The Fin

This week on The Fin, professional services reporter Maxim Shanahan on why King & Wood Mallesons is struggling to manage risk and conflicts across its jurisdictions.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie BroadbandFurther reading: ‘We didn’t have a hope in hell’: KWM’s cautionary China taleA corrupt wind farm deal in Montenegro, a controversial Russian legal conference and the financial problems of one of its most senior executives have thrown the spotlight on the Sino-Australian law firm.Calls for tougher rules amid KWM dramaThe senators who led the inquiry into the PwC tax leaks scandal say King & Wood Mallesons’ troubles expose flaws in the governance of top law firms.KWM sues former global chief operating officerKing & Wood Mallesons is suing a former member of its international management committee for debt relating to loans worth more than $1 million.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin, technology editor Paul Smith discusses the AI future and whether it is more likely to be utopia or dystopia. This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband.Further reading: Waymo’s robot driver was too scared to take us where we wanted to goThe self-driving taxis are an experience to remember but their post LA-riot nerves rendered them unable to use human logic, and left us stranded.Apocalypse or a four-day week? What AI might mean for youIf you’re “AGI-pilled” and you believe artificial intelligence will soon surpass humans, you’re probably worried about your job. But insiders reckon that might be the least of our problems.From ‘lucky country’ to ‘left-behind country’: Matt Comyn’s AI warningExecutives say Australia is in danger of falling behind as the rise of artificial intelligence creates a profound change in the way people and businesses work. Save 50% or more on unlimited access to the Australian Financial Review in our EOFY sale, ending June 30.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Joanna Mather and Michelle Bowes on how the super tax will work, why it’s so controversial and what people are doing to get ready for it. This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband. Further reading: 7 ways the wealthiest will beat the $3m super taxInvestment bonds, an early inheritance for the kids or just cop it on the chin? Affected taxpayers are weighing their options.ATO puts wealthy families on notice over $3m super taxThe new tax is not yet law but the ATO wants to understand the “behavioural responses” to the planned tax that might already be occurring.There is a case to reform super tax breaks. But not this wayAustralia’s tax breaks on retirement balances are generous. But the treasurer is going about reform the wrong way, experts say.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, economics correspondent Michael Read on why the Reserve Bank is cutting rates and what it means for people like him trying to buy a house. This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband. Further reading: Australia on verge of house price boom: economistHistory suggests that once the RBA starts cutting, property fever hits quickly. One prominent expert says a 10 to 15 per cent price rise is coming. Bullock flags more rate cuts as RBA slashes growth forecastsDonald Trump’s trade war has forced the RBA to lower its projections for growth in investment, household spending and exports, as it cut the cash rate again. House price risk won’t stop another rate cut: BullockReserve Bank of Australia governor Michele Bullock expects state and federal governments to do the heavy lifting on housing affordability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin, political editor Phillip Coorey and former Labor adviser and AFR columnist Lidija Ivanovski talk about the decimation of the Opposition, the uphill battle facing Sussan Ley and the fierce debate over the Super Tax.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie BroadbandFurther reading:The longer the split, the harder it will be to reconcileSussan Ley, who used to hold her own in shearing sheds, is playing hard ball.It took five days for the Coalition to fall apartNegotiations between the two parties fell at the first hurdle. When parliament resumes, the Liberals will hold all 30 shadow ministries and the Nationals will be on the crossbench.How Albanese learnt from Labor losers and won big on SaturdayFor six months, he has been privately telling his supporters that he had the plan to deliver Labor a second-term majority, and the skill to pull it off. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast: senior reporter Jonathan Shapiro on Buffett’s legacy and whether his catchphrase ‘never bet against America’ still stands.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie BroadbandFurther reading: Fear, loathing (and hope) as finance’s elite gather in LAPrivate equity titans and dealmakers converging at the Milken Institute Global Conference this week were relentlessly optimistic in public, but the tone was different behind the scenes.US billionaire’s Sydney taxi ride sparks $6.2b super-like initiativeMichael Milken is gathering support for a plan to emulate the Australian superannuation system and give every child a $US1000 share account.Warren Buffett steps down, delivering a parting shot against tariffsThe disciples of legendary investor Warren Buffett gathered in Omaha seeking reassurances of America’s future, instead they got a bombshell about his future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin, James Thomson and Joyce Moullakis on James Hardie’s latest controversy, why shareholders don’t get to vote and what they want to change.