World Business Report

Stocks continue to rally following better-than- expected US inflation data, but what is the global economic picture likely to be longer term? We hear from the US Small Business Association - and the EU's International Trade Committee. Rare earths have been a flashpoint in US–China trade talks, with Beijing restricting global supply earlier this year. Could a project in Australia quell further disruption? And while some countries have eased back on investment in Africa, the UAE has become the continent's largest state investor. Our correspondent in Dubai explains more.

US inflation held steady in July despite import tariffs, bolstering bets that the Federal Reserve may cut interest rates next month. After the partial dollarisation of the economy in Cuba, the country's peso is trading at an all-time low of 400 to 1 dollar on the informal market. And horror films are at a record high in shares of the US box office. Weapons took $42.5m in its opening weekend in US movie theatres, and Sinners has become the highest-grossing original movie of the 2020s.

As the US and China pause any hike in tariffs for 90 days, we'll be in Beijing looking at what soybeans have to do with the trade truce.Meanwhile, could US recognition of Somaliland finally become a reality? A former diplomat in Somaliland explains what it could mean for both sides.And in South Korea, Starbucks has asked customers to stop bringing items like printers into its cafes. We look at whether the trend of working in cafes has gone too far.

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order extending tariffs on China for another 90 days. Chip giants Nvidia and AMD have agreed to pay the US government 15% of Chinese revenues as part of an "unprecedented" deal to secure export licences to China. And remember that distinctive sound of dialling in via the internet in the early days of connecting? Well. It's days are numbered….Yahoo has announced that it will discontinue AOL Dial-up Internet on September 30th.

In what's being described as an ‘unprecedented' deal, Nvidia and AMD agree to pay the Trump administration 15 percent of their sales to China in exchange for export licences. We'll be in Asia and the US examining what the move means for the US microchip makers - and the industry.And with plans for US tariffs on pharmaceuticals to eventually reach as much as 250 percent, how will that affect companies that make the ingredients for those medicines? We'll be hearing from one such business.Oil, gas, minerals and gems can be both a blessing for the economies of counties that are rich in them – but they can also be a curse. The head of a diamond company in Botswana tells us what it's like to navigate the challenges.

Germany's halted its arms sales to Israel in the wake of prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to takeover Gaza City. But despite supplying $565 million worth of military hardware since the 7 October 2023 attacks, how important are Germany's weapons to Israel? We hear what the economic benefits are of a new peace deal brokered by US president Donald Trump between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Roger Hearing finds out why US wine exports to Canada declined drastically. And the big controversy bubbling up over mineral water in France. The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.

A fresh start for what was once Europe's most ambitious electric battery manufacturer. We explore why California-based Lyten has stepped in to acquire the bankrupt Swedish firm Northvolt and whether a startup can truly take on China's dominance in battery technology.Climate change is threatening the purity of France's famous mineral waters. The BBC's Hugh Schofield visits the home of Perrier to find out why.Plus, Africa's first elected female president, Liberia's Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, argues it's time for the continent's vast natural resource wealth to deliver greater benefits at home.

As US president Donald Trump's new tariffs begin to take hold, Roger Hearing finds out whether India, Brazil and Canada can survive without a trade deal with the world's largest economy. We hear how scientists and engineers in Sweden are trying to revolutionise the global steel industry by using new technology to make the material greener. And how good is the latest AI app - GPT5? The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.

A whole swathe of the tariffs threatened by Donald Trump for months finally come into force in dozens of countries. It sees 15% to 50% added on a variety of imports into the United States.David Harper hears the thoughts of importers, exporters and industry experts.

As president Donald Trump's tariff regime on goods entering the United States from 69 countries around the world comes into effect, we discuss the impact it will have on global trade. With India facing a threat of 50% tariffs on exports to the US due Delhi's purchase of oil from Russia, we hear whether India will ever wean itself off Russian supplies? And what will be the impact of Washington's tariff mark-ups on Brazil and Switzerland? Elsewhere, with the world's most revered investor - Warren Buffett - set to step down, Roger Hearing finds out who the 'sage of Omaha' really is. The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.

