Putin’s visit to China? Rahul Tandon explores the possible economic benefits to both countries.We hear how Russia is still managing to export oil via other countries around the world, and in effect making the sanctions ineffective. The Ambassador-at-Large with Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chan Hen Chee, talks to us about the country’s future direction after its long serving Prime Minister steps down.
5/15/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Latvia banking chief: frozen Russian assets could help Ukraine

In a BBC exclusive, Latvia's central bank governor, Mārtiņš Kazāks, highlights how the interest from frozen Russian assets could help finance Ukraine’s army. EU ambassadors have already agreed this in principle. Also, Will Bain finds out why foreign investors in Georgia might reconsider their future after a controversial funding law was passed in the country. And we hear from an autoworker in Alabama as workers vote on unionisation.
5/15/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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US announces tariffs on a range of Chinese imports

Presenter Sam Fenwick assesses the impact of US tariffs on Chinese goods. Joe Biden is putting them on imports, including electric cars and semiconductors. We hear from the business community in Georgia worried a new law will put off foreign trade. It requires organisations which receive more than 20 per cent of funding from abroad to declare themselves as illegal. We examine sports betting in the US. States have been after states were allowed to legalise the industry. Betting on sports is part of the sports fan experience in many countries around the world but it's a relatively new thing in the US.
5/14/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Biden calls for rising tariffs on Chinese imports

The White House has confirmed the United States is putting tariffs on 18 billion dollars worth of imports from China. They'll target sectors like electric vehicles, batteries, steel and critical minerals. The US government accusing China of "unfair trade practices".Also, in the programme, we find out why one of the largest mining companies decided to focus the business on copper instead of diamonds. And we will look at Rhodes where the economy is still recovering after wildfires.
5/14/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Brazilian floods show little sign of slowing

Flooding in Brazil continues, bringing despair to residents and businesses alike. Can emergency government funds offer hope of rebuilding? Meanwhile, Sam Fenwick looks at what's expected in the Australian budget, and what Melinda Gates' departure from her namesake foundation means to the world of philanthropy
5/13/202426 minutes, 19 seconds
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Georgia protests: Will the new law harm the economy?

Hundreds of Georgians joined protest against a foreign influence bill, described by critics as the "Russia law". People are concerned that the new law could be used by the government to clamp down on opponents, and could harm Georgia's hopes of joining the European Union.Also, Will Bain finds out why Russia's new Defence Minister is an economist and he hears about the project helping people escape extreme poverty by equipping them to start small businesses in Uganda.
5/13/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Is the UK economy out of the woods?

The UK has emerged from recession – but can it hold its ground? And how does it compare to the rest of the world?Elsewhere, Emily Thomas digs into the agricultural impact of the floods in Brazil, and looks back at Chinese president Xi Jinping's visit to Europe.
5/10/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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Apple faces backlash over advert

The tech giant Apple has faced an online backlash in response to an advert featuring books and musical instrument being crushed, to demonstrate how their creativity has been compressed into the latest iPad.Also, with music catalogue company Hipgnosis facing a takeover, is it worth a price tag of $1.6 billion? And we hear from one of the Eurovision song contest’s most successful songwriters.
5/10/202426 minutes, 14 seconds
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Air India Express cancels 85 flights

Almost three-thousand cabin crew members in India have taken part in a mass sick leave in protest for better working conditions. Air India have cancelled 85 flights while travel disruption continues for hundreds of passengers. Also, on the show – find out why Korean women are reluctant to have children. Plus, you can hear how Euro Vision song writers are earning a living for the annual singing competition.
5/9/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Whistleblower: parts sent to Boeing had 'serious defects'

A former employee of Boeing's biggest supplier has claimed that sections of 737 Max aircraft regularly left its factory with serious defects.Spirit Aerosystems builds fuselages for the 737 Max, which are then shipped to Boeing’s own plant for final assembly.Speaking publicly for the first time, former quality inspector Santiago Peredes told the BBC that some managers actively tried to discourage him from flagging up flaws in half-finished planes.Also, Rahul Tandon, finds out why there are a lot of concerns about whether the plan to use Russian assets for weapons is legal and why not everyone was keen to see the Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Hungary.
5/8/202426 minutes, 32 seconds
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Europe eyes latest rate cut

We speak to the head of Sweden’s central bank, after it voted to cut interest rates; making it one of the first to do so in the region. The bank moved ahead of the U.S Federal Reserve for the first time this century.Elsewhere, Ed Butler looks at why Ghana could face issues with the World Bank over its LGBT policies, and why the rising prices of doner kebabs in Germany is becoming a political issue.
5/8/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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TikTok takes revenge

TikTok has filed a lawsuit aiming to block a US law that would ban in the video app in the country unless it is sold by its Chinese parent company.In the filing, the social media company called the act an "extraordinary intrusion on free speech rights" of the company and its 170 million American users.Also, Rahul Tandon, looks at the Disney financial results and finds out what can you buy with Argentina's new 10 000 pesos banknote.
5/7/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Saudi’s growing deficit in the spotlight

Saudi’s state-oil company Aramco saw profits drop this week, but its payout to the government will still reach an eye-watering $31 billion. We see if the Saudi economy can cope with all its expensive mega projects.Also, Ed Butler explores the latest issues at Boeing, and finds out why India is becoming a hot new destination for big concerts.
5/7/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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EU and France holds talks with Xi

On his first visit to Europe since 2019, president Xi Jinping has been talking about trade ties. The West is worried about cheap Chinese imports of electric cars.Also, Rahul Tandon finds out why global petrol demand growth could halve in 2024 and what impact the shutdown in Israel would have on Al Jazeera's business operations.
5/6/202426 minutes, 30 seconds
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Xi Jinping returns to Europe

Chinese leader Xi Jinping chooses France for his first visit to the continent after a five-year absence. We get the latest. Kosovo is home to Europe’s largest zinc, lead and silver mine. We visit it to know a bit more about central Europe’s smallest economy per capita. And we hear about a new form of ghost flights and the fine that the Australian airline Qantas has just received for using them.
5/6/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Israel stops trade with Turkey

The Israeli Foreign Ministry is to reduce Turkish imports both to Israel and to the occupied Palestinian territories. It’s also appealing for sanctions against Turkey for violating existing trade agreements. Also, in the programme, we look at Brazil’s plans to propose a global annual tax for billionaires at the G20 in July
5/3/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Turkey says it is stopping trade with Israel over the war in Gaza

Last month, Ankara introduced partial restrictions citing being refused permission to drop aid into Gaza. Their response was to introduce restrictions on trade. Now, it appears that all imports and exports from Israel have been blocked. The country’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz said this was "how a dictator behaves" "and they will lose."Also, in the programme, we look at Pandemic-era fitness darling Peloton is showing more signs of trouble, as the CEO steps down and announcing staff redundancies.
5/2/202426 minutes, 22 seconds
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What’s in a name?

The Co-op Live Arena is Europe's biggest, with a capacity of 23,500. But fans have reacted with shock and confusion after it called off its opening concert at the last minute. We're outside the venue - and will ask what it means for the Co-op - which has bought the naming rights for the venue - but doesn't run it.Maersk, the world's second largest shipping company - says the Red Sea route might not be open for the rest of the year. Rahul Tandon asks what that means for the world's supply chain.Plus we hear from Japan as it continues to tackle a demographic issue - amid criticism from US President Joe Biden.
5/2/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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US holds interest rates for sixth time

The US Federal Reserve says it needs greater confidence that inflation is easing before cutting interest rates. We get the latest from our correspondent in New York. The housing market is one of the industries most impacted by the higher cost of borrowing. We hear from buyers and sellers. And we have an exclusive interview with Pakistan's Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, about the conditions the country has to meet after taking a loan from the International Monetary Fund.
5/1/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Pakistan’s Finance Minister says he wants IMF bailout package to be the last

Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb exclusively speaks to World Business Report about the latest and 24th International Monetary Fund bailout for the country - and says it should be its last.In this extended podcast version of the interview with Mr. Aurangzeb, he talks to Will Bain about the steps he thinks are necessary for Pakistan to achieve economic stability.The country's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has previously said the disbursement of $1.1 billion by the IMF will help the country achieve that, amid discussions for a new loan programme. The funding was the second and final tranche of Pakistan's $3 billion standby arrangement with the IMF which it secured last summer to help avert a sovereign default. Also, in the programme, we look at how the risk of flooding or landslides are affecting people living in Kenya.
5/1/202433 minutes, 11 seconds
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Binance founder sentenced to 4 months in jail

Changpeng Zhao, the founder of the giant crypto exchange, Binance, will spend 4 months in a US prison. He had pled guilty to charges of enabling money laundering at the exchange. Ed Butler asks what it means for crypto.Meanwhile, in Argentina, a series of key reforms were passed which could spell privatization of a dozen companies. We speak to a former presidential candidate who says the reforms will spell trouble.Finally, Beijing, Brussels and Washington are preparing for a major showdown over electric cars.
5/1/202426 minutes, 29 seconds
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Zimbabwe launches a new currency backed with gold

Zimbabwe introduces a new currency, the ZiG, to tackle its high inflation.The Argentinian parliament has approved sweeping austerity measures which has triggered mass protests. We also hear from Ecuador, a country which in the late 90s successfully dealt with high inflation.And we hear from Bumble CEO Lidiane Jones on women in tech and the path to success.
4/30/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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The G7 agree to kill coal by 2035

Energy ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) major democracies have agreed to phase out the use of coal power by 2035, putting a critical timeline on the plans first announced last year in Dubai. Also in the programme, Ed Butler looks at the new spending cap set to apply to football teams in the English Premiere League. And, we hear about the retreat of the grocery courier firm Getir from Europe and the U.S, and the future of the sector.
4/30/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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US-China relations: How will it affect businesses?

America's top diplomat and the Chinese president have held talks in Beijing as both sides seek to stabilise relations. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned that Washington will act if China does not stop supplying Russia with items used in its assault on Ukraine.Also, in the programme, Roger Hearing finds out how Egypt authorities dealing with the inflation and who created World biggest 3D printer.
4/26/202426 minutes, 23 seconds
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Blinken & Xi Jinping in trade talks

Could the US Secretary’s visit to Beijing further improve the US-China relationship that still crackles with tension and suspicion? Devina Gupta speaks to Prof Henry Gao, an expert in global trade at Singapore Management University.Over to Haiti and it is day one of the new interim government there which is trying to crackdown on gang violence we speak to the boss one of the main telecom companies - about what it is like to do business in this chaos and his hopes for stability.Messaging app WhatsApp says it will leave India if it is forced to break its end-to-end encryption, that is mandated by India's 2021 Information Technology Rules.Finally – what does it mean for a female flight attendant to get a CEO position for an Asian airline company? We find out how this story made headlines in Japan.
4/26/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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US economic growth slows but inflation grows

The US economy grew by less than forecast in the first three months of this year but inflation gathered pace, which could delay an interest rate cut.Official figures revealed the economy expanded at an annualised rate of 1.6%, far below expectations and the growth seen in the final months of 2023.Meanwhile, inflation, which measures the pace of price rises, has increased.
4/25/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Venice begins charging visitors an entrance fee

Day trippers will have to pay €5 to visit the famous Italian city. The local government wants to discourage low-budget tourists who don't stay overnight in Venice. We get the latest. Mining giant BHP has proposed a buyout of Anglo American. The $39bn deal would forge the world's biggest copper miner in times when the price for this mineral is soaring. We look into the details. And we hear about the challenges US businesses operating in China are facing.
4/25/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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US warns China about supplying arms to Russia

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken travels to Beijing in an attempt to curb support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. We look into the details. Boeing reports results after a difficult quarter, and what happens to movies once they have been taken down from streaming platforms? We find out.
4/24/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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UK passes bill to send asylum seekers to Rwanda

The British government wants to deter migrants from crossing the English Channel illegally on small boats. We get the latest. Greece has come a long way from the sovereign debt crisis it fell into in 2009. But challenges still remain, we hear about them. And we take a look at Elon Musk's latest row, this time, with Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.
4/23/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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EV price war hits global market

Tesla has cut its prices again in a number of major markets - including the US, China and Germany - as the electric car giant run by multi-billionaire Elon Musk faces falling sales.The move comes after it reported a sharp fall in its global vehicle deliveries in the first three months of this year.Also, Vishala Sri-Pathma finds out of why government military spending increased in all five geographical regions and why Northern Ireland and its economy are betting big on film, TV and gaming.
4/22/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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The future of TikTok in the US

US lawmakers could vote on a bill that corners the app's owner ByteDance with a stark choice: to sell or be banned. Also in the programme, the French government addresses shrinkflation concerns with a new rule that will require stores to tell customers when a product becomes smaller but its price stays the same or increases. And we look into why sales of wine have dropped in China.
4/19/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Will Congress pass the long-awaited Ukraine aid bill?

After months of delay, the US House of Representatives appears poised to hold a vote this weekend on tens of billions of dollars worth of American military aid for Ukraine and Israel. The Republicans in Congress have been holding out on this issue for many months - tying it to immigration reform - but now House leader Mike Johnson says he's determined to bring the matter to a vote.Also, Ed Butler finds out why the number of bitcoin being produced will halve and what is happening in India as its general election begins.
4/19/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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Google's controversial dismissals over Gaza

The tech giant terminates 28 staff who protested against a contract signed with the government of Israel. We get the latest. India's Bombay Stock Exchange warns investors against a deepfake video of its chief executive officer. We find out why. And we take a look at what is happening inside the board of LVMH now that the chairman and CEO, Bernard Arnault, has integrated two more of his children.
4/18/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Official corruption... when ships are in port

The UN has estimated the global Cost of Corruption at some 5% of the world's Gross Domestic Product.Today our sister programme Business Daily has been looking at this - specifically through the lens of shipping, and the demands of routine bribery facing sea-farers. Many of the goods we buy and consume have at some stage reached us by cargo ship... But for the seafarers who make that happen, it’s not always an easy process. Ruth Alexander of Business Daily and The Food Chain tells more about this.Also, we hear from a very upset passenger, who's been trying to fly away from the destroyed by floods airport in Dubai. And we find out why a coalition of Nestlé shareholders is demanding to increase healthy food sales.
4/18/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Boeing faces fierce scrutiny

A Boeing engineer has told US lawmakers that he was harassed and threatened after he raised concerns about the safety of the company's planes. We hear from engineers and their claims.President Biden is set to call for a tripling of US tariffs on steel and aluminium. His demand for tariff hikes comes as he tackles fraught relations with China.Should players be excluded from betting on a game? The jury’s out for one NBA player who was given a lifetime ban by the NBA for breaching gambling rules.
4/17/202426 minutes, 9 seconds
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US election 2024: Is it worth it for campaign backers?

worrying reports for Donald Trump's campaign of what may be an impending cash shortfall. The Financial Times has calculated that he's raised $75mn less for his presidential bid than Joe Biden in recent months, and has 270,000 fewer unique donors than he had at the same stage of his White House run four years ago.So what difference does money make when it comes to winning US elections?Also, Ed Butler finds out why German sportswear giant Adidas hits huge profits from sales its Yeezy collection and what will be the cost of reconstruction of the Copenhagen's 17th-century old Stock Exchange.
4/17/202426 minutes, 1 second
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Is the American economy out of the woods?

Economic growth in the US will be stronger than expected – but what does this mean for small businesses? We hear from an American business owner about the impact of an economic boom coinciding with inflation.Also, a UK legislation to ban cigarette sales leads to questions being raised on how tax duty for those specific sales will be recovered. Plus, is the return of investment worth much for countries hosting global events? It has been estimated that in preparation for the Olympic games France has spent 9 billion euros and forcing additional contributions from the government – but does the investment reap the rewards?
4/16/202424 minutes, 49 seconds
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Global economy ‘resilient’ but may be headed for trouble

The global economy is set to grow 3.2% this year, slightly more than previously expected, according to the International Monetary Fund. It’s optimistic assessment in today's keenly awaited Global Growth forecast, suggests the world is heading for a soft landing rather than a crash over the next few months. Ed Butler talks to a former deputy director of the IMF.He also finds out what matters to young Indian voters as the country’s election gets closer, and talks to a Kenyan doctor about why he’s been joining the strikes for a month.
4/16/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Tesla announces workforce redundancies

Redundancies are expected after Tesla announces it will lay off more than 10% of its global vehicle workforce.Also how has a rise in consumer spend affected America’s economy which is grappling with inflation?Plus, the truth behind truth social continues as we look how Trump Media shares have been falling. And finally, is America’s immigration system broken? Our reporter Erin Delmore has been looking at the political and bureaucratic issues adding to America's labour shortage.
4/15/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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The costs of conflict for business in Israel

Israel's economy is struggling in the wake of conflict with Hamas in Gaza. We hear from a start-up in the EV sector how tensions between Iran and Israel will affect businesses.Also, presenter Will Bain, looks at why Tesla is set to lay off more than 10% of its global electric vehicle workforce. And how Japan’s biggest brewer Asahi plans to expand its production of zero and low-alcohol drinks.
4/15/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Inside Ukraine’s energy crisis

On today’s program we find out why Ukraine is suffering its worst power crisis since Russia launched its invasion. Also, find out why South America’s largest economy is grappling with high inflation. Plus, activists have begun a hunger strike on the island of Tenerife, in protest at what they see as the destructive growth of tourism on the Canary Islands. And finally, find out how an American Farm Grows $1,700-Per-Pound White Truffles…
4/12/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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The challenge to produce vaccines in Africa

Moderna has halted plans to build a Covid-19 plant in Kenya alleging the demand after the pandemic has fallen dramatically. Rahul Tandon explores the different challenges that keep Africa missing out on investments to develop vaccines and the consequence this has on the population. And shareholders of United States Steel will vote on a planned takeover of the company by a Japanese firm. We hear why not everyone's happy with the deal.
4/12/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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The European Central Bank has held interest rates steady at a record high of 4%

As the European Central Bank holds interest rates steady at a record high of 4%, Vivienne Nunis asks whether the EU is ahead of the US in the race to reduce interest rates.We examine the economic relationship between Japan and the United States - as the Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida addresses the US Congress.Plus in another Japan-US relationship issue, we talk about Shohei Ohtani, a baseball, a home run, and a woman who feels she's lost out on $100,000 as a result.
4/12/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Vietnamese billionaire sentenced to death for $44bn fraud

Property tycoon Truong My Lan has been found guilty of embezzling from one of the country's largest banks for 11 years, and given a rare death sentence. We get the latest from our correspondent. And as the political crisis deepens in Myanmar, we hear the latest report from the United Nations which says the middle classes in the nation are at risk of being wiped out.
4/11/202426 minutes, 7 seconds
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Cost of living shock: US Inflation is up

Consumer prices in the US rose faster than expected last month. The CPI measure of inflation rose 3.5% over the 12 months to March, up from 3.2% in February, the US Labor Department said.How will the new law restricting abortion in Arizona affect the state’s clinics?Plus UK Paralympic legend Baroness Tanni-Grey Thompson tells us what she makes of the news that athletes will soon be paid for winning an Olympic gold medal.
4/10/202426 minutes, 17 seconds
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EU court removes Russian oligarchs from sanctions list

The EU General Court removed Mikhail Fridman and Petr Aven off an EU sanction list
4/10/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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How is the surging price of commodities affecting the global economy?

Commodities - the raw materials that power business around the globe - are surging in price. And that suggests investors betting on a prolonged expansion—and a potential rebound in inflation. The S&P GSCI, which tracks commodity prices has advanced 12% this year. Copper and oil have gained more than 10% and 17%, respectively. Gold is also posting fresh records, rising 13% to $2,332 a troy ounce. So what's going on?Also, in the programme, the presenter Roger Hearing finds out why some politicians have pushed back against New York City’s congestion charging plan.
4/9/202426 minutes, 3 seconds
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March marks new global heat record

As the impact of climate change expands across the world, a top European court issues the first ruling against a country for climate inaction. We get the latest from our correspondent. And we go to Spain to hear why the government is scrapping its golden visa scheme.
4/9/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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TSMC expands US chip manufacturing in Arizona

The world's largest chip maker, TSMC - The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, has announced it will take advantage of generous US subsidies to build cutting-edge tech in Arizona. The Biden administration has committed more than six billion dollars in subsidies and five billion in possible loans to support the plan.Also, in the programme, the presenter Sam Fenwick finds out what it's like to experiencing complete darkness a rare total solar eclipse.
4/8/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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Yellen's China visit comes to an end

As U.S Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, wraps up her four-day visit to Beijing, Rahul Tandon looks at what the trip could mean for future relations between the U.S and China.Tens of thousands of people in the gaming industry sector have lost their jobs in the last few months. Reporter Izzy Greenfield explains what’s going on.And as North America waits to watch a total solar eclipse we hear from the business community in Rochester, New York, how the event has delivered a ‘tourism boom’ for the local economy.
4/8/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Rare earthquake shakes New York

A rare earthquake that struck New York City has swayed landmarks and cracked roads. Roger Hearing has been speaking to a stockbroker who describes the moment of impact. We also hear from the co-director of the Global Resilience Institute Dr Daniel Aldrich about whether New York is prepared to withstand a quake of a larger magnitude.Also on the program discover why emerging economies joining US and Europe in shielding domestic manufacturers from a rising tide of Chinese imports. And finally we find out why there’s been a sharp rise in the sale of horror novels around the world.
4/5/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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McDonald's buys back 225 outlets in Israel

McDonald's has announced its buying restaurants back, and bringing them in house - after the former franchise owner gave free meals to Israeli soldiers. That decision sparked a McDonald's boycott in many other countries across the world. We find out what happens when global brands and global politics collide.
4/5/202421 minutes, 57 seconds
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Gucci splashes out on a new $1.3bn office in Milan

Gucci splashes out on a new $1.3bn office in Europe’s biggest property deal since 2022
4/4/202428 minutes, 57 seconds
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US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to meet Chinese government officials

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stresses the importance of maintaining trade relationships and dialogue between the nations, as she spoke to reporters in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou. China accuses the West of feeling threatened by their cheaper exports to developing economies, but Yellen stands by her assessment that China is saturating the markets, driving down competitors. Also, in the programme, we will talk about Google and how its search engine is powered by artificial intelligence.....
4/4/202425 minutes, 54 seconds
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Taiwan quake to hit some chip output

We look at what the effects of chip suspension mean for Asia's semiconductor supply chain. Plus, Roger Hearing speaks to the executive vice president of Taiwan Residential Earthquake Insurance Fund to highlight the estimated cost of damage so far. Also, Zimbabwean president declares state of disaster due to droughtAnd finally, Disney secures its happy ever ending after convincing shareholders they’re heading in the right direction
4/3/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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How has the Taiwan earthquake hit their semiconductors sector?

The devastating earthquake with a 7.2 magnitude has killed at least nine people and damaged buildings, sparking evacuations at microchip plants. The country is a huge player in the world of microchips - with many large factories supplying the likes of tech giant Apple and AI supremo Nvidia. Those factories however have had to shut their doors temporarily over fears of the aftermath of this devastating earthquake, which has meant a halt in production. Also, in the programme, we will talk about rising cocoa price and how will it affect farmers.
4/3/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Rebuilding Gaza estimated to cost $18.5 billion.

A World Bank and UN joint report estimates costs to rebuild Gaza’s critical infrastructure to be $18.5 billion dollars – we discuss how it could be funded. Plus have drivers fallen out of love with electric cars? Tesla and BYD report sale losses. We also look at why hybrid work is becoming a popular choice for employees and Disney faces a showdown over its future against billionaire Nelson Peltz.
4/2/202426 minutes, 26 seconds
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China property developer Country Garden suspended stock on Hong Kong exchange

There was good news yesterday about Chinese manufacturing going up, but less good news toay for Beijing about its beleaguered property sector: the property development giant, Country Garden, has suspended trading of its shares in Hong Kong after delaying publication of its annual results. The firm said last week it needed more time to collect information as it restructures its debts. It defaulted on its overseas debt last year. Also, in the programme, the presenter Roger Hearing will talk about UK and US AI agreement and will find out why South Asia is producing not enough jobs for young professionals.
4/2/202426 minutes, 25 seconds
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How is the Baltimore bridge collapse impacting business?

A transportation business in Baltimore tells us about how they may have to take a hit to sustain their business as the Baltimore bridge is repaired. Also, the truth behind ‘Truth Social’ – we find out how shares in the business have plunged by 23% after reporting less than a million dollars in revenue for the fourth quarter of last year. Plus, we’ll be looking at how the UK has benefitted from the introduction of a minimum wage, 25 years after it was introduced.
4/1/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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China shows signs of economic recovery

China's factory output has grown for the first time in six months. Roger Hearing finds out more about why that is good news but the picture remains mixed. Turkey's main opposition party has claimed big election victories in the main cities of Istanbul and Ankara. In Japan overtime per week is being limited to around 18 hours per week for drivers of trucks, taxis and buses. And in Germany part decriminalisation of cannabis will be introduced for over 18s. We hear more from our correspondent Jessica Parker in Dresden.
4/1/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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WTO warns against protectionism in the global economy

Today we lead with a warning from the head of World Trade Organisation Ngozi Okonja-Iweala about the impact protectionism could have on the global economy. Plus, we find out why Japan is relaxing its visa rules in a drive to boost foreign workers to fill vacancy gaps in certain professions. And finally social media stirs the pot after dubbing French president Emmanuel Macrons visit to Brazil as a honeymoon than a diplomatic summit.
3/30/202450 minutes, 23 seconds
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WTO signals danger around trade protectionism

Today we lead with a warning from the head of World Trade Organisation Ngozi Okonja-Iweala about the perils of trade protectionism.Plus, we find out why social media has dubbed French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Brazil as a honeymoon than a diplomatic summit.Also, we look at how local businesses in Jerusalem have been impacted by a decline in tourism and finally, we learn about the pros and cons of daylight saving, as Europe prepares to put its clocks forwards.
3/30/202427 minutes, 10 seconds
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WTO signals danger around trade protectionism

Today we lead with a warning from the head of World Trade Organisation Ngozi Okonja-Iweala about the perils of trade protectionism.Plus, we find out why social media has dubbed French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Brazil as a honeymoon than a diplomatic summit.Also, we look at how local businesses in Jerusalem have been impacted by a decline in tourism and finally, we learn about the pros and cons of daylight saving, as Europe prepares to put its clocks forward.
3/29/202427 minutes, 10 seconds
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WTO warns against fragmentation of the global economy

The director of the World Trade Organisation Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala says she is concerned about protectionism, which she doesn't think would work in today's world. The "arms race" in AI has been mostly a financial one but now it seems there's a race to grab talent too. We discuss this with Humayan Sheikh, one of the major investors in the British AI firm Deep Mind. And South Africa's Environment Minister Barbara Creecy tells us why one of the best ways to protect her country's wildlife might be to eat more of it.
3/29/202426 minutes, 31 seconds
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Sam Bankman-Fried sentenced to 25 years in prison

On the show we find out how a Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi has launched its first electric vehicle and is now securing orders. Plus, Should your employer be able to tell you how to wear your hair? We hear from a social influencer about how she’s been discriminated over her choice of hairstyle in France. Also, we find out how Padel is becoming the world's fastest-growing sport and finally could a law in Florida stop kids under 13 from accessing social media?
3/28/202426 minutes, 27 seconds
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Sam Bankman-Fried sentenced to 25 years in prison

Founder of crypto exchange FTX has been sentenced for stealing billions of dollars from customers. Sam Fenwick talks to experts and a victim about the consequences of this ruling on the cryptocurrency market. We get the latest from our correspondent in New York.
3/28/202427 minutes, 13 seconds
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What now after Baltimore bridge collapse?

We hear about the aftermath from the United States Chamber of Commerce and the founder of a brewery that's located near the site of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Also, Disney and Florida appear to have settled a legal dispute. Plus, should America adopt Australian-style pensions? And Slovakian flying-car technology is off to China.
3/28/202426 minutes, 28 seconds
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Baltimore bridge collapse: the economic impact

We take a look at some of the costs that will come from the accident, like the reconstruction of the bridge and compensation for the victim's relatives -and who will likely have to pay for them. The Swedish fashion brand H&M has said it had to delay its spring collection due to the disruption caused by the Red Sea crisis. We take a look at the details. Africa's debt has increased sharply in recent years. Now, delegates have gathered at a conference in Accra, Ghana, to find solutions. We talk to one of them. And a Chinese company has bought access to the technology developed by a Slovakian firm to build a flying car. We get the latest from our correspondent.
3/27/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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Container ship crashes into a bridge in the US

Rahul Tandon examines the economic impact of the crash in a busy shipping lane in Baltimore. We also hear how much it might cost to repair. Shares in Donald Trump's media company have soared by more than 55 per cent, after it began trading on the Nasdaq stock market. Truth Social raised money through a shell company called a SPAC before being listed.We hear how the tiny Pacific island nation of Palau is trying to boost tourism. During Covid, that industry was decimated, and the country's lost around a fifth of its GDP.
3/26/202427 minutes, 13 seconds
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Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

Baltimore's Key Bridge collapsed after a container ship crashed into a supporting pylon. The port near the bridge is the largest in the US for specialised cargo. We get the latest. A huge amount of food is wasted every day, often because farmers are unable to keep it cold after it’s harvested. We look into some of the potential solutions. And as more countries around the world tighten rules around vaping, we talk to Tadeu Marocco, CEO of British American Tobacco, who says that a blanket ban of e-cigarettes could drive an illegal market.
3/26/202427 minutes, 12 seconds
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Boeing boss quits after plane-maker plunged into crisis

Rahul Tandon reflects on the departure of the company’s Chief Executive David Calhoun. He is set to leave at the end of the year. Could Pakistan be set to resume trade talks with India? We hear from a former Pakistani ambassador to the UK and the US. And we examine why rental costs have risen sharply in some parts of Spain.
3/25/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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Boeing boss to step down as firm faces safety crisis

Boeing is under pressure after an unused door blew out of a Boeing 737 Max in January shortly after take-off. Will Bain looks at what the changes at the top will mean for the aviation giant as it faces heavy scrutiny following safety incidents and manufacturing issues. Also on the programme: A deadline for Donald Trump to put up the $464m (£365m) penalty for inflating his net worth is due to expire Monday. If he doesn't, the New York Attorney General may start freezing his bank accounts and seizing his property. And as rental costs rise steeply in parts of Spain, Guy Hedgecoe looks at the situation in Ibiza, where the problem is particularly acute due to tourism.
3/25/202427 minutes, 25 seconds
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Trump’s social media business set to go public

Donald Trump’s social media business is set to become publicly listed after shareholders of a company approved the deal. This will potentially unlock a $3bn windfall for the former US president. Roger Hearing will be hearing how exactly Trump is expected to make money from this. The FBI say there's a criminal investigation into what happened when a panel fell off a Boeing plane in mid-flight back in January. We find what this means for the passengers that were onboard. And we look at the career of the woman who photographed some of the greatest moments in rock.
3/22/202422 minutes, 16 seconds
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Media merger could provide $3bn windfall for Trump

Donald Trump’s social media company, Truth Social, has been given the go-ahead to go public in a vote by shareholders. The deal could provide a $3bn windfall as the ex-president fights legal penalties. Hundreds of doctors in Kenya are striking today demanding better pay and conditions - we speak to one medic who is taking part. And as the Indian Premier League gets underway, we look at how much more the world's richest cricket league could grow as a business.
3/22/202427 minutes, 13 seconds
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US Department of Justice and 16 other states sue Apple

The US has filed a landmark lawsuit against Apple in which they are accused monopolising the smartphone market and crushing competition. Roger Hearing will be looking at what this means for the company going forward. Turkey has raised interest rates to 50% to fight inflation at 67%, we find out how it affects ordinary citizens. And as the EU moves to close unpaid internships but unions say it's not enough.
3/21/202427 minutes, 17 seconds
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US sues Apple over iPhone 'monopoly power'

The US Justice Department alleges Apple used its control of the iPhone to illegally limit competitors and consumer options. Apple deny the claims. Also in the programme: The Biden administration unveils the strictest ever US car emission limits to boost EVs; and why a Swedish pharmacy chain is banning the sale of anti-ageing skincare to children.
3/21/202427 minutes, 7 seconds
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Fed signals three interest rate cuts in 2024

The US central bank left interest rates unchanged at a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, a 23-year-high. We look into the details. Tech firms in Denmark have come together to develop and roll out a new computer game intended to engage girls in science and technology outside of the classroom. We get the latest from our correspondent. And the world's most expensive drug will soon be available in the US at a price of $4.25m. We hear about the rare disease it treats and the high cost of developing medicine to battle it
3/20/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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EU imposes tariffs on Ukrainian produce

The European Union has agreed to extend duty free imports of Ukrainian produce, which have been a lifeline for its war-torn economy. But to ease farmer’s concerns about being undercut, price caps have been brought in on some Ukrainian items, including oats, eggs, poultry and sugar. Will Bain looks at why - and what impact it could have on the Ukrainian economy.Microsoft has hired DeepMind co-founder, Mustafa Suleyman, to lead its new AI division. What does this tell us about the company’s plans for AI - and why hiring the right people is as important as the money you invest when it comes to new tech.And as Ethiopia's biggest commercial bank seeks to recoup large sums of money withdrawn by customers after - what is being called - a "systems glitch" - how does a bank recoup such losses.
3/20/202427 minutes, 17 seconds
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Hong Kong passes controversial security law

Hong Kong lawmakers have passed a security law that critics fear will further erode civil liberties in the city. Will tougher restrictions scare away foreign investors? Bangalore, home to some of the biggest IT companies in India, is battling an acute water shortage. We get the latest from our correspondent.And Star Wars creator George Lucas steps into the boardroom power battle at Disney to support the firm's CEO, Bob Iger. Will the force be with him? Presenter Sam Fenwick finds out.
3/19/202426 minutes, 54 seconds
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Bank Of Japan ends negative interest rates

Japan’s central bank brings the era of negative interest rates to an end with its first rate rise in 17 years. Rahul Tandon looks at why and what this might mean for global markets.As the government in Pakistan continues to limit access to social media sites, we hear from a digital marketing boss in the country, about the effect on their company.And as Unilever announces plans to create a stand-alone business for its ice cream products, including Ben & Jerry's and Magnum, we speak to one former Unilever executive about what this could mean for business on both sides of the deal.
3/19/202426 minutes, 55 seconds
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Electricity and food shortages lead to rare protests in Cuba

The island is experiencing one of its worst crisis in the last three decades, with people struggling to get staples like milk and bread. Presenter Sam Fenwick examines the difficulties the Cuban economy is facing. Former US President Donald Trump hasn't been able to find a private company to guarantee the $464m million he's been ordered to pay in a New York civil fraud case. We hear about the consequences this could have for the former US president. And --why the number of stolen luxury watches has surged in the past year.
3/18/202427 minutes, 13 seconds
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A big week for central banks around the world

As investors wait to see if Japan’s central bank will bring to an end eight years of negative interest rates, Rahul Tandon speaks to a former economist at the Bank of Japan about whether the policy has worked - and what would they do in the current economic climate.China's industrial production picked up in the first two months of 2024, accompanied by faster growth in the high-tech manufacturing and the consumer goods manufacturing sectors - so is the economy getting back on track?The number of watches recorded as lost or stolen has more than tripled over the last year reaching $1.9 Billion Dollars - according to the world's largest watch database - The Watch Register. We speak to their boss about why and what can be done to help recover stolen goods.
3/18/202430 minutes, 8 seconds
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US opiod crisis

The United States is warning the rest of the world that the US is the canary in the coalmine when it comes to the global opioid crisis. Our presenter Will Bain will be hearing what the US plans on doing. Also, the man who bankrolled Nikki Haley's failed bid for the US Presidency warns where his cash might go next. And there is big news in K-pop for the UK as a band is set to grace the main stage of one of the world's biggest music festival for the first time.
3/15/202427 minutes, 12 seconds
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Russians go to the polls

We take a look at Russia's economy as the nation holds the first presidential elections since the beginning of war with Ukraine. Major internet disruption has been reported in various countries across Africa. We hear about the consequences it is having on businesses. And Japanese carmakers Nissan and Hinda want to join forces in the electric vehicle market. What impact will this have in the auto industry?
3/15/202423 minutes, 46 seconds
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A bid to buy TikTok

Former Secretary of the U.S. Treasury Steven Mnuchin said he is arranging a team of investors to purchase Chinese social media giant TikTok. Our presenter Roger Hearing will be looking at how significant this move will be to stop Chinese influence in America. There is a defeat in the UK courts for the Australian who claims to be the man who founded Bitcoin.And Denmark moves to conscript women into the armed forces for the first time as part of a beefing up of its defences - but there are fears about what that will do to the labour market.
3/14/202427 minutes, 8 seconds
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Corporate defaults hit highest rate since 2010

Companies across the world struggle to pay debts as the impact of higher interest rates starts to kick in, according to S&P. We look into the details. As US legislators discuss the future of TikTok in the country, we hear from a business that relies on the app to boost sales.And in Bangalore, also known as India's Silicon Valley, a severe water crisis is putting companies under stress. We hear more from our correspondent.
3/14/202427 minutes, 10 seconds
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How will a new bill aimed at TikTok affect US businesses?