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie BroadbandFurther reading: The great ASX investor uprising delivers very hollow victoryThe hated James Hardie takeover of a US group is going ahead, but investors have at least won some important concessions.Inside the biggest investor uprising in three decadesInvestor anger over the James Hardie deal is being compared to 1993’s investor rebellion against Murdoch’s plans for “super voting shares”. Now the ASX is in the gun.ASX compliance chief rejects rule gaming suggestionDaniel Moran likened the ASX’s role in the controversial James Hardie transaction to that of a referee on a sporting field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, political editor Phillip Coorey, economics editor John Kehoe and economics correspondent Michael Read on what the Labor Party will do with its mandate and who the Coalition should put in its new leadership team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast: Mark Di Stefano talks about the rise of one of Australian sport’s most powerful men and takes us inside the battle to control the future of racing and rugby league.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie BroadbandFurther reading:Inside the plot to ‘get rid’ of Peter V’landysIn his climb to the top of racing and rugby league, Peter V’landys has broken the rules and challenged the system. But now some in the system are fighting back.How Peter V’landys built a property empireOver two decades under the leadership of Peter V’landys, Racing NSW and the NRL have splurged millions of dollars on residential and commercial real estate.Racing royalty launch broadside against V’landys leadershipChampion trainers Gai Waterhouse and Chris Waller are among the authors of a scathing letter about racing governance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phillip Coorey and the panel on the seats that will decide the election, whether the AAA credit rating is really under threat and what Labor and the Coalition aren’t telling us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Financial Review columnist and former ambassador to China, Geoff Raby on the US-China trade war, what it means for Australia and why Washington and Beijing will do a deal. This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband Further reading: Australia faces hit from Trump’s trade warThe IMF has cut its growth forecast for the country by half a percentage point, in a sign it won’t be immune from a global slowdown triggered by US tariffs. Japan eyes pact with China, South Korea as trade war hedgeTokyo signals renewed interest in negotiations with a personal letter from Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to Chinese President Xi Jinping. China hits back at US with 125pc tariffsBeijing escalated the trade war with the United States by again raising tariffs and accusing the Trump administration of “unilateral bullying and coercion”.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's podcast guests are Canberra Bureau Chief Tom McIlroy and Foreign affairs and Defence correspondent Andrew Tillet. They join Lisa Murray and Phil Coorey to discuss the coalition's plan to increase defence spending, the erosion of trust in institutions and the potential risks of following American political trends in Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin, senior reporter Jonathan Shapiro and Chanticleer columnist James Thomson on what's going on in markets, how Australia is more exposed than ever, and why the Trump chaos is changing the world. This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband.Further reading: Trump’s crisis is only beginning. It will make you question everything Chalmers is determined not to waste Trump crisis. But it will get ugly Viktor Shvets fears ‘Lehman Bros moment’ amid fresh tariff chaos The bond market teaches Trump the art of the squeal See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, political editor Phillip Coorey, deputy editor, news, Jessica Gardner, economics editor John Kehoe, and senior writer Myriam Robin take apart Labor and the Coalition’s housing policies, discuss why tax reform is so hard and unpack the battle for Kooyong.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin, Health editor Michael Smith on the battle to save Healthscope, the war between insurers and hospitals and whether private equity is messing up the healthcare system. This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband.Further reading: Tensions build between David Di Pilla’s HMC Capital and HealthscopeWhen the hospitals group ran out of money to pay its rent this year, its landlord responded with a bid to buy the company.Hedge fund interest in Healthscope triggers break-up concernsThe country’s second-largest private hospital operator is negotiating with lenders to stave off insolvency in the middle of a federal election campaign.Di Pilla spruiks Healthscope bid, says he’ll keep hospitals runningThe veteran dealmaker’s HMC Capital has been eyeing the country’s second-largest operator of private hospitals, and says his proposal is “a serious one”.