World Business Report

The "supersized" El Niño weather system is hitting the global economy, with cocoa farmers in Ecuador already seeing prices for their products fall.As the Panama Canal operator limits the number of vessels passing through the waterway, we ask what further trade shocks are to come.And US basketball team the Los Angeles Clippers has been hit with a record $30 million fine by the National Basketball Association for violating salary rules. What will it mean for the team and for the game?Photo: Reuters/Enea Lebrun

US oil giant Chevron says it will expand operations in Venezuela, with plans to invest more than $7 million to double its output there over the next five years.As Uber leaves the Nigerian market, we'll look at what that means for drivers and passengers who depend on the platform every day.Plus, the Venice Film Festival has rolled out the red carpet. So why does it feel a little less glamorous this year?Photo: EPA/Shutterstock

A controversial oil deal gives the United States control of more than a fifth of Venezuela's reserves. Plus, could Kenya be running short of milk? And thousands of US sailors deployed to the Strait of Hormuz reach dry land, after a record stretch at sea. Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producers: Victoriya Holland and Huma Shah Editor: Naomi Rainey

Escalating conflict in the Gulf is pushing oil prices ever higher. We explore the connection between energy prices and government borrowing to find out why falling bond prices across the world matter to jobs and inflation. The appearance of Russia's finance minister at the G20 talks in North Carolina caused some awkwardness among his European counterparts. Beyond the embarrassing family photo shoot, we try to find out what Russia hoped to gain from the summit. And after almost 20 years without turning a profit, Victoria Beckham's fashion and beauty business has finally turned a profit. What's changed?(Picture: A passerby walks past a screen showing the yield on the 10-year Japanese government bond in Tokyo, Japan, 31 August 2026. Credit: Franck Robichon,EPA/Shutterstock)

Shein finally makes its stock market debut in Hong Kong, after failed attempts to list in New York and London. And the company is now valued at around a quarter of its 2022 peak. We look at whether it really is third time lucky for the fast-fashion giant. China tightens the rules for its carmakers, warning against aggressive price cuts as brands such as BYD look overseas for growth. We hear from former Nissan and Aston Martin executive Andy Palmer.

In the 15 years since he's been charge at Apple, Tim Cook has turned the consumer tech company into a multi-trillion dollar success. What does new CEO John Ternus need to do to keep Apple on top? Also, what's on the minds of those running the world's biggest economies? We take the temperature at the G20 summit in North Carolina. And as Sony Music Publishing and Warner Chappell become the latest industry names to take legal action against an AI giant, we speak to someone at the heart of the debate: a real-life musician. Photo: REUTERS/David Swanson

The US and Iran exchange fire for the first time in a month, as an oil tanker reportedly hits mines in the Strait of Hormuz. We look at what the renewed fighting could mean for oil supplies, shipping and the global economy. Also, China and Russia hold talks as world leaders gather for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. And after 15 years at the top, Tim Cook prepares to step down as CEO of Apple.Producer: Bisi Adebayo Presenter:Luke Wilson

The head of the US Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh, says policymakers "have work to do" if they are not confident cost-of-living pressures are easing for Americans.Policy makers from 10 nations neighbouring the Baltic Sea have been meeting today to discuss hybrid attacks on their countries. Earlier this month Leipzig Airport in Germany was shut after drones targeted planes.And a group of more than 80 performers have written to the British Prime Minister urging his government to take action over companies using Artificial Intelligence to clone their voices.

In his first speech at Jackson Hole as Federal Reserve chairman, Kevin Warsh said that while inflation readings had looked better than expected over the summer, they did not show that the current picture had “meaningfully improved”. The new Fed boss stressed that his remarks should not be treated as a guide to future interest rate decisions, but his comments suggest rates could be raised if policymakers believe inflation is too high. The latest figures showed prices rose 3.4% in the year to July, above the Fed's 2% target. And more than 80 British actors and vocal artists are calling for stronger legal protection against AI clones of their voices. They've signed an open letter calling on the Prime Minister to give everyone in the UK a legal right to own their voice.

They warn cyber-attacks which use AI will become both more widespread and more sophisticated in a matter of months as the technology rapidly improves.UEFA is preparing criminal legal action against the President of FIFA, Gianni Infantino.And a barrel of single malt scotch whisky bought in 1971 for $175 has been valued by auctioneers at $370,000.