The US House of Representatives has approved a landmark bill that could see TikTok banned in America.The measure would give the social media giant's parent company ByteDance six months to sell its controlling stake, or the app will be removed in the US. Many people are concerned about the possible ban, including US business owners who use TikTok to boost sales.Also in the programme, presenter Will Bain asks why the EU has decided to regulate AI and talks to a major donor from the US election campaign.
3/13/202427 minutes, 17 seconds
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What will happen to TikTok in the US?

US House of Representatives passes bill that could force TikTok's owner to sell the app or see it banned in the country. We get the latest from our correspondent. The European Union has approved the world's first comprehensive framework for constraining the risks of artificial intelligence. We look into the details. And the European Commissioner of Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski, talks to World Business Report about recent farmers' protests in the continent.
3/13/202427 minutes, 12 seconds
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US inflation rises to 3.2%

The inflation rate in the US picked up in February, as prices for petrol and housing pushed higher.The annual rate, which measures the pace of price increases, was 3.2% in February, up from 3.1% in January, the Labor Department said.Airfare, car insurance and clothing were among the items driving the increase over the month.Also, in the programme, Sam Fenwick will talk to a doctor striking in South Korea and finds out how the climate change is having a big impact on the cost of bananas.
3/12/202427 minutes, 4 seconds
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Boeing whistleblower found dead

Former Boeing employee John Barnett had being giving evidence in a lawsuit against the firm in the days before his death. Transportation Attorney Mary Schiavo is a former Inspector General at the US Department of Transport – she told Vivienne Nunis about Mr Barnett’s testimony. Haiti's Prime Minister Ariel Henry has announced he will leave office as soon as his government forms a presidential council, after being blocked from re-entering the country. We get the latest. Chinese smartphone-maker Xiaomi will soon start delivering its first electric vehicle. Will the company woo China's competitive EV market?
3/12/202427 minutes, 14 seconds
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US budget: Biden to increase tax for wealthy earners and corporations

US President Joe Biden delivered a $7.3 trillion election-year budget to the Congress. It contain proposal to raise taxes on wealthy earners and corporations and bring back a child tax credit for low and middle-income earners.The money will also help to fund childcare programs, funnel $258 billion to building homes, provide 12 weeks of paid family leave for workers, and help fund law enforcement.Also, in the programme, Devina Gupta finds out why more farmers are filing for bankruptcy in Brazil and why thousands of workers in Finland are on strike.
3/11/202426 minutes, 18 seconds
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Haiti: "Insecurity kills people and the economy"

Haitian economist Enomy Germain explains the challenges businesses face in the country. We hear from him and a businessman based in Port-au-Prince. Dozens of paintings from a private collection of Russian and Ukrainian modern art have been sold to museums and private collectors around the world. But suspicions on their authenticity are now emerging. We look into these accusations. And we talk to an Internet pioneer about the latest controls on the firms that dominate the web: the European Union's Digital Markets Act.
3/11/202427 minutes, 6 seconds
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Congress move that could ban TikTok in the US sparks user revolt

The Chinese-owned app urged users to call politicians to complain about a bill that would force its parent company to either sell or shut down TikTok in the US. We ask an expert about the implications this could have. A power company has admitted it might be responsible for the start of the largest wildfires in Texas history. We get the latest. And 10 years after Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 disappeared from radar screens, leaving 239 people missing presumed dead, the case continues to be a mystery. We hear why.
3/8/202427 minutes, 15 seconds
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Binance vs Nigerian government

Nigeria has been wrangling with the crypto-exchange Binance and recently stopped all transactions using local currency. The move comes after a tumultuous two weeks for the exchange in Nigeria where government officials blamed Binance for facilitating currency speculation and foreign exchange manipulation. The soaring exchange rates have worsened the cost of living for Nigerians. Also, in the programme, the presenter Will Bain finds out what the spike in violence might mean for foreign investment in Haiti and he hears from Sophie Williams, the author of a new book called The Glass Cliff.
3/8/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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Sweden joins Nato after decades of neutrality

The country becomes the 32nd member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation after two years of negotiation. We look into the consequences this can have.As award season continues in Hollywood, we hear about the impact last year's strikes had on the industry. And we explore why a growing number of Americans are choosing to switch to local community banks.
3/7/202427 minutes, 8 seconds
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Tech giant ASML set for Dutch exit?

Dutch company ASML producing machines which can make the most advanced computer chips and it's the only company in the world with that kind of technology. It's not a surprise that the current government is trying to ensure it continues to invest in the Netherlands.The semiconductor equipment maker is considering expanding abroad after it voiced concerns over the country’s hardening stance on migrants. Also, in the programme, the presenter Roger Hearing will find out of how tensions in the Red Sea impacting trading in China and Egypt. And what's the reasons behind the latest data of the China's export and import growth?
3/7/202427 minutes, 15 seconds
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Nikki Haley quits her presidential campaign

Republican candidate Nikki Haley suspends her presidential campaign after losing against Donald Trump on Super Tuesday. Vivienne Nunis will be looking at what happens to the billionaire backers funding her campaign. With global cocoa prices soaring, we speak to the CEO of Lindt chocolate about its boost to profitability. And the widely loved late Colombian author Gabriel Garcia Marquez has a new book out.
3/6/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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Israel's economy over impact of the war

Israel's $500-billion economy has taken a hit during the more than four-month-old war in Gaza, during which thousands of people have left the Israeli workforce and gone to serve in the military. The country's Economy and Industry Minister - Nir Barkat has told the BBC that winning the war was the top priority for Israel despite the economic toll. Also, in the programme, we we'd look at the position of women in the Irish economy and the UK spring budget.
3/6/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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It's Super Tuesday

It's Super Tuesday in the US - the biggest day of the 2024 election so far, when people in 15 states will vote for their presidential candidate. Roger Hearing will be bringing us up to date on what the polls are saying. There are concerns that North Korea has been hacking into the south's chip makers as part of its weapons-development. And there has been a breakthrough agreement between Starbucks and its unionised baristas.
3/5/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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China sets ambitious economic target

China's leaders have set an ambitious target of 5% GDP for the year ahead - despite weaknesses in the world's second largest economy. Will Bain asks former IMF economist David Woo what that target really means. With Super Tuesday upon us, one of President Biden's 2020 campaign pollsters Celinda Lake tells us what she makes of the evening's events to come. Plus we hear from Maarten Boute, the interim chief executive and chairman of the Telecoms major Digicel, about Haiti - and how you try to operate a business in such a difficult climate of violence.
3/5/202427 minutes, 20 seconds
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China: National People's Congress preview

The National People's Congress starts on Tuesday, bringing together China’s political elite, as well as leaders in business, tech, media, and the arts. Rahul Tandon will be looking ahead to the congress as China’s leading economics official, premier Li Qiang has said he will not address the press this year. Also Apple has been fined $2billion dollars by the EU for violating their anti- trust laws. We hear if it should it have been more for them to feel the impact? And we head to a place that has been crowned Scotland's official 'Book Town'.
3/4/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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Why EU fines Apple for €1.8bn?

Apple has been fined €1.8 billion by the EU, for breaking competition laws.The penalty is for preventing Spotify and other music streaming services from informing users of payment options outside the Apple app store.The European Commission's decision was triggered by a complaint by the Swedish music streaming service over this restriction and Apple's 30% fee.Also, in the programme, the presenter Will Bain will find out will businesses continue investing in Haiti after the mass jailbreak.
3/4/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Musk v OpenAI: ideology or money?

Elon Musk is suing OpenAI, the makers of ChatGPT, arguing it has breached the principles he agreed to when he helped found it in 2015.The lawsuit - which has also been filed against OpenAI boss Sam Altman - says the firm has departed from its original non-profit, open source mission.Musk says that instead of trying to "benefit humanity" - as it was set up to do - OpenAI is focusing on "maximising profits" for major investor Microsoft. Also in the programme, we will talk about offices which been converted into houses in the US.
3/1/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Poland says restrictions to Ukrainian food products are necessary

The Polish Agriculture Minister, Czeslaw Siekierski, tells World Business Report that Ukraine will be compensated for the grain destroyed by farmers during protests.Fuel prices in Cuba rise by five times after the government reduces subsidies amid a severe economic crisis. We get the latest from Havana. And Elon Musk is suing Open AI and its Chief Executive Sam Altman because he claims the company has abandoned its mission to develop artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity, not profit.
3/1/202427 minutes, 23 seconds
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Why junior doctors in South Korea are fighting for their rights?

South Korea is dealing with another day of a doctors' strike. Most junior doctors there have so far defied a government order to return to work by the end of Thursday, despite the threat of legal action. About eighty percent of junior doctors walked out last week in protest against a decision to sharply increase the number of medical school places. They say training more doctors could lower the quality of medical school education and reduce pay. The authorities say the increase will address shortages linked to South Korea's rapidly ageing population, and a lack of doctors in rural areas. We get the views of people in Seoul on the strike action.Also, in the programme, we will hear from The United States Trade Representative - Katherine Tai, who tells us why the fall in bilateral trade between the United States and China is a positive development for both economies.
2/29/202427 minutes, 24 seconds
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US to investigate if Chinese electric cars pose national security risk

President Joe Biden says he worries these vehicles might gather data on US citizens and infrastructure and send it to China. How will this affect the already strained US-China relations? We find out. India’s GDP grew by more than 8% in the final three months of 2023, beating all forecasts by economists. We look into the impact this can have in this year's elections. The number of people out of work in Germany increased more than expected in February. We hear how a slowdown in Europe's largest economy is taking a toll on the labour market.
2/29/202427 minutes, 2 seconds
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Boeing has 90 days to fix safety concerns

US aviation regulators have given Boeing 90 days to come up with a plan to fix safety problems, this comes after a door panel blew off the 737 Max aircraft last month. Sam Fenwick will be hearing what the regulators are recommending. We look at if the merger of Disney and Reliance could create a media powerhouse big enough to rival Netflix and other streaming networks. And the woman at the centre of one of the biggest US political scandals teams up with a major Fashion brand.
2/28/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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South Korea: Birth rate falls to new record low

Economic incentives fail to boost population in the nation with the lowest fertility rate in the world. We find out why more South Koreans are deciding not to have children. Country Garden, the largest private property developer in China, is facing a winding-up petition filed in Hong Kong by a creditor. We look into the details. And Apple has reportedly cancelled its plans to build electric vehicles after a decade working on the them. We hear about the reasons that may have led them to drop the project
2/28/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Michigan presidential primary election

As the people of Michigan head to the polls to choose their candidates for the up-coming US election. Sam Fenwick will be looking at what drivers the states economy. We get the latest on why Nigeria is experiencing the worst economic crisis in a generation as inflation continues to soar. And the Geneva Motor Show is now taking place in the Swiss town for the first time since the Covid outbreak.
2/27/202427 minutes, 5 seconds
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Nigerians take to the streets over soaring food and fuel prices

Trade unions begin two days of protests across the country against president Bola Tinubu's economic reforms. We find out what is happening in Africa's largest economy. Japan's population declined by nearly one million people last year, as the ageing of society gathers pace. We look into the factors that are fuelling this population crisis. And as the Cigar Festival takes place in Cuba, we get the latest on this luxury industry.
2/27/202427 minutes, 25 seconds
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Ukrainian grain destroyed near Polish border

As farmer protests in Europe continue, Polish farmers have directed their anger towards Ukraine. Around 160 tons of Ukrainian grain have been destroyed in Poland. Farmers there say that they face unfair competition from Kiev. Sam Fenwick will be hearing how the financial loss is small compared with what it symbolises. Despite a heavy loss in the South Carolina primary, money is still rolling in for Nikki Haley's bid for the White House. We hear from one of her donors. Meanwhile a billion-dollar donation to a New York medical school means hundreds of students will graduate debt free.
2/26/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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Farmers protest across Europe

European farmers complain about what they say is unfair competition from outside the EU and demand action against red tape and low prices. We look at what EU leaders can do to appease the demonstrators. The Irish airline Ryanair warns it will have to raise prices due to aircraft shortages caused by delays on Boeing deliveries. We get the latest. And two big media companies are set to merge to create a new mega-media company in India. We find out why they're joining forces.
2/26/202427 minutes, 25 seconds
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Nvidia earnings lift global markets

Chipmaker Nvidia has lifted its earnings to new record levels. Does this suggest a wider boom amongst companies in this sector?The US and the European Union have each announced new sanctions on Russia on the second year anniversary of the conflict with Ukraine. We examine whether they making a difference.AND Germany becomes the latest country to make cannabis use legal. Could the move lead to the emergence of a legal profitable cannabis market?
2/23/202427 minutes, 28 seconds
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Ukraine and Russia, two years on

The United States has imposed fresh sanctions on Russia on the eve of the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine.So what impact will they have? And how are Ukraine's people and its economy faring two years on?Devina Gupta talks to Irina, a Ukrainian businesswoman who started a new life in the UK.And she hears from an Ukrainian chicken producer about what it's like to keep going in a war zone.
2/23/202427 minutes, 28 seconds
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Shares in chipmaker Nvidia see huge surge in global markets

Nvidia shares are on the up, after an extraordinary set of earnings results. Revenues surged 265% in the three months to 28 January. We examine the reasons behind the chipmakers success.Research from the US reveals roughly half of college graduates end up in jobs where their degrees aren’t needed. The study tracked the career paths of more than 10 million people who entered the job market over the past decade.And a spacecraft owned by a private US company is attempting an historic moon landing. If it succeeds, it will become the first commercial lander to make it down to the lunar surface.
2/22/202427 minutes, 25 seconds
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The economics of IVF

A ruling from the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are considered children, and that a person could be held liable for accidentally destroying them, has opened up a new front in the US battle over reproductive medicine.We hear how it could affect Alabama’s fertility clinics.Also, in the programme, we will hear about about the company driving a global stock market rally.
2/22/202427 minutes, 11 seconds
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Biden strengthens cybersecurity at U.S. ports

The US government is announcing a series of actions to strengthen the cybersecurity of U.S. ports the move is aimed at targeting Chinese cyber-attacks. Ed Butler will be finding out what kind of plans are being put in place. We also take a look at Sir Jim Ratcliffe the new co-owner of Manchester United as his one and a quarter billion pound deal has been completed.And the world’s biggest mining project has been approved in West Africa.
2/21/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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South Africa’s election year budget

South Africa faces several challenges with an economy that has barely grown in more than a decade amid rolling power cuts and problems with its railways and ports as it gears up for national elections on May 29.Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana in his budget speech was under pressure to curtail the government's growing budget deficit while also maintaining spending, and keeping taxes low, in order to not put voters off.Also, in the programme we will talk about Indian farmers protests and will find out why is Germany’s economy slowing down?
2/21/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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South Africa has the highest unemployment rate in the world

South Africa is heading back to the polls on May 29th. The news comes on the same day that the country revealed its unemployment numbers - officially the world's worst. Ed Butler will find out what's behind the latest rise in unemployment. President Joe Biden may be languishing in the opinion polls, but he's winning some impressive results in campaign donations. Could finance be the key to his re-election bid? And hacking the hackers we hear how the police may have brought down one of the world's biggest cybercrime groups.
2/20/202427 minutes, 22 seconds
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Another day, another protests

Another day, another protests. Polish farmers are staging protests against cheap Ukrainian grain flooding the market and EU regulations on pesticide and fertiliser usage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the protests demonstrated the "daily erosion of solidarity" with Ukraine. We will hear from Ukrainian grain farmer who's exporting his product to Europe. Also, in the programme, we will find out why over 6 000 doctors resigning in South Korea and how The People’s Bank of China is helping home buyers.
2/20/202427 minutes, 10 seconds
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Houthi attacks three months on

The crew of a Belize-flagged, British-registered cargo vessel have abandoned ship off Yemen after it was hit by missiles fired by the Houthi movement. Ed Butler will be finding out the latest. Also in the show, we look at the latest surging protests over spiralling inflation in Nigeria. And a billionaire tells us about his passion for collecting sneakers - and why he's selling them off for charity.
2/19/202427 minutes, 20 seconds
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Gaza conflict takes heavy toll on Israel's economy

The Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023 led to major reductions in household spending and business investment in Israel. We also assess what the Houthi Red Sea attacks mean for global shipping. Also, in the programme, our presenter Devina Gupta finds out why Paytm's digital wallet in India at risk; and how rising inflation in Nigeria is impacting businesses.
2/19/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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Trump fined $354.9 million

A New York judge has ordered Donald Trump to pay $354.9 million over fraud allegations and banned him from running companies in the state for three years. Roger Hearing gets the latest on what this means for Trump and his business empire.Alexei Navalny, an outspoken critic of Vladimir Putin, has died in a prison near the Arctic Circle. We look at what this could mean for Russia and for future possible sanctions.
2/16/202427 minutes, 14 seconds
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Russian opposition leader Alexei Navaly reported dead

We look at Russia's economy after the opposition leader Alexei Navalny is reported to have died at the "Polar Wolf" Arctic penal colony where he was serving a three-decade jail term. Also on the programme, investment firms quit a global investor coalition which was pushing companies to rein in climate-damaging emissions. And Indian election bonds are ruled “unconstitutional” by the country’s Supreme Court.
2/16/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Xbox-exclusive games are coming to other consoles

Microsoft's Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has announced four of its Xbox- exclusive games will be available on other consoles for the first time, the news comes after an increase in multi-platform games by Microsoft. Roger Hearing finds out what this means for the gaming industry going forward. We also hear from local business in the US to hear how they are coping as their retail figures are revealed. And we look at the four sportspeople who have turned their success on the field into financial success reaching the status of billionaire.
2/15/20247 minutes, 9 seconds
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United Kingdom and Japan both fall into recession

New data has revealed that the economies of both the United Kingdom and Japan have fallen into recession. Japan’s GDP has now fallen behind Germany, making it only the fourth largest economy in the world.Also on the programme, an oil leak off Trinidad and Tobago causes a national environmental emergency but the clean up continues.And ski resorts struggle as record temperatures leads to less snow for tourists who flock to the mountains for skiing.
2/15/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Cuba forms diplomatic ties with South Korea

Cuba has established diplomatic ties with South Korea for the first time since 1959 The announcement was made in New York after the UN representatives from the two exchanged letters formalizing bilateral ties. Devina Gupta will look at the significance of this. We often hear the phrase too big to fail for those companies that can't be allowed to collapse and it is true for Mexico's state oil and gas giant Pemex. With mounting debt and thousands of jobs at risk we find out what is keeping it going. And as many turn to dating apps this valentine's day, we head to India for a tale of caution about the business of romance scams on these apps.
2/15/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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Indonesia’s General Election

Independent pollsters predict victory for current Defence Minister General Prabowo Subianto in the Indonesian General Election. Polls closed on Wednesday in the South East Asian country that has 205 million voters. The European Union is preparing sanctions on companies in China and India that it accuses of illegally trading with Russia. And we hear how Paris’ booksellers have fought off plans to remove them from the banks of The Seine during the 2024 Olympic Games.
2/14/202427 minutes, 20 seconds
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The good, the bad and the ugly of inflation in the US

Consumer prices in the United States have risen at their slowest rate since June last year. That might sound like good news - but prices are still rising faster than economists had predicted. The annual inflation rate now stands at 3.1 percent - a long way from its peak of more than nine percent in 2022.Also, in the programme, we will find out why political views are so important for dating apps developers.
2/13/202427 minutes, 34 seconds
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Why India farmers are protesting again

Our food supply chains are under pressure as thousands of farmers are marching to the Indian capital, Delhi, to protest over how much they get paid for the food they produce, with elections coming later this year. Sam Fenwick examines what started this movement as farmers in Europe are also raising their voices.Meanwhile those delivering our foods say they're not paid enough either as they are planning not to work on Valentine's Day in the UK and the US.And we find out if there is light at the end of the tunnel for US shoppers as the latest inflation data is out; we hear from a small business owner in New Jersey.(Picture: Protesting farmers clash with police in Haryana, Shambhu Border, India. Credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
2/13/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Pakistan Election: Who will lead the country after a tightly contest poll?

Elections in Pakistan have left no single party with a clear majority. Independent candidates from former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Party topped the polls with 93 National Assembly seats. His rivals are currently trying to form a coalition. Also, in the programme, we will find out why 300 Nurses in Nigeria protested against the new rules and how expensive was a Super Bowl party in the US this year.
2/12/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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Pakistan faces new IMF deadline

Pakistan faces weeks of political uncertainty as it approaches a crucial deadline for a new IMF bailout. Sam Fenwick will be getting the latest on if Pakistan needs more financial support from the the IMF. Also on the programme the boss behind the game-changing obesity and diabetes drugs say he isn't bothered about rivals replicating its breakthroughs.And an oil leak off Trinidad and Tobago causes a national environmental emergency and warnings to tourists not to bathe on the beaches.
2/12/202427 minutes, 14 seconds
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Venezuela builds up troops near Guyana border

The government of Nicolas Maduro increases military presence in the border with the disputed oil-rich Essequibo region despite the recent commitments it made in talks with Guyana. We take a look at how recent oil discoveries have escalated a historic disagreement. As the Super Bowl approaches, we hear how the negotiations to take one of the largest sport events in the world to Las Vegas for the first time happened. And we look into why the US financial regulator is cracking down on firms that didn't take measures to prevent staff from using text apps like WhatsApp to communicate with colleagues and clients.
2/9/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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More farmers' protests continue across Europe

Farmers in Poland and Hungary are the latest to begin protesting over cheap produce flooding in from Ukraine. Elsewhere in Europe the complaints continue over pesticide use and costs; we bring you the latest.Global cocoa prices have hit a fresh record high as dry weather hurts crops in West Africa. We hear from a cocoa grower in the Ivory Coast.Rahul Tandon also hears from Tim Draper - one of the funders of Nikki Haley's Presidential campaign - about why he backs the former US Ambassador to the UN's attempt to take the Republican nomination.(Photo: A wheelbarrow full of hay with the letters UE written on the side panel. Credit: Jakub Kaczmarczyk/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
2/9/202427 minutes, 24 seconds
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Pakistan vote hit by mobile shutdown

Authorities in Pakistan suspended calls and mobile internet data during a controversial election. The United Nations says Mongolia is facing a humanitarian crisis due to extreme weather conditions that have become more common in the country. And the US Federal Communications Commission rules that robocalls made with AI-generated voices are illegal. What could this mean for the 2024 presidential election?
2/9/202427 minutes, 24 seconds
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China: Consumer prices plunge at fastest rate in 15 years

China's economy is again showing bad data with risks slipping into deeper deflation as consumer prices declined in January. China’s consumer price index falling by 0.8% compared with a year earlier. It's been the fourth consecutive month of declines and makes analysts negatively look into the future.Will falling prices make it harder for China to lower its debt and what should we expect next?
2/8/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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Senators block $118bn US-Mexico border deal

Republicans in the US Senate have blocked legislation that would bring in tougher border restrictions and grant a $118bn foreign aid package. Sam Fenwick looks at why the major bipartisan deal which took months to negotiate was voted down.There is tough competition in online retail as Alibaba loses market share to two of its major rivals. We hear who they are and why they are having so much success. And Disney's next move - they're heading into gaming. But will they succeed this time?
2/7/202427 minutes, 17 seconds
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Worries over Germany’s Economy

New economic data shows industrial production fell more than expected in December. It's the seventh monthly decline in a row, highlighting weakness in the backbone of Europe's largest economy. It comes on the day more than 100,000 passengers have been affected at Germany’s main airline due to a strike over pay by ground staff.Also in the programme – do you disconnect from your work when you're outside work hours? Presenter Roger Hearing looks at a new bill in Australia which, if passed, will give workers the right to ignore unreasonable work calls and messages without any penalty - and employers could face fines if they breach it. And - sports streaming is big business globally, bringing in billions of dollars, so the news that three US media giants have combined for a new sports streaming platform has caused some excitement. Walt Disney's ESPN, Fox Corp and Warner Bros. Discovery have announced the joint platform will be launched in the autumn.
2/7/202426 minutes, 17 seconds
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Boeing: Bolts missing from door, says report

Investigators have found that a door panel which flew off a Boeing 737 MAX 9 appeared to be missing four key bolts. What does this mean for the company? We have a look at what's happening in the car industry as two of the world's largest car makers publish their latest earnings. And the percentage of working women in the United States hit a record high in 2023 – defying expectations of a slow post-pandemic recovery.
2/6/202427 minutes, 31 seconds
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Boeing crisis: Watchdog faces questions

Mike Whittaker of the US aviation watchdog the Federal Aviation Administration is before congress answering questions on its handling of the aftermath of several serious incidents involving Boeing aircraft.Also today, Rahul Tandon finds out how people in Turkey and Syria are coping a year on from a devastating earthquake. Why are European farmers so angry?And how is Denmark benefiting as its next door neighbour Sweden gets ready to host Eurovision?
2/6/202427 minutes, 30 seconds
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Meta criticised over deepfake rule

Facebook’s Parent company Meta has found itself under attack by its own oversight board for what's being called “incoherent” and “confusing” policies on manipulated media. Ed Butler speaks to a member on the board about their review. He will also be looking at the impact of natural disasters both old and new - from this year’s Chilean wildfires to last year's devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria - which happened precisely 12 months ago this week. And how do you cope if you're late for a job interview? We find out what the best excuse is.
2/5/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Boeing 737 Max 9: How big are the reputational risks for the manufacturer?

Ending last year with a crisis and facing a new financial reckoning after a mid-air fuselage blowout in January, Boeing has acknowledged it needs to improve its work and win back its reputation.But the company has had to delay more 737 Max deliveries after incorrectly drilled holes were found in them. The boss of Emirates airline Sir Tim Clark warned that Boeing is in the "last chance saloon", saying he had seen a "progressive decline" in its performance.Also in the programme, we find out who the real creator of Bitcoin is, and will Taylor Swift's recent Grammy change the male-dominated music industry.
2/5/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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US employment growth doubles defying predictions

The first job report in the US this year showed positive figures with 353,000 jobs. According to the Labor Dept, average hourly pay also jumped, while the unemployment rate held steady at 3.7%.It's almost double analysts' forecasts, and experts say this indicates the strength of the labor market and the economic growth. Jobs were added in the retail trade, professional and business services, in hospitals as well as nursing and many more. And yet, there are some industries in the US where lack of labor is affecting many businesses. Also, how much will affect local businesses a new trade deal in Northern Ireland, and why former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak is set to get out of prison earlier than expected.
2/2/202427 minutes, 24 seconds
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Deadly gas explosion kills three in Kenya

The explosion of a lorry carrying gas cylinders leaves nearly 300 injured, and damage to homes, businesses and cars. We get the latest from our correspondent. The Spanish region of Catalonia is facing a dire drought that is having serious dire consequences on for farming. We hear more about the impact of water restrictions on agriculture and other industries. Protesters clashed against the police outside Argentina's Congress in the second night of demonstrations against president Javier Milei's economic reforms.
2/2/202427 minutes, 39 seconds
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EU €50bn aid package: How will it be spent?

All 27 members of the EU agreed to send the support package worth €50bn for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the new funding, saying it will strengthen the country's economic and financial stability.The first transaction will be transferred in March, according Ukraine's Economy Ministry. But how will this money be spent?Also, in the programme, we will talk about a state of emergency because of a worsening drought in Catalonia and discover why Elon Musk moves to shift Tesla's legal home to Texas.
2/1/202427 minutes, 33 seconds
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Hungary agrees to EU €50bn aid package for Ukraine

Hungary unlocks deal to provide Ukraine with funding to recover from damage caused by the war with Russia. We look into the details. Universal Music Group has removed its catalogue from TikTok including hits by Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish. We get the latest. And the Range Rover used by Queen Elizabeth II is on sale. We hear more from the seller.
2/1/202427 minutes, 32 seconds
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Tech bosses testify

Mark Zuckerberg, Chief Executive of the owner of Facebook and Instagram finds himself under fire at the US Congress for not protecting children. Rahul Tandon finds out if this will it stop investment in tech companies? The US Central Bank has announced that its keeping interest rates unchanged and still at a 22 year high. But will they come down in March? And we hear why Universal Music Group is threatening to pull its vast music catalogue from social media app TikTok.
1/31/202427 minutes, 21 seconds
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US judge voids Elon Musk's Tesla pay package

A judge in the US state of Delaware has cancelled the $55.8bn pay deal Tesla awarded to CEO Elon Musk in 2018, the biggest ever in US corporate history. We look into the details. Novo Nordisk, the Danish company that makes Ozempic and the weight loss drug Wegovy, has hit record highs after becoming the second European company ever to reach a market value of $500bn. We get the latest from our correspondent. And the CEO of the Swedish fashion firm H&M has stepped down after four years in the role. The company is struggling to increase profits. We hear more about its situation.
1/31/202427 minutes, 30 seconds
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US judge voids Elon Musk's Tesla pay package

A judge in the US state of Delaware has cancelled the $55.8bn pay deal Tesla awarded to CEO Elon Musk in 2018, the biggest ever in US corporate history. We look into the details. Novo Nordisk, the Danish company that makes Ozempic and the weight loss drug Wegovy, has hit record highs after becoming the second European company ever to reach a market value of $500bn. We get the latest from our correspondent. And the CEO of the Swedish fashion firm H&M has stepped down after four years in the role. The company is struggling to increase profits. We hear more about its situation.
1/31/202427 minutes, 30 seconds
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Tech firms report anticipated results

Microsoft and Google’s parent company reveal results for their fourth quarter. Alphabet is investing heavily in AI. While Microsoft are pushing their cloud business. Sam Fenwick is getting the latest on their reports. Also on the programme, the IMF says the chances of a global recession are fading. And can Universal take on the might Walt Disney when it comes to theme parks?
1/30/202427 minutes, 55 seconds
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IMF says global economy beginning to recover

The International Monetary Fund expects inflation to decline and growth to remain steady in 2024 thanks to resilience in the US and increased fiscal support in China. We hear more about the institution's latest update on its World Economic Outlook. Farmers across Europe have taken to the streets in the last year for different reasons, with the latest protests happening in France. But could there be a common factor in the unrest that is spreading across the European farming industry? We find out. And a two-year stalemate in the government of Northern Ireland has come to an end. It had been caused by a disagreement over Brexit rules. We look at the consequences this will have on the economy.
1/30/202427 minutes, 34 seconds
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Evergrande ordered to liquidate

"Enough is enough". Those were the words of a High Court judge in Hong Kong - who ordered the liquidation of Chinese real estate developer, after they failed to provide convincing restructuring plan. Sam Fenwick will be finding out what this means for global investors going forward. Farmers have blockaded Paris with hundreds of tractors. They want more money for the food they produce. And are you one of those people who leaves work but as soon as you get home start checking emails? We'll have advice on how to unplug from the office.
1/29/202428 minutes, 5 seconds
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French farmers take tractors to streets in protest over pay and prices

Farmers in and around Paris have been using tractors to block roads in and out of the city in a so-called siege of the French capital. They claim red tape and environmental policies are affecting their bottom line and want to stop food deliveries to supermarkets. The Chinese property giant Evergrande has been ordered to liquidate by a court in Hong Kong. The developer has more than 1,300 projects in more than 280 cities in China, but it also has debts of over $300 billion. Concerns continue over the impact of Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. Hapag Lloyd, which is one of the world's largest shipping companies, recently announced a 'land bridge' through Saudi Arabia for its clients. We ask how viable this is.
1/29/202427 minutes, 37 seconds
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Trump ordered to pay $83m to E Jean Carroll

Former President Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $83m for defaming columnist E Jean Carroll in 2019 while he was president. Roger Hearing finds out what this case means for Trump going forward. A Brazilian federal judge has ordered mining companies Vale and BHP and their joint venture Samarco to pay $9.67 billion in damages over a dam accident in 2015. He looks at if this represents a push-back against poor safety procedures in the country's mining sector. And Liverpool Football Club manager Juergen Klopp is leaving at the end of the season, despite having two years to go on his contract. We hear what is the best way to leave your job?
1/26/202427 minutes, 36 seconds
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US pauses liquified natural gas expansion

It is widely used to meet energy and fuel needs around the world and even though the demand for it is growing - the world's biggest exporter of this gas - the United States will not allow any new LNG terminals in the country.We examine the reasons behind President Biden’s decision and the impact on the markets Also, in the programme, presenter Devina Gupta finds out why trade negotiations between Canada and the UK have broken down. And we report from Australia which has marked its national day with celebrations - and protests.
1/26/202427 minutes, 11 seconds
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'US housing becoming unaffordable'

Ed Butler takes a look at the economic mood of the US as it announces encouraging growth figure. Meanwhile Harvard University releases a report suggesting that millions of US renters find their housing costs unaffordable. He hears about the inquiry launched into tech giants Microsoft, Google and Amazon, over their investments in AI. And how Scots capitalise Robert Burns their national poet to spread their brand across the world.
1/25/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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US economy grows more than expected

The US economy is growing faster than expected, according to figures released in the last couple of hours. Although the pace of economic growth slowed towards the end of last year, it still grew at an overall rate of 3.3%. That was well above the 2% that was predicted. Consumer spending remains strong and helping to drive that growth.Also, why it's so hard to rent the place in the US and who first invented the butter chicken?
1/25/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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UK billionaire Joe Lewis pleads guilty to insider trading in the US

The 86-year-old, whose family trust controls a majority of the Tottenham Hotspur football club, has pleaded guilty to insider trading in a US court. We get the latest. Thousands of Argentines have taken to the streets to protest against president Javier Milei's policies and the reforms he is trying to get approved by the Congress to revive the economy. We look into what led Argentina to its current financial crisis. And the Bank of America has sent employees "letters of education" urging them to come back to the office. We hear how more companies are trying to phase out work-from-home licenses.
1/24/202427 minutes, 23 seconds
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Argentina’s new President faces a national strike

Less than two months since the new President Javier Milei took office, tens of thousands Argentines are staging a national strike. Workers in transportation, construction, health care, food services, energy and banking are protesting against Mr. Milei’s planned overhauls. Union leaders argue that they will weaken protections for workers and the poor. Also, in the programme, Sam Fenwick talks to the boss of a Dutch semi-conductor company who sees no end in sight to the ever-increasing demand - and how a small Scottish town reinvented itself as a destination for books to keep business alive.
1/24/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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US voters go to the polls in New Hampshire

Voters go to the polls in the state of New Hampshire to select a Republican candidate for President. We hear about the key issues in this important battleground state.Netflix has paid 5 billion dollars for the right to stream WWE Wrestling. We examine what this means for the streaming giant which has also added millions of new subscribers.Passengers travelling with Asiana Airlines on international flights will be weighed when they fly out for from Seoul. We hear why the data is being collected on travellers.
1/23/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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Container prices soar despite new attacks on Houthi rebels

The US and UK have conducted a fresh series of joint air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.The Iran-backed Houthis have been targeting ships they say are linked to Israel and the West that travel through the important Red Sea trade route. Britain is planning new sanctions targeting sources of finance to the Houthis in the coming days as well. We examine what the Red Sea disruption means for the price of containers carrying goods between the West and Asia. And as the Oscar nominations are announced, presenter Sam Fenwick looks at how the film industry is recovering its finances after the recent spate of strikes.
1/23/202427 minutes, 26 seconds
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How much money is spent on becoming US President?