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, political editor Phillip Coorey, former Labor adviser Lidija Ivanovski and NSW political correspondent Paul Karp talk about how Trump's tariffs decision has changed the focus of the campaign and why betting markets are finally catching up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, North Asia correspondent Jessica Sier and motoring writer Tony Davis on Tesla’s challenges, the rise of BYD and whether a five-minute battery charge could be the real game changer.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband.Further reading: BYD overtakes Tesla to secure pole position in EV raceThe Chinese electric carmaker’s latest full-year financial results reveal the extent of this power shift, with it surpassing the $US100 billion revenue mark.Tesla’s new strategy as sales fall: Openness (but don’t mention Musk)The Cybertruck is being shown off at a Sydney expo and executives are free to speak for the first time in years as Tesla takes a new tack amid falling sales.Trump tariffs deliver body blow to Japan’s auto industryAfter embracing the return of a once staunch ally, Japan’s car makers now find themselves on the front line of the trade war despite huge investments in the US.NEWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, political editor Phillip Coorey, economics editor John Kehoe and political correspondent Ronald Mizen talk about who has had the best start, what effect Trump’s tariffs and China’s ‘spy’ ship will have on the election and what happens on the campaign bus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the federal election underway, The Fin is releasing a special weekly podcast for the duration of the campaign called Election 2025. Every Tuesday, The Fin host Lisa Murray and political editor Phillip Coorey will be joined by The Australian Financial Review’s political experts to break down the critical voter issues, analyse the latest polls and pick out the key battlegrounds. For the latest updates from the campaign trail and best analysis on the political strategies that will influence the result, tune in to The Fin’s political panels from 5pm, Tuesday. The Fin: Election 2025 can be found by searching The Fin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, professional services reporter Maxim Shanahan and Rear Window columnist Hannah Wootton on Slater and Gordon’s workplace meltdown and the mysterious woman at the centre of it all. Quotes in this episode are voiced by AFR staff. This podcast is sponsored by AICD.Further reading:Slaters refers former staffer to police over incendiary mass emailThe law firm says a forensic investigation has found the sender of the infamous memo had access to sensitive data and was familiar with its cybersecurity.A decades-long rap sheet of deceit blows open Slater and Gordon probeThe woman whose first name matches metadata in the rogue salary and performance spreadsheet that erupted into a crisis at the law firm is a convicted fraudster.We fact-checked the email Slater and Gordon says is largely fictionThe now infamous all-staff email sent to more than 900 Slater and Gordon staffers was unsparing in its criticism of the firm. Here’s what we know about key claims.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, political editor Phillip Coorey and economics editor John Kehoe on how both sides of politics are planning to spin the budget, who’s ahead in the polls and why the most important person in this election race might not be Anthony Albanese or Peter Dutton.Further reading:Chalmers concedes Labor won’t keep its $275 power bill pledgeJim Chalmers has effectively raised the white flag on the election promise to lower power bills by $275, but says it will be worse under Dutton’s nuclear energy plan.Dutton coming off the boil as election nearsPeter Dutton’s personal ratings and voter expectations of a Coalition victory have fallen sharply, suggesting Labor attacks on the opposition leader are working.We wasted a $400b windfall, and now we’ll all have to payAn audit of federal finances finds Australia has never seen rivers of gold like this, but the hangover will be brutal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, foreign affairs and defence correspondent Andrew Tillett and international affairs expert James Curran on how Donald Trump has disrupted the world order and why we are headed for a khaki-tinged election.Further reading:Trump’s tariffs were inevitable. But Albanese could have done moreLevies on Australian steel and aluminium to the US starting on Wednesday will have domestic political fallout.Albanese rebuffs Trump over call to lift to defence spendingWhile Labor comes under fire over military readiness, figures show defence spending as a share of the federal budget is at highest in almost a decade.Richard Marles’ mindless talking points ignore Trumpian changeElsewhere, Donald Trump’s return is being noticed, and acted upon with decisive swiftness. But it is not happening in Australia yet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior reporter Max