50% tariffs on some Brazillian goods being imported into the US come into force. We look at the details, and ask how much of an effect they will actually have.We're also looking at debt, and its continuing impact on African economies.And - Disney makes a big commitment to the NFL, as it invests in sports for its streaming services.

President Trump signals pharmaceuticals could be next on his tariffs list. But what does that mean for the makers and distributors of non-branded medicines? We'll be speaking to an association representing them. Love it or loathe it, AI is creeping into everyday life. But how much of a threat does AI pose to emerging economies? The president of the World Bank Group shares his thoughts. And in electric car sales in Europe it's bad news for Tesla, but much brighter news for BYD. We'll look at the reasons for the difference in performance for the rival carmakers.

Is American Eagle's latest ad campaign genius marketing or just bad taste? The play on words, featuring actress Sydney Sweeney, has divided opinion and even caught the attention of former President Trump. David Harper explores whether the backlash actually worked in the brand's favour. We also speak to the OECD's Chief Economist to ask whether companies are investing enough to fuel global economic growth. And we unpack a landmark defence deal between Australia and a Japanese shipbuilder — the first of its kind.

The world's richest man could get richer as Tesla's board moves to give CEO Elon Musk a bigger stake to keep him at the company. We'll hear from a Tesla investor.Meanwhile, more tariff threats from President Trump - this time against India over its Russian oil purchases. India called the move unfair targeting. We'll be getting reaction to the mounting tensions between the two countries.And we look at the new trend of 'fake' weddings - for those who enjoy wedding parties, but don't know anyone getting married.

We begin a new series on Africa's economic future, as the continent's population heads toward 2.5 billion. Today, we're in South Africa. We hear from Pieter Engelbrecht, CEO of Shoprite — the country's biggest private employer on how customer loyalty helped drive the supermarket's success. Also, As France ramps up defence spending, we visit a town where factories are shifting to arms production. And in India, the growing trend of the fake wedding party a full celebration, with no wedding.

The US added 73,000 jobs last month - the weakest performance since the Covid pandemic. Economists were caught off guard, and earlier figures have been revised down. Democrats say President Trump's trade policy is damaging business confidence and stalling hiring.Meanwhile, tensions with Canada are escalating as Trump hikes tariffs to 35% on some goods, blaming issues from fentanyl to foreign policy. And in Southeast Asia, some countries learned after the deadline that their tariffs would be lowered - raising questions about transparency.Plus, is the world signing off early on Fridays? New UK data points to a quiet remote work trend.

After months of intensive negotiations, the US tariff deadline has finally arrived. Unable to reach a deal at the final hour, Switzerland is reeling from 39% tariffs. We look at how this will affect Swiss businesses, and if it's likely to stick. Elsewhere, we get the reaction from two other countries that were able to strike a deal - Taiwan and Lesotho. And the 78th Edinburgh Festival Fringe gets under way, with millions of visitors expected across the festival. We see how local business is booming.

The final countdown in on for President Trump's tariff deadline. Without deals in the next few hours, dozens of countries will face the cost of sharply higher tax rates on goods they export to the US - up to close to 50% in some cases. We hear from some of these countries, and ask is Donald Trump winning his trade war?You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

Is President Trump's trade war gamble paying off? More countries squeeze in last minute deals on tariffs, but many questions remain. Brazil faces 50% levies on its exports to the US. How will this go down with America's coffee-loving consumer? Meanwhile, a potential winner, South Korea is among the countries settling for a late deal before Friday's deadline. In a dizzying day of wheeling and dealing we try to make sense of the great tariffs merry go round.

President Trump says imports from Brazil will face a 50% tariff from next week. But why did key Brazilian exports get a pass?Also, dissent at America's central bank, but the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates unchanged. And what does Europe's pharmaceutical industry think of the EU-US trade deal? Ed Butler hears from the head of Germany's leading pharma association.

President Trump has announced that all Indian goods sold in the United States will face a tariff of at least 25% beginning 1st August. In a post on Truth Social, he accused India of imposing unfair tariffs and trade barriers that make it too difficult for US businesses to operate. Also, the U.S. economy grew in the second quarter, driven by increased consumer spending and a sharp decline in imports. Rahul Tandon examines the overall state of the world's largest economy. And we hear from World Bank President Ajay Banga on the outlook for the global economy during a time of uncertainty.