We examine how much money is actually needed to run a presidential campaign in the US. One of the world’s largest advertising agencies estimates nearly 16 BILLION dollars will be spent on this year’s campaign.In Africa, Cameroon has started a Malaria programme started in Cameroon which it hopes will save thousands of children’s lives across the continent.Canada has announced a two-year cap on international student permits. It is also stopping work permits to some postgraduate students to try and prevent an increased demand for housing.
1/22/202427 minutes, 21 seconds
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US oil company ExxonMobil sues investors to block climate petition

ExxonMobil - one of the one of the world's largest publicly traded international oil and gas companies, has filed a lawsuit against two investment groups that have proposed a shareholder vote on new climate targets. Follow This, an activist-investor fund in Amsterdam, and Arjuna Capital, an investment adviser, want Exxon to speed up its reduction of carbon emissions. However, the oil giant says the investors are driven by “an extreme agenda”.Also, we will find out why Australia has stopped taking applications for Golden Visas and how a new Malaria vaccine will increase GDP in Africa.
1/22/202426 minutes, 40 seconds
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Madonna sued after allegedly arriving on stage two hours late for tour

Madonna is sued after allegedly arriving on stage two hours late for the Celebration tour. We hear from the lawyer who represents the two fans who are making the claim against the pop singer.Ford is reducing its production of its battery-powered F 150 Lightning pick up truck because of weaker sales. The vehicle is an attempt to move drivers away from gas guzzling pick-up trucks in the US.We also hear form a senior sailor from one of the vessels caught up in the attacks by Houthi armed forces on ships in the Red Sea. He talks about the impact of the attacks on his ship.
1/20/202426 minutes, 59 seconds
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"It's scary": life on board a cargo ship in the Red Sea

As the global shipping giant Maersk suspends its Red Sea routes, we'll bring you a different perspective - that of a ship's Captain, navigating through increasingly dangerous waters.Plus, why after years of stagnation, and deflation, Japan's economy is booming back to highs not seen since the 80s. And how one phone maker is tackling the language barrier via AI.
1/19/202427 minutes, 13 seconds
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US Congress passes stopgap bill again avoiding government shutdown

The third temporary funding measure, passed by the US Congress as a snowstorm approaches, means a shutdown as early as this weekend has been avoided. The bill now goes to the White House for President Biden to sign. Also, in the programme, how tensions between Iran and Pakistan are affecting the economy and workers in Northern Ireland went on strike over pay.
1/18/202426 minutes, 38 seconds
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Spotify calls Apple 'outrageous'

Spotify has branded Apple's recent decision to charge a 27 percent cut on transactions made outside its App Store in the US as outrageous. We hear from Spotify's Director of Global Competition Policy.Our presenter Rahul Tandon will also be looking at the impact the Red Sea shipping crisis is having on the Indian economy. We speak to one of India's largest tea buyers.And we look into the impact of Meta's former COO Sheryl Sandberg who is stepping down from her position at the company.
1/18/202427 minutes, 17 seconds
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Boeing failure: US Secretary Antony Blinken was forced to change planes

To say it hasn't been a great 2024 for Boeing, is an understatement. The panel that fell off the Alaska Airlines plane on January 5 has led to a major investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration, and a rough time for Boeing shares. So what's happened to one of the most reliable companies in the world?Also, in the programme, we will find out how many female CEOs run airlines and what the reason behind raise of US retail sales.
1/17/202427 minutes, 20 seconds
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China's population declines

China's population has fallen for a second year in a row, raising concerns about the growth of the world's second-largest economy. David Harper will be finding out how fewer people are entering the workforce. Apple has ended Samsung's 12 year run as the world’s biggest phone maker. We hear how Apple has climbed to number one. And as new restrictions are brought in to try to cut pollution in New Delhi one of our reporters tests the air at street level.
1/17/202427 minutes, 2 seconds
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Red Sea attacks: Greek vessel hit

The crisis in the Red Sea shows no sign of easing as a Greek owned ship is attacked in the Red Sea. As the threat of attacks continues, some insurance companies are placing new restrictions on the shipping industry, and many ships are now diverting around the southern tip of Africa rather than taking the shorter route through the Suez Canal. We get the latest from the BBC’s Business Correspondent Jonathan JosephThe inquiry into Britain's Post Office scandal continues - where hundreds of local post officials were prosecuted for stealing money which was in fact down to malfunctioning software. The system known as Horizon was developed by Fujitsu. Roger Hearing looks at how a company as big as Fujitsu could deal with the reputational damage that the scandal is causing.And as De Beers makes some of the steepest cuts to its diamond prices in years, slashing prices by about 10 percent across the board, we look at the reasons why and what it tells us about the diamond trade.
1/16/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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Fujitsu says it has a 'moral obligation' to UK Post Office victims

It's been called the biggest miscarriage of justice in the UK - The Post Office IT scandal saw hundreds of employees convicted of crimes they didn't do -- we examine Fujitsu's role as its European boss gives evidence to an inquiry. As another ship is hit by a missile in the Red Sea there are reports of more companies re-routing cargo as the situation continues to escalate. And its handbags at dawn between Uniqlo and Shein - One accuses the other of copying its designs, we'll be getting the latest.
1/16/202427 minutes, 20 seconds
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Houthi attacks continue as US cargo ship hit

Houthi rebels have hit a US-owned container ship with a ballistic missile off the coast of Yemen, The vessel, Gibraltar Eagle, reported "no injuries or significant damage", according to the United States military command for the Middle East. The rebels say they will continue to target all US and British ships taking part in what they call aggression against Yemen. The two countries have hit Houthi positions after the group began attacking ships in the Red Sea. Ed Butler speaks to Jakob Larsen of BIMCO (The Baltic and International Maritime Council) which represents ship owners around the globe.Also on the programme, Faisal Islam, the BBC’s Economics Editor, speaks to us from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland about whether the annual gathering of the great and the good - and the rich - still has a relevance in an ever changing world.And our reporter Izzy Greenfield tells us how trainer technology is producing record times for top athletes as well as profits for the companies who make them.
1/15/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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Houthis attack US ship near Red Sea

There has been another Red Sea attack near the Red Sea. This time it’s a US-owned ship – the latest in a string of attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen. Although nobody was injured, the attacks continue to disrupt trade around the world. Global shipping company Hapag Lloyd tells us how they are avoiding the route. Also on the programme, we look at Germany - Europe's largest economy. It contracted in 2023, due to persistent inflation, high energy prices and a weak foreign demand. Devina Gupta will be hearing what the country needs to do now to get going again. And as Taiwan elects a new government - we find out why China is fuming.
1/15/202427 minutes, 15 seconds
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Houthi strikes: Latest on US and UK military action

As the US says it’s not looking for war with Yemen after military strikes against Houthi targets in the country, we look at who the Houthis are, and how they are funded.Citigroup, the owner of Citibank, has announced it will be cutting 20,000 jobs, around 10 per cent of its workforce. Devina Gupta looks at the reasons why and whether restructuring could boost the struggling bank’s returns.And people in Taiwan are preparing to vote for a new president and legislature on Saturday. The BBC’s Cindy Sui, looks at how the country’s relationship with Beijing may have dominated election campaigns; it's the economy and jobs that concern the electorate the most.
1/12/202427 minutes, 17 seconds
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Red Sea crisis: What does it mean for the shipping industry?

The freight sector is having to choose between the risk of an attack or an expensive and long diversion. How will this impact business?Voters in Taiwan go to the polls for a presidential election that could have significant implications for the country’s economic future. We look into the details.And the car rental company Hertz has announced plans to sell off 20,000 electric vehicles and replace them with fossil fuel cars. We explain why.
1/12/202427 minutes, 14 seconds
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Middle East: Commercial shipping safety concerns

The Iranian Navy says it is behind the seizure of an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman in which armed masked men boarded a ship and changed the vessel's course towards an Iranian port. The incident comes at a time of heightened concern for ships travelling through the Gulf and the Red Sea, and Roger Hearing discusses what this means for how companies involved in international trade manage the risks, and security of doing business.The US aviation regulator, the FAA, has announced it is launching a formal investigation into the Boeing 737 MAX 9 after a cabin panel blew off an Alaska Airlines flight while it was in mid-air last week. We look at what the investigation will cover/And Joe Tidy, the BBC’s Cyber Security correspondent looks at the popularity of passkeys and why they’re becoming the preferred option for signing into websites over having to remember individual passwords.
1/11/202427 minutes, 11 seconds
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US regulator green-lights bitcoin ETF

The Securities and Exchange Commission approves spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds for the first time. We look at the consequences this could have for crypto fans. Inflation in the US rose higher than expected in December. We find out why. And Spanish multinational Grifols is suing a short-seller fund that published allegations that led the firm to lose a fifth of its market value this week. We look into the details.
1/11/202427 minutes, 15 seconds
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Ecuador's exports caught in the crossfire

How is the crisis in Ecuador affecting the country's economics - can it maintain the exports that provide most of its income? Roger Hearing will be taking a look at this. There are moves being made by UK politicians to take action against Fujitsu, the company that made the faulty software that led to the false convictions of hundreds of post office managers. And the dog ate my money - we hear from the US official who can rebuild chewed banknotes.
1/11/202427 minutes, 18 seconds
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Red Sea: US and UK navies repel largest Houthi attack

US military say the Iran-backed group launched at least 21 drones and missiles overnight. Almost 15% of global seaborne trade passes through this route. We take a look at the consequences for the shipping industry. German train drivers have started a three-day nationwide strike adding strain to the transport sector, which is seeing motorways blocked by farmers' protests. We get the latest from our correspondent. And the UK's prime minister, Rishi Sunak, has announced a new law to compensate victims of what has been called the country's "biggest miscarriage of justice".
1/10/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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Hooded gunmen burst onto live TV set in Ecuador

Hooded gunmen have burst onto a live TV set in Ecuador, a day after the country's president declared a state of emergency following the disappearance of a powerful gang leader from prison. Roger Hearing will be bringing us the latest. The World Bank's latest report is predicting the worst half decade of growth in 30 years as many economies are set to grow more slowly in 2024 and 2025. We find out what this means for us. And Norway has become the first country in the world to open up part of its deep sea bed for commercial-scale mining.
1/9/202427 minutes, 15 seconds
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Boeing 737 Max 9: how the incident will affect airlines?

The recent dangerous Boeing 737-9 Max grounding has significantly impacted the reputation of manufacturer and airline companies. Alaska Airlines has cancelled more than 200 flights.Tim Jeans, former CEO at Monarch airlines will explain how this incident will affect Boeing's reputation and the work of global airlines.
1/9/202427 minutes, 20 seconds
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Boeing 737 Max 9: United Airlines finds loose bolts

United Airlines has reported loose bolts on their Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes. Presenter Roger Hearing will be looking at what this means for the company going forward. We get a sneak preview of the latest in gadgetry and gizmos at the tech trade fair in Las Vegas. And golfing veteran Tiger Woods has ended his sponsorship deal with Nike after 27 years. A deal reported to be worth £500 million dollars.
1/8/202427 minutes, 15 seconds
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Boeing 737 Max 9 planes to stay grounded while inspections continue

The firm's shares plunge as its newest model is in the spotlight after a door panel flew off during an Alaska Airlines flight. We get the latest. US Congress leaders have agreed to a $1.6tn spending level for the rest of 2024 ceiling as they seek to avoid a partial government shutdown. We look into the details. And German farmers blockade roads in protest against subsidy cuts, with more than 500 tractors and trucks parked up by Berlin's Brandenburg Gate. We hear about their reasons.
1/8/202427 minutes, 16 seconds
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Janet Yellen says the US economy is seeing 'a soft landing'

The US Treasury Secretary says inflation is being tamed without significant damage to the labour market. We take a look at the figures. While officials see a positive economic outlook for the US economy, Americans aren't sharing that view on the so called 'Bidenomics'. Our correspondent in New York finds out why. And Guyana seems to have found a new partner to exploit its recent crude discoveries in the Essequibo region: India. We listen to the implications this might have on the dispute between this South American nation and Venezuela over the oil-rich territory.
1/5/202427 minutes, 13 seconds
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Iberia workers begin four day strike

Ground staff at Iberia have begun a four-day strike, causing the airline to cancel hundreds of flights. Workers are protesting against contracts signed with new providers at Spanish airports after talks between unions and the company broke down at a last-ditch meeting. Also, in the programme, Devina Gupta will look at this weekend’s elections in Bangladesh and will find out why the food retailer Carrefour has stepped away from Pepsi.
1/5/202427 minutes, 21 seconds
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Red Sea crisis: Houthis defy US-led coalition warning with new attack

Houthi rebels detonate an unmanned vessel in the Red Sea a day after US and allies warned they would protect the crucial global shipping lane with military action if necessary. We get the views from the maritime industry. The Chrome browser is trying a new feature that disables third-party cookies - small files stored on your device that have become vital for advertisers. We hear about the impact this change could have on their businesses if extended to all users. And Microsoft has announced it will add a new key to keyboards, the first in 30 years: an AI key. We explain what you can do with it.
1/4/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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Japan counts economic cost of earthquake

It’s been a difficult few days for Japan. Hundreds of homes have been flattened, people remain trapped and some are struggling to access clean drinking water.Meanwhile, the government is facing an expensive recovery in an area that had hoped for more tourists after years of pandemic gloom.Sam Fenwick will find out how the earthquake is affecting the Japanese economy and will also discuss upcoming elections in Mexico.
1/4/202427 minutes, 12 seconds
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US jobs data latest

Latest data from the US shows the number of new job openings fell substantially in November, its lowest in two years, suggesting that the economy is less ‘hot’ than it wasRoger Hearing examines the extraordinary story of how a Chinese student’s family paid $80,000 in response to cyber threats alleging the young student was being held hostage and how the incident in the US has shed light on a growing trend in crime - cyber kidnapping. In Australia Phil Mercer looks at the business of holograms as improvements in 3D flexible image technology mean they’re now being used by a range of industries including entertainment, education, design and defence.
1/3/202427 minutes, 20 seconds
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Red Sea attacks: how are they hitting seafarers?

The head of the International Chamber of Shipping has told the BBC that one in five commercial ships are now avoiding the Red Sea because of the threat of attack.The longer journey around Africa can add anything from one to two weeks to a vessel’s journey.We speak to the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), which represents over half of the two million seafarers worldwide.Also in the programme, presenter Sam Fenwick discusses upcoming elections in South Africa and gets the latest in the investigation into Indian billionaire Gautam Adani.
1/3/202427 minutes, 15 seconds
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Claudine Gay steps down as Harvard President

We look at the possible influence of rich donors on Universities in the United States.Tesla is relegated to second position in the sales of electric vehicles after Chinese rival BYD clinches the top spot.AND We assess the cost to shipping after the latest attack by Houthi rebels on cargo ships travelling through the Red Sea.
1/2/202427 minutes, 24 seconds
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Five people die in Japan Airlines plane fire

Hundreds of passengers have been evacuated after the aircraft crashed with a coastguard plane at Tokyo's Haneda Airport. We explore plane safety with our correspondent. Plus, Iran has sent a war ship to the Red Sea after the US Navy destroyed three small boats and killed ten Houthi militants who attacked a container ship belonging to the Danish shipping company, Maersk. We hear about the impact this is having on the cargo sector. And, we hear how truck drivers in India have gone on strike over a new law that raises penalties for hit-and-run road accidents.
1/2/202427 minutes, 17 seconds
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Japan earthquake: What impact will it have on the economy?

Japan is hit by another earthquake. We hear about the impact it could have on the economy.We examine microfinance and how it works in practice after a Bangladeshi pioneer of this type of finance is sentenced for violating labour laws.And the state railway company of Ukraine introduces women only compartments to stop assaults on trains.
1/1/202427 minutes, 7 seconds
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Czech president urges 'concrete steps' towards joining the Euro

The Czech president has used his New Year's speech to call for 'concrete steps' towards joining the Euro. Petr Pavel said it was a logical choice for a small, open economy like the Czech Republic.President Pavel's comments come as the Euro turns 25. We reflect on the single currency's history with former ECB president Jean-Claude Trichet. The US and UK are increasing pressure on Houthi rebels, who are targeting cargo ships in the Red Sea. The area is one of the word's primary shipping routes, with around 12% of global trade passing through it. We get analysis from maritime security expert Jakob Larsen from the Danish shipping organisation BIMCO, which has 2,000 members in 130 countries around the world.
1/1/202427 minutes, 19 seconds
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How the war is impacting Russia's economy

As the war continues, we take a look at the state of the Russian economy and what this might mean for Ukraine. Argentina's new president has announced the South American country will not join the BRICS alliance. We hear about the implications this can have for the inflation-hit nation. And we listen to the challenges Nigerian businesses face to become more productive.
12/29/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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The difficulties of doing business in Ukraine

Ukraine has been hit by a wave of drone and missile attacks. We'll find out what damage has been done to the country's infrastructure, and what it will mean for the economy.Google has agreed to settle a $5 billion dollar lawsuit, that claimed the search engine secretly tracked the internet use of millions of people who thought they were browsing privately.We continue our series assessing productivity in different cities around the world. We're stuck in a traffic jam in Lagos, where people can spend as much as three hours travelling to and from work.Françoise Bettencourt Meyers becomes the first woman to amass a $100 billion dollar fortune. We'll find out how she did it...Picture: A general view shows a shopping mall heavily damaged by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Dnipro, Ukraine December 29, 2023. Press service of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Dnipropetrovsk
12/29/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Why is China struggling to attract foreign businesses?

Nearly nine-tenths of all foreign investment in China’s stock market this year has been pulled out, according to an investigation by Financial Times. We look into the reasons. The major European property developer, Signa, based in Austria, has announced that two of its key divisions were filing for insolvency. We get the latest from Vienna. And the Turkish government has responded to rising prices by imposing a 49% hike in the country's minimum wage. Will it be enough to cope in an economy with a 62% inflation rate?
12/28/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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Israel-Gaza: The economic impact so far

As airstrikes continue in Gaza, neighbouring Egypt puts forward a proposed framework for ending the violence - with a three-stage plan for a ceasefire.It comes as fears grow of the Middle East conflict spreading, with Israel warning it will take matters into its own hands if cross border attacks by the militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon aren't stopped. Vivienne Nunis asks what the economic costs have been for Gaza, Israel and the surrounding region.
12/28/202323 minutes, 45 seconds
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New York Times sues Open AI

US news organisation the New York Times is suing ChatGPT-owner OpenAI over claims its copyright was infringed to train the system.ChatGPT and other large language models (LLMs) "learn" by analysing a massive amount of data often sourced online.The lawsuit claims "millions" of articles published by the New York Times were used without its permission to make ChatGPT smarter, and claims the tool is now competing with the newspaper as a trustworthy information source.Also, in the programme, we will find our if the Red Sea safe for international shipping and will look at efforts around the world to make workers more productive.
12/27/202327 minutes, 25 seconds
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Hapag-Lloyd keeps Red Sea shipping on hold

Shipping companies are weighing the risks of sailing through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, following attacks by Houthi rebels based in Yemen in solidarity with Palestinians. The German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd says it is not yet willing to resume shipping through the route following a meeting of its crisis committee on Wednesday. But the Danish firm Maersk, and the French company CMA-CGM both say their ships will resume passage through the Red Sea in the coming weeks.Elsewhere, the New York Times says it’s suing Microsoft and Open AI over copyright infringement claims. The newspaper said the tech companies had taken its work and used it for commercial purposes without asking permission.Presenter: Vivienne Nunis
12/27/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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Shipping firms look to return Red Sea route after attacks

We explore how Global shipping firms are hoping to return to the Red Sea route after attacks on vessels by Yemen’s Houthis.We look at the fallout from Argentina's new president, Javier Milei, decision to sign a decree cancelling the contracts of seven thousand public sector workers.And we reflect on some of the issues which faced Hollywood in 2023.
12/26/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Shipping companies ponder returning to the Red Sea

Maersk, the Danish shipping firm, says it's preparing to resume operations in the Red Sea area; while the German company, Hapag Lloyd, says it will decide on Wednesday whether or not to continue with its routes. Vivienne Nunis hears from Jakob Larsen, Head of Maritime Safety & Security at Bimco - a members' organisation for ship owners and brokers, on what the companies will be considering. Our reporter Leanna Byrne is in Ireland where she hears from the country's most famous brand, Guinness, how they are trying to boost their productivity levels. Plus we hear from victims of identity fraud - and find out the steps being taken to combat the growing threat.
12/26/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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The best of 2023

We’re looking back at some of our best interviews from the year.You’ll be transported around the world: we’ve hand-picked stories from the US, South America, Australia, the Pacific Island of Niue and Greece. There have been some stand-out themes that have defined the year, such as the impact of climate change, and how governments are dealing with the cost of living crisis.
12/25/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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US aims tougher sanctions at banks helping Russia

President Joe Biden has signed an executive order expanding the US's ability to impose sanctions against Russia.The idea is to further isolate Moscow from the global economy by applying sanctions to foreign financial institutions that help Russia's military and defence sectors.Those banks then won't be allowed access to the US financial system.
12/22/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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China tightens its rules for gamers

China is to bring in new rules that will limit the amount of money and time that people can spend on video games. The restrictions are aimed at limiting in-game purchases and preventing obsessive gaming behaviour. The draft legislation is a blow to the world's largest online gaming market, which is still recovering from a previous crackdown. The news sent shares in tech giants tumbling and wiped tens of billions of dollars off their value.Also in the programme, presenter Roger Hearing examines some gloomy news for the UK economy, and we look at ways to stay ‘green’ during the festive season.
12/22/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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Is there a market for the European Super League?

The European Union's highest court ruled that football's governing bodies, FIFA and UEFA, were wrong to ban a breakaway Super League two years ago.The move was deemed a breach of EU competition law. But is there an economically viable alternative football model for Europe?
12/21/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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European court ruling could change football

The European Court of Justice has ruled that banning clubs from joining a European Super League was unlawful. The decision opens the way for new competitions and the potential of a whole new structure for European football. Within minutes of the ruling, the Spanish-based organisation behind the bid to set up a new superleague announced it wants to establish a 64 team structure.Also in the programme presenter Sam Fenwick discusses new Turkish inflation figures, plus controversial economic reforms in Argentina.
12/21/20232 minutes, 20 seconds
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US consumer confidence jumps to five-month high

US consumer confidence is at a five-month high, according to a new report. The Conference Board's consumer confidence index increased to 110.7 this month. We ask how e-scooters, once all the rage, have now been left parked up. And members of the Harlem Globetrotters join us in the studio.
12/20/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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Israel ships banned from Malaysia's ports

Malaysia has banned all Israeli-owned or flagged vessels from calling at its ports. The ban is a direct response to Israeli actions in Palestina, which were regarded in Malaysia as a violation of basic humanitarian principles and international law. It is still unclear how this will affect economic relations between countries and what problems will it create for trading in Israel... In the programme presenter Sam Fenwick also takes a look at why Toyota says its subsidiary Diahatsu is suspending shipments of all its vehicles – and why voting in the Democratic Republic of Congo elections got off to a shaky start.
12/20/20232 minutes, 29 seconds
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US calls for more support for maritime security in Red Sea

US defence secretary Lloyd Austin is calling for more countries to join the international coalition set up to protect maritime security in the Red Sea. This comes as a number of ships have been targeted by Houthis.We here from someone who lost millions in the FTX case.And Googles deal for users to settle an antitrust case. It’s agreed to play $700m as part of the lawsuit
12/19/202327 minutes, 23 seconds
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Naval task force to tackle Red Sea attacks

The international security action, named Operation Prosperity Guardian, will protect commercial ships following attacks by Houthi rebels.Sam Fenwick speaks to one of the shipping companies who have called the attacks on their vessels in the Red Sea terror attacks, and finds out what they want to be done to help.
12/19/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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US wants to form coalition to protect ships in Red Sea

US is seeking to form the "broadest possible" maritime coalition. This comes after major international shipping firms have paused all Red Sea shipments after recent attacks by Houthi’s targeting ships on the route. We ask how this will impact global trade and oil prices. Apple may be forced to stop selling it’s watches in the US over a patent case find out why and what this means for consumers. And we ask how the price of sugar is affecting the sales of festive sweets. (Picture: Houthi military helicopter flies over the Galaxy Leader cargo ship in the Red Sea in this photo released November 20, 2023.Credit:Houthi Military Media/Handout via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY/File Photo)
12/18/202327 minutes, 22 seconds
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Companies pause shipping through the Red Sea

BP say the "deteriorating security situation" has forced them to make the decision after recent attacks on vessels by Houthi rebels.It follows two of the world's largest shipping companies, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, saying they were temporarily stopping all freight through the area. Sam Fenwick gets the latest reaction and finds out what the wider global impact is.
12/18/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Maersk halts shipping via Red Sea

Danish shipping company Maersk has suspended all journeys through the Red Sea following a spate of attacks on vessels launched from a part of Yemen controlled by the Houthis - an Iran-backed rebel movement which declared its support for Hamas and is targeting vessels bound for Israel.A coal mine manager in Malawi explains why the country may not be quite ready to transition away from fossil fuels and we find out how Argentina’s economy is reacting to the so called "economic shock therapy" brought in by the new President.
12/15/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Hungary blocks EU aid for Ukraine at European Council meeting

Hungary's Prime Minister says he's prepared to stop any further attempts to send EU money to Ukraine. He vetoed a package of aid worth $55 billion at the European Council summit in Brussels. But the European Council President Charles Michel remains hopeful a deal can be agreed when the council next meets in January 2024. China's latest economic figures point to growth in retail sales and industrial output. But growth is slowing and the World Bank is warning that post-Covid recovery in the world's second-largest economy is 'fragile'. New York University Shanghai economics professor Han Lin gives us the full picture. Our reporter Julia Paul finds out how people renting homes in the Armenian capital Yerevan are dealing with soaring prices.
12/15/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Ukraine moves closer to joining the EU

At a summit in Brussels European leaders announced they will open accession talks with Kiev as well as Moldova, whilst Georgia has been awarded candidate status. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky called the decision "a victory" for his country and the whole of Europe.Vivienne Nunis gets reaction to this and finds out what it might mean for the future of the Ukraine war.
12/14/202327 minutes, 7 seconds
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All eyes on Orban as EU leaders debate support for Ukraine

A two-day summit of EU leaders is underway in Brussels, with support for Ukraine in the spotlight. Kyiv is hoping to gain accession to the European Union, as well as $58 billion funding to take the Ukrainian economy through 2024. But any decision must be unanimous and Hungary's president Viktor Orban has taken an anti-Ukraine stance. We hear from a former Ukrainian trade minister and a business owner in Lviv. The presidents of Venezuela and Guyana are meeting in St Vincent and The Grenadines to discuss a dispute over the oil rich Essequibo region. St Vincent and the Grenadines prime minister Ralph Gonsalves gives us the background to the dispute. With the festive season in full swing in the UK, office workers from Salford in the north of England tell us whether they would prefer a Christmas party or a bonus this year.
12/14/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged

The US central bank left interest rates unchanged as it said it remained committed to slowing price rises.Members of the Federal Reserve gave the strongest sign yet that they expect to start cutting rates next year.Projections released after the bank's meeting showed they expect its key interest rate to stand at 4.6% next year, more than half a percentage point lower than the current rate.Also, in the programme, we will discuss the German budget and will find out how popular non-English speaking content is on Netflix.
12/13/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Argentina's economy: short-term pain for long-term gain?

Argentina's Minister for the Economy, Lewis Caputo, has announced plans to devalue the peso by more than half. The move has been welcomed by the International Monetary Fund, which says it may help boost private sector investment. Argentina is battling soaring inflation, with prices rising by around 150% over the last year. It is also struggling with low cash reserves, high government debt, while 40% of the population is living below the poverty line. A new climate deal has been approved at the UN's COP 28 summit in Dubai. There's a reference in the text to 'transitioning away' from fossil fuels. The COP28 president, Sultan Al Jaber, said the conference had delivered world first, after world first. We hear from LIV Golf Chief Executive Greg Norman about the proposed merger with the PGA Tour as the deadline looms.
12/13/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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COP 28: Will there be an agreement on fossil fuels?

The COP28 climate talks in Dubai were supposed to have ended on Tuesday morning. Almost 200 countries are working into the night to salvage a deal on climate change, after a promise to "phase out" fossil fuels was removed from the draft agreement. The summit followed a year of extreme weather events in which many climate records were broken. So, will COP28 make any difference this year?
12/12/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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COP 28 climate negotiations continue after backlash

Climate negotiators at the COP 28 summit in Dubai are continuing to debate a draft agreement, after the one released on Monday failed to mention the phasing out of fossil fuels. Almost 200 countries are trying to rescue a deal, after the backlash that followed the initial draft. China's President Xi Jinping has been meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Phu Trong in Hanoi. He's aiming to bolster ties with the country as the US seeks to deepen its relationship with one of the largest economies in Asia. Taiwan's birth rate has fallen to one of the lowest levels in the world. Increasingly, it seems pets are taking the place of children. Our reporter Ed Butler has been finding out more at a cat shelter in Taipei.
12/12/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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COP28: Draft deal criticised as too weak on fossil fuels

The draft text of COP28 summit agreement has prompted widespread backlash from countries vulnerable to climate change. A group of small island states says the new draft is "completely insufficient" with "weak language on fossil fuels".Almost 200 countries have representatives at the Dubai summit - all must agree or the deal collapses.
12/11/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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COP 28: draft climate deal published, but does it go far enough?

There's criticism that a draft deal at the COP 28 climate change summit in Dubai doesn't refer to phasing out fossil fuels. The document has been published on the penultimate day of the conference, which aims to unite global partners in the drive towards net zero carbon emissions. The United Nations says it will have to prioritise the areas of greatest need as it announces a significant drop in its humanitarian fundraising appeal for the next financial year. It's aiming to raise $10 billion less than the previous 12 months. Japanese baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani has just landed the richest contract in the history of of North American sport. He'll earn $700 million from the 10-year deal with the LA Dodgers.
12/11/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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US Jobless rate records 3.7% drop

Jobs growth in the US recovers after striking workers return to Hollywood and the car industry. Employers added 199,000 jobs in November. It helped to push down the jobless rate to 3.7% - the lowest level since July.The monthly report is being closely watched as the US central bank tries to cool the economy and reduce inflation.
12/8/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Dispute over Essequibo: What impact will it have on Venezuela's economy?

As diplomats scramble to try to cool tensions between Venezuela and Guyana over disputed land, how much is all this down to the perilous state of the Venezuelan economy? The strike of Tesla's mechanics in Sweden has spread to other countries across Scandinavia. We get the latest from Finland. And we go to the British city that isn't usually associated with high fashion, but was chosen by Chanel this week to host a prestigious fashion show.
12/8/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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Leaders meet at EU-China summit

Top EU officials met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing this week for their first in-person summit in four years. We examine what was on the agenda. We hear about tensions between Venezuela and Guyana over a disputed oil rich region. And popular video game Fortnite has launched a high-profile collaboration with Lego.
12/7/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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Brazil deploys troops to Venezuela border

Brazil has moved troops to the Venezuela border, a day after Guyana’s military were put on high alert. This is response to Venezuela’s claims over the disputed territory of Essequibo. We speak to a regional expert on the potential impact on business if tensions escalate further. McDonalds is entering the coffee market, but will consumers be ‘loving it’? The winner of the Earthshot Prize, Florent Kaiser is also in the programme.
12/7/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Italy pulls out of flagship Chinese project

The Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has formally told China it will leave their Belt and Road Initiative. We find out what this means for their relationship going forward. We examine tech giant Google’s long-awaited answer to Chat GPT, but will their new model called Gemini rival the AI space? And we hear how a new hybrid rice from South Korea is going to help the African economy.
12/6/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Guyana’s military on high alert over oil

Guyana’s military is on high alert after President Nicolas Maduro of neighbouring Venezuela issued oil extraction licences in the disputed territory of Essequibo. We speak to the mayor of a town in the region. Severe droughts in Spain have impacted the olive oil harvest causing prices to soar, but what does this mean for oil producers. K-pop girl band Black Pink have announced they will be staying together find out why on the programme.
12/6/202326 minutes, 8 seconds
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One year on: are the oil sanctions against Russia working?

It has been one year since G7 nations and the EU imposed a $60-per-barrel ceiling on Russian crude oil. Elina Ribakova, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, warns that Russia is getting around the price cap by using a shadow fleet of tankers run by operators outside the western system. Also on the programme, we find out why farmers in France will be protected against noise and smell complaints, and can cinema chains ban customers from sneaking snacks into the cinema?
12/5/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Moody's cuts China's credit outlook

The credit rating agency is concerned about the country's rising debt and economic slowdown. We find out what it will take for China to gain back the markets' trust. An attack on three commercial vessels crossing the Red Sea has sparked doubts about the safety of one of the world's key shipping routes. We look at the potential consequences for the maritime industry. And the trailer of the sixth game in the Grand Theft Auto gaming series was leaked online. We get the latest.
12/5/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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UK announces immigration crackdown

The UK government has announced measures to cut immigration which includes plans to raise the minimum salary required for foreign workers to be eligible for a work visa. We find out how this will affect the UK's workforce. We hear from a lawyer involved in the Purdue Pharma bankruptcy settlement before the US Supreme Court. He'll give us his view of what could happen if a $6 billion deal is overturned. And we look at how new environmental regulations in the EU will affect the fashion industry.
12/4/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Spotify announces 1,500 job cuts

The Swedish music streaming platform will axe 17% of its workforce to reduce costs blaming rising borrowing prices. We get the latest. A referendum in Venezuela has given overwhelming backing to the Caracas government's bid for the Essequibo territory, which is currently under the control of neighbouring country Guyana. We look into how the discovery of vast oil reserves has fuelled the dispute. And the United Nation's Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance, Mark Carney, reflects on the goals of the COP28 summit.
12/4/202327 minutes, 2 seconds
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Venezuela-Guyana border dispute

The International Court of Justice has warned Venezuela to stop any action that would alter Guyana’s control over a disputed territory, in the Essequibo region, days ahead of a planned referendum.And Kristin Schwab, from our American partner, Marketplace, takes a look at the history of the shopping centre or "mall" and where it stands today.
12/1/202326 minutes, 50 seconds
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COP 28 countries to include food production to tackle climate change

World leaders attending the COP 28 climate change summit in Dubai have signed up to a declaration aimed at reducing emissions from food production. The declaration says there is an urgent need to adapt food and agricultural systems as food production is responsible for a third of greenhouse gas emissions. But there are concerns today's declaration doesn't go far enough.And - Elon Musk's Tesla electric vehicle company has finally delivered the first batch of its long-awaited Cybertruck to its customers. Costing just over $60,000 dollars and with a range of 340 miles, the futuristic vehicle's initial launch four years ago didn’t go to plan. One of Musk's team threw a metal ball at the reinforced glass windows with disastrous results. Four years later and the Cybertruck is back - but it is the design which is now catching the attention, with some describing it as 'a monstrosity', and 'like a child's toy'. We get the view of Italian car design expert Mattheo Licata
12/1/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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What is the COP28 loss and damage fund?