Mason and Chanticleer columnist James Thomson discuss WiseTech’s tumultuous five months, Richard White’s second coming and whether he should stay in charge.Further reading:‘I am WiseTech’: How Richard White regained control of his companyOn one side was a group of independent directors with their reputations on the line. On the other, a powerful founder with everything to lose.The billionaire, his lawyer wife – and the secrets of their explosive relationshipRichard White says he would “take a bullet” for his wife but many of the billionaire’s long-time friends are unhappy about the marriage and the couple’s volatile history.King Richard’s return gives WiseTech investors a stark choiceIncredibly, Richard White has more power at WiseTech than at any time since it listed in 2016. But that comes with some big consequences for investors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior writer Myriam Robin and author Neil Chenoweth on the bitter fight for control of the Murdoch empire and why the election of Donald Trump couldn’t have come at a worse time for Rupert’s succession plans.This podcast is sponsored by IG Further reading:The Murdochs go to war – through the mediaRupert and Lachlan have failed, for now, to take control of the family trust. But that outcome is by no means the end to hostilities between the media scions.‘Self-interested people’: Why Murdoch and Trump are back in businessRupert Murdoch is known for aligning his business interests with the politician of the hour. His appearance with Donald Trump this week was no different.Logan Roy’s death morphed into a real life Murdoch succession dramaShortly after the fictional patriarch died on television, the family behind the News and Fox empires began to plot life after their patriarch, Rupert.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, editor-at-large Michael Stutchbury and economics correspondent Michael Read on why the Reserve Bank cut rates this week, whether Bullock is ‘one and done’ and how this affects the timing of the election.This podcast is sponsored by IG.Further reading:RBA rate cut more about politics than economicsAfter roughing up the central bank, Anthony Albanese and Jim Chalmers should take whatever sliver of bacon the RBA will give financially squeezed voters.Bullock shifts rate cut expectations after line-ball decisionPrime Minister Anthony Albanese now has just days to decide whether to call a snap election to capitalise on the RBA rate cut or delay to woo voters further.RBA opens a window for the PM, but will he take the chance?Anthony Albanese may seek to capitalise on Tuesday’s rate cut with a March 29 election, but he could also decide that it is not enough to sway voters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, AFR Magazine contributor Brook Turner on why Sydney has become the epicentre of this battle and whether there is still a place in Australia for single-sex schools. This podcast is sponsored by IG. Further reading:‘We became a pinata’: The culture war tearing a school apartHow its decision to go co-ed made Newington College in Sydney the country’s most talked-about school.‘We did not expect the intensity’: Newington hits back at co-ed rowCoeducation is seen as the future of school. So why is Newington College in Sydney at the centre of a debate so hot that parents are withdrawing boys?Why coeducation is so fraught in AustraliaAre single-sex schools – no, make that boys-only schools – deserving of the bad rap they get? Are they hotbeds of toxic masculinity? Are girls better off without boys disrupting their classes and smashing their self-confidence?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior reporter Jonathan Shapiro and technology editor Paul Smith on DeepSeek’s breakthrough, why Australia has banned its use on government devices and what this all means for 'the magnificent seven' US tech stocks that have been pushing markets to record highs.Further reading: DeepSeek drama: are markets all-in on the most dangerous idea in history?While investors fret about what the arrival of DeepSeek means for their all-in bet on American artificial intelligence dominance, they’re ignoring even bigger questions.Is big tech’s AI future really what we’re looking for?The race is on to build the fastest, most efficient AI models and hopefully tech companies will start developing the products we want to use.Labor bans DeepSeek from government devicesAustralia has banned Chinese artificial intelligence service DeepSeek from government devices over national security concerns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Europe correspondent Hans van Leeuwen on how companies and governments are responding to Trump, 2.0, whether diversity programs are under threat and why Australians have stopped going to Davos.Further reading: Trump slams Europe, threatens ‘trillions’ in tariffsThe president lambasted Canada’s trade surplus with the US and also fired a verbal volley at the European Union’s restrictions on his country.CEOs at Davos feel ready, even heady, for Trump 2.0At the World Economic Forum, much of the global corporate elite is responding with surprising optimism to the new president’s radical and hyperactive agenda.Has Trump killed DEI? Davos might have the answerThe World Economic Forum summit, where the liberal cosmopolitan elite gathers to network and self-congratulate, will be an early litmus test for Trump 2.0.