Podcasts about metaphor music

Japan's ruling coalition lost its majority in the country's upper house of parliament, and the European Union is trying to break its dependency on American tech. Plus, the London Stock Exchange Group is weighing whether to launch 24-hour trading, and US President Donald Trump's tariffs have raised nearly $50bn in extra customs revenues.Mentioned in this podcast:Japan's Ishiba loses majority in election blowCan Europe break free of American tech supremacy?London Stock Exchange Group considers launch of 24-hour tradingDonald Trump reaps $50bn tariff haul as world ‘chickens out'Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, Ethan Plotkin, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Peter Barber and Alexander Higgins. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is accused of authoritarianism after favoring loyalists in anti-corruption raids, and the Meta board settles a multibillion-dollar lawsuit over failing to prevent data breaches. Plus, FT columnist Ruchir Sharma explains why investors are going all in on Israel. Mentioned in this podcast:Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused of authoritarian slide after anti-corruption raidsMeta board settles Delaware case over multibillion-dollar cost of data breachesThe markets are signalling a clear winner in the Middle EastFT Weekend Fest Promo code: FTPodcastsToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump asked lawmakers whether he should fire Federal Reserve chair Jay Powell, and Wall Street saw a surprise comeback in investment banking fees. Plus, the UK's inflation rate rose higher than expected last month, and yields on Japan's 10-year government debt jumped ahead of Sunday's election.Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump asked lawmakers whether he should fire Fed's Jay Powell Goldman Sachs profits jump 22% after investment banking gains UK inflation unexpectedly rises to 18-month high of 3.6%Japan's 10-year yield hits highest level since 2008 financial crisisCredit: Fox NewsSend in your Swamp Notes questions (Marc.Filippino@FT.com)Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, Ethan Plotkin, Henry Larson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump sealed a trade deal with Indonesia and the UK had a secret plan to immigrate Afghans to Britain after a data leak. Plus, tariffs have finally hit US inflation, and climate change is driving the sale of catastrophe bonds. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump announces trade deal with Indonesia Catastrophe bond sales hit record as insurers offload climate risksUK set up secret Afghan immigration scheme after data leak and gagged mediaUS inflation reaches 2.7% as Trump tariffs hitToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The EU proposes to shift its budget to send billions to eastern European countries, and bitcoin hits a record high as US lawmakers are about to vote on cryptocurrency laws. Plus, chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to talk about the UK's vision for the financial services sector, and Nissan's hybrid technology launch in the US. Mentioned in this podcast:EU budget shake-up to shift billions to eastern states Bitcoin hits $120,000 milestone as US Congress readies for ‘crypto week' Rachel Reeves to hail fiscal ‘stability' and City risk-taking in Mansion House speech‘E-power': the hybrid tech Nissan is counting on to conquer the USToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Mischa Frankl-Duval, Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The EU has put trade retaliations against the US on hold, and US investment banking is set to extend its losing streak. Plus, the FT's Eleni Varvitsioti explains how Greece recovered from economic disaster in the past decade, but still has work to do.Mentioned in this podcast:EU pauses trade retaliation against US after Trump's 30% tariff threatInvestment banking set to extend worst run in over a decadeHow Greece came back from the brinkToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Persis Love, Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, Mischa Frankl-Duval and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alexander Higgins and Peter Barber. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

India is set to reach a record year in initial public offerings and Big Pharma is facing a wave of patent expiration dates. Plus, Meta goes to trial over who to hold accountable for corporate scandals. Mentioned in this podcast:India on track for record IPO yearThe looming ‘patent cliff' facing Big Pharma Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumcova, Henry Larson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, and Michael Lello. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK and France have pledged for the first time to co-ordinate the use of their nuclear weapons, and the copper markets are reeling from US President Donald Trump's threat to impose 50 per cent tariffs on the metal. Plus, Nvidia has hit a record market capitalisation at $4tn.Mentioned in this podcast:UK and France vow to co-ordinate nuclear deterrence for first timeGlobal copper market weighs impact of Donald Trump tariff threatNvidia becomes first company to reach $4tn in market valueSend your US politics questions to marc.filippino@ft.com Subscribe to the Swamp Notes podcastNote: An earlier version of this episode contained a segment with several factual errors about the composition of Canada's energy sector. That segment has since been removed from the show.Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumcova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EU negotiators are closing in on a trade deal with Donald Trump that would cement higher tariffs than those granted to the UK, and Boston Consulting Group's chief executive said the group's involvement with a postwar plan for Gaza had been “reputationally very damaging”. Plus, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen dismissed the no-confidence motion against her in a speech. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump deal to leave EU facing higher tariffs than UKBCG modelled plan to ‘relocate' Palestinians from GazaBCG chief admits Gaza work was ‘reputationally very damaging'Von der Leyen bats away no-confidence vote but critics land punches Credit: European CommissionToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Katya Kumkova, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump extended tariff deadlines, and Liechtenstein's trust industry is in a crisis spurred by American sanctions against Russia. Plus, Shein filed for an initial public offering in Hong Kong, and Elon Musk is trying to save Tesla from Trump. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump renews threat to hit trading partners with steep tariffsLiechtenstein hit by Russia-linked ‘zombie trust' crisisShein files for Hong Kong IPO to pressure UK to save London listing‘Elon has finally woken up': Musk battles to save Tesla from TrumpToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter Thiel is unlike any other Trump tech bro. As well as a wildly successful investor, he's seen as a thinker - the philosopher king of Silicon Valley. Thiel's acolytes in the tech world and Washington include vice-president JD Vance but his relationship with the Trump camp is complicated. And there are still questions about what, if anything, he wants with the president.In the final episode of this season of Tech Tonic, Murad Ahmed speaks to FT columnist Gillian Tett about Thiel's political philosophy, and to Tabby Kinder, the FT's West Coast financial editor, about his influence in Silicon Valley.Free to read:How Peter Thiel and Silicon Valley funded the sudden rise of JD VanceA time for truth and reconciliation (written by Peter Thiel)How a little-known French literary critic became a bellwether for the US rightPalantir's ‘revolving door' with government spurs huge growthThis season of Tech Tonic is presented by Murad Ahmed and produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon. The senior producer is Edwin Lane and the executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Sam Giovinco. Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music, Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz are the FT's acting co-heads of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Podcast: FT Tech Tonic Episode: Trump's tech bros: The enigma of Peter ThielRelease date: 2025-07-08Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationPeter Thiel is unlike any other Trump tech bro. As well as a wildly successful investor, he's seen as a thinker - the philosopher king of Silicon Valley. Thiel's acolytes in the tech world and Washington include vice-president JD Vance but his relationship with the Trump camp is complicated. And there are still questions about what, if anything, he wants with the president.In the final episode of this season of Tech Tonic, Murad Ahmed speaks to FT columnist Gillian Tett about Thiel's political philosophy, and to Tabby Kinder, the FT's West Coast financial editor, about his influence in Silicon Valley.Free to read:How Peter Thiel and Silicon Valley funded the sudden rise of JD VanceA time for truth and reconciliation (written by Peter Thiel)How a little-known French literary critic became a bellwether for the US rightPalantir's ‘revolving door' with government spurs huge growthThis season of Tech Tonic is presented by Murad Ahmed and produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon. The senior producer is Edwin Lane and the executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Sam Giovinco. Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music, Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz are the FT's acting co-heads of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits Washington DC today to discuss a Gaza ceasefire proposal with US President Donald Trump, and US stocks are booming again despite uncertainty about the wider economy. Plus, Hong Kong's stock exchange is attracting lots of companies, and venture capital is putting its own tech-focused spin on a private equity business model. Mentioned in this podcast:Israel to join ceasefire talks despite ‘unacceptable' response from HamasNetanyahu and Trump to discuss new Gaza deal at White HouseAre we rallying, or overcorrecting?Hong Kong listings pipeline hits record high as equity market boomsTech venture firms deploy private equity ‘roll-up' strategyToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Ethan Plotkin, Katya Kumkova, and Jess Smith. Additional help from Alex Higgins and Peter Barber. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has secured passage of his flagship tax and spending legislation and the US jobs market exceeded expectations last month. Plus, the future of the UK's National Health Service could be in jeopardy, and Hong Kong residents cancel trips to Japan over a comic book's earthquake prophecy. Mentioned in this podcast:What is in Donald Trump's giant tax-cutting billUS economy surpasses expectations to add 147,000 jobs in JuneThe future of the NHS 10-year plan NHSHongkongers scrap Japan trips over comic book's earthquake prophecyToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson and Katya Kumkova. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