We look at the impact that COP 28 will have on the global economy as it announces that hundreds of millions of dollars will go into a loss and damage fund for poorer countries. Our presenter Rahul Tandon asks: is that enough? We also hear from the fashion industry which is often criticised for not being sustainable about what they are doing to change this. And some of the world's major oil producers are making cuts in production, in a bid to increase the price of oil.
11/30/202326 minutes, 52 seconds
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COP 28 summit warns of ‘climate collapse’

The UN Chief Antonio Guterres has told the opening of the COP28 Climate Summit in Dubai that this year is set to be the warmest on record – and urged world leaders to act. The summit is hosted by the United Arab Emirates, one of the world's top oil-producing nations, with oil boss Sultan al-Jaber overseeing the summit. Jaber promised financial support for developing countries., saying the UAE “would unlock finance to ensure the global south does not have to choose between development and climate action”. Elon Musk- the billionaire owner of X (formerly Twitter) - says the advertisers who are boycotting the platform will kill the company. In an interview at the New York Times DealBook Summit, Mr Musk launched into a rant full of expletives against the advertisers who have quit the platform in a row over alleged anti-semitic content. And, the British sports brand Castore says it has raised $183M, from a trio of private equity investors, boosting the sportswear maker’s value to $1.2B. The company has deals with the likes of tennis player Sir Andy Murray, Formula One’s Red Bull team, the England Test cricket squad, and several English Premier League football clubs. It hopes to compete with the established brands, such as Nike and Adidas.
11/30/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Ronaldo faces $1bn lawsuit over cryptocurrency ad

Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in a class action lawsuit in America after promoting a range of NFTs for Binance. The star is being sued for $1bn. Rahul Tandon finds out the latest from our correspondent in the US. We speak to the head of the European Commission about what she makes of the recent turmoil at OpenAI. And is a flag important to a country’s economy? We look at the country of Kyrgyzstan as the have recently filed a bill to change the image of their flag.
11/29/202326 minutes, 53 seconds
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Uber's plan to allow London's iconic black cabs to use its app

Uber invites London's black cab drivers to its app but will it work after years of rivalry? We ask Uber's general manager in the UK, Andrew Brem.Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, has promised to significantly narrow the country's budget deficit. We listen to the details.And we talk to Margrethe Vestager, candidate for the presidency of the European Investment Bank.
11/29/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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India's PM praises tunnel workers’ rescue

Rahul Tandon looks at the rescue efforts of the workers who have been trapped in a tunnel in Uttarakhand, India for 17 days. He raises the questions about development in that area. We hear why some companies are giving up on advertising on social media platform X. And we find out how much someone paid at auction for a scrap of paper on which David Bowie scribbled the lyrics to of his most famous songs.
11/28/202327 minutes, 25 seconds
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All 41 workers rescued from tunnel in India

41 workers in India who were trapped in a tunnel after a landslide have been rescued. The fast fashion online retailer Shein has filed confidentially to go public on the US stock market. Virgin Atlantic have become the first airline to send a commercial flight across the Atlantic powered only on sustainable fuel. We ask just how clean it actually is.
11/28/202326 minutes, 49 seconds
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AI consequences ‘unimaginable’ says Mozilla boss

Roger Hearing talks to Mitchell Baker the CEO of Mozilla, one of the oldest and most influential internet institutions about her hopes and fears over AI.He also finds out just how much shoppers in the US spent on this Cyber Monday/Black Friday weekend. And there are doubts over the COP28 climate summit hosts as secret documents show the United Arab Emirates were planning to use it for oil deals.
11/27/202326 minutes, 50 seconds
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UAE planned to make oil and gas deals during COP 28

Leaked documents revealed that UAE, hosts of the UN climate change conference COP 28, were planning to hold oil and gas talks with 15 countries. The documents were obtained by independent journalists at the Centre for Climate Reporting working alongside the BBC. Also, on the show what is a shadow bank and why one in China is under investigation. Spain has opened Europe’s first green hydrogen centre in a step to move away from fossil fuels.
11/27/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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TerraUSD boss Do Kwon could face charges in US or South Korea

The entrepreneur behind the $40bn collapse of crypto token TerraUSD, Do Kwon could be extradited to the US or South Korea to answer fraud charges following a court ruling in Montenegro. He sparked an international manhunt after fleeing an investigation in his native country of South Korea, following the sudden collapse of the TerraUSD and its sister token, luna. He was caught as he tried to leave Podgorica airport on a Costa Rican passport and sentenced to four months in prison in Montenegro. Kwon is sought by both the US and South Korea on fraud charges. So with the fall of another Crypto heavyweight, what does this do to the industry and should customers be concerned?
11/24/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Ecuador: Business heir Daniel Noboa sworn in as president

35-year-old heir to a banana business empire Daniel Noboa has been sworn in as Ecuador’s new president, with a promise to create jobs and curb violence in a country gripped by a bloody drug war. Mr Noboa holds a degree in business administration from New York University and three master’s degrees, from Harvard, Northwestern and George Washington universities. He intends to bring order to the country and stop the violence. However, it is not clear what economic reforms the new president is preparing.
11/23/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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Far Right leader Geert Wilders set to win Netherland election

Geert Wilders is likely to be the new leader of the Netherlands. His far-right Freedom Party is set to win 37 seats with almost all the votes counted. "The PVV can no longer be ignored," he said. "We will govern." Mr. Wilders will have to form a coalition government. We explain how he’s expected to tackle the country’s economic issues. Rescue workers drilling to free 41 workers trapped in a tunnel in India's Uttarakhand state are close to breaking through to them, according to officials who said they were confident the workers could be rescued soon. It is a holiday in the US, but Sam Altman is still dominating the headlines, we wanted to see how this week's event has affected companies that use Open AI.
11/23/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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New board for Open AI as Altman returns

The company brings in some established names to the top table, as former CEO Sam Altman comes back to his old job. Economist Larry Summers and former Twitter Chairman Bret Taylor are in with three members leaving the board as part of the shake up. Sam Fenwick hears what the new board will look to change at the company and how Sam Altman has been persuaded to come back to the firm that fired him.
11/22/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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Former CEO Sam Altman reinstated as OpenAI boss

Sam Altman will return to his job as CEO of artificial intelligence OpenAI, the non-profit behind the popular bot ChatGPT. Mr Altman was removed from his position on Friday. Staff at the firm threatened to resign if Mr Altman was not reinstated. Also on the show, another blow to crypto. The CEO of Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange, resigned after pleading guilty to violating anti-money laundering requirements in the US and the firm has agreed to pay $4.3bn in fines. Finally, are you a fan of Kimchi? We have a report on the surging global popularity of the Korean staple.
11/22/202327 minutes, 18 seconds
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Binance boss pleads guilty to money laundering

CZ, the founder of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange has stepped down and the company will pay a fine of more than $4 billion dollars. Changpeng Zhao said in a post on X, "I made mistakes, and I must take responsibility. This is best for our community, for Binance, and for myself". Sam Fenwick will get the latest on the story and what it means for the future of the company.
11/21/202327 minutes, 6 seconds
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Microsoft Chief Executive Satya Nadella calls for change at OpenAI

Satya Nadella chief executive of Microsoft has called for change at OpenAI after it fired co-founder Sam Altman on Friday. Mr Altman was appointed to a senior role at Microsoft on Monday as hundreds of his former employees called for him to be reinstated. Microsoft is OpenAI's biggest investor. Also on the programme the latest with Elon Musk’s lawsuit against Media Matters and the impact of climate change on low-lying islands and atolls in the Pacific such as Tuvalu.
11/21/202327 minutes, 2 seconds
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OpenAI employees threaten resignation over Altman sacking

Following the firing of CEO Sam Altman, almost all of OpenAI's 770 staff have signed a letter threatening to resign unless he is reinstated. Microsoft's stock reached a record high after it said Mr Altman would be joining the company to head its artificial intelligence innovation leg. Sam Fenwick hears what it means for the future of OpenAI and what the ripple effects will be for the wider industry.
11/20/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Ousted OpenAI boss Sam Altman takes new position at Microsoft

Microsoft has hired Sam Altman, former boss of OpenAI best known for the artificial intelligence bot Chat GTP, 48 hours after he was dismissed from the company. Chief Executive Satya Nadella announced on X, (formerly Twitter) that Mr Altman had join the company as lead of a “new advanced AI research team”. Ex-Twitch CEO has taken Mr. Altman’s previous position at Open AI. Argentina has a new right wing President promising to fix the economy and pop star Shakira has reached a $7.5 million deal to settle her tax evasion case.
11/20/202328 minutes
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Sam Altman ousted as CEO of OpenAI

Sam Altman, the head of artificial intelligence firm OpenAI, has been ousted by the company's board, which said it had lost confidence in his ability to lead the company. We look at what this means for the company going forward and who will be replacing him? Also is Amazon moving its resources towards AI and away from its Alexa smart speaker? It was announced on Friday that Amazon will lay off hundreds of employees in its Alexa division. And Canada's capital city Ottawa was once branded 'the city that fun forgot.' But plans are in place to change that. We hear how the city is hoping to hire a 'nightlife tzar'.
11/17/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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AI chief quits over ‘exploitative’ copyright row

Is it ok for tech firms to exploit other people's copyrighted work in order to develop artificial intelligence? AI routinely uses smart-learning to feed off existing internet content to train and develop its algorithms, and in many cases, that's someone's intellectual property. But is there a copyright issue here? One senior UK executive thinks so. Ed Newton-Rex was head of audio at the firm, Stability, which is based in the UK and US. But he's now resigned his post, saying he thought it was "exploitative" for any AI developer to use creative work without consent. The firm IBM has suspended all advertising on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, after a report said that IBM's ads were being placed next to posts praising Adolf Hitler and Nazism. Practice sessions at the Las Vegas Grand Prix have been disrupted by a manhole cover on the track. Two cars were damaged when a manhole came loose, prompting officials to temporarily suspend practice. The session was later restarted at 4 o-clock in the morning local time. Formula One spent more than six hundred million dollars ($621m) preparing for the race, but it's faced criticism - even from the current world champion, Max Verstappen.
11/17/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Would you buy a car from Amazon?

We buy everything online these days. But what about a car? E-commerce giant Amazon has partnered with Hyundai. The South Korean car giant will be the first brand sold on the site. We hear why this deal will change the way we buy cars going forward. We take a look at the aftermath of that meeting between Joe Biden and Xi Jinping. Is anything going to change in the somewhat icy trade relations? And the UK luxury chocolatier Hotel Chocolat has been sold to the US confectionary giant Mars for $660 million. We find out why this deal has raised some eyebrows and if Mars can help the brand conquer the US.
11/16/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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Joe Biden hails progress after Xi Jinping talks

China is ready to be a partner and friend of the United States, and there is plenty of room for bilateral cooperation, President Xi Jinping told American executives in San Francisco on Wednesday. President's Xi and Biden announced steps to tackle the flow of the opioid fentanyl into the US, measures to reduce carbon emissions, and the start of closer collaboration on the regulation of artificial intelligence technology.
11/16/202326 minutes, 51 seconds
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Biden and Xi meet for first time in a year

US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are meeting in San Francisco, California to discuss relations between the two countries, which deteriorated earlier this year. We find out what this means for them going forward. The union representing thousands of Starbucks workers in the US will stage a walkout on one of the coffee chain's busiest days of the year. We get the latest from a Starbucks worker in the US. And the Vatican has confirmed an existing ban on Catholics becoming Freemasons. The latest ruling comes in response to a bishop from the Philippines who expressed concern about the growing number of Catholics in his diocese joining Masonic lodges. We hear why the church has taken such a severe view.
11/15/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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The US and China try to reach trade deals

The US President Joe Biden is meeting Chinese leader Xi Jinping in California today in what some commentators are seeing as a key diplomatic moment for the superpower's relations. It's the first time in a year that they've met for talks. Some are hoping that it may ease friction over things like military conflicts, drug-trafficking and artificial intelligence. The BBC understands the leaders are set to announce a crackdown on the manufacture and export of fentanyl out of China. What other agreements might the leaders of the world’s two largest economies reach?
11/15/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Xi-Biden meeting: What to expect

The presidents of the US and China will meet in San Francisco, where the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation group summit is taking place. It's the first time they will meet in a year. We look at what might come out of the event. The US and the UK have announced new sanctions against four senior leaders and two financiers of Hamas. But how effective can sanctions be? And we talk to a supermarket chain in Wales about the impact shoplifting is having on its business.
11/14/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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US inflation shows signs of cooling

Inflation in the US cooled to 3.2% in October - better than most analysts expected and seen as being down to declining petrol and housing costs. The consumer price data sent US stocks up - the initial reaction has been that this eases pressure on the Federal Reserve over the need for future interest-rate rises, suggesting the economy can be both expanding and non-inflationary at the same time. We will hear from Bloomberg's US economist, Stuart Paul.
11/14/202327 minutes, 18 seconds
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Are energy firms slowing down on new fossil fuel exploration?

The BBC has seen figures that show crucial climate change advice is being ignored by most major energy companies. Research shows 96% of them are planning more drilling. We hear more from our correspondent. A summit is underway in Kenya aimed at securing a global agreement to curb plastic pollution. We ask a climate advocate attending the event how easy it will be to strike a deal. And the latest Marvel film 'The Marvels' has claimed the unfortunate title of having the worst opening weekend in the franchise's history. We look at the reasons.
11/13/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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Iceland prepares for serious volcanic eruption

Iceland is declared a state of emergency after a series of earthquakes which hit the Reykjanes Peninsula. Authorities have ordered thousands of people living in the southwestern town to leave as a precaution. A popular tourist destination, we hear concerns from travellers and look at the potential knock-ons for the Icelandic economy.
11/13/202326 minutes, 45 seconds
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Chinese Xi Jinping and US President Biden to meet at APEC

US and China leaders are due to meet in San Francisco during the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) summit, which the US is hosting from 11 to 17 November. This is only the second time they will meet in Biden's presidency. Taiwan is set to be at the top of discussions with Israel-Hamas along with Ukraine and election interference. Relations between the two countries took a turn earlier this year. The US accused China of spying and the-then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan which led to the two countries cutting military communication. The Marvels, the latest offering from the giant entertainment studio, hits the big screen today but will audiences be marvelled by it? And are businesses prepared, as Hindus across the globe will be celebrating Diwali – the festival of lights this weekend.
11/10/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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China's biggest bank hit by ransomware attack

China's biggest bank, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China's (ICBC), has been hacked by ransomware - and it has caused problems in America, the world's most important sovereign bond market. Roger Hearing looks at what this means for security at global financial institutions. We also look at why Polish truckers have spent almost a week blockading the border with Ukraine. And as the Hindu festival of Diwali begins, are cash-strapped Indian families going to be spending as much as usual on the celebrations?
11/10/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Hollywood strike: Actors' union agrees tentative deal to end four-month strike

US actors are expected to resume work after their union agreed a tentative deal with Hollywood studios to end a four-month strike. Sag-Aftra reached agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and TV Producers (AMPTP) in a unanimous vote. The shutdown - combined with a separate writers' strike - disrupted numerous major films and TV shows. Actors have been calling for better pay and safeguards on the use of AI.
11/9/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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EU lawyer: Apple should pay €13bn Irish tax

Apple could again be facing a $14bn back tax bill in Ireland, after a top EU advisor questioned their appeal victory in the Court of Justice Parties in LA as striking actors seem to have found a workable deal with the studios And the kindest people in the world? For helping strangers, volunteering and donations - Indonesians are again at the top of the list.
11/9/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Disney revenues on the up

Shares in the company rose on the news that their streaming service added 7 million new subscribers this quarter. Revenues rose by 7% from last year, with CEO Bob Iger pledging to save $7.5 billion every year from next year. Sam Fenwick finds out what's been behind this success, and what it means looking forward for Disney.
11/8/202326 minutes, 30 seconds
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Russia: UK govt announces new sanctions

In the UK the Foreign Secretary has announced new sanctions targeting 29 individuals and entities operating in and supporting Russia’s gold, oil and strategic sectors. Roger Hearing explores what sort of impact sanctions are having on the Russian economy. Australian telecoms firm Optus has restored services to more than 10 million people and thousands of businesses that were affected in an outage lasting around 12 hours. We look at the impact on business and what this could mean for the company’s reputation. And as Zelda becomes the latest video game to get the big screen treatment, we discuss why gaming companies such as Nintendo want to turn their big brands into blockbuster movies?
11/8/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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US credit card debt hits $1 trillion

New York Fed research says the $154 billion increase in credit card debt is the biggest since it started tracking such data in 1999. Credit card borrowing levels have been rising every quarter for the past two years to reach $1.08 trillion. Sam Fenwick speaks to the New York Fed and finds out how risky this debt is with interest rates so high.
11/7/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Portugal Prime Minister resigns

The latest on the Portuguese Prime Minister, Antonio Costa, who resigned over allegations of irregularities and corruption in the handling of lithium mining and hydrogen projects in the country. In the US the co-working company, WeWork, has filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy in America - so what does this mean and how could it affect the future of the company in the US? And as people in China lose their appetite for pork, with prices falling 40%, we look at what this tells us about deflation and the impact on the wider economy.
11/7/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Trump testifies in fraud trial

In a New York court, the former president has been giving evidence as he is accused of fraudulently inflating the value of his properties to secure favourable loans. The case is one of a number of legal battles Mr. Trump is facing as he tries to recapture the presidency. Sam Fenwick hears the latest from the trial and what it means for Trump's presidential run.
11/6/202327 minutes, 28 seconds
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Delhi pollution: Working amongst the smog in India’s capital

Air pollution in New Delhi has risen to alarming levels prompting the Chamber of Trade and Industry to write to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding an emergency meeting to discuss the decline in business due to the pollution. Roger Hearing finds out what it’s like to live - and work in the smog-shrouded capital. And Barbra Streisand is a voice and a talent that defined a generation. As she releases her autobiography we look at how, alongside huge commercial success, she’s also been a hugely successful and shrewd businesswoman.
11/6/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Australia and China aim to make peace

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese touches down in Beijing this weekend and he will be the first Australian leader to visit China in seven years. Will these two nations finally bury the hatchet – we will get the latest? In the US President Biden is hosting leaders from Latin America - we will be joined by the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment from the US to talk about the trade ties there And one of the world's biggest shipping firms, Maersk is cutting 10,000 jobs but what does this mean for global exports?
11/3/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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‘Crypto King’ Sam Bankman-Fried found guilty

Sam Bankman-Fried, who once ran one of the world's biggest cryptocurrency exchanges, has been found guilty of fraud and money laundering at the end of a month-long trial in New York. The jury delivered its verdict after less than five hours of deliberations. It concludes a stunning fall from grace for the 31-year-old former billionaire, once known as the "King of Crypto", who now faces decades in jail. Bankman-Fried was arrested last year after his firm, FTX, went bankrupt. His sentencing has been set for 28 March next year. Cryptocurrency exchange FTX was once valued at $32bn (£26bn), but when it went bankrupt in November last year $8bn in customer funds was missing.
11/3/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Rishi Sunak and Elon Musk take on AI

UK prime minister Rishi Sunak and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk exchanged their views at the conclusion of the global summit on AI technology. We hear their thoughts on AI and what it means for jobs and how governments should be working together with tech companies. New York State has issued fines to the ride sharing firms, Uber and Lyft due to unpaid wages and benefit, but how is the settlement being received? And we look at why more women are now choosing MBA programs in the US.
11/2/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Bangladeshi garment workers fights for better wages

Thousands of garment workers in Bangladesh, one of largest garment-producing countries in the world, are took to the streets of capital Dhaka to demand better wages. At least two people have been killed and dozens injured when protesters clashed with police. Clothing exports are worth more than forty billion dollars annually to the Bangladesh economy, with shipments reaching more than one hundred and fifty countries and over one thousand clothing brands. Around four million people are employed in the garment industry - 60% of them are women. They get around 75 dollars a month. They want that increasing about to at least 200 dollars.
11/2/202326 minutes, 49 seconds
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US Fed hits pause on interest rate hike

The US Federal Reserve has left interest rates unchanged at a 22 year high in a bid to stabilise price rises which has reached record levels. We'll be getting the latest reaction from businesses in the US. Shares in the world's biggest offshore wind developer Orsted has fallen all because they abandoned a project to build two huge wind farms off the east coast of the United States. We hear why it seems so hard to get these developments of the ground. And would you fancy a 70-hour working week? Well one man in India has sparked a debate in the country with this call saying young Indian professionals need to work harder and longer.
11/1/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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AI safety summit: Countries reach agreement

At the first day of the AI safety summit 28 countries have agreed to work together to share understanding about the dangers posed by Artificial Intelligence. The agreement has been signed on the first day of the AI safety summit hosted by British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak. The countries agreed that substantial risks could arise from the use of AI.
11/1/202327 minutes, 7 seconds
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World Bank issues warning on oil prices

Oil prices could rise to more than $150 a barrel if the conflict in the Middle East escalates, according to the World Bank. A drawn-out war in the region could drive big rises in energy and food prices, just a year after prices spiked due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. For now oil prices remain steady at around $90 a barrel and are predicted to fall. However, the Bank warns that this outlook could quickly reverse.
10/31/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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FTX: The 'fraud trial of the century'

Sam Bankman-Fried has admitted to making a number of large mistakes when running his cryptocurrency exchange FTX, but denies defrauding customers. Many are calling it the fraud trial of the century.
10/30/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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UAW: Detroit automakers reached a deal

The United Auto Workers union has agreed to a tentative new contract with General Motors, two days after the union expanded the strike at the carmaker. After a bruising six week walkout at America’s big three unionised carmakers, the historic strike could soon be over if union members approve the agreements. The union also said that the lowest-paid workers at Stellantis would see wages rise by more than 165% over the period of the agreement.
10/30/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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'Crypto King' admits people got hurt as he speaks out in trial

Former crypto boss Sam Bankman-Fried acknowledged "a lot of people got hurt" when the FTX exchange he founded collapsed, in his testimony to the jury at his fraud trial. The former entrepreneur said he had made many mistakes when running the cryptocurrency exchange. A lawsuit against fashion brand Aber-crombie & Fitch - accusing the firm of funding a sex-trafficking operation - has been filed in New York. And Taylor Swift, with a record-breaking tour, a blockbuster film, and a keen business sense, the 33-year-old musician is now worth $1.1 billion.
10/27/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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FTX: 'Crypto King' weighing the risks

Former crypto boss Sam Bankman-Fried has been testifying to a judge at his trial after the jury was sent home. The former entrepreneur was asked to speak to Judge Lewis Kaplan to determine which parts of his testimony can be put to the jury. The 31-year-old is accused of lying to investors and lenders and stealing money from customers of his now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange, FTX. If he is found guilty he could face a life sentence in prison.
10/27/202326 minutes, 47 seconds
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FTX: 'King of Crypto' testifies to judge in fraud trial

Former crypto boss Sam Bankman-Fried has been testifying to a judge at his trial after the jury was sent home. The former entrepreneur was asked to testify to Judge Lewis Kaplan to determine which parts of his testimony can be put to the jury. The EU and Namibia have forged a partnership to increase Namibia's export potential for green hydrogen and essential raw resources, the EU countries. The PlayStation 5's manufacturer, Sony, has announced that the supply chain issues that beset the device for three years have been fixed.
10/26/202327 minutes, 9 seconds
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US economy grows at fastest pace in nearly two years

The United States economy grew at its highest rate in almost 2 years, hitting 4.9%, far higher than many analysts were predicting. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank has decided to keep rates steady at 4%, breaking the longest streak of hikes in its 25-year history. Rahul Tandon examines the data and discusses what these data could mean for the global economy.
10/26/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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China elevates diplomatic ties with Colombia

Colombia’s first leftist president, Gustavo Petro, met his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People on his maiden state visit to the world’s second-largest economy. The two countries have elevated diplomatic relations to the next level - a so-called "strategic-partnership" - which is likely to raise eyebrows in Washington, given Colombia is the oldest US ally in Latin America.
10/25/202327 minutes, 6 seconds
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Germany: Green shoots of recovery?

Business confidence amongst German companies is up according to the IFO Institute, as the International Monetary fund predicts the country's economy will overtake Japan by the end of the year. This is despite Monday's report from the Bundesbank – Germany’s central bank - suggesting the economy was still contracting in the last quarter. Roger Hearing finds out what's behind the optimism and how the economy can be turned around.
10/25/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Meta sued by US states

Thirty three US states have grouped together to file a lawsuit accusing Facebook and Instagram's owner Meta of contributing to a youth mental health crisis for the sake of profit. A suit filed in a federal court in California said Meta had "repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its Social Media Platforms". Meta said it sought to make young people safe online.
10/24/202326 minutes, 42 seconds
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Iceland: Women strike over inequality

Women across the Nordic island, including the Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir, are on strike over equal pay and gender-based violence. It's the first full-day of action like this since 1975 when it led to an equal pay law being introduced the following year. Rahul Tandon will hear from a protest about why more still needs to be done.
10/24/202327 minutes, 3 seconds
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Chevron to buy Hess Corp for $53 billion

There's a mood of consolidation in the air in the US oil industry - earlier this month Exxon Mobil, the largest American oil-producer, bought oil-explorer Pioneer Natural Resources for $59.5bn. Now Chevron has announced its buying its main rival Hess for $53bn. The oil industry last went through an era of major consolidation in the late 1990s, following a collapse in oil prices. That's not the case now. Today, the majors are sitting on piles of cash.
10/23/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Argentina: Status quo or radical change?

The first round of voting in the presidential election took place at the weekend with the populist candidate Javier Milei, who brandished a chainsaw at one event, unexpectedly beaten. His rival, the country's current economy minister Sergio Massa came out on top. Rahul Tandon finds out what the result might mean for the future of the country's economy, where inflation is more than 130 percent.
10/23/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Argentina heads to the ballot box on Sunday

Voters in Argentina will be heading to the voting centres on Sunday to cast their ballot in what is widely regarded as the most unpredictable presidential election since the country returned to democracy 40 years ago. And this comes in the middle of an economic crisis with inflation is at almost 140%. One of the Presidential candidates, Javier Milei is promising to dollarizing the economy and get rid of the local currency, the Peso.
10/20/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Argentina elects: what's at stake for the country's economy?

Voters in Argentina are preparing to go the polls on Sunday to elect the country's next president. Inflation is running at 140% and one candidate, Javier Milei, is pledging to get rid of the peso and dollarise the economy if he succeeds. We get insight into the issue from journalist Natalio Cosoy, with reports from Buenos Aires and San Pedro city assessing the opportunities and challenges on an urban and rural front. German influencer Sam Dylan gives his opinion on news that the European Commission has outlawed the sale of some microplastics - including most glitter - over concerns its polluting the oceans. In Australia, the national government in Canberra has decided to allow a Chinese company continued ownership of the port of Darwin - under a 99 year lease.
10/20/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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Powell: US may still need tough decisions to control inflation

The US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell acknowledged recent signs of cooling inflation, but said that the central bank would be “resolute” in its commitment to its 2% mandate. Powell says inflation is still too high and lower economic growth is likely needed to bring it down This comes as September saw a 13-year low in existing house sales in the US due to a combination of rising mortgage rates and limited supply that made homes unaffordable for many first-time buyers.
10/19/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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New York attorney general sues crypto firms for alleged investor fraud

The New York New York Attorney General has launched legal action against the cryptocurrency firms Genesis Global, its parent company Digital Currency Group or DCG, and Gemini - accusing them of "defrauding" investors of more than $1 billion dollars. Experts say the development illustrates the challenges the crypto industry is facing. Gemini Trust has denied the claims against it and responses have been requested of the other firms. Our North America Business Correspondent Michelle Fleury brings us the latest on the story. Nestlé is closing a baby milk factory in Ireland - blaming a falling birthrate in China, which it says has led to reduced demand for the product. Five hundred jobs will be lost as a result. A former worker at the factory in Askeaton, County Limerick who now runs a guest house there, explains how the closure will affect him. Netflix results beat expectations - but also announces price rises in France, the US and UK. Customers in Paris give us their reaction to the news.
10/19/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Aid poised to enter Gaza strip

International aid agencies are waiting to get full details of the opening of Egyptian border with Gaza for aid delivery to the strip after 10 days war. The US president Joe Biden has announced that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has agreed to open the Rafah crossing to a handful of trucks loaded with aid destined for the Gaza Strip. We will hear from The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies about they are ready to deliver this aid to the people who need it.
10/18/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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President Xi reaffirms commitment to Russian relationship

The Chinese president Xi Jinping has reaffirmed his country's close economic ties with Russia and hit out at international sanctions. He was speaking as the two-day Belt and Road forum in Beijing came to a close. Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Xi on the sidelines of the event. Our China Correspondent Stephen McDonnell gives us the latest from Beijing. Social media platform X, formerly Twitter, has announced plans to start charging new users in the Philippines and New Zealand $1 a year to sign up. Social media analyst Matt Navarra assesses whether the move will help rid the site of bots. Nigerian authorities have burned $1.4m worth of illegal pangolin scales. Maria Diekmann of conservation group Pangolins International, which has a project in Nigeria, explains what's being done to crack down on the illicit trade and protect the endangered mammals.
10/18/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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How does aid get into Gaza?

Hundreds of tonnes of aid is piling up in Egypt at the border with the Gaza Strip. President Biden and other world leaders have called on Egypt to open the border known as the Rafah crossing with Gaza to help this situation. Sam Fenwick speaks to the World Health Organisation as they try to get vital supplies into the region.
10/17/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Putin arrives in China to boost anti-West coalition

Vladimir Putin has made his first official trip outside the Soviet region this year. The Russian president is seeking to bolster anti-west support as his country faces Western sanctions because of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The visit comes despite an outstanding warrant for his arrest from the International Criminal Court. We examine the closening economic links between Russia and China with non-resident scholar at the Carnegie Russia-Eurasia Center in Berlin, Alexandra Prokopenko. South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed talk of a financial crisis in the country. He was speaking at a three-day meeting of the ANC's National Executive Committee. Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon has stopped his side hustle of DJing. We ask HR expert Tracie Sponenberg if there should be a line between someone's professional and personal interests.
10/17/202326 minutes, 4 seconds
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Ecuador votes in its youngest ever president

35 year-old Daniel Noboa faces a rising tide of crime and violence and an economic crisis that has made many Ecuadorians leave their country. Ecuadorean bonds rallied on the vote result as Mr Noboa's business background provided a boost for investors that had seen the country's dollar debt fall sharply this year. Roger Hearing hears how the new president will look to tackle these challenges and how he can get the economy on track.
10/16/202327 minutes, 6 seconds
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Former Bank of China boss arrested on bribery charges

The former chairman of the Bank of China has been arrested on suspicion of bribery and giving illegal loans. Liu Liange, chairman of the state-owned bank from 2019 to 2023, had resigned from his position in March this year. The 62-year-old is one of the most senior bankers to be targeted in President Xi Jinping's anti-corruption probe into China's $60 trillion financial sector. As China's 'Belt and Road' infrastructure initiative approaches the 10-year point, we assess its global impact ahead of a forum being held in Beijing this week. Disney marks its 100th year. We take a look at the history of the US-based entertainment and streaming giant.
10/16/202325 minutes, 43 seconds
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Microsoft completes biggest deal in gaming history

Microsoft has completed its $69bn takeover of Call of Duty-maker Activision Blizzard in the gaming industry's biggest ever deal. Also in the programme, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved a set of regulations aimed at increasing transparency in short selling, a controversial practice that has captured significant attention during the GameStop saga. Healthcare company Kaiser Permanente and its workers have reached a tentative deal, following the largest medical strike on record. More than 75,000 health workers in five US states and Washington DC went on a 72-hour strike for better wages and improved staffing last week.
10/13/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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UK regulators approve Microsoft-Activision Blizzard deal

The Competition and Markets Authority have approved Microsoft's revised deal to buy Call of Duty-maker Activision Blizzard. Roger Hearing looks at what the deal means for the future of the gaming industry. As the IMF and World Bank meet in Marrakech we speak to the IMF’s Africa Director, Abe Selassie. And Burkina Faso's military leaders have signed a deal with Russia to build a nuclear power plant to increase electricity supplies.
10/13/202327 minutes, 30 seconds
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Ford shares fall after UAW strikes expand to its Kentucky plant

Ford Motor shares fell after the United Auto Workers (UAW) union expanded its strike at the company's biggest and most profitable factory in Kentucky. The UAW said 8,700 workers walked out of the truck plant in Kentucky, in response to Ford refusing to move further in contract negotiations. New Zealanders will be casting their vote on Saturday in the country's general election, 9 months after Jacinda Arden unexpectedly resigned as Prime Minister. They'll be deciding whether to give Labour a third term in office, or flip to a National-led government. We’ll hear from the current finance minister and the deputy leader of the opposition.
10/12/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Doing business in Israel and Gaza

As the war between Israel and the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip intensifies, what are businesses in the region doing to remain operational? Ahead of Sunday’s election in Poland, presenter Sam Fenwick looks at why it’s been billed as the most important vote since the fall of Communism in 1989. And Guy Hedgecoe reports from Benidorm in southern Spain on how climate change is affecting tourism.
10/12/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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Gaza goes dark after only power station shuts down

As the conflict continues, we hear how a business tries to stay afloat in Israel, and we look into the role cryptocurrencies may have played in the financing of Hamas. The trial of the founder of FTX, Sam Bankman-Fried, goes on in New York. We get the latest from our correspondent. And ExxonMobil signs a deal to buy the largest oil producer in the Permian Basin, Pioneer Natural Resources. We hear about the implications this can have for the industry.
10/11/202327 minutes, 8 seconds
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How is Hamas funded?

As the Israeli blockade continues, food and medical supplies in the Gaza Strip are running low. Hamas, which governs the area, is designated as a terrorist group by the US, the UK and the European Union, meaning it's cut off from their financial assistance. Sam Fenwick looks at how, despite this, the group finances itself.
10/11/202327 minutes, 29 seconds
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Joe Biden condemns Hamas' attack on Israel

The US president calls it 'an act of sheer evil' as reports of more victims emerge. The European Union vows to offer more support to the region. We look at what has happened and the economic impact it has caused. Finland and Estonia say an undersea gas pipeline between both countries has suffered deliberate damage. We look into the details. And the global economy is 'limping along,' according to the International Monetary Fund. We get the latest from our correspondent.
10/10/202326 minutes, 59 seconds
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UN warns of risks in Gaza

UN aid agencies have raised concerns of the severe consequences of Israel's 'total siege' on Gaza in response to the Hamas attacks four days ago. In a press conference the United Nations humanitarian office said nearly 200,000 people, that's nearly a tenth of the strip’s population, have fled their homes in Gaza, with fears about water shortages due to a blockade. Sam Fenwick hears the latest from the region and from those trying to send aid in.
10/10/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Israel-Gaza conflict: EU backtracks on Palestinian aid freeze

The European Union had announced a suspension on funding for Palestine after Hamas attacks. It will now 'review' financial aid to the region. We get the latest from Brussels. We also take a look at the impact the conflict in the Middle East is having in the oil and gas markets. And Claudia Goldin has become the first woman to be awarded the Nobel economics prize on her own. We hear about her contribution to understanding the gender pay gap.
10/9/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Israel-Gaza conflict: economic impact

Following the latest Hamas attacks in the region over the weekend and Israel’s response, we look at what it means for the economy in both Israel and the Gaza Strip. Samantha Fenwick examines this and finds out the impact on oil prices, and on the wider global economy.
10/9/20232 minutes, 30 seconds
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US Labour market: what's behind unexpected growth?