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin, Travel editor Fiona Carruthers discusses the outlook for tourism, why flights are getting cheaper, which airlines are likely to give you the best deal and why Greenland is suddenly on everyone’s list.Further reading: Europe calling? A guide to predicting the cheapest faresIf you’re wondering whether to book your 2025 flights now or to wait, recent average prices are a handy benchmark.The hottest travel spots as the economy turns coldJapan is cool, Bali is always warm, but Vietnam is so hot right now. The cost-of-living pinch is driving Australians to make sure their overseas holiday hits the mark.Why Australians should ditch Europe this ChristmasAfter a dire year for the currency, those heading to the northern hemisphere should consider looking elsewhere to get the most bang for their buck.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first of a two-part series, The Fin podcast talks to the critics around the Financial Review newsroom to get their recommendations for film, television, books and music. Further reading: The 10 best albums of 2024 (if Taylor Swift isn’t your jam)Soulful singer songwriters, rising indie superstars, Australian up-and-comers and a floor-filling techno god. Welcome to the year’s best sounds.12 books fiction lovers will give (or hope to receive)We asked prominent Australian writers, readers, tome-buyers and page turners to tell us what they are most hoping to get – and send to others.This might be the most explosive tennis movie ever madeChallengers packs a punch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outgoing Rear Window editor Myriam Robin tells us about the megalomaniac trying to solve Australia’s housing crisis, the column’s biggest scoop and the rebellion underway at the country’s most exclusive clubs.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband. Further reading:Peter V’landys bogged down in a multibillion-dollar property playThe influential CEO of Racing NSW is staring down allegations aired confidentially by purported whistleblowers to a parliamentary inquiry.Gina Rinehart lobbies NGA to remove portrait Being Australia’s richest resident comes with some perks. Who knew said benefits included a network of flunkies who will bombard a national institution over a painting you don’t like?Who’s in (and out) at the Australian Club Who coughs up the hefty annual membership fee at Sydney’s Australian Club on Macquarie Street? Why, we’re so glad you asked.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, James Eyers on why Donald Trump is a crypto bro, whether Bitcoin’s price will stay at these record levels and how regulators are playing catch up. This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband. Further reading:ASIC moves to expand its oversight of crypto and digital assetsThe corporate regulator’s new guidance outlines more than a dozen examples of how it intends to assess what is in – and out – of financial services laws.A bitcoin convention in Sydney rings crypto alarm bellsBitcoin is up almost 130 per cent this year and the US election result put a rocket under crypto. But there are still plenty of ways to lose money in an (unregulated) bull market.Bitcoin smashes through $US100,000 as traders eye ‘huge re-rating’Investors believe the change in attitude towards cryptocurrencies still hasn’t been priced in, making Thursday’s milestone just the beginning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Chanticleer columnist James Thomson and reporter Hannah Wootton on why ASIC is suing Cbus, what it means for industry funds and whether the ‘super wars' are back.This podcast is sponsored by Aussie Broadband. Further reading:How Cbus' big party year went horribly wrongIt's not the biggest or the worst performing of the super funds. So why has Cbus become the poster child for the $4 trillion sector's problems?Big Super's reckoning has arrivedAfter 32 years of guaranteed inflows from workers and scant scrutiny, the $3.9 trillion industry faces customer fury over service, unclear investment practices and questionable governance.Super sector's problems are much bigger than CbusThe damning review of governance at CBUS shows while industry funds have led the way in gathering and growing assets, they now need to play governance catch-up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Technology editor Paul Smith and media and marketing reporter Sam Buckingham-Jones on why the ban is being introduced, what it means for children and parents and whether it could cause a rift with the new US President.This podcast is sponsored by UNSWFurther reading:Why this former TikTok executive wants a strict social media banTikTok hired Felicity McVay to convince Disney, Universal and the AFL to use the platform more. Now she's campaigning to get children off it.Canberra takes on big tech – and Gen Alpha – with social media bansAll Australians could be forced to register official identity documents with social media giants to prove they are over the age of 16.Trump may use tariffs to hit back at PM's tech crackdownAmerican and Australian officials are warning the Albanese government