The U.S. and China move to extend their tariff truce, but it all hinges on President Trump's approval. We'll hear from voices inside the negotiations.In Syria, growing numbers of refugees in Turkey are heading back, despite the risks. We find out what's driving their return.Plus, Sam Fenwick finds out how natural disasters have cost the world $131 billion so far this year.

As trade talks continue between the world's two largest economies in Stockholm, Rahul Tandon hears from Xiaofei Xu of the South China Morning Post on what's at stake in the US–China negotiations. Plus, the IMF has raised its global growth forecasts for this year and next. And, the BBC's Shingai Nyoka travels to Lesotho, the tiny African kingdom unexpectedly caught in the crossfire of the US tariff war, now facing a potential 50% duty on its exports to America.

European exports to the U.S. are about to face a steep 15% tariff—while American goods heading to Europe will face a zero tariff rate. Is this a one-sided deal? We speak to former EU Trade Commissioner, Cecilia Malmstrom. We also get perspectives from both sides of the Atlantic: an Irish pub landlord in Chicago who imports alcohol, and the CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, who's focused on exports.Plus, Sam Fenwick explores the global surge in popularity for women's football and what it means for the future of the sport.

The US and EU have struck a new trade agreement, easing tensions over tariffs. Rahul Tandon explores what this breakthrough means for key sectors. We hear from Karin Karlsbro of the European Parliament's Trade Committee and Hildegard Müller, President of the German Automotive Industry Association as well as Tomas Philipson who served as the Acting Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers in the First Trump administration.

It's been a busy few weeks on Wall Street's financial market, as stock valuations are close to record levels. The S&P 500 index has hit a string of all-time peaks this month, while US corporate borrowing costs are nearing their lowest level in decades, and Nvidia became the first company worth $4 trillion. The United States Treasury has lifted sanctions on several individuals and companies accused of supplying arms to Myanmar's military regime, leading to an outcry by human rights groups. And with Donald Trump doing diplomacy on the golf course in Scotland—is doing business on the green a good thing?

As a long running dispute over territory in Thailand and Cambodia escalates, we ask how trade between the two countries has been affected and how important it is to the economy of the region.We're also looking at Volkswagen's fortunes, with both changing tariffs and new competition to deal with. And how tech is helping to complete a 143 year construction project in Barcelona.You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

President Donald Trump claims further renovation budget overruns adding pressure on US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to lower interest rates. Roger Hearing hears reaction from Loretta Mester, the former Cleveland Fed President. Profits plummet at LVMH, the makers of luxury champagne, jewellery and expensive handbags. And as women's football has been dominating the sporting agenda this week, both in Africa and Europe, we look at where women's teams must compete for investment and coverage with the men.

China's President Xi Jinping calls for mutual trust and stronger communication with the EU as he welcomes the Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to Beijing. The leaders have discussed trade imbalances, tariffs and critical minerals among other issues.Meanwhile the European Investment Bank starts its Boost Africa initiative in an effort to unlock venture capital support for entrepreneurship across the continent. Plus Andrew Peach hears how the toy industry is responding to higher costs because of US tariffs.You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

The European Union is racing to secure a trade agreement with President Donald Trump to avert sweeping tariffs. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed optimism, saying “decisions” could be near. We also examine why children's films are once again powering Hollywood's box office.And how mounting pressure is pushing gaming platforms to censor adult content.

A trade deal between the United States and Japan has been announced with Donald Trump's threatened tariffs cut from 25% to 15%. Andrew Peach hears from experts about what that means for the two countries, and the rest of the world. Two former bankers convicted of manipulating interest rates after the global financial crisis of 2008 have their convictions quashed in the UK. Plus the Malaysian government gives everyone 100 ringgit - approximately 24 USD - to help with the cost of living. You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

The Philippines and Indonesia join Vietnam in getting tariff reductions from Washington — but what does this mean for the rest of the region?Plus, A London court orders the estate of late tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch to pay nearly $950 million to Hewlett-Packard over the Autonomy deal. And Coca-Cola confirms a switch to raw cane sugar — a move backed by President Trump but raising eyebrows among U.S. corn growers.