Employers added 336,000 jobs in September, almost double the 170,000 estimated, according to figures released by the Labor Department. Great news if you're looking for work there, of course, but if you're in the Federal Reserve, America's central bank, and worried about the economy overheating, maybe not so good.
10/6/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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High US jobs growth fuels rate rise expectations

Employers added 336,000 jobs in September, almost double the 170,000 estimated. We look into the implications this can have on the Federal Reserve's interest rate policy. Russia has lifted a ban on seaborn exports of diesel weeks after imposing a ban to protect the domestic supply. We get the latest details. One of the world's largest oil and gas companies, Exxon Mobil, could buy the biggest oil producer in Texas, Pioneer Natural Resources. We find out what this could mean for the industry.
10/6/202327 minutes, 31 seconds
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WTO cuts world trade forecast by over 50%

The World Trade organisation has halved its estimate for global exports growth this year - from 1.7% to just 0.8%. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO director-general, said the projected slowdown was “cause for concern, because of the adverse implications for the living standards of people around the world”.
10/5/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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The economic impact of the Cricket World Cup

More than US$250 million will be spent on advertising during the tournament. We look at the economic impact the event can have in India, the host. As FIFA announces in which countries the 2030 Football World Cup will take place, we find out what this can mean for one of the six hosts: Morocco. And a recent report says the gender wage gap in the Netherlands has increased to 7.4% in the last two years. We look into the reasons why this is happening.
10/5/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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The Great Bond Sell-off

Government debt around the world is becoming less attractive, causing bond prices to tumble. As a result, the yield - the money bondholders can expect to make from their credit notes, has gone up. Roger Hearing finds out what this will mean for the prospect of future interest rate rises from central banks.
10/4/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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Indonesia's ban of e-commerce on social media comes into force

The government says it wants to protect local small businesses, which were facing competition from online cheaper retailers. We get the latest from our correspondent in Jakarta. Also in the programme, we talk to the energy minister of the United Arab Emirates, Suhail al-Mazrouei, about the role of the OPEC+, fuel prices and the rumours about the UAE mulling a departure from the oil producers cartel. And South Africans in the province of Gauteng are seeing water supply cuts as part of a "water shifting" scheme, the latest stopgap to one of the many infrastructure issues the country faces.
10/4/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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McCarthy ousted as Speaker

The US House of Representatives has voted to remove its speaker for the first time in history, following a motion introduced by the Republican Matt Gaetz. McCarthy had been criticised for reaching a temporary spending deal with the Democrats to avoid a government shutdown. Roger Hearing gets reaction to the vote, and finds out what it means for Congress.
10/3/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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FTX founder heads to court

Sam Bankman-Fried's trial begins in New York with jury selection. The executive is accused of seven counts of conspiracy and fraud over the collapse of the crypto exchange. We get the latest from our correspondent in New York. Evergrande's shares jump as trading in the firm resumes. The company halted trading in the Hong Kong exchange after it confirmed that its billionaire founder was being investigated by Chinese authorities. And Burger King's brand owner is facing criticism for continuing their operations in Russia 18 months after having said it would leave the country. We find out why it's taking so long for the firm to exit Russia.
10/3/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Trump in court in fraud case

The former president faces a civil lawsuit and a fine of $250m for alleged fraud committed through the Trump Organization. Speaking outside the courtroom Mr Trump said the lawsuit was a politically motivated "witch hunt". Roger Hearing hears the latest from the case, and finds out more about what the Trump Organization is worth and how it got to where it is today.
10/2/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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The Trump Organisation on trial

The civil fraud trial against Donald Trump's empire begins in New York. The former US president and his two adult sons are also accused of inflating the value of their properties. We get the latest from our correspondent. Asia faces one of the worst economic outlooks in half a century, according to the World Bank. We hear about the factors that led the institution to reduce its growth forecast for China and other neighbouring economies. And Indonesia launches The Whoosh, the first high-speed railway in South East Asia. We look into the details.
10/2/202326 minutes, 38 seconds
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US government on brink of shutdown

The US is edging closer to a government shutdown after hardline Republicans rejected a last-minute funding deal in the House of Representatives. The latest on the UAW strikes in America with 7000 more workers at Ford and General Motors now set to join the industrial action. And Rahul Tandon speaks to the mixologist who’s just been voted the world’s best bartender.
9/29/202327 minutes, 5 seconds
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The deadline for the US shutdown getting closer

The US inched closer to a government shutdown as the prospects of a successful short-term funding deal grow bleaker. Congress faces a deadline of midnight on Saturday to pass a new budget before thousands of federal employees are placed on unpaid leave.
9/29/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Turmoil in China’s property sector deepens

Shares in the property company Evergrande were suspended from Hong Kong trading on Thursday as the company confirmed that its billionaire founder and chairman, Hui Ka Yan, has been detained on suspicion of criminal activity. Rahul Tandon looks at the latest developments and what might happen next. Could the United Auto Workers in America reach a deal over strike action, or are they about to expand their action and call more strikes? And why after 25 years, Netflix is ending its DVD rental service, meaning there’ll be no more red envelopes being sent through the post for customers.
9/28/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Costly rebrand: FIFA to EA Sports FC

It's one of the world's best selling video games, but from tomorrow you won't find it on the shelves anymore... at least not in the same packaging. After 30 years - the football simulation game FIFA - is changing its name to EA Sports FC. Rebranding game hits the shelves this week. The games maker is stepping out of the football governing body's shadow following a reported disagreement over the cost of the licence to use the FIFA name.
9/28/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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UK gives go-ahead for biggest new North Sea oilfield in years

The controversial Rosebank offshore development off Shetland has been granted consent by regulators. Rosebank is the UK's largest untapped oil field and is estimated to contain up to 300 million barrels of oil. The plan has faced widespread criticism due to its impact on climate change. (Picture: Port of Cromarty Firth, Invergordon, Scotland, UK, The Transocean Leader and Shelf Drilling Fortress vessels off shore, Cromarty Firth, Scotland, UK. Picture Credit: Getty Images).
9/28/202326 minutes, 54 seconds
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Rosebank oil field: 300 million barrels of new oil in the UK

Rosebank, which lies about 80 miles north-west of Shetland, has been approved by the UK regulators the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA). It's going to be one of the largest untapped oil and gas sites in the UK - containing up to 300 million barrels of oil.
9/27/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Donald Trump is found liable for fraud in New York

Donald Trump "repeatedly" misrepresented his wealth by up to $3.6 billion to banks and insurers, a New York judge has ruled. The decision resolves a key claim made by New York's attorney general in her civil lawsuit against the former president. (Picture: Dubuque, Iowa - September 20: Former president Donald Trump speaks during a rally, Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023, at Grand River Conference Center in Dubuque, Iowa. Picture Credit: Getty Images).
9/26/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Pacific Islands Forum Summit: Biden makes new pledges to leaders

The US President Joe Biden met Pacific island leaders for a second White House summit. He pledged to work with Congress to provide $200 million more in funding for projects in the Indo-Pacific region aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change, spurring economic growth, countering illegal fishing and improving public health.
9/26/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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Hollywood writers reach ‘tentative’ deal to end strike

A tentative deal has been struck between a major US screenwriters union, The Writer’s Guild of America and studio bosses that could end five months of strike action. Details of the deal haven't been made public yet, but it’s understood agreement has been reached over writers' demands over protections from AI and better residual pay from streaming companies. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is in Vietnam to discuss a possible deal with the Mercosur bloc of countries - what areas would any agreement cover and how would it benefit both sides? And Roger Hearing finds out who pays the bill to maintain those super yachts and other assets seized from Russian oligarchs with links to the Kremlin.
9/25/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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China's property crisis: how will it impact the economy?

Property giant Evergrande's financial problems have rippled through China's vast property industry, with several other developers defaulting on their debts. We look at this in more detail and and what’s likely to happen next for the sector – and the wider Chinese economy.
9/25/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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UAW strike expands to dozens of sites at GM and Stellantis

The move excludes Ford, which the UAW says is making more progress in talks. We take a look at the latest developments. The Russian military company Wagner has a new leader - business school grad Dmitry Sytii. We hear more about him and what this means for the firm. And in South America, a toll on a crucial waterway has generated a growing and expensive row between Argentina and Paraguay. We look into the details.
9/22/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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UAW strike may spread to more US states

General Motors, Ford Motor and Stellantis are bracing themselves for more walkouts as the carmakers struggle to get a deal with the United Auto Workers union on key issues like job security and pay parity for temporary workers. The Polish president on Friday tried to ease tensions with its neighbour Ukraine over the import of grain. The argument started earlier in the year when the EU agreed to place restrictions on Ukrainian grain imports to Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, as part of efforts to protect local farmers who blamed cheaper Ukrainian imports for a slump in prices in local markets.
9/22/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Rupert Murdoch's resignation: What now for Fox and News Corp?

The 92-year-old will become chairman emeritus of the two corporations. His son, Lachland Murdoch, has been named his successor. We look at what the future might hold for family-run media empire. And the cost of oranges has gone up this year as crop sizes have gone down across the world due to weather events. We hear more from a farmer and a trading association in Florida.
9/21/202327 minutes
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Rupert Murdoch steps down from running media empire

Rupert Murdoch has announced that he's stepping down from running one of the world's most powerful media empires. The ninety-two year-old says he's transitioning from his roles as Chair of Fox Corporation and Executive Chairman of News Corporation to the position of emeritus chairman. The European Union has temporarily suspended funding for the World Food Programme in Somalia. This comes after a UN investigation found what it says is evidence of widespread theft and alleged misuse of aid meant to prevent famine. The European Commission gave more than 7 million dollars in aid to the World Programme's operations in Somalia last year. One of Japan's most well-known corporations, Toshiba, has been sold to a private consortium -- which will end its seventy-four years as a listed company.
9/21/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Brakes on Net Zero?

The UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak has announced an overhaul of the government's green commitments. He says it will still meet net zero targets by 2050. Rishi Sunak, described the changes as a new, realistic approach to achieving net-zero carbon use, which would help hard-pressed families.
9/20/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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US Fed to decide on interest rates

US Federal Reserve officials are expected to keep rates on hold for now. They currently sit in a range of 5.25 to 5.5 percent - the highest they've been for 22 years. But one consequence is that this is gumming up the US housing market because people are reluctant to move and face higher monthly mortgage payments. Sam Fenwick hears from a US homeowner who is reluctant to downsize or scaleup mortgage payments because of the high interest rates.
9/20/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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FTX sues founder’s parents over missing millions

The parents of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried are being sued for money they allegedly received from the crypto firm ahead of its collapse. Also, why retailers including H&M are clamping down on customer returns.
9/19/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Oil price hits 10-month high

Global oil prices have reached their highest level in more than ten months. Brent crude rose above ninety-five dollars a barrel on Tuesday. The increase is being driven by production cuts by two of the world's largest oil exporters, Saudi Arabia and Russia. The International Energy Agency has warned of a significant supply shortfall by the end of the year. Oil prices surged to more than a-hundred-and-twenty dollars a barrel after Russia invaded Ukraine last year, but fell back to seventy dollars in May. Sam Fenwick hears about how the oil price hike is affecting taxi drivers and airlines.
9/19/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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UAW strike enters fourth day

Union negotiators continued talks with representatives from General Motors, Ford and the Jeep-maker Stellantis today, as a historic strike by workers at America's top three car manufacturers entered the fourth day. The United Auto Workers union is seeking a 40% pay rise over a four year term, far more than the roughly 20% the companies have currently put on the table.
9/18/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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UAW and automakers try to reach a final deal

The car workers strike in the US enters day 4 today with the president of the United Auto Workers union, Shawn Fain preparing to meet again with bosses at General Motors, Ford and Stellantis. The workers want a 40% pay increase - the same rate their CEOs’ pay grew in recent years. The price of oil is reaching 95 dollars a barrel for the first time since November last year. Growing supply tightness and dwindling stockpiles have led into the increase in prices which in turn will start to affect how much you pay at the pump. Water suppliers in Johannesburg, South Africa, have asked residents of the city and its suburbs to use less water because of a water shortage that they warn could “result in the collapse of the system”.
9/18/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Biden supports UAW strikers

US President Joe Biden has sided with workers who have gone on strike in a pay dispute with three of America's biggest car-makers. In a meeting on Friday he said "workers deserve a fair share". We hear what the workers are accusing the plants about which are owned by General Motors (GM), Ford and Stellantis. Prices for Uranium have surged to their highest level for 12 years as countries try to protect stocks for nuclear power production. We take a look at where there is a huge demand for this metal. And Disney boss Bob Igor recently hinted that it was going to sell off it's TV network, ABC. Well media entrepreneur Byron Allen has put his name in the ring to buy the station. We find out if his 10 billion dollar bid is a decent valuation.
9/15/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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UAW strike: thousands of workers at three of the biggest US carmakers have gone on strike

More than 10-thousand employees at three of America's biggest car makers have gone on strike over pay and conditions. It's the first time that the United Autoworkers Union has simultaneously targeted all three of the main US car manufacturers - General Motors, Ford and Stellantis.
9/15/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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US on the road to industrial action

Nearly 150 thousand U.S. auto workers are set to go on strike this week if General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis fail to meet their demands for big pay raises. Workers want a 46% pay increase and the restoration of concessions workers made years ago when the companies were in financial trouble. The United Auto Workers union, has threatened to strike any of the three companies that haven’t reached an agreement by the time its contract with the union expires.
9/14/202326 minutes, 55 seconds
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ECB hikes rates up to 4%

The European Central Bank has hiked interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point to 4% today. That's the highest level since the launch of the euro currency in 1999. Officials say interest rates need to go higher in order to tame inflation.
9/14/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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US inflation highest in 14 months

Driven by things like petrol prices, the consumer price index increased by 0.6% last month, the largest gain since June 2022. However underlying inflation was the smallest in nearly two years, so what could that mean for further interest rate rises by the Federal Reserve? Roger Hearing finds out how the price rises are affecting businesses and what driving up the price of petrol.
9/13/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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EU launch investigation into Chinese electric vehicles

The European Commission has started an investigation to assess whether China is using unfair subsidies to boost the sale of its electric vehicles in Europe. Certain state subsidies are illegal under international trade rules.
9/13/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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BP boss Bernard Looney resigns

The head of BP Bernard Looney has suddenly resigned following allegations over personal relationships with colleagues. We find out what this means for the company going forward. What happens when the NFL's Most Valuable Player gets injured right at the start of the season. Well it happened to the Jet's very own Aaron Rodgers we take a look at what this means for his club and the future of the games going forward. And Pickleball is the rage in America this summer. It’s a form of paddle tennis and is taking over space in American cities and taking up increasingly large parts of personal and corporate budgets. We'll hear just how fast the sport is growing.
9/12/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Google takes on the US Department of Justice in historic antitrust trial

US prosecutors are taking Google to court over allegations it made deals with smartphone makers to ensure it was the default search engine on billions of devices. The Department of Justice claims the tech giant engaged in illegal practices, which Google denies. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is forecasting that demand for oil, natural gas and coal will all peak before 2030. We ask if this is the beginning of the end for the fossil fuel era, what does it mean for the countries that rely on them now? Pickleball has become a popular racket sport in the US this summer, but why is it frowned upon in some quarters? Michelle Fleury reports on the tennis-like craze from New York City.
9/12/202326 minutes, 25 seconds
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North Korea's Kim Jong Un travels to Russia to meet Putin

The two leaders are likely to discuss North Korea supplying weapons in support of Russia’s war in Ukraine. We will hear the latest on the economic friendship between the two countries. And Thailand's new prime minister has announced a cash handout in a bid to revive the economy. $300 will be distributed to every citizen through a digital wallet. We look at how this tactic will revive the country's economy. Also, we're about to see the opening of the biggest legal case against big tech in decades as Google will be prosecuted on charges of monopolizing the online search space. We'll find out what this means for the tech industry going forward.
9/11/20235 minutes, 52 seconds
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What is the economic impact of the Morocco earthquake?

The interior ministry of Morocco says nearly two-thousand five hundred people have died following Friday's earthquake. Rescue teams are still battling to find survivors trapped in the rubble. We look at the economic impact on the country. The EU is considering scrapping plans to impose regulations designed to improve animal welfare in the farming industry, over concerns about the impact it could have on food inflation. Lab-grown meat can be labelled kosher and halal as long as its cells are derived in methods compliant with religious standards, according to two panels of experts commissioned by the industry.
9/11/202327 minutes, 1 second
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African Union expected to join G20

Officials at the G20 summit in Delhi say the African Union could become a member. The proposal has been backed by the US and by India, which is hosting the meeting.
9/8/202327 minutes, 23 seconds
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Apple shares tumble after Chinese government tells staff not to use iPhones

Apple's stock market valuation has fallen by almost $200bn in two days after reports that Chinese government workers have been banned from using iPhones. We take a look at the implications this might have for the firm. Chevron workers at two of the companies' LNG facilities in Australia have begun a strike that could have global repercussions. We get the latest from our correspondent in Sydney. And as leaders of the world's major economies gather in India to attend the G20 summit, we find out what food they'll be served.
9/8/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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WeWork: Are more of us returning to the office?

The co-working company, WeWork, is looking to renegotiate nearly all of its office leases following a significant decline in its share value since the beginning of the year. The company has 777 locations in 39 countries with long term lease obligations totalling more than $13 billion.
9/7/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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What does China's economic slowdown mean for the rest of the world?

As imports and exports fall again in China, we ask what the economic slowdown means for the rest of the world. A separate report also shows a decline in the services sector of the world's second-largest economy. Senior Bloomberg correspondent in Hong Kong Rebecca Choong Wilkins gives us her analysis. Struggling co-working company WeWork is looking to renegotiate all of its office leases around the world as it questions remain over its ability to stat in business. CEO and co-founder of flexible workspace company Industrious, Jamie Hodari. We go behind-the-scenes of the World Cup of Flowers, taking place in Manchester, England.
9/7/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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African leaders propose global carbon taxes to fight climate change

African leaders have issued a declaration proposing new taxes across the world to fund action against climate change. The Nairobi Declaration was issued at the end of the three-day Africa Climate Summit in the Kenyan capital. Turkey pushed up its inflation forecasts and cut those of economic growth on Wednesday, as President Erdogan appeared to endorse the big interest rate hikes that are driving a turnaround toward more orthodox policies. The European Union Commission has designated six tech giants as 'gatekeepers'. This means, Amazon, Alphabet, Apple , Meta, Microsoft and TikTok owner ByteDance, have six months to comply with tougher obligations designed to open their platforms to more competitors.
9/6/202326 minutes, 44 seconds
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The German economy in focus: is the age of prosperity nearing an end?

With inflation up, consumer sentiment down and business activity contracting in Germany, we ask if two decades of prosperity in the European powerhouse are at an end. In a special programme, Vivienne Nunis is joined by BBC correspondent Damien McGuiness in Berlin to discuss the core issues. We hear from Thilo Brodtmann, head of Germany's largest industrial association, the VDMA. Thorsten Schmidt, CEO of Heller Machine Tools in Nürtingen gives us his view on the recent slowdown in manufacturing output.
9/6/202326 minutes, 23 seconds
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Oil prices jump after Saudi Arabia and Russia extend output cuts

The cost of oil climbs above $90 a barrel for the first time in 2023. We look at the reasons and the consequences this can have in countries that are already struggling with high fuel prices like Pakistan. A new law has taken effect in New York City that restricts short term rentals through platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO. We find out the details. And we hear about the Belgian government's initiative to put pressure on banks to get them to raise interest rates on deposits. But will it work?
9/5/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Qantas CEO steps down: what next for Australia's largest airline?

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is stepping down two months earlier than planned, as the airline faces growing controversies. In the past two years Qantas has faced a slew of criticism for expensive airfares, mass delays and cancellations, and its treatment of workers. Labor Senator Tony Sheldon gives his reaction to the news. South Africa's economy has grown more quickly than expected in the second quarter of 2023. This is despite ongoing power outages impacting the country. An ice cream seller in Soweto tells us how he's been affected. The maker of weight-loss drug Wegovy briefly became Europe's most valuable company, after the treatment was made available in the UK.
9/5/202321 minutes, 24 seconds
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No Black Sea grain deal on the horizon... yet

Russian president Vladimir Putin says the agreement to allow Ukrainian grain exports on the Black Sea will be revived when his demands on exporting Russian products are met. We look into the impact this is having on Ukraine's economy. Protests against soaring electricity bills continue in Pakistan. We hear about the challenges high energy rates pose for local businesses and why the government does not have many alternatives to help bring prices down. And we get the latest from the biannual meeting held by the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is taking place in Indonesia.
9/4/202327 minutes, 22 seconds
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Living with high inflation

As Turkey's annual rate of inflation hits 58.94% in August, we analyse the reasons why. We hear from a local business owner in Ankara about his struggles with rising energy and food costs. We also take a closer look at two other countries struggling to control inflation: Pakistan and Argentina. Residents in Spain's capital city, Madrid, are dealing with the aftermath of flash flooding over the weekend. Transport links have been affected and many businesses have been forced to close. Internet search engine Google turns 25. We find out how the company with humble beginnings turned into a tech titan.
9/4/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Businessman Mohamed Al Fayed dies aged 94

Mohamed Al Fayed, former Harrods owner whose son Dodi was killed alongside Diana, Princess of Wales in car crash, has died aged 94. Born in Egypt, he built a business empire in the Middle East before moving to the UK in the 1970s.
9/1/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Why is Africa in debt distress?

Vivienne Nunis hears about a new report which says that if nothing is done to redress Africa’s huge debt burden, the consequences will be felt far outside the continent. New rules come into force today (Friday) in the Netherlands, which could further limit the export of high-end semiconductor technology to China. From today, rented E-scooters will no longer be seen on the streets of Paris - after residents voted overwhelmingly in favour of getting rid of them.
9/1/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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US natural disasters hit insurance companies

Florida’s Tropical Storm Idalia is the most expensive natural disaster to hit the United States this year. Insurance companies in Florida are now under pressure; nine property insurance firms have closed down since 2021. We hear from a business in Cedar Key which was badly damaged by the storm.
8/31/202329 minutes, 47 seconds
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Gabon coup: What next for the African country's economy?

Army officers who seized power name a transitional leader for this nation rich in oil and manganese, a key mineral in the steel industry. We take a look at Gabon's economy, the role it could have played in the political crisis which unravelled this week, and the challenges it will face under new leadership. Figures from China's manufacturing sector show that activity has dropped for the fifth month in a row. We look into the latest gloomy data on the state of the world's second largest economy. And we hear how two years of drought in Spain, the number one global producer of olive oil, are making prices of the commodity soar.
8/31/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Switzerland outlines measures to combat money laundering

Switzerland has outlined a series of measures to combat money laundering and increase transparency in its huge financial sector. They include a register of those who ultimately benefit from trusts and companies - Switzerland is the only European country that doesn't have one. One of China's biggest property development firms, Country Garden, has reported half year losses of six-point-seven billion dollars. The announcement increases concerns about the troubled property sector, which accounts for more than a quarter of Chinese GDP. Burger King must face a lawsuit that alleges it makes its Whopper burger appear larger on its menus than it is in reality, a US judge has ruled.
8/30/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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Understanding Pakistan's energy crisis

Electricity prices in the country have soared since the government cut energy subsidies to obtain a $3bn bailout from the International Monetary Fund leading to protests. We hear how this is impacting individuals and businesses. Also in the programme, we get the latest from Gabon, where the military has seized power and placed President Ali Bongo, 64, under house arrest. We take a look at the economic background in which the coup has taken place. Netflix has told the BBC that their gaming division is a "natural extension" of their entertainment business. We talk to one of the firm's gaming partners about the opportunities that the streaming giant has opened for the industry.
8/30/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Is China uninvestible for US companies?

US commerce secretary, Gina Raimondo, is calling on Beijing to reduce the risk of doing business in China for American companies.
8/29/202326 minutes, 59 seconds
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The US Commerce Secretary says her country doesn't want to 'decouple' from China

Gina Raimondo is the latest of four US top officials to visit China in the last two months. We look into what might come out from her four-day visit to the Asian superpower. London has expanded its Ultra Low Emission Zone to make it the world's biggest anti pollution charging zone. We hear how much drivers will have to pay to drive within the city, and the impact it can have on workers and businesses. And India, the world's largest rice exporter, has issued new curbs on exports of this cereal. We listen to the reasons and the potential consequences.
8/29/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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Evergrande: Shares in the crisis-hit Chinese developer plunge by 80%

Shares in embattled Chinese property developer Evergrande have fallen almost 80% in their first day of trading in Hong Kong for a year and a half. The shares have lost more than 99% of their value in the past three years as Beijing cracked down on property firms. Also, a technical issue at UK air traffic control has led to long flight delays and even though layoffs are down, employers are still finding ways to cut jobs
8/28/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Evergrande's shares tank after resuming Hong Kong trading

Shares of the Chinese property giant fell by almost 80% on its first day of trading since March last year. The firm had suspended its activity in the Hong Kong Stock Exchange as it aimed to release a global restructuring plan. he US Commerce Secretary, Gina Raimondo, is the fourth member of Joe Biden's cabinet to visit China in the last two months. We look into what might come out of this three-day trip. And thousands of airline passengers face potential delays and cancellations after a technical issue at UK air traffic control led it to bring in traffic restrictions to "maintain safety". We hear the latest.
8/28/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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US faces more interest rate rises to cool inflation

The US Federal Reserve chairman has said the central bank will continue to raise interest rates "if appropriate" as inflation remains "too high". Jerome Powell told an annual gathering of central bankers that the pace of price rises had fallen from a peak. The Director of the British Museum is stepping down over the way the institution under his leadership handled a series of thefts that have shaken its reputation. The international leg of Taylor Swift's Eras tour kicked off last night in Mexico City. She is on track to make one billion US dollars from her Eras tour, which would make concert history.
8/25/202327 minutes, 23 seconds
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What next for the German economy?

Germany’s economy slowly recovered in the second quarter of the year but it’s still very weak. Slow performance continues to drag down growth across the whole Eurozone.
8/25/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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BRICS invites six more countries to join the bloc

The BRICS group of nations has invited six countries to join them. They are Argentina, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. We look at how some of these countries would benefit from joining this bloc. Central banks from around the world are gathering for the annual three-day conference in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Turkey's central bank hiked interest rates on Thursday by more than expected as it steps up a new commitment to damp inflation through monetary policy.
8/24/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Wagner deaths: how will it affect the cost of the war?

Yevgeny Prigozhin was a head of the private military company and he used to personally operate the budget and salaries for the Wagner group. What will happen to Wagner now and who will take over the organisation?
8/24/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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Wagner boss Prigozhin on passenger list of crashed plane - Russia

Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was listed as a passenger on a private jet which crashed on Wednesday evening north of Moscow with no survivors, the Russian authorities said, raising fears among his allies that he had been killed. India makes history by becoming the first nation to land near the Moon's south pole. One of the mission's major goals is to hunt for water-based ice, which scientists say could support human habitation on the Moon in future. Plus, central bankers from around the world descend on the US mountain resort of Jackson Hole in Wyoming for the Federal Reserve’s annual gathering.
8/23/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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India lands on the Moon

India makes history by becoming the first nation to land near the Moon's south pole. One of the mission's major goals is to hunt for water-based ice, which scientists say could support human habitation on the Moon in future.
8/23/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Microsoft makes new bid to unblock Call of Duty deal

Microsoft has made a new bid to buy Call of Duty-maker Activision Blizzard in the latest twist in the tale of what would be the biggest deal of its kind in the gaming industry. Its original $69bn (£59bn) deal was blocked by UK regulators, but under the new offer Microsoft has agreed to transfer the rights to stream Activision games from the cloud to Ubisoft, a video games publisher, for 15 years. The five Brics countries - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - are holding their 15th annual summit in Johannesburg. What's on the agenda? Also, British microchip designing giant Arm has announced it has filed paperwork to sell its shares in the US. The Cambridge-based company, which designs chips for devices from smartphones to game consoles, plans to list on New York's Nasdaq in September.
8/22/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Has South Africa benefited from BRICS?

The first day of the Summit BRICS 2023 is hosted by South Africa. Official meeting has been set aside for events involving the more than 70 countries invited as "friends" of the BRICS bloc. Delegations will gather to discuss the expansions, trades deals and de-dollarization.
8/22/202327 minutes, 8 seconds
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Storm Hilary hits California after lashing Mexico

Tropical Storm Hilary swept across the US state of California on Sunday night, bringing fierce winds and flooding to the Pacific coast. Now headed north to Nevada, the storm passed over Southern California, with record rainfall and flash flooding predicted in the Death Valley National Park. The storm is expected to deal a major blow to the region's economy, including its vineyards which last year generated over $88 billion for the US. Left-winger Luisa Gonzalez is leading in Ecuador's presidential election. The poll was combined with a referendum, in which voters chose to end oil drilling in the Amazon. Spain celebrates winning the Women's World Cup.
8/21/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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BRICS: Over 50 countries gather in South Africa

The BRICS group of developing economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa meet in Johannesburg this week for their annual summit. Top of the agenda will be its expansion. Twenty-three countries have formally expressed an interest in joining the group, while officials have said a total of 40 are seeking membership. We find out why this economic group is so important.
8/21/202327 minutes, 23 seconds
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China property giant Evergrande files for US bankruptcy protection

Filing for bankruptcy protection will allow the heavily-indebted Evergrande to protect its assets in the US as it works on a multi-billion dollar deal with creditors. The company defaulted on its huge debts in 2021, which sent shockwaves through global financial markets. The move comes as problems in China's property market add to concerns about the world's second largest economy. England will take on Spain in the Women’s World Cup final over the weekend. Co-hosting the tournament was expected to generate about a third of a billion dollars for the Australian economy. Google AdSense - a technology used by Google to serve advertisements based on website content - does not support indigenous African languages. So what is Google doing to help African language websites monetise their content?
8/18/202329 minutes, 52 seconds
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China property giant Evergrande files for US bankruptcy protection

The giant Chinese property developer, Evergrande, has played down its decision to file for bankruptcy protection in the United States. The company described the move as a 'normal procedure'. We hear concerns about property values are falling faster than Beijing has revealed. And we will look at the Women’s World Cup final over the weekend - England will take on Spain. Co-hosting the tournament was expected to generate about a third of a billion dollars for the Australian economy. Google AdSense - a technology used by the company to serve advertisements based on website content - does not support indigenous African languages. So what is Google doing to help African language websites monetise their content?
8/18/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Investors securing higher returns on US bonds

We examine why US government bonds are becoming more lucrative for investors. We hear what impact a drought is having on maritime trade going through the Panama canal. AND We get reaction to news that the world's second biggest fashion retailer H&M is investigating 20 alleged instances of worker abuse at Myanmar garment factories that supply it.
8/17/202327 minutes, 2 seconds
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Drought-hit Panama canal extends restrictions

We will look at the Panama Canal which has extended restrictions on vessels, as it battles an on-going drought. It’s also limited the amount cargo ships can carry. Burger King says it has removed tomatoes from its food in Indian outlets after a sharp rise in prices. Monsoon rains in July disrupted crops and supply chains. Today, supply has returned but prices have remained high. And Google has announced plans to train twenty- thousand Nigerian women and young people in digital skills to support government targets of creating one million tech jobs.
8/17/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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President Biden claims Inflation Reduction Act will boost economy on its first anniversary

President Joe Biden has used the first anniversary of his signature Inflation Reduction Act to pitch the landmark clean-energy law as an economic powerhouse to an American public. Two decades ago Brazil, Russia, India and China came together to form an economic group called BRICs. We talk to the former Goldman Sachs economist, Jim O'Neill who came up with the acronym. And we hear about how twenty vintage Ferraris bought by a collector from a dusty old barn are now being auctioned off in Sotherbys in California.
8/16/202327 minutes, 31 seconds
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Vietnam EV maker VinFast valued at more than Ford or GM

Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) maker VinFast's stock market valuation has soared above Ford and General Motors (GM) on its first day of trading. And many of the raw materials needed to make electric cars are mined in Africa. Yet, the continent often misses out on the key profits made from refining minerals like cobalt, lithium and manganese, according to a new UN report. It’s a year since President Biden kickstarted a race to develop and grow green energy and clean technology with the largest ever programme of investment and subsidies - otherwise known as the Inflation Reduction Act. Some say it has left Europe and other parts of the world lagging with companies choosing the US to build new factories.
8/16/202327 minutes, 28 seconds
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Retail sales increase in the US

There's more evidence that US consumers are weathering the economic storm and continuing to spend. Figures show retail sales rose by 0.7% in July which is more than expected. It's welcome news for retailers who are struggling with high prices and lower margins, and that’s going to force the Fed to keep the prospect of more rate hikes on the table.
8/15/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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China halts youth jobless data as economy falters

Unemployment amongst young people in China has been on the rise for some time now which at the last count had hit a record high of more than 20%. Marking the second anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan, Taliban’s have barred nearly a million girls from secondary school, prohibited women from universities and ordered aid groups to “suspend work of all female employees.”
8/15/202327 minutes, 22 seconds
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The battle for US Steel

US Steel is in the middle of a bidding war. Esmark, a privately held company, made an offer to buy the company for 7.8 Billion dollars. The offer comes after 7.3 billion dollar bid from Cleveland-Cliffs was rejected. Earlier, US Steel said it was considering strategic options and had already received multiple unsolicited bids that ranged from the possible acquisition of the whole company to specific assets.
8/14/202326 minutes, 58 seconds
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China’s property giant shares plunge to a record low

China's property developer giant, Country Garden, has seen its share price plunge to a record low today after it suspended trading on some key bonds. The company has become a symbol of China's struggling property sector. Workers at several natural gas plants in Australia will decide this week whether to go on strike in a row over pay and conditions. The owner of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram is set to be fined nearly $100,000 a day over alleged privacy breaches in Norway.
8/14/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Hawaii wildfires: what's next for the tourism industry?