that its crackdown on social media platforms could anger the incoming US president into putting tariffs on $33 billion of exports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Australian Financial Review contributor and former diplomat Geoff Raby on Trump's world and what it means for Australia and why China and Russia are less close than you might think.This podcast is sponsored by UNSWFurther reading: Xi is thumping Putin in the Great GameFormer Australian ambassador to China Geoff Raby takes a deep dive into the “Chussia” partnership. His conclusions about a rising Sinostan would not please the Kremlin.Civil servants to flee as Trump ‘drains the swamp' (again)Everyone knew Trump's cabinet picks would be provocative and a purge of government workers was coming. But they have arrived with stunning speed.G20 goes soft on Russia as Putin threatens to use nuclear weaponsThe G20 has ended with a whimper with watered-down statements on Russia, climate change and the Middle East.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, investigative reporter Neil Chenoweth and Rear Window columnist Mark Di Stefano on how Chris Ellison's secret deal with the tax office came to light, why some investors want the founder to stay on and whether Mineral Resources can draw a line in the sand. This podcast is sponsored by UNSWFurther reading:Inside the two-week unravelling of Chris Ellison's hold on MinResMonday's attempt to draw a line in the sand still leaves unanswered questions for shareholders and investigators about the goings-on at Mineral Resources.Meet Chris Ellison's personal accountantYenna Ong, the number cruncher who managed the Mineral Resources founder's private affairs, rapidly gained great power. Then just as suddenly, she was gone.MinRes paid a 70pc mark up to rent Chris Ellison-owned propertiesIndependent valuations that the owners of the four industrial facilities commissioned themselves indicated that the leases were well in excess of market rates.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior reporter Simon Evans and Rear Window editor Myriam Robin on Sanjeev Gupta's flashy property purchase, his financial troubles and the South Australian town caught in the middle.This podcast is sponsored by UNSWFurther reading:Whyalla steelworks running out of options as taxpayer rescue resistedThe SA premier says it's time Sanjeev Gupta took some action, with governments wary of taxpayer funds being siphoned off to overseas parts of GFG Alliance.The town bearing the brunt of Sanjeev Gupta's financial nightmareThe British industrialist's steelworks looms over Whyalla, population 21,900. There's plenty at stake if things go south.Sanjeev Gupta buys on Sydney waterfrontThe steel magnate is cutting jobs and salaries at the Whyalla steelworks one week, and splashing out for prime Sydney waterfront property the next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Joe Aston, former Rear Window editor and author of The Chairmain's Lounge, discusses what went wrong for the Qantas, its oversized influence in Canberra, and the extraordinary perks of a Qantas board seat.Editors note: On Thursday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denied ever contacting Alan Joyce to seek a flight upgrade.This podcast is sponsored by UNSW Further reading:The incredible financial value of a Qantas board seatThe lavish and fudged flight perks of the airline's executives are revealed in this extract from Joe Aston's “The Chairman's Lounge”.The zombie chairman: How Goyder let Joyce trash Qantas' reputationAn exclusive extract from Joe Aston's book The Chairman's Lounge tells the inside story of how Richard Goyder and his board allowed Alan Joyce to fly Qantas into a reputational disaster.Albanese faces calls for probe into flight upgradesDavid Pocock and Peter Dutton have both called for a probe into whether Anthony Albanese breached the ministerial code of conduct while he was transport minister.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, International editor James Curran and US correspondent Matthew Cranston on how Trump has managed to claw back Harris' lead in the final weeks of the campaign and what Canberra is worried about.This podcast is sponsored by IGFurther reading:Trade wars, market jolts: What a Trump win means for AustraliaThe tax and economic policies of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris will have profound effects for Australian investors, exporters and US subsidiaries.Trump works a McDonald's fry station as election goes off colourThe former president served up fries in an apron as he poked fun at rival Kamala Harris' story of working there in the 1980s.America's new Asian alliance network will survive beyond TrumpNo matter who is in the White House after November 5, the US' carefully structured latticework of alliances that underpins its regional primacy will continue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior reporters Jonathan Shapiro and Jemima Whyte discuss the rise of an unusual tech billionaire, what happens when personal matters become public, and what it means for his listed company, Wisetech. This podcast is sponsored by IG Further listening: How I Made It Podcast: Why Richard White avoids risk at all costs Further reading:Richard White's alleged