More oil is making its way through the Strait of Hormuz, despite the continuing war with Iran, with Kuwait and Qatar among the Gulf producers finding new ways to keep supplies moving. Could tighter restrictions on Facebook and Instagram actually make children safer online? A former Meta engineering director and whistleblower says changes agreed in a multibillion-dollar US settlement won't go far enough. And Forbes Russia has named Wildberries founder Tatyana Kim the country's wealthiest woman, despite Ukrainian attacks on the company's warehouses.

The Facebook and Instagram owner was accused by several US States of having addictive products that harm children.Shares in US chip designer Nvidia rise in after hours trading after its 2 quarter results beat market expectations. It remains the world's most valuable company.And we hear about the amazing business acumen of the country music star Dolly Parton who died yesterday.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has agreed to an $18bn settlement with 29 US states over claims that its platforms harmed children. The deal, which is subject to court approval, would require Meta to introduce new rules for teenage users, including daily limits and overnight blocks. The collapse of what was once one of China's biggest property developers is now threatening to become a multi-billion-dollar headache for PwC. A Hong Kong judge has ruled that Evergrande's liquidators can pursue PwC's global organisation, as well as its Chinese affiliates, over alleged audit failings. They're seeking around $8.4bn in damages. And Dolly Parton, one of country music's biggest stars, has died aged 80. She sold more than 100 million records during a six-decade career, while building a business empire spanning music publishing, film, television and her Dollywood theme park.

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced ‘dollar-for-dollar' counter-tariffs on a swath of U.S. goods — with a sliding scale of 15, 25 and 50 per cent.Ed Butler speaks to an shipping expert and asks if anyone really knows how much oil and gas is currently being exported from the Middle East via the Strait of Hormuz.And Volkswagen's Chief Executive has embarked on tour of German plants amid a plan for the auto giant to cut tens of thousands of jobs at home.

We take a look at what the latest US sanctions could mean for Iran's trading partners. Plus, India's taking "express" action to bring down soaring onion prices, and Lego has built record sales. Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producer: Barbara George

The US has announced a host of sanctions against Iran and threatened its supporters in what Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said is "the single greatest financial offensive ever".Trade relations between Canada and the United States have sunk to a new low after weeks of urgent talks fell apart over the weekend.Meanwhile Ed Butler takes a look at the growing trade tensions between the European Union and China.

What could new sanctions mean for Iran's economy and its trading partners? Meanwhile, President Trump announces plans for a 50% tariff on Canadian vehicles from 2027. Also, Singapore announces a $55,000 incentive aimed at encouraging people to have more children. And China showcases its growing humanoid robot industry.Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producer: Niamh Mc Dermott

Long: Meteorologists warn a developing El Niño could be the strongest in living memory, with scientists saying next year could become the hottest on record. We look at what that could mean for businesses and global trade as low rainfall forces the Panama Canal to restrict shipping. Also, Premier League clubs spend billions on new players despite new financial rules. And how a low-budget animated film became an unlikely box-office hit in China. (Photo: Panama Canal Authority limits daily ship traffic due to El Nino drought, Panama City - 20 Aug 2026. Credit: EPA/Shutterstock

A strong weather system which causes the globe to heat up is already having an impact on business with the Panama Canal reducing the number of ships which can pass through and certain food prices in India risingJapan's inflation hits its highest level of the yearand the Golden Ball - why a football could sell for $10 million

US government debt has topped $40 trillion for the first time, raising fresh questions about America's finances and the cost of borrowing. We also look at a new trade deal between Switzerland and China. And the workplace behaviours most likely to land employees in trouble with their bosses. (Photo:A screen displays the total U.S. National Debt, which surpassed $40 trillion for the first time according to the Treasury Department, in New York City, U.S., August 19, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Brendan McDermid)

Moderna shares soared more than 172% after strong results for its vaccine for melanoma skin cancer. Elsewhere, the Evergrande saga came to a dramatic conclusion in a Shenzhen court. And what will Walmart spend its $3 billion Trump tariffs rebate on?World Business Express - Finance, economy and business news from BBC journalists around the world. The stories that matter: World Business Express brings you the essentials on the fast-changing global economy. What forces are driving the markets and industry? Hear unique insight from top CEOs, investors, economic thinkers and small business bosses.

Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledges that Ukrainian attacks and sanctions are affecting his country's economy, while insisting there have been no critical consequences. In this special episode, we examine the economic pressures created by Russia's war in Ukraine, and look at how the conflict has transformed the drone industry, with Ukraine planning to produce millions of drones this year. (Photo: A firefighter works at a burnt-out hypermarket following an overnight Ukrainian drone strike, in the course of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in Donetsk, a Russian-controlled city of Ukraine, August 16, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Alexander Ermochenko)

The US has paused 50% tariffs on Canada, hours before they were due to come into effect as the countries firm up a trade deal. Donald Trump said a deal has been reached, but the Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said there was still important work to be done.In China, the world's biggest humanoid robot manufacturer, Unitree Robotics, has seen its share price soar more than 500% on its stock market debut in Shanghai.And why are businesses banning Meta smart glasses?Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Niamh Mc Dermott

Tech giant Meta on trial over claims it deliberately keeps young people scrolling. Four US states are seeking billions of dollars from the company, as part of a wider case brought by 29 states.New trade tariffs set to be imposed on Canada by the USA unless there's a late breakthrough in trade talks.And why does the owner of the LA Lakers, the LA Dodgers and part owner of Chelsea FC need to raise a lot of money quickly?

Facebook and Instagram's parent company, Meta is heading into a legal battle against a group of US states that argue it deliberately designed its products to be addictive for younger users. It could pose the biggest threat yet to social media operations with the states demanding changes.In Canada, pressure is rising to reach a trade deal with the US or be hit with Donald Trump's new 50% tariff on hundreds of Canadian goods.We find out why borrowing costs for some of the world's major economies are on the rise.And why is price of wool is skyrocketing?Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Niamh Mc Dermott

The US has threatened Canda with a 50% tariff on goods, with billions of dollars of trade at stake. But can Canada persuade President Trump to change course? We take a look into the talks that have been happening so far. We'll also explore Chinese tech giant Alibaba's latest move in the AI race.And we ask if changing jobs is becoming a gamble fewer workers are willing to take?

We speak to the creator of the Katsu Curry Index about what the price of the iconic Japanese dish can tell us about the yen, inflation and the country's tourism boom. Elsewhere we dig into the Chinese economic data released today and ask if European companies should be worried by a retail spending slowdown in the world's second-largest economy. World Business Express - Finance, economy and business news from BBC journalists around the world. The stories that matter.

International Labour Organisation reported that joblessness among young people rose globally in 2025. We take a look at the issue of youth unemployment.Elsewhere, President Trump says he'll declare the Strait of Hormuz US territory, as the US threatens to subject Iran to economic isolation. We examine what further sanctions Washington might have in mind.And in Indonesia, the president has hit out at official corruption and vowed greater state intervention in the economy. We take a closer look at the country's economy and investment opportunities. PHOTO: Job seekers and recruiters for garment factories gather on a street in Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong province, China, REUTERS/Go Nakamura

Australian lawmakers have been questioning executives from the likes of Meta and Tiktok over the country's social media ban for under 16s.Data suggests the majority of Australian teens still use the platforms, despite December's law change. The companies have told politicians not to focus too much on this early data and that they don't need to face tougher penalties.Also, President Trump has announced tariffs of up to 100% on imports of drones and their components to try and reduce reliance on Chinese technology.

Incheon Airport near the South Korean capital of Seoul has become the world's busiest international airport for the first time, handling more than 38 million international passengers in the first half of the year. We find out what is shifting air travel habits and what UK travellers want from airports.Elsewhere, we speak to the CEO of Watt Electric Vehicle Company about a new deal that will see it build the first electric vehicle factory in Qatar to develop cars for the intense heat of Gulf countries.Also, we hear from the CEO of Maersk about why it managed to make higher profits than analysts expected.And we find out how prepared young people are for budgeting and cooking for themselves once they take the leap to move away from home for education.PHOTO CREDIT: REUTERS/Kim Soo-hyeon

Maersk's CEO exclusively tells World Business Express the company is investing more in alternative routes after the trouble in the Strait of HormuzThere's a new holder of the title of the world's busiest airportand step inside the human fridge in Japan

The Los Angeles Lakers are to be sold for a reported record-breaking $12.5bn to American businessman Josh Kushner and former Disney chief executive Bob Iger. We hear from a former insider on what this means for one of the world's biggest sports brands. Elsewhere as Colombia recovers from a devastating earthquake, we hear about recovery efforts and the impact on its economy. Also, with less than a week to go before Donald Trump's latest tariff deadline we hear from one business on what measures they are planning to take to keep trading. And, a new jet, being billed as China's answer to Boeing or Airbus is made its first international commercial flight. What does this mean for the nation?PHOTO CREDIT: REUTERS/Mike Segar

The latest US inflation data is out, but with the cost of living still a major concern for households, how are Americans feeling about their finances? Plus, Colombia's new president is set to declare an economic emergency after Monday's devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake. And the chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of India's vast Tata conglomerate, is stepping down when his term ends next February, after failing to secure board backing for another term.