At least 55 people are known to have died and thousands have been displaced from devastating wildfires that began on the island of Maui on Tuesday. The extreme damage to homes and businesses would likely drive losses into the hundreds of millions of dollars. Hawaii is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. 15,000 visitors took flights out of Maui on Thursday. So what's next for the tourism industry?
8/11/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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More troubles for the Chinese property sector

Country Garden is one of China's biggest property firms, but there's trouble lurking in the undergrowth. It's warned investors it could see a US$7 billion loss for the first half of the year.
8/11/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Hawaii fires: Businesses evacuate staff and tourists

As Hawaii tries to deal with a catastrophic wildfire that has taken 36 lives, we hear how the tourism industry there is trying to evacuate and protest staff and visitors.
8/10/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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US inflation up again

Prices in the US rose to 3.2% compared to July last year, following 13 months of falls after peaking at 9.1 percent last June. The increase is due partly to higher housing and food costs. Although inflation has drifted down from last summer's 40 year high, but it's still well above what the Federal Reserve thinks of as normal prices.
8/10/20232 minutes, 29 seconds
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US bans investing in China's high-tech sectors

President Joe Biden has banned major US investors from putting money into some Chinese firms making advanced semi-conductors, or developing quantum computing or artificial intelligence technology. We find out what this restriction means for the Chinese economy? Entertainment giant Disney has reported losses that shows declines of its television and movie businesses. We get the latest on future of the company. And Mexican-American musician Sixto Rodriguez who is best known for his song Sugar Man has passed away. Mr Rodriguez failed to achieve commercial success in the US but years later his music developed a cult following overseas. We reflect back on his career.
8/9/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Deflation in China

It's often said that if America sneezes, the world catches a cold. That now must be true of China - the worlds second largest economy. China's economy is struggling with falling prices - or deflation. The main inflation measure has turned negative for the first time since the pandemic.
8/9/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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Brazil aims to stop deforestation of the Amazon

Brazil's President Lula is hosting a summit in Belém, northern Brazil alongside seven other nations that share the Amazon. This is in a bid to save it and bring it out of economic turmoil. The Taiwanese chipmaker, TSMC, is to open a new semiconductor factory in Germany, strongly boosting Europe's microchip industry. The firm, which already controls more than half the world's semiconductor output, will put over three billion dollars into the facility in Dresden. We take a look at how important this is for the two economies. And the Federal Reserve reports that U.S. credit card debt has hit $1 trillion for the first time toward the end of July. We find out what it means for US consumers and the country.
8/8/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Chinese exports fall

Global demand for Chinese goods fell by 14.5% last month compared to the same time last year. It's a bigger than expected decline and reflects the threat of recession in the US and Europe, combined with high inflation. Imports also fell for the ninth straight month, showing soft domestic demand.
8/8/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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US trucking giant Yellow files for bankruptcy

US trucking company Yellow has filed for bankruptcy and will be closing down. The company had received a $700mn Covid-19 relief loan from the Trump administration during the summer of 2020. So will the loan be repaid? And what does it mean for the 30,000 workers expected to lose their jobs? Also Roger Hearing finds out why Matt Healy from the British band The 1975 has been threatened with legal action by the Good Vibes Festival in Malaysia. We find out how much is expected to be at stake. And apparently Americans are eating their burgers and fries at home, in their cars and at the office. In fact anywhere but at the fast-food restaurants themselves. McDonald’s, Burger King want big investments in eating areas, prompting pushback from franchisees.
8/7/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Saudi Aramco sees profits fall

The largely Saudi Government owned oil producer saw a 38% drop to $30 billion for the second quarter. That's compared to this time last year, when prices surged following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The company said it was because of lower crude oil prices and smaller margins in refining and chemicals.
8/7/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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US job figures for July hold steady

Employment in the US held steady last month, bolstering hopes that the economy will avoid a painful downturn. Latest job figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show employers added 187,000 jobs while the jobless rate dropped to 3.5%. Chris Low, Chief Economist at FHN Financial in New York and Julia Pollak Chief Economist at ZipRecruiter, in California, discuss what this could mean for the US economy. Plus in the latest part of our series on immigration, presenter Leanna Byrne speaks to Shannon K.O’Neil, a Latin American expert and vice-president of the Council on Foreign Relations, a think tank in the US, about how inflation and increasing political pressures are pushing more people to leave countries such as Argentina and Venezuela and head north to the US in search of a better life.
8/4/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Canada cancels bid for 2030 Commonwealth Games

Alberta in Canada has withdrawn its bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. It follows a decision last month by the Australian state of Victoria to pull out of hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Both say that the event is simply too expensive - and would cost as much as $2bn. We speak to the CEO of the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games about the impact of this. An amateur rapper and her husband have pleaded guilty to trying to launder $4.5bn (£3.5bn) of Bitcoin that he had stolen in a hack in 2016. Heather "Razzlekhan" Morgan and Ilya Lichtenstein were arrested last year in New York. We find out how they manged that heist. And we look at "Emancipendence" celebrations in Jamaica as it come to a climax. The day commemorates the abolition of slavery in not just Jamaica but the British Empire. We hear what this day has meant for the economic development of Jamaica.
8/4/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Tech giants Amazon and Apple deliver results

The world’s two biggest tech companies Apple and Amazon deliver their much anticipated latest results - we discuss what the numbers mean. In India the government has announced restrictions on electrical goods such as laptops, tablets and phones - we look at the reasons why and what impact the move could have. And seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady becomes the latest sporting legend to buy a share of a British soccer club - taking a minority stake in Birmingham City FC.
8/3/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Tom Brady becomes Birmingham City minority owner

The 7 time Superbowl champion is the latest US celebrity to invest in a UK football team, and becomes chairman of a new advisory board for the club. Birmingham City have recently been taken over by US Investment firm Knighthead Capital Management LLC. Owner Tom Wagner says Brady show the club are "are setting the bar at world class".
8/3/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Meta blocks news in Canada over new laws

Meta has begun blocking access to news on Facebook and Instagram in Canada in response to a new law requiring internet giants to pay news publishers. Takara Small, a technology journalist brought us the latest from Toronto. The government in Chile wants to restrict the numbers of migrants coming into the country. Jane Chambers looks at how the tightening of border controls is now pushing more would-be migrants north to the US. Europe-based plane maker Airbus and the US space exploration firm Voyager Space have announced a joint venture to develop a possible replacement to the International Space Station. Roger Hearing speaks to Clay Mowry, Chief Revenue Officer, at Voyager space about the project.
8/2/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Russian drone strike threatens grain supply

Ukraine's main inland port, Izmail, has been hit by a drone strike weeks after Russia pulled out of an agreement that saw Ukrainian grain exported safely. Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister has said the attack damaged 40,000 tons of grain planned for buyers in Africa, China and Israel. What impact is this having on the country and the wider economy. As the coup in Niger continues, we ask how the global energy industry could be affected by the closure of borders in the world's seventh bigger producer of uranium ore. And after the US had its credit rating downgraded from the highest AAA to AA+ by agency Fitch. We find out what this means for both the US government and its economy.
8/2/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Donald Trump faces more indictments

Former US President Donald Trump is facing a third case in the wake of the 2020 Presidential election and its fallout. We look at his finances. As Uber turns a profit for the first time, we look at how the company plans to expand and remain profitable. Plus we hear from the Panama Canal's administrators as it struggles with drought conditions.
8/1/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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Nigeria: President faces protests over economic policies

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has fleshed out the details of a raft of measures to tackle the rising cost of living, which has prompted civil unrest and looting. In a televised address to the nation, Mr Tinubu said he had ordered the release of 200,000 tonnes of grain from strategic reserves. He also promised to increase the minimum wage, encourage more and better-paid jobs and financial help for the farming, manufacturing and smaller business sectors. (Picture: President Bola Tinubu has appealed for patience while implementing his economic plans. Picture credit: AFP)
8/1/202326 minutes, 25 seconds
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China's deflating economy

China confronts the threat of economic stagnation and deflation as it fails to bounce back post-Covid. Some analysts now say the government's economic growth target around 5% could be at risk for a second year in a row
7/31/202326 minutes, 55 seconds
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Manchester United signed £900m kit deal with Adidas

Manchester United have agreed a 10-year extension kit deal to their partnership with Adidas worth a minimum of £900m. Lebanon’s economic and political paralysis enters a new phase today with the departure of the discredited central bank governor, Riad Salameh. For most of his thirty-year tenure he was celebrated as a financial genius, but he is now widely blamed for Lebanon’s almost complete economic collapse since 2019. Online marketplace Etsy has come under fire from sellers for putting 75% of their takings on hold for 45 days.
7/31/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Argentina and the IMF reach agreement on a last minute loan

Argentina has reached a $7.5bn agreement with the International Monetary Fund, as it tries to get its troubled economy back on track. The South American nation has been in negotiations with the Fund for months over its $44 billion loan program. That's the biggest outstanding deal that the IMF has with any country anywhere in the world.
7/28/202327 minutes, 8 seconds
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German economy stagnates

The eurozone's economic outlook remains uncertain as the German economy stagnates in the second quarter of 2023. We look into the challenges Germany is facing and the impact they can have in the rest of the region. The United Nations says this July is on course to be the world's hottest on record. We hear how workplaces need to adapt to changes in temperature. And Kylie Minogue announces her first Las Vegas residency. What does this mean for her career?
7/28/202326 minutes, 50 seconds
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Biden announces measures to deal with extreme heat

A prolonged heatwave in the US has created concerns in the White House as medics are warning of a rising number of burns and heat strokes in the workplace. President Biden has announced a number of measures to help Americans deal with extreme temperatures, as a heatwave spreads across large parts of the United States.
7/27/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Putin promises free grain for Africa

Russian President Vladimir Putin has told a summit of African leaders in St Petersburg that Russia will send thousands of tonnes of free grain within months. Secure food supplies have been a major worry since the invasion of Ukraine. The European Central Bank has raised interest rates to a record level last seen in two-thousand-and-one. The key rate was increased by a quarter of a percentage point. And, this Sunday’s Belgian Formula 1 Grand Prix at the historic Spa-Francorchamps circuit could be the last.
7/27/202326 minutes, 59 seconds
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US interest rates hit 22-year high

The rise of 0.25% by the US Federal Reserve raised rates to 5.25%-5.5%, marking the eleventh increase since early 2022. This is despite inflation in the country being 3% last month, with the Fed non-committal over future hikes. Ed Butler finds out how this is affecting businesses in the country, and what they want to see happen next.
7/26/202326 minutes, 50 seconds
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Will China’s new central banker fix the crisis?

China has named Pan Gongsheng as the new governor of its central bank, the People's Bank of China (PBOC). The country is experiencing challenging economic times, with sluggish consumer spending, a crisis in the property market, weakening exports, record youth unemployment, and high local government debt. China's political leadership has played down the severity of its economic issues, but this new appointment shows signs that that might be changing.
7/26/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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A big tech week begins

Some of the world's biggest tech companies have reported their latest results, as Alphabet, Microsoft and Snap Inc all announce earnings. Microsoft and Alphabet have both launched an array of AI products since OpenAI, backed by Microsoft, released ChatGPT late last year. Ed Butler hears from tech investors about what the future holds for the industry and its biggest firms.
7/25/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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IMF upgrades forecast for the global economy

The International Monetary Fund has upgraded its forecast for the global economy in 2023. We look at the new figures and why the institution is feeling more positive about the world’s economic recovery - while warning about remaining threats. Also in the programme, we hear about the economic impact of the wildfires in Greece and the new road being built in Paraguay to rival with the Panama Canal.
7/25/202327 minutes, 7 seconds
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Could Israel see a general strike?

The country's government has caused turmoil by passing the first part of a new and highly controversial set of laws limiting the power of the Supreme Court to overrule government actions. There have been angry protests on the streets on Jerusalem, while the Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu has appeared on Israeli television saying he was willing to delay the new law for now in the interests of national unity. Ed Butler speaks to the Histadrut, The General Federation of Labour in Israel, which had threatened a general strike if the law was passed.
7/24/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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China's Politburo vows to tackle economy's 'new difficulties and challenges'

Chinese leaders pledge to step up policies focusing on expanding domestic demand, boosting confidence and preventing risks. We look into what this might mean for the world’s second largest economy. Also in the programme, we hear about Twitter’s transformation into X and what users can expect from it. And we get the latest from the general snap elections in Spain and the impact they are having in the economy.
7/24/202328 minutes, 18 seconds
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How extreme heat in the US is affecting business

Businesses in South-West of the United States explain how the weather is impacting them. ‘Flying taxis’ could be become a reality in some cities as soon as 2026. And, we discuss Burberry, the 170 year old high-fashion brand built on its British principles.
7/21/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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The UN condemns attacks on Ukrainian grain ports

Global wheat prices have risen after Russia carried out missile attacks on military infrastructure near grain ports in Ukraine. Turkey’s Central bank raised interest rates to 17.5 per cent to tackle soaring inflation. And the new barbie film is on the way but this is not the only film and TV series we expect from the Mattel franchise.
7/20/202327 minutes, 2 seconds
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India bans rice exports

Shipments of non-basmati white rice will be banned to keep domestic prices down ahead of the general election expected early next year. The biggest exporter of rice in the world is halting sales of the grain overseas with immediate effect. It comes as worldwide grain prices have already been hit the collapse of the Black Sea Initiative and Russian threats to cargo ships.
7/20/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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Netflix gains nearly 6 million new customers

Netflix gained almost 6 million new customers in the past three months after the streaming giant cracked down on password sharing. The company have reported revenue of 8.2 billion US dollars in its second quarter.
7/19/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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Tata's green light for British battery factory

Indian automotive giant Tata has announced a $4bn electric car battery plant investment in the south of England. One of the world's biggest fertiliser distributors, Yara International, is feeling the sting of prolonged conflict in Ukraine. We also hear how farmers in the Central African Republic are getting a boost from juice.
7/19/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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WTO boss: Ukraine grain deal can still be saved

The World Trade Organisation is concerned food prices might rise after Russia pulled out of a deal to let Kyiv export grain. Sam Fenwick speaks to Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who says she is still confident exports can resume after the breakdown of the Ukraine-grain deal.
7/18/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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Counting the cost of record heat

Tuesday was the world's hottest day ever, beating the previous record set on Monday, while nearly a third of Americans, over 113 million people, are covered by some sort of official heat advice. We find out how economies are adapting to the extreme heat, and how business are coping as people are unable to work. Roger Hearing speaks to former European Commission President José Manuel Barroso and climate economists.
7/18/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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UPS: The strike that could cost the US billions

The United States could face a major supply chain disruptions and high shipping costs if a potential strike by the UPS delivery service, consisting of 340,000 workers, goes ahead. The proposed 10 day strike could be the most expensive walkout in at least a century, costing the U.S. economy upwards of $7 billion dollars.
7/17/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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Russia axes Ukraine grain deal

The deal to allow Ukrainian grain to be safely exported seems to be at an end. Russia says it is halting its involvement in the agreement brokered by the United Nations last summer. Without a deal, global food supplies are likely to be severely disrupted - Russia and Ukraine are major players in the wheat, barley, maize, sunflower seed and sunflower oil markets.
7/17/202327 minutes, 18 seconds
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Profits at US banks boosted by higher rates

We're back into earnings season, and, unsurprisingly it's the banks that are attracting most attention - they, are after all, the beneficiaries of the higher interest rates that have come with the Federal Reserve's bid to curb inflation. The first big headline profit result is from JPMorgan Chase - profits for the quarter ending June 30 were $14.5 billion, up 67 percent, while revenues were up 34 percent to $41.3 billion. Part of that was from its purchase of a majority of the failed First Republic Bank's assets in a government-backed deal in May. At Wells Fargo, meanwhile, profits also rose 57 percent to $4.9 billion. Citi however experienced a drop, blaming an anaemic investment banking market as a drag on their revenues.
7/14/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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The cost of the climate crisis

South Korea has been on high alert as a storm battered the capital Seoul, while in the Philippines officials warned of a tropical cyclone. Earlier this week India's capital New Delhi recorded its wettest July day in decades. Sam Fenwick explores the financial impact of climate change.
7/14/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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Hollywood strikes: actors decide to walk out

Hollywood actors are going on strike. In the last few hours the representatives of the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists - known as SAG-AFTRA, announced its first major strike in 40 years. It follows weeks of talks about pay and the impact of artificial intelligence.
7/13/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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Actors on strike

Tens of thousands of Hollywood actors are preparing to strike after last-ditch talks between their unions and streaming giants broke down just hours before a major deadline. The Screen Actors Guild has agreed to one extension of talks with major studios but the union has been unable to agree a deal over issues around pay residuals and the use of artificial intelligence.
7/13/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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IMF approves $3 billion bailout for Pakistan

After a many months of discussions, Pakistan has won final approval to borrow $3 billion from the International Monetary Fund. The deal will unlock long-awaited funding from other lenders that should help ease the nation’s dire need for cash and rescue its economy.
7/12/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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US inflation at slowest rate in more than two years

The rate of price growth in the US dropped to its slowest pace in more than two years, helped by cheaper used cars. Inflation has fallen sharply from a peak of more than 9% last year and June's reading marks the slowest pace since March 2021. The figures suggest a succession of interest rate rises have punctured soaring prices. However, analysts still expect the US Federal Reserve to raise rates again this month.
7/12/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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Microsoft's deal to buy Activision boosted by US judge

A US court has given Microsoft the green light to buy the videogame maker Activision Blizzard in a deal worth $69bn. Microsoft said after the US win, it would focus on resolving concerns around competition in the UK. The tech giant's merger with the Call of Duty owner would be the biggest deal of its kind in gaming industry history. NATO members meeting at a summit in Vilnius have agreed to spend more on defence. And US Senators have aired their concerns about Saudi Arabia’s plan to transform professional golf, after the biggest merger in the sport's history between the PGA Tour and the breakaway LIV league.
7/11/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Nigeria intercepts tanker with stolen crude oil

Nigeria's state-owned oil company says an oil tanker carrying 800,000 litres of stolen crude has been intercepted offshore while heading to Cameroon. Oil theft from pipelines and wells in the Niger Delta is a major problem for the Nigerian economy, robbing it of much needed revenue. The oil company said that the Nigerian registered tanker had been operating in what it called stealth mode for the last 12 years.
7/11/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Nigeria intercepts tanker with stolen crude oil

Nigeria's state-owned oil company says an oil tanker carrying 800,000 litres of stolen crude has been intercepted offshore while heading to Cameroon. Oil theft from pipelines and wells in the Niger Delta is a major problem for the Nigerian economy, robbing it of much needed revenue. The oil company said that the Nigerian registered tanker had been operating in what it called stealth mode for the last 12 years.
7/11/20232 minutes, 30 seconds
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Threads app signs up 100m users in less than a week

Threads, the social media app aimed at rivalling Twitter, has signed up more than 100 million users in less than five days. The platform, launched by Instagram-owner Meta, has beaten a record set by Open AI's ChatGPT app. China’s consumer inflation rate was flat in June while factory-gate prices fell further, causing alarms about deflation risks and adding to speculation about potential economic stimulus. Could countries be soon mining the seabed? A meeting of The International Seabed Authority started on Monday to try and hammer out a global code for exactly that.
7/10/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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Chinese economic worries deepen

China releases its latest tranche of economic data - which has led to worries over the possibility of deflation. Sam Fenwick hears about the pressure being placed on the government to introduce some stimulus packages to try to kick-start spending. Meanwhile the inquiry opens into the deaths of 157 people in an airliner disaster near Addis Ababa. We hear what it means for the industry.
7/10/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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Billion dollar fine for China's Ant Group

One of China's biggest tech firms, the company that runs the mobile payment service Alipay has been hit with a massive fine of almost a billion dollars. But many believe this could this mark the end of a long government crackdown which led to Ant Group and Alibaba founder Jack Ma stepping down. Also tonight, Roger Hearing finds out why Ford is retiring its iconic Fiesta brand. Picture: the Alipay logo at the 2023 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, China, credit CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images
7/7/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Can Janet Yellen help fix US-China relations?

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has arrived in China as part of high-stakes attempts to rebuild bridges between the world's two biggest economies. It is the second visit to Beijing by a senior Washington official in as many months and comes after the countries' relationship nose-dived this year. The visit comes just days after Beijing said it would curb exports of two key materials used to make computer chips.
7/7/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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Twitter vs Threads

As Meta launches its new social media app Threads, Twitter boss Elon Musk is reported to have sent a cease and desist letter accusing the Facebook owner of building a "copycat" and using ex Twitter staff to create it.
7/6/202327 minutes, 6 seconds
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Shell says cutting production is 'dangerous'

The boss of the energy Shell says cutting oil and gas production is 'dangerous and irresponsible'. Wael Sawan insisted that the world still "desperately needs oil and gas" as moves to renewable energy were not happening fast enough to replace it.
7/6/202326 minutes, 39 seconds
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Yellen touches down in China

In a much watched visit to Beijing, the US treasury secretary hopes to calm tensions and restore communication between the nations. Janet Yellen's trip follows Secretary of State Antony Blinken's last month, with meetings expected to focus on areas of potential agreement like stabilising the global economy. We hear what realistically can be achieved during the visit.
7/5/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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World's hottest day: what does it mean for the global insurance industry?

The world's average temperature reached a new high this week, topping 17 degrees Celsius for the first time. This broke the previous record of 16.92 degrees from August 2016. Vivienne Nunis speaks to one of the world's top global insurance brokers.
7/5/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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Is a trade deal between the EU and South America on the horizon?

It's 20 years in the making, but could the European Union and South America's trade blocs finally strike a deal? Members of the Mercosur trade bloc have been meeting in Argentina, with beef and deforestation still significant stumbling blocks to any agreement. We find out what the road ahead looks like for the leaders of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.
7/4/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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Meta launches new app to rival Twitter

Facebook owner Meta is launching its new app to rival Twitter and says it will go live later this week. The app, which is called Threads and is available for pre-order on the Apple App Store, will be linked to Instagram. The move is the latest in a rivalry between Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg and Twitter owner Elon Musk.
7/4/202314 minutes, 34 seconds
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EU lawmakers look to protect work-from-home rights

Over 30 EU lawmakers have signed a document that aims to ensure access to co-working spaces, prohibit tracking workers’ computers at home and protect them from having to send or respond to emails outside of working hours. The non-binding document was developed by the Future Workforce Alliance, a forum of politicians, business leaders and focused on policy changes in response to the digital transformation of work environments.
7/3/202327 minutes, 1 second
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The role of the US-China relationship in the global economy

The US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has announced that she will be in China later this week. She recently warned that the collapse of relations between the two countries would pose a huge risk to the global economy.
7/3/202327 minutes, 22 seconds
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How might the IMF deal help Pakistan’s economy?

The Pakistani prime minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed a new three-billion dollar loan agreement with the IMF, saying it will help his country achieve economic stability. Mr Sharif said the deal would help sustainable growth and boost Pakistan's foreign currency reserves. The social media giants Meta and Google have said they'll block local news from their platforms in Canada after it became the latest nation to pass a law to force tech giants to pay news providers for their content. It follows similar disputes in other jurisdictions including Australia. A BBC investigation has found that TikTok is not removing many videos that deny the existence of man-made climate change - despite a promise in April that it would do so.
6/30/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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US Supreme Court rules race can no longer be considered a factor in university admission

The cases concerned admissions at Harvard and the University of North Carolina (UNC). The court's conservative majority ruled 6-3 against UNC and 6-2 against Harvard. The justices sided with an organisation called Students for Fair Admissions, founded by a conservative activist, Edward Blum. The group argued before the court last October that Harvard's race-conscious admissions policy violated Title VI the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which bars discrimination based on race, colour or national origin. Affirmative action is one of the most contentious issues in US education. It first made its way into policy in the 1960s, and has been defended as a measure to increase diversity.
6/29/202327 minutes, 8 seconds
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Virgin Galactic launches first commercial flight to space

Virgin Galactic launches its first commercial spaceflight called Galactic 01. Three Italians are on board, along with a Virgin Galactic instructor and the spaceplane's two pilots. Sri Lanka's central bank has unveiled a plan to restructure government debt in an attempt to restore economic stability. The debt restructuring is part of a bailout programme Sri Lanka agreed with the International Monetary Fund in March. China holds more than half of the foreign debt. Lookalikes of Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift and Freddie Mercury - among others – are angry with have Meta, the company that owns Facebook and Instagram. They're unhappy about a Meta rule that bans accounts of people "pretending to be someone famous". We speak to one of them.
6/29/202327 minutes, 34 seconds
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Sri Lanka approves a $42bn domestic debt restructuring

We take a look at Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring plans and what it could mean for people there. Also in the programme, we find out how businesses that operate outdoors in Texas are managing to stay open during the latest heatwave. And would you mind if your local sports team is transferred to another city? That is what fans of baseball team Oakland Athletics are going through. We hear why and what some US policymakers are proposing to stop this.
6/28/202327 minutes, 34 seconds
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China's industrial profits fall, intensifying economic distress

Annual profits at China's industrial firms extended a double-digit decline in the first five months as softening demand squeezed margins, reinforcing hopes of more policy support to bolster a stuttering post-COVID economic recovery. One way that China is looking to revive its economy is by investing in batteries, spurred by massive government spending aimed at achieving energy independence. Goldman Sachs estimates that China requires a 70-fold increase in battery storage in the next eight years or so, to meet its targets of curbing fossil fuel use. A new report published this week is making some devastating claims against Google accusing of overcharging firms using its ads. Google charges companies for the amount of time people spend looking at their ads online. And a new study found that loan officers in Uganda are more likely to offer loans to heavier-looking people than thinner-looking individuals.
6/28/202327 minutes, 7 seconds
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Can AI help hunt for key EV battery minerals?

New technology is being used to find deposits of nickel, copper, cobalt and lithium which are vital for the EV battery industry. We hear from a company that is using AI to locate these sought-after minerals. Also in the programme, we hear why the electric truck-maker Lordstown filed for bankruptcy and why it's suing the Taiwanese firm Foxconn. And Apple becomes the latest tech firm to call-out a planned law in the UK which could force encrypted messaging tools like iMessage, WhatsApp and Signal to scan messages for child abuse material.
6/27/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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The impact of the Russian leadership crisis on oil

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) says global oil demand will rise to 110 million barrels a day in about 20 years, pushing the world’s energy demand up by 23%. The former chief executive at the car firm Audi has been given a 21-month suspended sentence by a court in Germany for his role in the diesel scandal in 2015. Rupert Stadler has also been fined nearly a million pounds, over the use of software, which made diesel cars appear less polluting than they really were. Zimbabwe’s annual inflation doubled to close to 176 percent in June, after the local currency tumbled against the US dollar and food prices rose.
6/27/202327 minutes, 34 seconds
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Wagner mutiny: What happens now with the Russian economy?

In the aftermath of the revolt led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, we explore the impact the mutiny will have in the economy. Also in the programme, as wildfires continue to rage across the Canadian province of Quebec, we get the perspective from local businesses. And we hear the latest from the presidents of the two biggest economies in South America, Brazil and Argentina, who are holding talks in Brasilia.
6/26/202327 minutes, 33 seconds
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Car manufacturers face stricter rules after German legal ruling

Germany's highest court has ruled that car manufacturers must - in principle - pay compensation to customers whose diesel vehicles were fitted with illegal devices to control emissions. The federal judges' decision could potentially cost Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and other carmakers millions of dollars. After a mutiny by Wagner paramilitary forces in Russia was defused on Saturday, Global investors have been quick to react as the Russian rouble sank to a 15-month low - back to levels not seen since the early days of the invasion of Ukraine last year. Pakistan is in a last-ditch attempt to revive a deal with the IMF. The finance minister has made drastic changes in the budget to try to secure the deal.
6/26/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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Shipping emissions tax drifting in port

An attempt by the French president to win support for a global carbon tax on the shipping industry has failed. Addressing a summit for a New Global Financing Pact, Emmanuel Macron said the shipping industry was responsible for more than two percent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, and should contribute to efforts to cut them, including through taxes. He acknowledged that such a tax would only work if China, the United States and other European nations with stakes in the shipping industry joined forces.
6/23/202327 minutes, 38 seconds
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A road map to funding climate change solutions?

Developing nations have used an international summit in Paris to denounce the global financial system and demand radical reform. Rob Young hears what the problems are -- and ask if change is likely. As China, the world’s second biggest economy, experiences its hottest summer for 60 years, we hear what it’s like to live and work, especially outside, in such extreme temperatures. In a few weeks time Francis Bacon's masterpiece "Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer" is due to be offered as an IPO where investors will be able to buy shares for as little as $100. We look at why people would invest in this way and discuss whether buying shares in a painting could be a way to democratise owning art.
6/23/202327 minutes, 37 seconds
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Modi US visit: spicy deals fuel cooperation

President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a number of deals. While secretaries signing the papers, the economic relationships are 'booming', according to Biden, with trade more than doubling over the past decade.
6/22/202327 minutes, 31 seconds
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The impact of interest rate rises in Turkey and the UK

As the UK and Turkey raise their interest rates, presenter Will Bain discusses how two very different economies are using the same tool to fight inflation. Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is in America to meet President Biden and discuss defence spending among other issues. We explore what trade is like between the two countries.
6/22/202327 minutes, 40 seconds
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Modi's visit to the US

As India's prime minister continues his visit, we ask what Narendra Modi's trip will do for relations between the countries. Devina Gupta speaks to a former Indian national security adviser about potential defence deals worth millions of dollars expected to be announced. We get the latest from the summit in London where business leaders and politicians are discussing future support for Ukraine. And we hear from Ghana, which is showing signs of economic recovery.
6/21/202327 minutes, 40 seconds
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World leaders plan for rebuilding Ukraine

Political and business leaders from across the world are meeting in London to discuss ways of repairing the damage caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy spoke to the meeting in London by video-link. He said a reconstruction programme could be “the largest source of economic, industrial and technological growth in Europe for decades and decades”. The UN and World Bank has estimated the cost of rebuilding to be over four- hundred- billion dollars. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has met Tesla boss Elon Musk during a three-day visit to the US. Mr Musk says he wants his electric cars to be available in India 'as soon as possible'. Tesla has been considering setting up a factory to produce cars and a base to produce batteries. The Indian Government is inviting Tesla to explore investing there, while Mr Musk now says he is 'trying to figure out the right timing'. We examine how developed the electric vehicle infrastructure is in India. And we report on how businesses in Lebanon are increasingly demanding to be paid in dollars. The economy has crashed in recent years which has sent the Lebanese pound - or lira as it’s known in Arabic - into freefall.
6/21/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Is the US housing market in recovery?

Construction of new single family homes rose the fastest in 3 decades, but with borrowing costs surging, can home buyers afford them? Devina Gupta finds out what is behind the boost in house builds. We hear how Zoom is looking to change its strategy to beat so-called 'zoom fatigue'. And we go to Portugal which is becoming a hub for 'Digital Nomads', people who can live and work where they please.
6/20/202327 minutes, 36 seconds
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Alibaba announce new chairman and chief executive

China's huge multinational tech firm, Alibaba, is to have a new chairman and chief executive, reportedly to make it commercially more effective. We look at why this is happening and what the changes mean. The former head of Nissan, Carlos Ghosn, is reported to have filed a billion dollar lawsuit against the Japanese car maker. Tokyo based writer, William Sposato, brings us up to date with the latest. And former F1 ace, Nico Rosberg, tells why he’s left motorsport behind to become a green tech investor.
6/20/202327 minutes, 41 seconds
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Record order for Airbus

The order of 500 Airbus A320 aircraft by Indian carrier IndiGo is the largest single purchase agreement by any airline in commercial aviation history. Devina Gupta finds out if the deal worth roughly $55bn is a sign of a global rocovery in the industry. We get the latest from the meeting between the US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken and China's President Xi Jinping. And ahead of World Refugee Day we hear from one woman who made the trip from South Sudan to Uganda and now works at the BidiBidi settlement camp.
6/19/202327 minutes, 40 seconds
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US-China relations: co-operation or conflict?

Following U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s meeting with China's President Xi Jinping in Beijing, we look at how tensions stand between the two countries and how they've affected business decisions far beyond the borders of both countries. A new trade deal has been agreed between the EU and Kenya. Will Bain speaks to Miriam Garcia Ferrer, the EU's Spokesperson for Trade and Agriculture, on how the agreement will benefit both sides. And the BBC’s International Business Correspondent, Theo Leggett, brings us the latest from the Paris Airshow – one of the biggest events of the year for the global aviation and aerospace industries.
6/19/202327 minutes, 35 seconds
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Blinken visit to Beijing seeks to ease US-China tension

The United States Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken is heading to Beijing to restore the line of communication between the two countries after a persistent economic and diplomatic tensions between the two countries. World leaders are gathering in Paris to try to forge a new global financing pact. But an open letter signed by 25 of the world's leading economists suggests more radical reform is needed. Plans to build the world's largest petrochemical refinery have led to angry protests in north west India. A group of Indian state oil majors and global giants Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company want to build the plant in western India's ecologically fragile Konkan belt.
6/16/202327 minutes, 40 seconds
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Micron plans to pledge $600mn investments in China

The largest chipmaker in the US Micron announced it is looking to invest around $600m over the next few years in its chip packaging facility in the Chinese city of Xi'an. This can bring some peace in the US-China tech war.
6/16/202327 minutes, 41 seconds
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Foxconn CEO: ‘We have to be prepared for worst case’

Foxconn, one of the biggest electronics manufacturers in the world, makes more than half of Apple’s products as well as goods for Amazon, Dell and Sony amongst others. But how is the Taiwan-based giant coping amid increasing US-China tensions? The company’s CEO Young Liu speaks to the BBC’s Karishma Vaswani. With the Fed holding US interest rates this week, and inflation apparently back within manageable limits, now America’s labour market is coming under scrutiny.
6/15/202327 minutes, 43 seconds
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A look inside North Korea

We bring you an exclusive report from ordinary people inside the country and take a look at the economy of one of the world's most isolated nations. Devina Gupta finds out what life is really like for people living there. Can Argentina replace its local currency with the US dollars? We hear one way the South American country is looking to tackle inflation. And we learn about the growth in speciality cruises.
6/15/202327 minutes, 43 seconds
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US Fed leaves interest rates steady

In the United States, the Federal Reserve has left interest rates unchanged for the first time in more than a year. However, its latest economic forecasts suggest that more rate hikes lie ahead. Despite the assurances given by the Qatar government and FIFA, a new report says “labour exploitation of migrant workers rampant during Qatar World Cup” and some workers were left unable to pay off the debts they built up to get their jobs in the first place and that many felt unable to complain for fear of reprisal. And the frenzy stoked by the start of the singer's world tour is seen driving up prices in Sweden. She is apparently the queen of inflation after the rise of demand for hotels and restaurant meals, according to the country's economic statistics.
6/14/202327 minutes, 41 seconds
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Can AI be regulated?

A draft law known as the AI Act has been passed by the European Parliament which would put new restrictions on the technology. Devina Gupta speaks to those behind the decision. We hear from South Africa where lawmakers agreed on a new health insurance bill, which will pave the way for universal healthcare in the country. And we hear how all-inclusive holiday resorts are helping local economies.
6/14/202327 minutes, 34 seconds
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U.S inflation falls – but enough to prevent an interest rate rise?

Inflation was down to 4% in the US at the end of May – its lowest since 2021. Prices for eggs, petrol and furniture were down, helping to cut inflation to less than half of its peak a year ago. But as the U.S central bank prepares to meet later this week, will the continued downward trend be enough to persuade them to hold back on further rises to interest rates? In Mexico the race to elect the next President has begun, and the economy is expected to be a key feature of the campaign. Mexico is the second largest economy in Latin America and things are looking up post-Covid. The economy is expected to grow 1.7% this year, the job market is improving and the peso is strengthening against the dollar. But some economists fear the growth may be weak going into next year – just around the time the election is taking place. And - how much money do you need to be wealthy in America? You might be surprised - Americans suggest it's around $2.2 million. The evidence comes in the annual Modern Wealth Survey carried out by the financial services company Charles Schwab.
6/13/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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US inflation continues to fall

The US Consumer Prices Index showed prices rose at the slowest annual pace since March 2021. Devina Gupta hears how the figures provide some encouraging news for the Federal Reserve at the start of its two day meeting to discuss interest rates. The United Nations and Ukraine have warned of a huge impact on global food security following the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. The UN's aid chief, Martin Griffiths, told the BBC there was massive concern about the environmental destruction of what he called a breadbasket for the world. The People’s Bank of China has lowered a short-term lending rate for the first time in 10 months to help restore market confidence and set a stalling post-pandemic recovery in the world's second-largest economy.
6/13/202327 minutes, 42 seconds
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Microsoft suffers major blow to its bid for Activision Blizzard

The US watchdog the Federal Trade Commission has asked a judge to block Microsoft from closing in on a $69 billion deal to acquire Activision Blizzard – the company that makes ‘Call of Duty’ and many other big names. The U.S position on the deal is now closer to that taken by the UK regulator. The issue hangs on claims the sale would give Microsoft's Xbox exclusive access to Activision games, leaving Nintendo consoles and Sony's PlayStation out in the cold. Also in the U.S, America's biggest bank, JPMorgan Chase, has agreed in principle to settle a class action lawsuit brought on behalf of victims of the convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. The case was brought by one victim on behalf of hundreds of other women and girls abused by the disgraced financier. The bank is facing a bill of around $290mn. And – you may have heard of ‘greenwashing’ – but have you heard of the new phrase…green-hushing’? We find out why companies are suddenly starting to keep their green credentials to themselves.
6/12/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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UBS completes Credit Suisse takeover

The merger is the biggest in the banking industry since the global financial crisis of 2008; Devina Gupta asks if it will restore the faith of depositors and investors in the Swiss banking system? Elsewhere, we reflect on the life of Silvio Berlusconi and discuss his legacy in both the politics and business worlds. And have you heard of Halal holidays? We find out about the growth of Muslim-friendly getaways.
6/12/202327 minutes, 43 seconds
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Meta's plan to create a Twitter rival

Facebook's owner shows staff plans for a text-based social network designed to compete with Twitter. We hear more about this BBC exclusive. Pakistan has announced its latest budget amid pressure to meet International Monetary Fund's guidelines and receive the next allotment of the bailout granted by the institution. We find out more. And Jack Daniels has won a peculiar case against a firm that sold dog toys shaped like its emblematic bottle of whisky. We look into the arguments considered by the judge.
6/9/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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Pakistan presents budget as IMF watches

In recent weeks, Pakistan has been gripped by political and economic crises. Now as the government prepares a budget which needs to satisfy the IMF and win over voters ahead of a general election, we look at the challenges it faces to satisfy both. In Turkey, President Erdogan has appointed the country's first female central bank governor. She’s the fifth person to take on the job in four years, so as Hafize Gaye Erkan takes up her post, can she stabilise the falling currency? The Australian airline Qantas has scrapped some of its strict rules governing what their staff can and cannot wear. We look at what the new guidelines are and why the company has made the changes.
6/9/202327 minutes, 39 seconds
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Wildfires in Canada: the challenge to recruit more firefighters

Canada has lost 30,000 firemen since 2016. We talk to the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs about their call for more efforts to boost recruitment amid the country's worst wildfire season on record. Also in the show, should crypto currencies be considered securities or commodities? We hear about the implications that answer could have for firms like Binance and Coinbase. As home and hybrid working extend well beyond the pandemic, we look into the footprint they are leaving in the design of the office space. And we find out how much was paid for the largest ruby ever to come to auction.
6/8/202327 minutes, 28 seconds
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Wildfire smoke affecting US East Coast

Businesses and schools in New York and across North America are affected by wildfire smoke from Canada with millions of people being advised to stay inside or if they have to go outside then they should wear a mask. As the Eurozone economy enters a technical recession we speak to Emma Wall, Head of Investment Analysis & Research at Hargreaves Lansdown. And we discuss the Kenya Finance Bill aimed at increasing revenues and addressing rising debt that has also been criticised for burdening Kenyans with higher taxes as the cost of living rises.
6/8/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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How has wildfire smokes impact New York businesses?