lover claims he expected sex for investmentIn documents filed with the Federal Court, the wellness entrepreneur said a business trip to New York changed when the billionaire booked only one hotel room.WiseTech board decides White's alleged affair strictly ‘personal'The legal stoush between software billionaire Richard White and Sydney wellness entrepreneur Linda Rogan is a “personal” matter according to WiseTech's board.Billionaire Richard White attempts to bankrupt alleged former loverLawyers acting for Double Bay wellness entrepreneur Linda Rogan say WiseTech Global founder's legal claim against her is an “abuse of process”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, economics correspondent Michael Read and political correspondent Tom McIlroy discuss whether winding-back the two big tax advantages to buying property – negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount – will help solve Australia's housing crisis. This podcast is sponsored by IGFurther reading:These Australians are most likely to negatively gear their propertiesThe housing policy choices facing votersWe're more nuanced on negative gearing than five years agoA quick guide to the politics of housing tax breaksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, political editor Phillip Coorey and AFR Magazine editor Matthew Drummond discuss what was behind this year's power moves. And AFR cartoonist David Rowe tells us who is his favourite prime minister to draw.This podcast is sponsored by IGFurther reading: Election season and rates angst are behind this year's power shifts Someone wasn't happy to be on this year's Power list. But even Power listers have no say in the process. Power list reveals diminished influence of Australia's corporate sector This year's list reflects the fading voice of CEOs and the growing size, scale and power of the superannuation sector. The Gaza conflict ripped through the arts and ripped it apart The conflict in Gaza hangs heavily over theatres and galleries, as animosities lead to a wave of resignations, donor withdrawals and boycotts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, BOSS deputy editor Patrick Durkin and senior reporter Max Mason discuss the legal fight over the Pratt packaging fortune. This podcast is sponsored by IG Further reading: Family trust: Inside the Pratts' legal soap opera Richard Pratt carefully designed a succession plan for his three children, Anthony, Heloise and Fiona. But even the best-laid plans can wind up in court. Anthony Pratt a witness to father's love for half-sister: court claim Billionaire Anthony Pratt and his sisters were witness to the “bonds of love and affection” between their late father and his “love child” Paula Hitchcock, claim new court documents. Pratt played Trump better than most, new recordings reveal Despite privately comparing Donald Trump to the mafia, Anthony Pratt entered an administration whose policies lowered his taxes and benefited his business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior writer Neil Chenoweth and media and marketing reporter Sam Buckingham Jones on why Lachlan's position as successor is in doubt, what Rupert is trying to do about it and whether he can win. This podcast is sponsored by IG Further reading:The three headaches of Rupert Murdoch in his battle for controlA bombshell lawsuit between Rupert, Lachlan and his other children begins in Reno, Nevada, next week. Meanwhile, shareholders want change and Foxtel's for sale.The Murdoch succession saga is far from overTwo weeks after turning 52, Lachlan Murdoch is facing the worst of worlds. After three difficult decades he's finally won the race to be Rupert's successor at the head of News Corp and Fox Corporation. At last, he has the reins, he's finally the man. Except that his father is still around.Trouble in the Murdoch trust fundIf you think you're doing it tough in the COVID-19 lockdown, spare a thought for Rupert Murdoch's family – they really don't get on but they're locked together in a family trust … forever.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, Technology editor Paul Smith and Chanticleer columnist Anthony Macdonald discuss the rise of AirTrunk, whether Robin Khuda can grow it to a $100 billion business and what might get in his way. This podcast is sponsored by IG Further reading:Robin Khuda is the ringleader of this year's biggest M&A dealThe founder of AirTrunk has cashed in on the inexorable rise in demand for processing power and built a vast fortune on the rise of cloud computing.Inside Project Amidala: AirTrunk's $24b dealFour years ago, Blackstone missed its chance to buy up the data centre giant. It wasn't about to make the same mistake twice, even if it cost $24 billion.Khuda sets $100b valuation target for AirTrunk's next trickBillionaire Robin Khuda has praised his own foresight in investing in data centres tailor-made for tech giants after creating a $24 billion business in less than a decade.