As parts of Europe head for a "once-in-a-lifetime" total solar eclipse, we hear from one region in Iceland on how they are seeing a boost in tourism in a year when they have seen a decline in tourists from the US.Elsewhere, as the heat and droughts affecting Europe continue to hit the Rhine River, we get the impact on the German economy.Also, Nvidia raises $500bn for AI data centres for some of the world's biggest banks and investment firms, and we find how much the AI revolution will cost.And as hybrid working leaves more offices underused, could converting offices into homes help tackle housing shortages and revive business districts?PHOTO CREDIT: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock

Some of the world's biggest banks and investment firms have partnered with the chip giant to invest in artificial intelligence infrastructure.The money from the likes of Goldman Sachs, BlackRock and KKR will go towards Nvidia's own projects and those being built by its partners.Meanwhile, Trump Media, the company behind Donald Trump's Truth Social platform, has revealed that more than 10 customers have paid up to $100,000 each to use a controversial service that offers faster access to posts on the site.

A consortium led by businessman Amit Bhatia, including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin are in talks to buy around a 30% stake in Liverpool football club. We find out why so many of the world's richest people keen to invest in the Premier League.Elsewhere rising temperatures are affecting economies across the world and we have been hearing from some of the areas affected on how it is effecting the way they do business. Also, Shein has been given the green light to IPO in Hong Kong. We find out why the valuation pitched to potential investors is low.And we hear one business's reaction to the news that Denmark is preparing to scrap its royal warrant system, ending a centuries-old royal seal of approval.PHOTO CREDIT: PA

The "Ice Silk Road" will run along the north Russian coast on its journey between Ningbo on China's east coast and Felixstowe in the UK. Sea Legend, the Chinese container shipping company behind it, say the region is emerging as a viable alternative to the world's traditional shipping routes.Also, officials in Germany say falling water levels on the river Rhine could mean that it split into two separate sections for cargo boats. The river is forecast to drop below ten centimetres this week making part of it too low for commercial shipping and cruises.

The US saw a weaker market after losing 23,000 jobs in July and it's figures are much worse than expected. We'll be hearing why the American economy isn't creating more jobs.Plus, could oil be the saviour of Venezuela's economic needs? As the conflict in the Middle East continues to choke global supplies, Venezuela has a unique opportunity to gain market share and investment through having the world's largest reserves.And, Wetherspoons, a large pub chain in the UK has banned Meta's smart glasses which allows the wearer to film what they're looking at, sometimes without the subject's knowledge. We hear from a bar owner who's followed suit for their customers' privacy.

Overall, the US economy shed 23,000 jobs in July in the latest sign of a cooling labour market. Traders say an interest rate rise is now less likely.Meta, the owner of Instagram and Facebook, has been fined a record penalty of half a billion dollars in a court case over child safety.And a row has broken out in the UK as a local authority tries to stop people standing up in pubs.

This summer has been heatwave after heatwave, and countries like Turkey and Romania have seen a bumper harvest, we're taking a look at how the extreme heat is impacting farmers around Europe and what that could mean for food prices.We'll hear from a SpaceX employee who's been made a millionaire after selling his shares, and is it ever acceptable to wear shorts to the office?PHOTO CREDIT: EPA/Shutterstock

As some SpaceX shares become available to sell, it's potentially a massive payday for staff. We hear from a former worker about his plans for the money.Plus, across the world, communities are counting the costs of wildfires, conflict and geopolitical instability. The boss of Swiss Re speaks to Sarah Rogers about the impact on the insurance industry.

FIFA's leadership is under scrutiny as Gianni Infantino hosts crisis meeting with senior officials as their are calls for him to resign. Ed Butler will be hearing what his future is looking like.Also how a record drought is cutting rail freight in Europe and why the Saudi Crown Prince is buying one of the world's top video game developers.Photo Credit: PA