Smoke from Canada fires blankets the US. New York's famous skyscrapers smothered in an orange tinged smog, and residents resorting to wearing face masks, the authorities are issuing health warnings, urging people to stay inside, if possible. Meanwhile, business owners are continuing running their business with hopes for the clear skies in the future.
6/7/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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OECD call for cuts to fiscal support

New figures from the OECD say that global economic growth is expected to rise slightly. And that means, says the OECD, that as the coronavirus pandemic and energy crisis fade into the background, the time is ripe for countries to get their public finances into better shape. We look at how governments might react. Meanwhile China's total trade with Russia hit a new record high in May to levels not seen since the start of the war in Ukraine. Official data from Beijing showed trade between the two countries last month was worth $20.5 billion with Chinese imports from Russia worth $11.3 billion. We explore the factors influencing the spending behind the figures. And as the Turkish lira tumbles to a low against the dollar we look at what this means for people in Turkey and Erdoğan’s new finance minister Mehmet Şimşek.
6/7/202327 minutes, 29 seconds
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Big golf surprise: PGA Tour & DP World Tour agree merger with LIV Golf

The surprising announcement of the merge among two competitors: PGA Tour and LIV Golf became a real sensation. The agreement comes after a year of unprecedented disruption in the men's game following the launch of LIV. It means pending litigation between the tours will be halted and they will move forward as part of the same enterprise.
6/6/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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SEC sues Coinbase for allegedly breaking US securities rules

The US regulator says the country's largest crypto platform failed to register as an exchange. The move comes a day after a similar lawsuit against Binance and its CEO. We find out what this means for crypto investors. Thousands of people are being evacuated downstream of a major dam at Nova Kakhovka which has been blown up in Russian-held Ukraine. We look into the economic implications. And we hear about the challenges of navigating through South Africa's power outages from the CEO of Transnet, the country's rail, port and pipeline company.
6/6/202327 minutes, 10 seconds
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Crypto giant Binance sued by the SEC

Crypto giant Binance has been accused of engaging in a "web of deception" as it was hit with another lawsuit by US financial regulators. The top US financial watchdog - the Securities and Exchange Commission has charged it for breaking the country's investment laws.
6/5/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Will Saudi Arabia's production cut help boost oil prices?

The country is the only member of the group of oil-producing countries, OPEC+, that will reduce output to boost prices. Will it work? Also in the programme, we look into India's railway system after three trains collided leaving 275 dead. And we hear the latest from the largest international meeting of the African private sector, which is taking place in Ivory Coast.
6/5/202327 minutes, 29 seconds
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How can South Africa tackle its power cuts crises?

With South Africa expecting its worst ever blackouts, what options does the country have to ensure its economy doesn't continue to suffer? Rahul Tandon discusses the country's options and speaks to a Nigerian businessman on the impact that new president Bola Tinubu removal of fuel subsidies is having. And with youth unemployment among 16 to 24-year-olds in China hitting a record 20.4 per cent in April, we ask why its so high.
6/2/202327 minutes, 33 seconds
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US Labour Data: Growth in non-farm jobs

The US labour market shows strong position than expected with 339,000 jobs in May. This fuels the markets interest – will the Federal Reserve and the US central bank, continue increasing interest rates?
6/2/202327 minutes, 32 seconds
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Is Africa at growing risk of an economic meltdown?

Is Africa at growing risk of an economic meltdown? Ed Butler speaks to the head of the IMF's Africa programme, Abe Selassie, about what help those nations in debt trouble need.
6/1/202327 minutes, 35 seconds
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Nigeria's fuel crisis: the end of subsidies sparks chaos

Snaking queues have been spreading across Nigeria’s petrol stations after the new president Bola Tinubu announced the end of fuel subsidies on Monday. As panic buyers try to fill up their deposits amid fear of fuel shortages, we hear about the impact this is having on businesses.
6/1/202327 minutes, 38 seconds
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Congress votes on the US Debt Ceiling

After months of negotiations Congress finally votes on raising the US Government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. Ed Butler gets the latest from the vote and hears how it will affect those most in need. As inflation in Sri Lanka falls 10%, but remains high at 25.2% we speak to the country's finance minister, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya. And how much is the Women's World Cup worth? FIFA is threatening a blackout if broadcasters don't improve their bids.
5/31/202327 minutes, 48 seconds
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India vs China: differing economic stories

We're looking at two of Asia's biggest economies: India and China. In India GDP has risen to 6.1% in GDP while China - once called the world's factory for producing cheap goods - is seeing a dip in manufacturing activity.
5/31/202327 minutes, 7 seconds
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Are companies profiting from the cost of living crisis?

New research from economists in both Europe and the US shows that corporations are artificially stimulating current high levels of inflation. Ed Butler speaks to one of those behind the studies and asks if the price rises are all entirely justified. We get the latest from Washington as President Biden urges Congress to pass a deal to raise the government's borrowing limit and prevent a potentially catastrophic default on US debt repayments. And we hear the new warnings about the risks posed to humanity by the latest advances in artificial intelligence.
5/30/202327 minutes, 35 seconds
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Could Uganda's anti-gay law cool foreign investment?

Many business groups including corporate giants such as Google warned Uganda's government of the negative impact the anti-LGBTQ legislation could bring. Homosexual acts are already illegal in Uganda but now anyone convicted faces life imprisonment.
5/30/202327 minutes, 48 seconds
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Nigeria's new President removes fuel subsidy

In his inaugural address President Bola Tinubu announced the decades-long subsidy on petroleum products was being scrapped, leading to a rise in the price of petrol. Rahul Tandon finds out what the wider implications will be for the country already facing economic challenges. We speak to the company behind the 3D printed schools being built in Ukraine. And we hear why parents in France may be banned from posting pictures of their children on social media.
5/29/202327 minutes, 49 seconds
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What does President Erdogan’s re-election mean for Turkey’s economy?

Turkey's president Erdogan won a historic third term, seeing off Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu. But its left more questions than answers on the country's future economic direction. And can the US finally get a deal done to avoid a debt crisis?
5/29/202327 minutes, 34 seconds
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Biden and McCarthy ‘closer to deal’ on debt ceiling

The US House Speaker says there's been progress in the talks about a deal to raise the government debt limit for two years, and that negotiations with the White House will continue. Kevin McCarthy said the work would carry on until an agreement was reached - but he added this was just the start on cutting spending. The US needs to raise the debt ceiling so it can keep paying its bills and avoid a default that could happen in a week's time. Will Bain talks to the US Chamber of Commerce, billionaire and Republican donor Ken Fisher, and Mark Shepherd, the Mayor of Clearfield in Utah.
5/26/202327 minutes, 37 seconds
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US Debt Ceiling deadline looms

With less than a week to go until the deadline is breached, we find out how close we are to a deal between the Democrats and the Republicans. Rahul Tandon gets the economist perspective on how the deal can get over the line. After a year of strikes and union action, we speak to the General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation, which represents 45 million workers across the continent. And we heard from Barcelona, where the city's status as a tourist magnet has come under scrutiny.
5/26/202327 minutes, 39 seconds
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Nvidia earnings make chip maker AI superpower

Nvidia, a US firm which specializes in chips powering artificial intelligence, surged as much as 27% on Thursday, putting the company on course for record performance with a market cap above $900 billion. But where is the future of AI while there are raising concerns about regulating and its safety? The Eurasian Economic Forum continues Moscow. Vladimir Putin is attending alongside leaders from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia.
5/25/202327 minutes, 45 seconds
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Why has Germany gone into recession?

As Germany enters recession, Rob Young looks at the key factors behind it and speaks to a manufacturer weathering the storm. With a tense political future and struggling economy, how likely is Pakistan to get the IMF funding it so desperately needs? And as Turkey holds a crucial election runoff we find out why voters are giving the incumbent President Erdoğan another chance.
5/25/202327 minutes, 44 seconds
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Ron DeSantis: will he get corporate America's vote?

Ron DeSantis has filed the necessary paperwork to run for the US presidency, saying he's Donald Trump without the drama. Mr DeSantis is expected to be one of the strongest challengers to the current leader in the polling: Donald Trump, despite being some way behind him. Kasia Madera hears from David Kotok, the chair and chief investment officer of Cumberland Advisors - a money management firm in Florida.
5/24/202327 minutes, 47 seconds
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What went wrong for Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Orbit?

Just months after its first ever satellite mission in the UK reached space, Sir Richard Branson's firm has shut down. Will Bain finds out why it failed to take off, and what its collapse tells us about the cost of the space information race. We hear about the business of running a business in one of Kenya's biggest refugee camps. And it's a $2 billion industry, but is the message of gospel being lost in the secular world of commercialism?
5/24/202327 minutes, 44 seconds
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Chip wars: Apple's multi-billion-dollar deal with Broadcom

Apple have announced a multi-billion-dollar deal with technology and manufacturing company Broadcom to produce 5G components to be used in its products. Kasia Madera hears from Stacy Ragson, Managing Director and Senior Analyst at U.S. Semiconductors and Semiconductor Capital Equipment in L.A.
5/23/202327 minutes, 44 seconds
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Sudan's Ceasefire economy

With many of the banks shut and people unable to work but a ceasefire appearing to hold, we get the latest on the economic situation facing the millions of people in Sudan. Rahul Tandon speaks to someone who has just fled the capital Khartoum. We get reaction to comments from the Secretary General of South Africa’s governing African National Congress party that the country could become a failed state. And we hear from Florida, where the battle between Disney and the Republican governor Ron DeSantis heads to court.
5/23/202327 minutes, 44 seconds
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US debt ceiling: Will the deadlock finally break?

US President Joe Biden and top congressional Republican Kevin McCarthy have been in talks over raising the U.S. federal government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. Kasia Madera hears from Nancy Kimelman, a Professor in Economics at Northeastern University.
5/22/202327 minutes, 42 seconds
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Meta fined $1.3bn by the EU

The owner of Facebook has been fined $1.3 billion for breaking EU rules on data protection, the largest fine ever handed down under the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation privacy law. Rahul Tandon speaks to the European Data Protection Board chair Dr Andrea Jelinek about why they’ve enforced the fine. We get the latest as China’s chip war escalates as the country bans products from US companies. And we find out how how American singer Jason Derulo made unexpected millions.
5/22/202327 minutes, 44 seconds
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G7 sanctions to target Russia’s diamond trade

G7 countries agreed on more sanctions against Russia and demanded a complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine. In a statement, leaders from the Group of Seven nations meeting in Japan said they would "starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment and services that support its war machine". Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has tweeted, saying he's beginning his first-ever visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia "to enhance bilateral relations". While speaking to Arab League leaders, Zelensky has accused some Arab leaders of "turning a blind eye" to Russia's invasion. NASA has awarded the contract to build its astronaut Moon lander to a consortium led by Blue Origin - the space company owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
5/19/202327 minutes, 36 seconds
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New G7 sanctions on Russia – but will they work?

Leaders of the G7 group of developed economies have agreed new sanctions against Russia on the first day of their annual summit being held in the Japanese city of Hiroshima. They said the measures would starve Moscow of their technology, industrial equipment, and services that supported its war against Ukraine. The measures will restrict the export of items "critical to Russia on the battlefield". Sanctions will also target groups accused of moving material to the front for Moscow. We examine how effective sanctions can be… US president Joe Biden says he’s confident about reaching a budget agreement with Congress to avoid a default on US debt. Republicans and Democrats have until June 1 agree a deal which would allow the US to borrow more - or, in their language, raise the debt ceiling. Otherwise, the world's biggest economy will default on its $31.4 trillion (£25tn) debt. Experts believe this won’t happen but if it does, says one "it would make the global financial crisis look like a tea party". We report on how some companies are making plans, just in case… And, as Greece goes to the polls to elect a new leader on Sunday, we look at how a country which once needed billions of dollars of IMF funding appears to have dragged itself out of the financial doldrums…or has it?
5/19/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Disney ends $867m Florida plan

Florida is going to lose 2,000 jobs as Walt Disney Co is scrapping plans to relocate their staff because of "changing business conditions" in the state. Currently, the company employed more than 75,000 people in Florida, attracts millions of visitors each year to Disney World, and had plans to invest $17 billion to expand the resort over the next decade.
5/18/202327 minutes, 55 seconds
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Sudan conflict: ‘damaging neighbouring economies’

The month-long conflict in Sudan in East Africa is damaging the economies of its neighbours. The United Nations has made a record-breaking appeal for $3 billion worth of support for Sudan. But with thousands fleeing their homes for neighbouring countries, the critical port of Port Sudan virtually out of action, and fears for the security of major oil pipelines that cross the country - the conflict threatens a major regional crisis. The issue of remote versus home-working is once again in the headlines after Twitter and Tesla boss Elon Musk said working from home is ‘morally wrong’ – because it was unfair on those who could not work remotely. More companies are beginning to insist on their employees attending the office more often – with the New York-based asset management company Black Rock the latest to insist that workers go into the office at least four days a week. We look at whether home-working days are numbered… And - a small bakery in France is the proud of owner of a very special accolade - bakers of the best baguette in Paris. Of the 176 baguettes shortlisted for the prestigious prize, it was baguette number 142 from the bakery Au Levain des Pyrenees that proved a cut above the rest. The prize: to bake baguettes for none other than the President, for a year.
5/18/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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Ghana to get a $3bn loan from the IMF

The International Monetary Fund has approved a three-year extended credit for the African nation, which will receive an immediate disbursement of about $600 million. We look into the crisis the country is going through and how this funds can help. Also in the programme, we hear the latest from Pakistan, where political instability is affecting the economy. And we ask the Finance Minister of The Philippines, Benjamin Diokno, about the brain drain taking place in his country.
5/17/202327 minutes, 54 seconds
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Kenya and Somalia: Open for business

Kenya and Somalia have agreed to reopen their common border after more than a decade, Kenya's interior minister said on Monday as ties warm between the two neighbours following years of tensions. The announcement came after a high-level joint ministerial meeting in Nairobi on cooperation including on security, as well as trade and the movement of people. We hear from a business operating near the border. Japan's economy has had a double boost of good news in the last 24 hours, with stocks reaching their highest level in 33 years and new growth figures show it is emerging from recession AND faster than expected. But will it last...with clouds gathering as other countries face a slowdown in their own economies? And why the precious metal platinum, is becoming even more valuable….
5/17/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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ChatGPT creator calls for artificial intelligence regulation in the US

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, says government regulation is "crucial" to the future of artificial intelligence. The firm that owns ChatGPT says advancements will impact the workforce significantly. We listen to the latest from the AI hearing at the US Senate subcommittee on privacy. Also in the programme, we look into the negotiations happening around the US debt ceiling and Venezuela's attempt to get its foot in the door of the global gas industry. And we find out if this year's edition of the Cannes Film Festival shows any signs of a revitalised movie industry.
5/16/202327 minutes, 52 seconds
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EU pressure on India over imported processed Russian oil

EU officials meet India’s foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar amid concerns over processed imported Russian oil. The EU’s high representative for foreign policy Joseph Borrell says Brussels is aware that India has been buying Russian oil in large volumes and processing it into fuel for sale in Europe. In an interview with the Financial Times, he said the EU should crack down on India reselling Russian oil as refined fuels, including diesel, to Europe. Although the practice is not illegal under the EU sanctions on Russia, the issue is expected to be raised at the first meeting of India-EU Trade and Technology in Brussels, Tuesday. Elsewhere shares in Vodaphone nose-dived after the company announced 11,000 job cuts. The group employs around 100,000 people across Europe and Africa. New boss Margherita Della Valle said the company’s performance was ‘not good enough’. And – we report on the Ghanaian musician Mona Faiz Montrage, aka Hajia4Real, who has been extradited to the US and charged with a $2m romance scam.
5/16/202326 minutes, 24 seconds
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EU greenlights largest takeover in gaming history

Microsoft's plan to buy Activision Blizzard that had been blocked by the UK last month has now been approved by EU regulators. Will the US follow suit? We talk to experts about the consequences the deal could have. Also in the programme, we take a look at the rise and fall of Vice Media, which has just filed for bankruptcy. Once thought to be the future of journalism, firms like Vice and Buzzfeed are now fighting to survive. We find out why. And we listen to how Argentines do business in an economy where inflation stands at 109% and interest rates have been raised to 97%.
5/15/202327 minutes, 54 seconds
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Turkey: the presidential race is getting tight

Presidential elections in Turkey are heavily affecting the economy. The country's currency has hit a record low against the US dollar today and global investors are watching closely to see how the election results could impact the world’s 19th-largest economy.
5/15/202327 minutes, 46 seconds
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Elon Musk names new Twitter CEO

Elon Musk has announced his replacement as the chief executive of Twitter. He’s confirmed that NBC Universal executive Linda Yaccarino will succeed him in the role. To take up the post Yaccarino resigned her role at NBC Universal - where she had worked as Chairman of Global Advertising and Partnerships for 12 years. Will Bain speaks to Claire Atkinson, Chief Media Correspondent at Insider, who crossed paths with Linda when they both worked at NBC about what sort of boss she’ll be and the challenges that lay ahead. On Saturday the final of the Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Liverpool in the UK. The city is hosting the annual competition on behalf of last year’s winners, Ukraine, and as music fans from around the world descend on the city, reporter Hannah Mullane, finds out what it means for businesses there.
5/12/202327 minutes, 38 seconds
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Eyes fall on Turkey’s elections

Rahul Tandon hears about Sunday’s Turkish Presidential election – which is likely to be one of the tightest on record, with the economy at the centre of the campaigns. Pakistan's ex-prime minister Imran Khan is to be freed from custody, a day after the Supreme Court ruled his dramatic arrest on corruption charges was illegal. But the country is running out of money - and this week to add to its financial problems there have been huge protests on the streets following the arrest of the opposition leader. The South African rand stemmed losses on Friday after authorities said the country had not approved any arms shipment to Russia last year.
5/12/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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Title 42 changes sees US and Mexico brace for border chaos

After more than three years, a controversial Trump-era immigration policy known as Title 42 has been lifted. The policy allowed border officials to turn back many would-be migrants, to help stop the spread of the Covid virus. Simultaneously new rules will come into effect, barring asylum seekers who travel through another country without requesting asylum there first. The BBC’s Mexico, Central America and Cuba correspondent, Will Grant, has the latest from Mexico. Adidas has decided to sell old Yeezy stock and donate some of the proceeds to charity. The company cut ties with the rapper last year over his anti-semitic comments. There is currently thought to be one billion pounds worth of Yeezy stock sitting in Adidas warehouses. Sportswear industry consultant, Ed Stoner, who previously worked at Adidas talks to Will Bain about the thinking behind this decision. Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna speaks to the BBC’s International Business Correspondent, Theo Leggett, about how a brand known for speed and supercars is looking to produce greener vehicles.
5/11/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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Ramaphosa: “my government not sleeping on the job”

Rahul Tandon hears about South Africa’s President Cyril Ramphosa’s denials that his government is "sleeping on the job" over crippling power cuts in his country. He said that he believed the country needed emergency power and existing interventions would ease pressure on the grid. On Sunday, voters in South East Asia's second-largest economy - Thailand - will go to the polls in what's being billed as a generation-defining election. And while the country's tourism sector continues to fuel its growth, forecasts for 2023 have been revised downwards because of global economic headwinds. China is seeing more women entering the workplace. In fact more women are becoming business leaders in the world's second largest economy. Recent data from Chinese listed companies shows that the number of women in charge of companies tripled in the last decade.
5/11/202327 minutes, 23 seconds
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US inflation beats forecasts but remains high

US inflation eases slightly as the Federal Reserve’s interest rate increases take effect.
5/10/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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US inflation falls below 5% for first time in two years

Will Bain is presenting and in the programme he is looking into the prices for milk, airline tickets and new cars fell in the US last month, helping drive inflation to its lowest rate in two years. Inflation, the pace at which prices rise, was 4.9% over the 12 months to April, official figures show. Toyota, has announced better than expected full-year results in what analysts say is a sign that supply chain disruptions for the industry may be easing as Toyota’s new chief executive Koji Sato has promised to accelerate its electric vehicle push in China. Sudan war is threatening to an important global ingredient, Gum Arabic, which is in almost everything - making the gloss on magazine pages, the froth on beer, binds in ice cream and fizzy drinks - even makes cosmetics and roll up of cigarette papers stick.
5/10/202327 minutes, 51 seconds
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Biden holds crucial meeting with Congress leaders about country’s debt ceiling

Presenter Sam Fenwick speaks to one of Joe Biden's former economic advisers about the debt ceiling which stands at just over thirty one trillion dollars. The President wants to raise it, but he needs the support of the Republicans to do this. Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan is arrested in Islamabad. As his supporters come out onto the streets what does this mean for its struggling economy which is desperate need of support from the IMF? And Music streaming site Spotify has removed tens of thousands of songs from artificial intelligence music start-up Boomy after complaints from some users. In recent months the music industry has been confronting the rise of AI-generated songs and the growing number of tracks inundating streaming platforms daily.
5/9/202327 minutes, 25 seconds
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Biden to meet political leaders to break the deadlock over US debt ceiling

Rahul Tandon is presenting and in the programme he is looking into the US president, Joe Biden and the House and Senate leaders of both parties will meet in the White House today to try to break the deadlock over the country's debt ceiling. The Republicans have said they are happy to extend the debt ceiling - but only if President Biden cuts his spending. Chinese officials say they have searched the office of a US consultancy, Capvision, to protect China's own security and development interests. It comes after they investigated another American firm, Bain & Company, and detained Chinese employees of Mintz Group in March. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement is expected to connect some 1.3 billion people under a single market for goods and services. But the initiative is facing challenges including free movement in the continent.
5/9/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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Kremlin increases taxes on Russian oil sector

Although Russia's federal budget revenues from oil and gas, the lifeblood of its economy, fell 64% in April from the year-earlier period, the government has decided to increase taxes on the industry. The Kremlin is seeking additional money after spending heavily on the war in Ukraine.
5/8/202327 minutes, 14 seconds
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China warns EU over proposed new sanctions

Rahul Tandon is presenting and hears about China has warned the European Union not to go ahead with reported plans to impose sanctions on Chinese firms suspected of helping the Russian military. China's foreign ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, said such action would undermine trust and cooperation between China and the EU. As sides in the Sudan meet in Saudi Arabia for peace talks, there are reports from Khartoum suggesting that looting and lawlessness are now having a major impact on access to basic supplies. The car market globally is going through a period of huge change - as the world moves towards electric cars. How fast is that move going to happen and what will it mean for the SUV sector which accounts for over 40 percent of global sales?
5/8/202327 minutes, 51 seconds
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Covid no longer global emergency but left economic scars

The World Health Organisation says Covid- 19 is no longer a global health emergency, after three years of lives and economies turned upside down -- and millions of deaths. Job creation in the US remained robust last month, despite turmoil in the banking sector and the impact of higher borrowing costs. Employers added 253,000 jobs, which was better than many analysts had expected. Millions of people across the UK and beyond are preparing to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III - a symbolic ceremony combining a religious service and pageantry.
5/5/202327 minutes, 20 seconds
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The price of gold is rising

The US banking crisis, which has seen three banks collapse, is pushing the price of gold up. Chinese consumers and central bank purchasing the precious metal is adding to its demand. We will be finding out what this means for consumers and retailers. Apple have reported revenue falling by 3% to nearly 95 billion dollars this last quarter - the CEO, Tim Cook has highlighted growth in India as a key market for them. We take a look at why the tech giant is investing a lot on money in the country. The coronation of King Charles the third will be a theatrical affair unlike anything seen for nearly seven decades, and it'll be watched by millions around the world. Our presenter Sam Fenwick will be bringing us the latest on the stories.
5/5/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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US bank seeks buyer as crisis spreads

The US regional banking sector is coming under renewed pressure amid a crisis in confidence. Trading in the California lender PacWest was briefly suspended as shares fell more than fifty percent, after its owners confirmed it had explored strategic asset sales. The White House has been holding a meeting with tech company bosses to discuss the risks of Artificial Intelligence. The vice president, Kamala Harris, told them they had a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of their products. The British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has won Thinking Out Loud copyright case. A New York court ruled today that Mr Sheeran did not copy Marvin Gaye's Let's Get It On when composing the track.
5/4/202327 minutes, 50 seconds
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European Central Bank raises interest rates for the seventh time

The European Central Bank has raised interest rates to 3.25%, as part of its ongoing efforts to lower inflation in the 20 countries that use the Euro. It is the seventh successive increase. We find out what this means for businesses in the Eurozone. We hear from the CEO of Maersk as their profit figures are released and it shows that the global economy is slowing due to less freight moving around the world. The bosses of the biggest tech companies in the world will meet with US Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House to discuss the future of AI. How will AI be regulated by the government? Our presenter Sam Fenwick will bringing us the latest on all the stories.
5/4/202327 minutes, 21 seconds
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US interest rates hit 16 year high

The US Central Bank has raised its interest rates to its highest level in 16 years The moves are aimed at stabilising inflation and have pushed the target range for its benchmark rate to 5.25%. Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell said the US was "getting close or maybe even there" to pausing its rate-hike campaign but was prepared to do more if warranted. But there has been criticism from some economists with one describing the rise as ‘throwing the US labour market under a bus’. We also report on an Israeli food-tech company that has announced it has managed to produce the world's first ever ready-to-cook fish fillet using 3-d printing technology. And – just how does the French Finance Minister find the time to write erotic literature with the country facing a great deal of economic upheaval?
5/3/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Will the U.S Fed raise interest rates again?

The U.S Federal reserve is expected to raise rates again this week. That would be the 10the straight increase since March of last year. We'll find out what the expected rise will mean for the U.S economy. As the Coronation of King Charles III approaches new coins have started to circulate with his head on them. The BBC have been given exclusive access to the Royal Mint, where the coins are made. And A.I and education learning. The share price of several major education companies has fallen sharply, as the impact of artificial intelligence is being felt in the sector. We hear from the CEO of a language learning app that is thriving from A.I..
5/3/202327 minutes, 50 seconds
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US banks feel the heat

Shares on Wall Street have been falling for some banks - trading in PacWest, seen as one of the weakest of the midsized regional banks, was briefly halted for volatility and was down 25 per cent by noon in New York. Western Alliance was down more than 20 per cent. Thousands of Hollywood TV and movie screenwriters are today downing tools after last minute talks broke down over pay. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, the first in 15 years, has seen more than 11,000 writers walking out. Tuesday’s late-night chat shows are expected to be the first to shut down. Forthcoming films could face delays. And we report on the desperate measures people are taking in Sri Lanka - one of the hardest hit economies in the world at the moment. It's economy has collapsed by nearly a fifth in the last three years, and the latest central bank report has suggested further recession is inevitable this year too.
5/2/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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The economic impact as thousands flee Sudan to neighbouring countries

The UN says more than 800,000 people could flee fighting in Sudan for neighbouring countries like Chad, Egypt and the Central African Republic. We will take a look at the economic challenges these countries face. Banking giant HSBC says its profits got a $1.5bn boost from the purchase of collapsed Silicon Valley Bank's British business. They also managed a pre-tax profit more than three times the amount from January to March last year. How did they do it – we’ll take a look. The world football governing body FIFA wants broadcasters to pay for the media rights as their President Gianni Infantino warns that if the UK Spain, France, Italy and Germany, do not improve their offers they won't be able to show the Women's World Cup game.
5/2/202327 minutes, 19 seconds
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Customer reaction to First Republic’s collapse

Customers and former staff praise First Republic’s service as it is taken over by JP Morgan Chase. First Republic had been under pressure since last month, when the collapse of two other US lenders sparked fears about the state of the banking system. Authorities said they hoped the deal would resolve the panic. The failure of San Francisco-based First Republic is the second-largest in US history and the third in the country since March. Hollywood writers and television producer approach a deadline to sign a new contract - or take strike action…the first such action in 15 years. Meanwhile, in France the traditional May Day protests have been given extra momentum due to anger over the pension reforms that have been rammed through parliament by President Emmanuel Macron. Hundreds of thousands of people have taken to the streets in France and violent clashes erupted in some cities; the authorities say more than one hundred police were injured and nearly three hundred people were detained .
5/2/202327 minutes, 50 seconds
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Customer reaction to First Republic’s collapse

Customers and former staff praise First Republic’s service as it is taken over by JP Morgan Chase. First Republic had been under pressure since last month, when the collapse of two other US lenders sparked fears about the state of the banking system. Authorities said they hoped the deal would resolve the panic. The failure of San Francisco-based First Republic is the second-largest in US history and the third in the country since March. Hollywood writers and television producer approach a deadline to sign a new contract - or take strike action…the first such action in 15 years. Meanwhile, in France the traditional May Day protests have been given extra momentum due to anger over the pension reforms that have been rammed through parliament by President Emmanuel Macron. Hundreds of thousands of people have taken to the streets in France and violent clashes erupted in some cities; the authorities say more than one hundred police were injured and nearly three hundred people were detained .
5/1/202310 seconds
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First Republic bank sold to JP Morgan

Presenter Sam Fenwick will take a look at First Republic Bank as it has been sold to investment banking giant JP Morgan. First Republic has become the third US bank to collapse this year. Globally there'll be fewer jobs around in the coming five years. Research suggests there could be a net loss of 14 million jobs. We hear from The World Economic Forum as they say says slower economic growth, supply chain shortages and inflation will affect job creation. And we'll find out why Cuba's annual May Day parade in Havana has been cancelled.
5/1/202327 minutes, 50 seconds
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First Republic's future under scrutiny again

The bank's shares plunge by more than 40% as plans for its survival fail to materialise. We ask experts what First Republic's clients can expect as news that the bank might be placed under receivership start to emerge. The US financial sector continues to tremble as the Federal Reserve admits that it failed to act with "sufficient force and urgency" in its oversight of Silicon Valley Bank, which collapsed last month in the country's biggest bank failure since 2008. We find out more about the Fed's latest report on SVB. And we hear about the skills needed to succeed in the music industry from Jason Derulo.
4/28/202327 minutes, 28 seconds
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Fleeing Sudanese burying money and gold

Rahul Tandon hears about Sudanese who are trying to escape from the war and burying their money and gold according to Abdelaziz Musa, who fled to Egypt. Taiwan’s economy sank into recession after shrinking 3% in the first quarter of 2023, worse than projected. This is the fastest pace since the global financial crisis, a sign of how the drop-off in global demand for chips has showed little sign of abating. A controversial Canadian government bill to regulate streaming services has been passed by the Senate and become law. The legislation requires services such as Netflix and Spotify to pay to support Canadian media content, including music and TV shows. It also requires the platforms to promote and recommend Canadian programming, in English, French and indigenous languages.
4/28/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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US growth slows at the start of 2023

The US economy grew 1.1% in the year to March, down from 2.6% in the previous quarter. American consumers kept spending despite inflation, contributing to GDP expansion. But growth slowed down as businesses pulled back on investment and hiring. We talk to experts and businesses about the consequences. Also in the show, we take a look at Argentina’s latest interest rate hike, which now stands at 91%, and we hear the latest from the markets.
4/27/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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US economic growth slows sharply in first quarter

We are going to devote a lot of the programme to the world 's largest economy. Rahul Tandon hears about the United States economic growth slowing in the last three months. Recent GDP figures show the US economy grew at an annualized rate of 1.1%. That’s down from 2 point 6 percent at the end of last year but does show growth despite fears over a recession. The US House of Representatives on Wednesday narrowly passed a bill to raise the government's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling which includes sweeping spending cuts over the next decade. But it is unlikely to pass the Senate. Shares in First Republic continue to be volatile as concerns continue over its future. The bank earlier this week announced that it has seen more than 100 billion dollars of withdrawals.
4/27/202327 minutes, 25 seconds
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Disney's duel with DeSantis drags on

Disney accuses Ron DeSantis of organising a campaign of "government retaliation" as it launches a lawsuit against the Florida Governor and other state officials. Devina Gupta finds out how this court battle might play out. As UK Regulators block the multi-billion dollar deal between Activision Blizzard and Microsoft, we ask what it mean for investors looking to put money into the UK. And we hear from the world’s largest blueberry exporter, Peru, which gained the title in only a decade.
4/26/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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Microsoft’s $68.7bn Activation takeover blocked in the UK

David Harper hears about Microsoft's $68.7bn (£55bn) deal to buy US video game company Activision Blizzard being blocked in the UK by the Competition and Markets Authority. The proposed takeover would see Microsoft acquire such hit titles as Call of Duty and Candy Crush. The Bank of England's top economist has said people in the UK need to accept that they are poorer otherwise prices will continue to rise. The Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans is one of the world's busiest shipping routes, accounting for around 6% of global maritime trade. But it has a major problem. A severe lack of rainfall has forced the authorities to limit ship traffic for the fifth time during this drought season.
4/26/202327 minutes, 27 seconds
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Biden announces 2024 Presidential bid

President Joe Biden has confirmed he's going for a second term in next year's election, saying it is a pivotal moment with freedoms and rights under threat. Roger Hearing discusses how the US economy has fared during the Biden presidency and what the challenges are for a second term. We hear about the phenomenon of quiet quitting, where people doing the absolute minimum at work, or just leaving their jobs altogether. And we find out how inflation is hitting the price of sweets.
4/25/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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Netflix is to invest $2.5bn in South Korea film industry

Rahul Tandon hears about Netflix’s plan to invest two and a half billion dollars in South Korea over the next four years, marking a doubling in its investment since 2016. The announcement from the streaming giant came during a visit by South Korea's president, Yoon Suk Yeol, to the US, and followed talks with Netflix chief executive Ted Sarandos in Washington. US President Joe Biden has announced he will run for re-election in 2024, setting the stage for a potential rematch with Donald Trump. Sugar prices are the highest they have been since 2012 and cocoa prices at their highest since 2016. There are a number of factors at work - including bad weather and the war in Ukraine - which have worked together to create a major headache for the confectionery industry.
4/25/202327 minutes, 26 seconds
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US TV News hosts dropped

The right-wing TV host, Tucker Carlson, leaves Fox News, while another prominent American broadcaster, Don Lemon, is fired by CNN. Roger Hearing finds out what's behind the moves and what it means for the networks. We get the latest on Disney's newest round of job and spending cuts. And we hear just how much of a toll Russia's war in Ukraine and Western sanctions are having on the country's economy as the head of the country’s state owned bank VTB, suggests stakes in state owned companies could be sold in a new privatisation drive.
4/24/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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South Korea asked not to fill chip gap

Rahul Tandon presents as the US asks South Korea to urge its chipmakers not to fill any gap in the market to support its policy on semiconductor chip manufacture. President Yoon Suk YeolI is visiting Washington this week and is expected to discuss the issue with President Biden amid tensions with China. Hundreds of garment workers in Bangladesh have demonstrated for justice as survivors wept on the ruins of Rana Plaza factory that collapsed ten years ago, killing more than 1100 people. As many countries rush to evacuate their nationals from Sudan, we look at the economic importance of the country - which is the third largest gold producer in Africa.
4/24/202327 minutes, 28 seconds
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Chile unveils plans for its lithium industry

Chile's President Gabriel Boric has said he wants to partially nationalize the country's lithium industry. This comes as there is a high demand for the metal which is used in the production of electric vehicles. Chile is the world's second largest producer of lithium. The New York Stock Exchange is the most valuable stock market in the world. We hear from the Head of International Capital Markets at the NYSE on if rising tensions between China and the US mean that companies from the world's second largest economy are thinking twice about listing in New York. What if we could reverse your biological age or how about the idea of being able to increase our "healthspans" - live our healthy years for longer? Imagine feeling like you're 40 at 60. BBC Click presenter Lara Lewington has been to California and met a tech billionaire, who's trying to do just that.
4/21/202327 minutes, 16 seconds
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India suffers from unusually early severe heatwave

Sam Fenwick looks into the relationship between climate change and the unusually intense heatwave in India at this time of year. The net worth of Elon Musk, the second wealthiest person on Earth, records a $12.6 billion drop. Are things going to change for the mastermind of Tesla and SpaceX? Employees of German’s national operator Deutsche Bahn and aviation security at three German airports have been on strike, calling for pay rises to battle against the cost of living crisis.
4/21/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Elon Musk's SpaceX rocket launches but explodes

Elon Musk's SpaceX company's new rocket, Starship, has exploded on its first ever flight. The rocket blew up within minutes but the launch was still deemed a success. The Tesla owner has said his company will try again in a couple of months. President Joe Biden has said the US will put another $1 billion into a US climate fund to help tackle climate change in developing countries. Biden announced his plans at the virtual Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate. Sri Lanka's economy has shrunk by more than a fifth in the past three years - and that's prompted a mass exodus from the country. By some estimates as many as one in twenty-five Sri Lankans have left in the last twelve months alone.
4/20/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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EU subsidises nations that banned Ukraine’s grain

Sam Fenwick hears about the European Commission’s offer to nations which had imposed restrictions on importing cheap grain from Ukraine. Poland, Hungary and several other European countries had taken the action to protect their farming industries. The European Commission had previously warned those nations’ actions wouldn’t be tolerated. Plus the taps are turned on to a new natural gas field in Turkey and the Shanghai Motorshow looks towards electric vehicles.
4/20/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Are Apple’s new stores in India a job creation for the youth?