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin, deputy property editor Michael Bleby and luxury property writer Bonnie Campbell discuss why property listings are up as the Spring selling season takes hold and address the all-important question - is now a good time to buy?This podcast is sponsored by IGFurther reading:https://www.afr.com/property/residential/a-5m-sydney-home-that-failed-to-sell-shows-level-headedness-is-back-20240818-p5k39yhttps://www.afr.com/property/residential/first-look-inside-the-50m-sirius-penthouse-20240828-p5k63fhttps://www.afr.com/property/commercial/how-construction-failures-push-up-costs-for-builders-and-consumers-20240826-p5k5hsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior reporter Ronald Mizen and media and marketing reporter Sam Buckingham-Jones on the case for and against gambling ad reform, what the government is likely to do and whether it will be enough. This podcast is sponsored by Team Global ExpressFurther reading:Rowland wins some, loses more in gambling advertising debatePointless non-disclosure agreements, an agitated backbench – miscalculations have marred long-overdue reform to wagering advertising rulesTV ad ban but not jerseys and field signs is ‘illogical': bookies Sportsbet, Entain and Pointsbet say they won't put their logos on sports jerseys or around the stadium during live sportGambling ad ban MPs to go over Rowland's head and lobby PM direct The direct approach over the head of the communications minister illustrates growing frustration in Labor ranks over the party's position on gambling advertisingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, United States correspondent Matthew Cranston and International editor James Curran on why the presidential race has been turned on its head, how the candidates and their running mates match up and what they would mean for the world if they make it to the White House.This podcast is sponsored by Team Global ExpressFurther reading: Obamas ignite Harris campaign but warn of tight raceThe former president told a roaring crowd the vice president would not be a self-centred leader like Trump, but instead focus on improving Americans' lives. Kamala Harris' big test this week: Policy or personality All eyes will be on the vice president at the Democratic National Convention as she tries to keep momentum going in the race for the White House. Democrats now the American dreamers Democrats have become the true believers in the American mission. Republicans will be more prudential in assessing foreign policy capacities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, professional services editor Edmund Tadros on the rise of a sales-driven culture at PwC, why the firm bungled its response to the tax leaks scandal, and why it has failed to move on. This podcast is sponsored by Team Global Express Further reading: ‘We couldn't believe it': Insiders reveal how PwC unravelled as scandal broke The inside story of how PwC transformed from dull accountant into a sales-driven firm that would tear itself apart.‘I'll make you more money': Inside Seymour's CEO pitchThe candidates had unofficial campaign managers and developed manifestos. Lobbying was done in the office, over drinks, during the weekend. And like any good election, the voters' main concern was what was in it for them.‘Nerds gone wild': Inside PwC's last party before it all blew upIt is the days-long party now described as the last hurrah before the storm of the tax leaks. Within six months, the scandal would change the firm forever.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, senior reporter Jonathan Shapiro on ANZ's bond trading scandal, whether the bank lied about its market activity to get on the deal in the first place and who should be accountable. This podcast is sponsored by Team Global Express Further reading:ANZ bond trading scandal ‘risks unknown': MacquarieMacquarie analysts have run the numbers on what ANZ's bond scandal could do to its profits whilst conceding some costs are hard to measure.ANZ says bond trading scandal fallout could extend to the very topThe ANZ board may be forced to take action against the bank's chief executive Shayne Elliott and other senior managers over the misleading trading data submitted to the federal government and investigations into its workplace culture.The ANZ scandal is a bombshell in two actsThe issues engulfing the bank's trading team are not about complicated bond trades. It's about an alleged double act of deceit and manipulation of the taxpayer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, resources reporter Peter Ker discusses whether Andrew Forrest's green hydrogen dream was a fantasy and what his retreat means for the government's green energy plans and Fortescue's future. This podcast is sponsored by Team Global ExpressFurther reading: Green hydrogen too ‘expensive and inefficient': Finkel Former chief scientist Alan Finkel – who devised Australia's first clean hydrogen strategy – now says we are “unlikely to use hydrogen for storage of electricity”. Forrest says Element Zero execs burned bridges ‘like Nazis' Fortescue chairman Andrew Forrest has distanced himself from surveillance tactics used against former employees, but fully supported the IP lawsuit against them. Labor's hydrogen dream stalls as Fortescue slims down H2 vision Fortescue will cut 700 jobs and slow its push into green hydrogen in a blow to the Albanese government's plan to make Australia a hydrogen superpower supported by more than $8 billion of taxpayer funded incentives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.