The pharmaceutical giant Astra Zeneca has announced it's to invest $50bn in the US by 2030 as President Trump threatens the sector with tariffs.At a collapsed gold mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo people are using their hands and basic tools to try to reach victims who are trapped underground. And Andrew Peach looks at the rise of ride hailing apps in Thailand and the impact it's having on taxis and Tuk-Tuks.You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

We look at global container shipping volumes to assess how tariffs are reshaping trade flows. Two former U.S. Fed chairs, Ben Bernanke and Janet Yellen, issue a rare warning about political pressure on the central bank — could it damage America's economic credibility? In Japan, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faces fresh economic headwinds after losing control of both houses of parliament. And in the UK, we visit an Oxfam bookshop in Hove where a donation from Nick Cave is turning rare books into hot sellers.

Japan's ruling coalition has lost its majority in the country's upper house, but Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has said he has no plans to quit. How will it affect country's economy? More than 30 of Germany's largest companies are gathering in Berlin to boost investor confidence in Europe's top economy. And will NYC mayoral proposal reforms from Zohran Mamdani really work? You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

The European Union sharpens its sanctions against Russia, targeting its financial and energy sectors. Ukraine's President Zelensky calls the move "essential and timely", while the Kremlin warns it will backfire. We also head to Japan, where voters are heading to the polls this weekend in a crucial Upper House election that could determine the Prime Minister's political future amid rising inflation, ageing demographics, and the threat of U.S. tariffs on car exports. Plus, we look at how cryptocurrency theft has hit a record high in 2025, with cybercriminals and even violent attackers making off with billions in digital assets.You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

Migration, tariffs and challenges of an ageing population are being discussed ahead of an election in Japan's upper house. What could President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill Act mean for African economies? And the European Union announces an 18th round of sanctions on Russia.

The US Congress has passed its first major cryptocurrency legislation — the GENIUS Act, aimed at regulating stablecoins and paving the way for wider adoption of digital assets in everyday finance. Also on the programme, Meta settles an $8bn lawsuit over data privacy breaches tied to the Cambridge Analytica scandal. Roger Hearing asks what the outcome means for Big Tech. And Arsenal smash records with the world's most expensive women's football transfer.

A fire at a newly opened shopping centre in Iraq has killed dozens of people. The blaze in the eastern city of Kut broke out at the Hyper Mall and rapidly engulfed its walls. After a year of prolonged negotiations marked by dramatic twists and turns, the Canadian retailer Alimentation Couche-Tard said it was abandoning its multibillion-dollar bid to acquire the owner of 7-Eleven convenience stores. Plus, we look at the CEO of Nvidia, Jensen Huang's visit to China amidst the resumption of selling H20 chip to China.

We look at the continuing tensions between President Donald Trump and the Chairman of the US Federal Reserve Jerome Powell.There could be more than 10 million extra people needed in the Russian labour market by 2030. Rahul Tandon hears from a Russian demography expert.And what will happen to renewable energy in the US?You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.

The agreement, which has limited detail so far, has been welcome by the presidents of Indonesia and the United States. Jakarta plans to buy Boeing planes and Indonesian goods will face a US tariff of 19%. This rate is lower than had previously been threatened. And Senegal's credit rating has faced another downgrade after revelations its former government concealed billions in debt. Plus, why the company behind Labubu dolls expects profits to more than triple in the first half of 2025.(Photo: Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto waves as he arrives following overseas visits at Halim Perdana Kusuma airportin Jakarta, Indonesia, 16 July 2025. Credit: MAST IRHAM/EPA/Shutterstock)

Will ending two public holidays in France help to reduce national debt? Rahul Tandon talks to a professor at the Toulouse School of Economics.Indonesia also agreed to purchase $15 billion in US energy, $4.5 billion worth of agricultural products and 50 Boeing jets, “many of them 777's,” Trump said later on social media.The US technology giant Nvidia says it will soon resume sales of its high-end artificial intelligence chips to China The move reverses a ban on sales of its chips to Beijing, a ban imposed by President Donald Trump's administration in April, over national security concerns.And we look at the new trend - hiring etiquette coaches for Gen Z employees.You can contact us on WhatsApp or send us a voicenote: +44 330 678 3033.