Apple Chief Executive, Tim Cook, has met with Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, as he is looking for a market growth and investment in India. Tesla shares dropped 2% after the electric-vehicle maker cuts down the price U.S for the sixth time this year. Tesla shares slid further in initial after-market trading on Wednesday following the company's quarterly report. In the UK, people are struggling to pay their bills and are facing more financial pain within weeks after inflation defied predictions by staying in double-figures - at 10.1 per cent.
4/19/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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UK’s inflation rate stays in double-digits

The latest inflation rate of the UK defied expectations with annual price rises of 10.1%. Food and non-alcoholic drink soared at the fastest rate in 46 years. Meanwhile the inflation in Eurozone eases down to 6.9%. The trial between Fox and Dominion came to a dramatic end as a $787.5 million settlement was reached but the drama is far from over. We take a look at what might happen next.
4/19/202327 minutes, 13 seconds
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Fox News settles defamation case with Dominion

The US voting technology firm Dominion has settled with Fox News just before their defamation trial was due to begin. Dominion had sought $1.6bn (£1.3bn) from Fox, whom it claimed spread falsehoods about its voting machines in the 2020 presidential election. The final settlement agreed between both parties was for $787.5m. Apple's Chief Executive - Tim Cook - has launched the company's first Indian retail store. He was presented with a vintage Mac, at the store's opening in Mumbai, where people from across India came to participate in the event. The South Korean car company, Kia, has issued a plea to trade unions to drop a formal policy that favours hiring the children of long-time employees. The appeal follows pressure from the South Korean government on large companies to stop handing jobs to relatives of existing employees.
4/18/202327 minutes, 11 seconds
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China's economy gathers speed but youth unemployment rate worsens

The Chinese government released the nation’s latest economic statistics, showing a 4.5% growth comparing to the same period of 2022. But China’s young labour force, aged 16 to 24, suffers a 19.6% unemployment rate – What will happen when more fresh graduates finish schools this summer? Apple’s Tim Cook flew to India to launch the tech giant’s first physical Apple Store in Mumbai, India. Hundreds of Apple’s fans queued for hours just to be the first ones who step in the new landmark. Apple plans to increase production of iPhones to the world most populated country.
4/18/202327 minutes, 15 seconds
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Is the trade war between the US and China coming back to the boil?

There have been economic tensions between the US and China that has been for some time dominating the news and the involvement of their respective allies. Is this a new trade war that is coming back to the boil? Banks across the board are under pressure again to pay depositors more as interest rates continue to rise in the U.S. The Japanese video game maker, Sega Sammy Holdings has agreed to buy the makers of Angry Birds for nearly 800 million dollars.
4/17/202326 minutes, 47 seconds
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EU rejects Poland and Hungary's ban on Ukrainian grain

With the Russian's invasion still going on in Ukraine, one of the only few options to export goods is going through land borders. But Slovakia just joined Poland and Hungary to ban cheap imports from Ukraine such as dairy, meats and grains, in order to protect their own agriculture industries. The European Commission rejects these nations' decisions and warns unilateral moves will not be tolerated. Japanese gaming tycoon Sega Sammy has just purchased Rovio, the company that created Angry Birds. Why is the deal significant in the mobile gaming world and how can they actually make money out of a free mobile game app?
4/17/202327 minutes, 12 seconds
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Pentagon leaks: How social platform Discord found itself in the spotlight

A twenty-one-year-old US National Guardsman Jack Teixeira has appeared in court in Boston accused of leaking highly-sensitive military intelligence. He’s said to have distributed very damaging intelligence on everything from Ukraine's war plans to Washington spying on its allies like South Korea. But there's one part of this that is especially interesting - it was all initially distributed on Discord, a social media platform, popular with gamers.
4/14/202326 minutes, 44 seconds
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Brazil’s President wants countries to move away from the dollar

Rahul Tandon hears about Brazil’s president Lula da Silva’s remarks on countries moving away from the dollar as he meets with the Chinese president Xi Jinping. The two leaders are expected to sign twenty trade agreements. The International Monetary Fund has projected that the economy of Sub-Saharan Africa will grow by 3.6 per cent in 2023 and accelerate to 4.2 per cent in 2024. Abebe Selassie, Director of the African Department at the IMF tells us more. To France, where the Constitutional Court is due to make a key decision any minute now on President Macron's controversial pension reforms. Macron wants to raise the age of retirement from 62 to 64 but his plan has faced massive opposition from unions and ordinary people. US firms are waiting to pump 'billions of dollars' of cash into the Northern Ireland economy if there’s more political stability there. That’s according to President Biden who is visiting the island of Ireland to mark 25-years since the Good Friday Agreement.
4/14/202328 minutes, 29 seconds
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Brazil’s President Lula travels to Beijing

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has started his trip to China. The trip's aim is to upgrade relations with China now that Lula is back in office and seek new Chinese investment in the Latin American country.
4/13/202327 minutes, 48 seconds
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How much debt is there in the world and who owes it to whom?

Today we're going to be talking about debt - not the household debt that you might owe to your bank but the really big stuff - the debt that countries owe to financial institutions and, in some cases, to other countries. And we're talking about it because it's growing all the time - the world is more indebted now than it has ever been. The Covid pandemic triggered the biggest surge in debt around the world since World War II. That is what is being discussed at the IMF and World Bank Spring meetings. where finance ministers, central bankers, CEOs and experts are gathered. Listen to World Business Report to find out more
4/13/202327 minutes, 17 seconds
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US inflation rate lowest in two years

US inflation fell to 5% last month – the lowest rate since May 2021. March’s monthly consumer price index – which measures the price of a ‘basket’ of goods and services – continued its steady decline from its peak of just over 9%. It prompted US President Joe Biden to tweet that: “Inflation has come down 45% since its summer peak. Gas prices are down, and grocery prices fell last month for the first time since September 2020”. But the slowdown is not expected to sway officials at the Federal Reserve, who set interest rates. Economists are still expecting an increase. They became fashionable during the pandemic...so why are so-called 'blank cheque' companies now being ripped up? Also known as special purpose acquisition companies - or Spacs - they raise cash by listing on the stock market before looking for a private company to merge with. The biggest of them in Europe, Pegasus Europe, is being wound up, prompting fears that Spacs may be reaching the end of the road. And - do you fancy buying a dinosaur skeleton?...because if you do next week is your big chance. The full skeleton of a T-Rex goes to auction in Switzerland. But you'll need a minimum of around $5 million if you fancy bidding. There is, however, some concern about the whole ethics of selling off such rare fossils. Will the public ever get to see it in future - or will fossil ownership simply become another rich person's toy?
4/12/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Elon Musk’s exclusive BBC interview

Running Twitter has been "quite painful" and "a rollercoaster", Elon Musk has said, in a hastily arranged live interview with the BBC. The multi-billionaire entrepreneur, Elon Musk, said that Running Twitter has been "quite painful" and "a rollercoaster". In an exclusive interview with the BBC he also said he would sell the company if the right person came along. US inflation eased last month to its lowest level in nearly two years, but an uptick in core prices will keep pressure on the Federal Reserve to press ahead with another interest rate increase in May. And, well a pair of trainers once worn by basketball legend Michael Jordan has sold for $2.2m at auction, becoming the priciest shoes ever sold.
4/12/202328 minutes, 9 seconds
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Bright or turbulent? Mixed views on global economy’s prospects

Bright or turbulent? Mixed views on the global economy’s prospects The IMF and World Bank spring conference has been hearing mixed views on the immediate prospects for the global economy. IMF Chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas reckons that ‘turbulence is building and the situation is quite fragile’. But U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen felt that the future looked reasonably bright, and cautioned against ‘overdoing the negativism’. The IMF also raises concerns about the sudden failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank in the United States, and the loss of market confidence in Credit Swiss. The fund warned that global financial stability risks have increased rapidly in the last few months because banks didn't prepare adequately for interest rates increases. And – we report on a novel way of increasing productivity in Bangladesh – providing workers with free glasses to improve their eyesight.
4/11/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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How will global economic tensions impact the IMF’s Spring meeting?

Rahul Tandon hears from experts as the International Monetary Fund says central bank financial stability actions should not take precedence over moves to calm inflation, unless a severe financial crisis occurs. It’s also released a report saying Interest rates in major economies are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile as many as 93% of the countries most vulnerable to climate disasters are either in or at significant risk of debt distress - according to research by ActionAid International. Switzerland's president, Alain Berset, says the government had no choice but to order the takeover of the troubled bank, Credit Suisse by its rival UBS, so as to prevent a financial crisis.
4/11/202327 minutes, 47 seconds
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World funders under pressure

The spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank are beginning in Washington - the major global financial institutions are gathering at a time of profound concern about the problem of persistent inflation, and concern about the health of the banking system after a number of failures of regional banks and wobbles in giant finance houses like Credit Suisse and Deutsche Bank. President Joe Biden arrives in the province on Tuesday to join ceremonies marking the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday peace agreement. He will be meeting business leaders there - and that's significant because business problems with the post-Brexit arrangements in Northern Ireland have been a big factor in the current failure to re-establish devolved government. And Jorge Luis Borges was Argentina's most famous writer - his works, including The Book of Sand, The Aleph and Universal History of Infamy, and he was a key figure in Spanish-language and international literature. He died in 1986 and his wife Maria Kodama became the fervent guardian of his literary estate. She was very strict over how her husband's work could be used, but she died at the end of March, and didn't leave a will. So now rights to the works of have fallen into limbo...
4/10/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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TikTok’s parent company Bytedance records huge profits

Bytedance, a parent company with TikTok, which operates in China, has recorded 79% increase in its profits to around $25 billion dollars last year. Meanwhile China’s financial sector is reeling from a series of new corruption probes and a surge in surprise audits of venture funds. And also - why are people in India consuming more ice cream in Winter?
4/10/202327 minutes, 38 seconds
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Microchips: From shortage to glut

Samsung blames a fall in profits on reduced demand for semiconductors and a slowing economy. Will Bain asks why have we gone from shortages to surplus. We find out how ChatGPT could be in legal hot water over a defamation lawsuit in Australia. And it's 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement, what has it meant for businesses in Northern Ireland.
4/7/202326 minutes, 45 seconds
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Samsung cutting chip production

Samsung Electronics announced that it would make a "meaningful" cut to chip production after flagging a 96% plunge in quarterly operating profit. The chip-making giant said sales had dropped sharply due to a slow global economy and less demand after Covid.
4/7/202327 minutes, 40 seconds
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IMF warns of decade of lost growth

IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva says the next 5 years will see 3% growth, the slowest pace for more than 3 decades. Will Bain asks a former IMF official why the institution is making this warning now. We hear from India as Central Bank there holds interest rates, the 2nd economy to do so in recent days following Australia. And we gets the latest on the civil war engulfing golf, as the US Masters gets underway with 18 players from the Saudi-backed LIV taking part.
4/6/202327 minutes, 38 seconds
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New wave of protests over pension reform

Since January this year, hundreds of thousands of people have walked out across France in protest of proposed changes to the national pension age. France's unions have stepped up action against the unpopular reforms. The protests have made moving around cities difficult with regular traffic jams, train and flight delays.
4/6/202326 minutes, 46 seconds
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Worldwide police operation shuts down criminal website

Police forces around the world have launched what's being called a major joint operation to dismantle one of the biggest criminal marketplaces online. Genesis Market is thought to have sold personal information stolen from more than two million people in the past six years or so. The details have allowed fraudsters to impersonate their victims online without raising suspicions. Often costing less than $1, the personal information let fraudsters log into bank and shopping accounts. Law enforcement agencies from 17 countries were involved in the raids, which began at dawn on Tuesday. The operation was led by the FBI in the US and the Dutch National Police, working alongside the NCA in the UK, the Australian Federal Police, and countries across Europe. Globally, 200 searches were carried out and 120 people were arrested. We hear from a lawyer representing thousands of tens of thousands of claimants who say they've been affected by Johnson and Johnson's trademarked talcum powder product. The claimants are considering a $9 BILLION settlement over claims that the talc-based powder caused cancer. And, Sri Lanka's economic crisis is having a devastating effect on what used to be one of Asia's most successful emerging economies. It's shrunk by a fifth in the last 3 years alone. And that's having an impact on the population, hundreds of thousands of whom are simply packing up to leave the island. We speak to some of them leaving – and those left behind.
4/5/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Leading exporters pull out of Russia

Three leading grain exporters have announced they will no longer handle Russian grain exports. From July, the companies will only charter cargo ships for agricultural shipments from Russia. The move has stoked fresh concerns about global food security and increasing prices.
4/5/202327 minutes, 39 seconds
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Trump’s legal cases pile on the pressure – will his business empire be affected?

The former US President Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty to criminal charges. It’s the latest legal battle he faces. Will it put a strain on Trump’s $2.5 billion business empire? Trump denied the charges during an hour-long court hearing in New York. He stands accused of falsifying records to conceal crimes. The charges focus on hush money paid to porn actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Donald Trump faces other investigations away from the criminal courts, piling pressure on the former Republican President as he prepares to stand again in the next election in 2024 as well as leading a huge business, running golf clubs, hotels and a property portfolio. And – Is the party is over for many of the world’s richest people. Forbes billionaires list has just come out and shows that half of billionaires on the list lost their wealth and got kicked off the list. For the second straight year, both the number of billionaires around the globe has declined, and total billionaire wealth has dropped too –down by $500 billion to $12.2 trillion.
4/5/202349 minutes, 11 seconds
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Trump’s legal cases pile on the pressure – will it affect his business empire?

The former US President Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty to criminal charges. It’s the latest legal battle he faces. Will it put a strain on Trump’s $2.5 billion business empire? Trump denied the charges during an hour-long court hearing in New York. He stands accused of falsifying records to conceal crimes. The charges focus on hush money paid to porn actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Donald Trump faces other investigations away from the criminal courts, piling pressure on the former Republican President as he prepares to stand again in the next election in 2024 as well as leading a huge business, running golf clubs, hotels and a property portfolio. And – what makes a great company? We take a look at a new list of the top 100 companies to work for….
4/4/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Credit Suisse chairman apologises to investors

Furious investors have criticised Credit Suisse chairman Alex Lehmann, at the bank’s final shareholder meeting. Mr Lehmann apologised to the audience and explained why he thought the bank had failed.
4/4/202326 minutes, 42 seconds
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US reaction to OPEC oil production cut

Oil prices have surged after several of the world’s largest exporters announced a cut in production. Saudi Arabia, Iraq and several Gulf states announced they were cutting output by more than a million barrels of oil a day. Also, Russia said it will extend its cut of half a million barrels per day until the end of the year. The price of Brent has risen by almost 6% as a result to around $85 a barrel. The cutback in production caught the rest of the world by surprise – not least in the US, which had been calling for an increase. Today oil producers in the US have been giving their reaction. The French President, Emmanuel Macron is on his way to Beijing, aiming to build bridges between his country and China, just as the world's second-largest economy gets closer to Russia. Also heading there is the European Commission President, Ursula Von Der Leyen. Both she and President Macron will be meeting with President Xi on Wednesday. But while Macron seemingly wants to improve diplomatic relations, Von Der Leyen has been taking a spikier approach of late. The cost of living crisis may be blighting livelihoods, indeed national economies all round the world, but there's at least one business that does seem to be booming at the moment. Weddings. Post pandemic the number of weddings is surging, a 60% increase compared to 2020 in the US, it's thought and by some estimates the global industry could quadruple over the next decade.
4/4/202349 minutes, 20 seconds
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Reaction from US as oil prices surge after several of the world’s largest exporters announce a cut in production.

Oil prices have surged after several of the world’s largest exporters announced a cut in production. Saudi Arabia, Iraq and several Gulf states announced they were cutting output by more than a million barrels of oil a day. Also, Russia said it will extend its cut of half a million barrels per day until the end of the year. The price of Brent has risen by almost 6% as a result to around $85 a barrel. The cutback in production caught the rest of the world by surprise – not least in the US, which had been calling for an increase. Today oil producers in the US have been giving their reaction. Also – we look at 50 years of the barcode…technology which transformed the global supply chain.
4/3/202326 minutes, 29 seconds
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Production cut sends oil prices high

Oil prices have surged after Saudi Arabia, Iraq and several Gulf states said on Sunday they were cutting output by more than one million barrels of oil a day. In addition, Russia said it will extend its cut of half a million barrels per day until the end of the year. Now markets are raising concerns about petrol prices which is again demonstrating the dependence of the global economy from the oil industry.
4/3/202327 minutes, 36 seconds
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New tax credits for US electric vehicles

Under the new US guidance other carmakers would be able to partake in a subsidy for electric vehicles purchases if it meets a threshold set by the government for sourcing and processing components. The board of the International Monetary Fund has approved a four year package of loans for Ukraine, worth $15 billion. The IMF said the money would help ensure Ukraine's financial stability. Going to college is an expensive business - especially in the US. A recent poll found a majority of Americans don’t think a college degree is worth the cost - 56% of Americans think earning a four-year degree is a bad bet compared with 42% who retain faith in the credential. We hear from an NYU graduate.
3/31/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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Japan enters the chip war

Following similar moves by the US and the Netherlands, Japan announces measures that could restrict the supply of semiconductors to China. Rahul Tandon finds out why the country is taking these steps now. As the IPL gets underway we take a look at how the broadcast deal for the world's richest cricket competition compares to other sports. And, are you one of the billions of Candy Crush players? We hear from the boss of the company behind the game on a potential takeover from Microsoft.
3/31/202327 minutes, 54 seconds
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White House plans to strengthen the US banking system

Banks with between $100 billion and $250 billion in assets are going to need to hold more liquid assets, increase their capital, submit to regular stress tests and write "living wills" according to President Joe Biden's latest plans to keep US banks afloat. We take a look at one of the world’s fastest ageing countries – Japan. Less than 800,000 births were reported in the country last year which has prompted the government to plan more incentives for family planning for young couples. Also we hear from an attorney in Orlando as Disney have managed to sidestep Florida's governors board plans with a clause that involves King Charles III.
3/30/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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Bankers who helped Putin's cellist convicted

The 4 bank executives the Zurich branch of Gazprombank were found guilty allowing a friend of Vladimir Putin to deposit huge sums in Swiss banks. Rahul Tandon asks if the Swiss Government could have done more to prevent it happening. We get the latest as the International Court of Justice rules on a claim from Iran that Washington illegally allowed courts to freeze assets of Iranian companies. And we find out how much tax Premier League football clubs may have avoided paying.
3/30/202326 minutes, 46 seconds
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US making investments across Africa

The US is building stronger relationships in Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia as Kamala Harris takes a tour of Africa and announces more investment on the continent as the US government attempts to play catch up as it sees countries like China and Russia making big investments.
3/29/202326 minutes, 45 seconds
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The future of AI on hold?

A group of experts, including likes of Elon Musk and the Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak have signed an open letter calling for a 6 month pause on the development of AI technologies. David Harper speaks to one of the signatories about their concerns over the future of the technology. The BBC's Economics Editor Faisal Islam tells us about the risk social media poses to banks following the demise of Silicon Valley Bank. And can Amsterdam tidy up its image? A new campaign is looking at deterring rowdy tourists visiting the Dutch capital.
3/29/202327 minutes, 55 seconds
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Do US banks need more regulation?

The US Senate's banking committee had some blunt questions for US bank regulators including those from the central bank, the Federal Reserve about how they didn't spot the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. Now they’ll be lots of questions about whether more regulation is needed.
3/28/202327 minutes, 50 seconds
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What the world owes China

Rahul Tandon speaks to one of the authors of a new report that looks at how much is China lending to the world and asks if it is putting countries into debt traps. We get the latest as one of world's biggest internet companies, the Chinese firm, Alibaba, says it's splitting up into six separate businesses. And we hear from France as protests against pension reforms enter a 10th day.
3/28/202326 minutes, 43 seconds
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Will the sale of Silicon Valley Bank relieve pressure on the system?

After a few weeks of bad news about bank failures, financial markets are slowly coming back to normal. Central banks around the world have stressed that the banking system is safe and lenders are well capitalised. Analysts, however, admit that risks to financial stability have increased.
3/27/202326 minutes, 45 seconds
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World on strike

Today, there are protests in Kenya over the rising cost of living and in Germany, two of the country's biggest trade unions are holding a 24 hour strike over pay. Most flights, trains, ferries and buses have been cancelled. Workers want at least a 10% boost to their salaries, to help them cope with rapidly rising prices in Germany.
3/27/202327 minutes, 56 seconds
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Deutsche Bank suffers

Our presenter Roger Hearing discusses the banking crisis as high profile investors fear there are more pockets of distress yet to emerge after the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank and problems at Credit Suisse. Museums come under the spotlight as the Acropolis Museum in Athens today welcomed back three fragments of the Parthenon marbles from the Vatican in a special ceremony. Many Greeks think more of its ancient treasures should be brought back home and not kept in foreign museums. And we head to Peru, where at least 13,000 people are struggling with damages caused by cyclone Yaku. It’s been a week since this rare phenomenon hit the country, but rains and landslides persist.
3/24/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Europe's banking woes

Our presenter Will Bain we be taking a look at Europe's Banking situation as Deutsche Banks shares fell by 14% and other banks are struggling. We will be hearing from the former head of the European Central Bank Peter Hahn on what he thinks is going wrong. The China Development Forum returns for the first time in person since before the pandemic. The event is usually attended by foreign representatives from across the world, however this year some US companies won't be attending. Popular TV show Succession is back on our screens. People absolutely love the show but what is it about boardroom drama that keeps us wanting more, we find out from a TV expert. (Picture: Economy graph: red down arrow, cash euro banknotes and stock exchange board.
3/24/202327 minutes, 18 seconds
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Europe's banking woes

Our presenter Will Bain we be taking a look at Europe's Banking situation as Deutsche Banks shares fell by 14% and other banks are struggling. We will be hearing from the former head of the European Central Bank Peter Hahn on what he thinks is going wrong. The China Development Forum returns for the first time in person since before the pandemic. The event is usually attended by foreign representatives from across the world, however this year some US companies won't be attending. Popular TV show Succession is back on our screens. People absolutely love the show but what is it about boardroom drama that keeps us wanting more, we find out from a TV expert.
3/24/202313 minutes, 39 seconds
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TikTok's CEO plays down ties with China in US Congress grilling

The Chinese app's boss, Shou Zi Chew, tried to defend the firm during a hostile questioning from the US House Committee on Energy and Commerce. We analyse what we learnt about TikTok from the hearing.
3/24/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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TikTok CEO gives evidence to the US congress

TikTok's boss Shou Zi Chew faced a grilling by the US congress over the safety of the social media app. TikTok is owned by Chinese company ByteDance and there are fears that the owners will share data with the Chinese government. The video hosting service has 150 million US users. The European Commission has drafted a plan to allow the sales of new cars with internal combustion engines after 2035 if they run only on climate neutral e-fuels. This means carmakers could keep selling combustion engine vehicles after 2035, the date when a planned EU law is set to ban the sale of new CO2-emitting cars. It is the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and its comes as cost of living has gone up around the world with food, fuel and gas prices up. Millions of Muslims around the world who are fasting are feeling the pinch of inflation.
3/23/202327 minutes, 24 seconds
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The Fed raises rates again

For the ninth time in a row, the US Federal Reserve has increased interest rates, up by 0.25%. Announcing the rise Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell said the Fed is focused on tackling inflation. Roger Hearing gets reaction from both Wall Street and Main Street to the news. Argentina's economy expanded in the fourth-quarter of 2022, despite inflation of 102% in the country. We hear what's behind the economic growth in the face of huge pressures. And we get the latest from Florida, where the world's first launch of a 3D printed rocket is due to take place.
3/22/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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All eyes on the US Federal Reserve

The US Federal Reserve will decided on whether to raise interest rate as they struggle to stabilise prices due to the rising cost of living. The collapse of two regional banks this months has highlighted their risks. Ukraine has reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund to secure more than 15 billion dollars worth of loans to help support the country's economy. In Somalia as Ramadan begins, Muslims who usually break a dawn-to-dusk fast with lavish family meals, are now stressed to secure even the most basic diets due to rising food costs.
3/22/202327 minutes, 23 seconds
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Russia looks to China for an agreement on a new gas pipeline

Russia is looking to sign an agreement with China to build a new pipeline through Siberia. Moscow put forward the idea many years ago, but it has gained urgency as it turns to China to replace Europe as its main gas customer. Google is rolling out it’s AI Chat Bard. It can access up-to-date information from the internet and has a "Google it" button which accesses search. Ramadan, the month of fasting for Muslims is about to get underway. Dates are one fruit that is much sought after to break the fast and we hear from an Egyptian company that exports the fruit across the world. Presenter Roger Hearing brings you up to date with the main global business stories.
3/21/202327 minutes, 50 seconds
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Sri Lanka bailout: Will it really get better?

IMF has approved a $3bn bailout package for the bankrupted Sri Lanka. The nation's foreign minister pledged to reconstruct its state-own enterprises and their national airline but it seems like there is still a long road ahead for the island in South Asia, after getting multiple blows by the pandemic, increasing energy prices, tax cuts and the skyrocketed inflation. BBC’s lead presenter Ed Butler joins Will Bain from Columbo, the nation's capital, to find out what is coming next for some 22 million Sri Lankans. How would things change?
3/21/202327 minutes, 25 seconds
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Sri Lanka's $2.9bn bailout by IMF

Sri Lanka has secured a $2.9bn bailout from the International Monetary Fund as it faces its worst economic and social crisis since independence. A day after UBS Bank brought Credit Suisse out of financial trouble uncertainty in the markets have calmed down. The former finance Minister of Canada Joe Oliver gives his take on if politicians can have much influence on a financial crisis... China's leader Xi Jinping showed the importance of close relations between Russia and China at a dinner hosted by Vladimir Putin on Monday. This comes days after an international court called for the Russian president's arrest for war crimes in Ukrain.
3/20/202326 minutes, 29 seconds
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Why has Credit Suisse been taken over?

Banking stocks remain under pressure in London and across Europe today after the takeover of Credit Suisse by rival Swiss bank UBS failed to calm markets. Will Bain talks to companies affected and financial experts about the implications for the global financial system.
3/20/202327 minutes, 22 seconds
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Global share markets unconvinced by support to rescue banks

Half a trillion dollars have been wiped from the value of bank shares around the world as financial shocks dived this week. The fallout is ongoing after the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) spreads through global markets. The authorities are stepping in to get the situation under control, but some deposit holders are still feeling nervous. For now, many analysts say they think the shock will be contained.
3/17/202328 minutes
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First Republic: 11 US banks ride to rescue

Another bank bail-out has taken place this week. 11 giant US financial institutions said they will deposit $30 billion dollars in California’s First Republic Bank, to try to revive it from a whirling financial storm. Familiar names like J.P. Morgan and Citi are among those institutions which join the unusual bail-out campaign. US treasurer Janet Yellen reassured markets that banks in the US are still strong and healthy. The French government strongarmed their lawmakers to push its controversial pension reform package through on Thursday, sparking another wave of protests in many cities. The unions are now calling for another national strike next Thursday. Will President Macron back down again?
3/17/202326 minutes, 29 seconds
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First Republic: 11 US banks ride to rescue

Another bank bail-out has taken place this week. 11 giant US financial institutions said they will deposit $30 billion dollars in California’s First Republic Bank, to try to revive it from a whirling financial storm. Familiar names like J.P. Morgan and Citi are among those institutions which join the unusual bail-out campaign. US treasurer Janet Yellen reassured markets that banks in the US are still strong and healthy. The French government strongarmed their lawmakers to push its controversial pension reform package through on Thursday, sparking another wave of protests in many cities. The unions are now calling for another national strike next Thursday. Will President Macron back down again?
3/17/202327 minutes, 30 seconds
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Major US banks come up with $30bn to rescue First Republic

Eleven US major private banks have confirmed they have launched a thirty-billion-dollar rescue package for First Republic Bank. And what about those who never use banks at all? We hear about the challenges for the billions of unbanked people and businesses around the world. Protests in Paris as the French president pushes through controversial plans to raise the pension age to 64. And why sleeper trains are being revived across Europe from a 'slow travel' company founder.
3/16/202327 minutes, 41 seconds
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Credit Suisse gets $54 billion lifeline

Credit Suisse accepted a $54 billion bailout fund from Switzerland’s Central Bank, after its share price plunged up to 30% on Wednesday. The nation’s second largest bank’s stock price rebounded on Thursday but with issues surrounding the bank for years, investors are asking if the bailout money will save it from more trouble. Despite the bank crisis in Europe, The European Central Bank has decided to raise Eurozone interests rate by 0.5 percentage points. Meanwhile in the UK, Tik Tok has been banned in all government devices – following similar moves in the EU and elsewhere. (Picture: Getty Images)
3/16/202326 minutes, 27 seconds
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Swiss central bank ready for Credit Suisse support

Credit Suisse could be in line for support from regulators if it is needed. The comments from the Swiss National Bank come after shares in Credit Suisse plunged 24% to a record low. Banks in Lebanon are facing a crisis with depositors holding some up to get their deposits out. We hear about the fallout from a former finance minister. Argentina's inflation rate has soared past 100% for the first time since the end of hyperinflation in the early 90s. Consumer goods have more than doubled in price since 2022. We hear what this means for people finances.
3/16/202354 minutes, 22 seconds
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Swiss central bank ready for Credit Suisse support

Credit Suisse could be in line for support from regulators if it is needed. The comments from the Swiss National Bank come after shares in Credit Suisse plunged 24% to a record low. Banks in Lebanon are facing a crisis with depositors holding some up to get their deposits out. We hear about the fallout from a former finance minister. Argentina's inflation rate has soared past 100% for the first time since the end of hyperinflation in the early 90s. Consumer goods have more than doubled in price since 2022, and we hear what this means for people finances.
3/15/202327 minutes, 59 seconds
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Credit Suisse shares plunge as concerns over bank widen

The share price of Credit Suisse took another nosedive in the markets, hitting its all-time low for the second consecutive day by tanking up to 30% as Saudi National Bank, the Swiss bank's largest backer, ruled out the possibility of further financial help. Share indexes across the world including the UK's FTSE-100, the US's Dow Jones and Nasdaq have been all down as Credit Suisse put more pressure on an already-anxious market. Is Credit Suisse at risk of following Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank's footsteps? What impact would that have globally if it happened? In the Middle East, Lebanese banks are on indefinite strike now. Nasser Saidi, the nation’s former finance minister, will paint us a picture of what’s going on there in today's programme. (Picture: BBC)
3/15/202326 minutes, 28 seconds
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Facebook owner Meta announces plans to cut 10,000 jobs

Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, is cutting 10,000 jobs. The tech giant laid off 11,000 employees last November. China is to start issuing tourist visas to travellers for the first time in three years. The last cross-border control measure was imposed to guard against Covid-19 and comes after authorities declared victory over the virus. It's a month after a devastating earthquake killed nearly 50,000 people in southern Turkey. Plans to rebuild the economy from the Syrian side of the border are underway. We hear the story of one child worker called Abdullah and how he is dealing with the aftermath of the quake.
3/15/202327 minutes, 49 seconds
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US bank crisis: The fallout continues

As the US bank crisis has unfolded in recent days, the global market has been rattled, but it looks like investors are now digesting the news about Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, as regional bank share surges. The Nikkei share index dropped by more than 2% but some experts are saying this crisis is nothing like the one in 2008. How big will the fallout be? Will the crisis alter the US Federal Reserve’s thinking on interest rate rises? (Picture: Getty Images)
3/14/202326 minutes, 29 seconds
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Silicon Valley Bank collapse: what happens next?

President Biden has said the US banking system remains safe, after the failure of the California-based Silicon Valley Bank. In a televised address from the White House, Mr Biden said his administration had acted to ensure that SVB customers would be able to get all their money. It is the largest failure of a US bank since the financial crisis in 2008.
3/14/202326 minutes, 54 seconds
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SVB Crisis: What happened and what’s ahead?

Over the weekend, Signature Bank was closed by the US regulator - the second closure in the past few days following the shutdown of Silicon Valley Bank. HSBC’s UK arm has bought SVB’s UK subsidiary for a pound and finance minister Jeremy Hunt reassured all companies can access normal banking services at SVB UK. US President Joe Biden has pledged to the public that their deposits would be protected, and people will continue to have access to their money but it seems like some investors smell blood in the water. First Republic Bank saw its shares crash 74 percent. Other banks are down sharply. So what has happened in recent days and should we brace for impact for a full-blown financial crisis?
3/14/202327 minutes, 42 seconds
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Mo Ibrahim - founder of one of Africa's biggest mobile phone companies

Mo Ibrahim talks to Rahul Tandon about the challenges he faced setting up Celtel mobile phone company in Africa. He explains how he used scratchcards to provide people with a pay as you go service, why he sold the business and the development of the mobile phone industry. Mo Ibrahim also talks about setting up his own Foundation to support governance and leadership in Africa and why he thinks the continent needs to develop its own natural resources.
12/26/202226 minutes, 27 seconds
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Review of the year - 2021

The big event of 2021 that will shape economies all over the world for decades to come was the COP 26 climate conference in Glasgow in November. The meeting saw a deluge of promises, but what was actually achieved? Martin Webber speaks to Tim Gould, chief energy economist at the International Energy Agency and economist Irwin Stelzer, from the Hudson Institute in the United States. It was another boom year for the pharmaceutical industry as it crafted the vaccines that have saved so many lives. Of the 8 billion coronavirus vaccinations worldwide, one billion have been delivered by the US logistics company, UPS. We hear from Wes Wealer, President of UPS healthcare. And small business owners have had a bleak time for much of the past year. But many of those that have survived now feel optimistic. We hear from the owner of the Aroma speciality coffee shop in Bologna in Italy, Cristina Caroli, about her year.
12/24/202127 minutes, 24 seconds
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Review of the year - 2020

Covid-19 is set to prompt radical long term changes to how we live and work, so what lessons can be learnt when we eventually emerge from the pandemic? Could the changes in the way we work herald higher productivity and happier people in the future? We hear the stories of the people who managed to thrive during a very difficult year, including the milkman who saw a boom in deliveries and the dancer who found work in South Korea when the London stage went dark. Martin Webber is joined by Professor Devi Sridhar who holds the Chair of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh; economist Roger Bootle, of Capital Economics; Robert Reich, former Labour Secretary under President Clinton; Tomas Philipson, who was Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors under Mr Trump; and actor Thomas Inge who is currentl starring in the musical Cats in South Korea.
12/25/202027 minutes, 49 seconds
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Hong Kong pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai detained

Hong Kong media tycoon and pro-democracy supporter Jimmy Lai has been charged with fraud. We hear from Mr Lai in his last interview before being detained, and get a sense of the mood for businesses in the city from Mike Bird of the Wall Street Journal. Also in the programme, Ivana Davidovic reports on China's war against food waste. China's leader Xi Jinping has launched a campaign targeting food waste in the country. Jian Yi, who has been at the forefront of promoting a sustainable food system in China, and founded the Good Food Fund tells us President Xi's announcement came as a surprise. With some local authorities in China aiming to limit the amount of food diners order, Priscilla Young, co-founder of Brut Eatery, which has five outlets in Shanghai, is not sure of the benefits of a heavy-handed approach to curbing dining excess. James Palmer explains how Chinese complex relationship with food stems from centuries of famines. And we hear from Szechuan food and culture expert Fuchsia Dunlop how Chinese New Year feasts reveal why ordering too much is a sign of good luck for the future. Plus, we find out how the fashion industry is adapting to coronavirus from Caroline Rush, chief executive of the British Fashion Council.
12/3/202026 minutes, 28 seconds