European CEOs are lobbying against AI regulations, and trade officials are rushing to make deals before US President Donald Trump's tariffs take effect again. Plus, the Pentagon suddenly stalled some weapon shipments to Ukraine, and the UK's watered-down welfare reform bill could mean higher taxes. Mentioned in this podcast:European CEOs urge Brussels to halt landmark AI ActUS narrows trade focus to secure deals before Donald Trump's tariff deadlineUkraine summons top US diplomat after Washington halts some arms suppliesWhich UK taxes are expected to rise in the autumn Budget?Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson and Kasia Broussalian. Additional help from Blake Maples and Michael Lello. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government passed its welfare reform bill after making concessions, and Hong Kong's stocks are beating out mainland China's. Plus, Eurozone inflation rises to 2 per cent, and Europe turns to France to process rare earths.Mentioned in this podcast:Starmer guts UK welfare reforms to avoid Commons defeatHong Kong's bull market leaves China behind Eurozone inflation rises to ECB's 2% targetEuropean companies look to France for domestic rare earths sector Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Fiona Symon. Additional help from Kelly Garry and Michael Lello. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two of the biggest oil companies in the Middle East scale down their acquisition sprees, and Wall Street's comeback has dramatically narrowed the gap with European stocks. Plus, the US is lifting sanctions on Syria, and Klarna makes some changes to its business model.Mentioned in this podcast:Gulf oil companies slow $60bn acquisition spree as crude prices fall US dollar suffers worst start to year since 1973 US stock market comeback tests investor faith in rotation to EuropeDonald Trump lifts most US sanctions on SyriaKlarna accelerates shift to digital bank ahead of second IPO attemptToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Ethan Plotkin. Additional help from Blake Maples, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg has undergone a transformation, both physical and political. The skinny teenager who founded Facebook in his dorm room is now a muscular jiu-jitsu enthusiast who's called US President Donald Trump a “badass” and wants to see more “masculine energy” in the workplace. Is this all an act? Is Zuckerberg doing whatever it takes to ingratiate himself with the Trump administration and ensure that Meta emerges a winner in the AI race? Or has “Maga Mark” been the real Mark Zuckerberg all along? Murad Ahmed speaks to Hannah Murphy, the FT's technology correspondent in San Francisco, and to Katie Harbath, a former Facebook executive under Zuckerberg and now CEO of Anchor Change.Free to read:How Mark Zuckerberg unleashed his inner brawlerHow Joel Kaplan became Mark Zuckerberg's most trusted political fixerOpenAI says Meta is trying to poach staff with $100mn sign-on offersTech titans stand with Donald Trump to kill off activism in Silicon ValleyThis season of Tech Tonic is presented by Murad Ahmed and produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon. The senior producer is Edwin Lane and the executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Odinn Ingibergsson, Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music, Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz are the FT's acting co-heads of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump administration is paving the way for more US bank mergers, and China's online retail giants are losing some key customers. Plus, the race to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell is heating up, and the UK is trying to make financial advice more accessible. Mentioned in this podcast:Deal hunger stirs among US banksUS shoppers ditch Shein and Temu as Trump closes tax loopholeWhite House says decision on nominating next Fed chair not ‘imminent'UK launches biggest financial advice shake-up in more than a decadeToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Ethan Plotkin, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alexander Higgins and Peter Barber. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some members of the UK's parliament fight back against proposed welfare cuts, and early intelligence suggests Iran's uranium stockpile is still intact, officials say. Plus, the rise of sports gambling in Nigeria is being powered by social media influencers.Mentioned in this podcast:Early intelligence suggests Iran's uranium largely intact, European officials sayA defeat Keir Starmer cannot affordKeir Starmer in talks with rebel MPs in bid to head off welfare revoltThe football betting influencers behind Nigeria's not-so secret gambling boomSend me your questions for the Swamp Notes podcast: marc.filippino@ft.com. We may even play your voicemail on the show.Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Henry Larson, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nato members decided on increased defence spending, the Federal Reserve is planning on cutting capital requirements for America's biggest banks, and accounting firms are ready to open up to public markets. Plus, why US stocks are unfazed by the Israel-Iran conflict. Mentioned in this podcast:The US, Iran and marketsThe markets are silent — that is worryingFederal Reserve unveils plans to reduce capital rules imposed after 2008 crisisAccounting sector prepares for more IPOs after private equity bingeToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US stocks almost hit record highs amid possible de-escalation in the Middle East, and Johns Hopkins University professor Vali Nasr analyses Iran's future. Plus, the US Federal Reserve chair signalled no interest cuts this summer, and US states are sending delegates to the EU for advice on green policy. Mentioned in this podcast:Israel-Iran latest: JD Vance declares era of new Trump foreign policy doctrineThe war that will remake Iran's Islamic republicIran at the precipiceJay Powell pushes back on calls for Federal Reserve rate cuts as soon as JulyRachman Review podcastUS states send delegates to EU for advice on green policyToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Fiona Symon, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US president Donald Trump has said Israel and Iran have agreed a ceasefire, shifting priorities in the US are putting pressure on Nato members in Europe, and emerging markets defy US President Donald Trump's trade war. Plus, the US has yet to find Iran's uranium stockpile. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump claims Israel and Iran have agreed ceasefireWhat happens to Nato if the US steps back?Where is Iran's uranium? Search continues for 400kg stockpileEmerging markets defy investor gloom to outshine developed worldToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos was once a vocal critic of Donald Trump. But that changed during last year's election campaign. Now, he has instructed the newspaper he owns, The Washington Post, to shift its editorial line to be more in line with the president. So what provoked Bezos's political change of heart?Murad Ahmed and the FT's US media editor Anna Nicolau speak to Marty Baron, the former executive editor of the Washington Post, about why Bezos bought the Post in the first place, the effect his ownership is having on the newspaper, and how the editorial shift is symptomatic of a larger impact the president seems to be having across the American media landscape. Jeff Bezos and the Washington Post did not reply to a request for comment.Free to read:How Jeff Bezos made peace with Donald Trump Jeff Bezos focuses Washington Post opinion pages on ‘personal liberties' and ‘free markets'Jeff Bezos to sell up to $4.75bn in Amazon stockAmazon to begin deploying rival satellites to Starlink this month This season of Tech Tonic is presented by Murad Ahmed and produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon. The senior producer is Edwin Lane and the executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music, Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz are the FT's acting co-heads of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US is now using force to try to eliminate Iran's nuclear programme, and new tariffs on US household goods take effect. Plus, the chief executive of a Russian burger chain is petitioning President Vladimir Putin to block western businesses from returning, and the CEO of the fintech Revolut could be due for a major pay out. Mentioned in this podcast:US says it inflicted ‘severe damage' on Iran's nuclear programme Tariffs on household goods bring home costs of Trump's trade warsFake McDonald's lobbies Vladimir Putin to block return of western companiesRevolut chief in line for Musk-style payday at $150bn valuationToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Ethan Plotkin, Mischa Frankl-Duval and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alexander Higgins and Peter Barber. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia's war-time economy is slowing down, and the EU is negotiating a trade deal with the US to keep some tariffs in place. Plus, the Bank of England votes to hold interest rates steady, and a UN official describes violence at aid distribution sites in Gaza. Mentioned in this podcast:Russia on brink of recession, says economy ministerEU weighs UK-style trade deal with USBank of England warns of weakening jobs market as it holds ratesHow Gaza's food queues turned into kill zonesToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Josh Gabert-Doyon, and Ethan Plotkin. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Federal Reserve cut its outlook for the US economy on Wednesday, and in the UK, inflation remains higher than ideal. Plus, Big Tech companies are lobbying for a decade-long ban on AI regulations, and the Israel-Iran conflict has hit the global supply chain. Mentioned in this podcast:UK inflation was 3.4% in MayFederal Reserve cuts outlook for US economy but holds interest rates steadyBig Tech pushes for 10-year ban on US states regulating AIInsurers lift prices 60% for key Iran route as conflict threatens shippingToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Henry Larson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Kelly Garry and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump demands unconditional surrender from Iran on social media, and the Iran-Israel conflict causes Trump to leave the G7 summit early. Plus, the EU relaxes merger rules on defence and Meta will bring advertisements onto its messaging platform WhatsApp. Mentioned in this podcast:Meta introduces advertising to WhatsApp in push for new revenuesDonald Trump leaves G7 early as Iran-Israel conflict intensifiesBrussels to loosen merger rules for defence companiesRegister for the Reindustrializing America webinar hereTrump calls for Iran's ‘unconditional surrender' Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Henry Larson, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kelly Garry, and Michael Lello. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tensions rise as the EU refuses trade talks with China before next month's leaders summit, and Airbus announced $10bn of orders at the Paris Air Show. Plus US President Donald Trump's golden share means heavy influence in the Nippon Steel deal, and energy markets react to the conflict between Iran and Israel. Mentioned in this podcast:US Steel deal embodies golden age of Trump meddlingFuel and fury: energy becomes a Middle East battlefield EU spurns economic dialogue with China over deepening trade riftToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples and Gavin Kallmann. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Donald Trump re-entered the White House, Elon Musk came with him as his ‘tech bro-in-chief', tasked with rebooting the government machine. But five months on, Musk's ambitious plan to cut $2tn from the annual government budget has failed, and his relationship with the president has ended in a bitter break-up. Could the world's richest man come to regret his time in politics?Murad Ahmed speaks to Joe Miller, the FT's Washington correspondent, about how and why Musk's time in DC came to an abrupt end, and to Stephen Morris, the FT's San Francisco bureau chief, about what this means for Musk's business empire.Free to read:What has Elon Musk's Doge actually achieved?Elon Musk counts the cost of his ‘government efficiency' blitzAre Donald Trump and Elon Musk now enemies?Musk vs Trump is a cautionary tale for Silicon ValleyThis season of Tech Tonic is presented by Murad Ahmed and produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon. The senior producer is Edwin Lane and the executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music, Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz are the FT's acting co-heads of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel may not have big enough bombs to take down Iran's most secure nuclear facility, and Nippon Steel's bid to take over US Steel is finally moving forward. Plus, gold has surpassed the euro as the second most-popular reserve asset, and the UK's overseas intelligence agency has appointed its first female chief. Mentioned in this podcast:Gold overtakes euro as global reserve asset, ECB saysSilver and platinum prices soar as investors seek ‘gold alternatives' The nuclear mountain that haunts IsraelDonald Trump approves Nippon Steel's $15bn takeover of US SteelBritain's overseas spy agency MI6 promotes ‘Q' to be first female head Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Ethan Plotkin, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Alexander Higgins and Peter Barber. Our acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel has launched a strike against Iran, Argentina's month-on-month inflation rate has fallen below 2 per cent, and Italian, Spanish and Greek sovereign bonds have rallied. Plus, investigators in India are looking into a fatal Boeing 787 crash and the US dollar sank to a three-year low. Mentioned in this podcast:Israel strikes Iran and braces for retaliationDollar sinks to three-year low on Trump tariff threatItaly, Greece and Spain emerge as winners in bond market anxietyMore than 240 dead after Air India flight to London crashesMilei brings Argentina's monthly inflation below 2% for first time since 2020Subscribe to the Unhedged newsletterToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Fiona Symon, Henry Larson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Eli Meixler, Kelly Garry, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our intern is Michaela Seah. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Pentagon has launched a review of the 2021 Aukus submarine deal with the UK and Australia, Donald Trump has said the US and China's deal to restore their trade war truce is “done”, and US inflation rose less than expected to 2.4 per cent in May. Plus, European governments are braced for high-stakes negotiations with Trump that will put the continent's defence, economy and security on the line. Mentioned in this podcast:Pentagon launches review of Aukus nuclear submarine dealDonald Trump says US-China deal ‘done' as two sides restore trade war truceUS inflation rose less than expected to 2.4% in MayEurope confronts Trump's triple threat on Ukraine, Nato and tradeToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our intern is Michaela Seah. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT's George Parker explains the winners and losers in UK chancellor Rachel Reeves' spending review, the UK imposed the first western sanctions against Israeli government ministers,and Citigroup is poised to increase provisions for potential bad loans by hundreds of millions of dollars for the second quarter. Plus, US state and local governments are selling municipal bonds at a record pace on fears that Congress could partially pay for President Donald Trump's “big, beautiful bill” by cutting a critical tax break. Mentioned in this podcast:What to expect in Rachel Reeves' spending reviewUK sanctions Israeli ministers Smotrich and Ben-GvirMuni bonds set for record sales on fears US Congress could scrap tax breakCiti to boost provision for potential bad loans on US economic worriesToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Mischa Frankl-Duval, Kasia Broussalian, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our intern is Michaela Seah. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The head of the operator of the Panama Canal has warned that a $23bn global ports deal could put the waterway's neutrality mandate at risk, Donald Trump is testing the limits of presidential power by sending troops to Los Angeles, and Warner Bros Discovery will split into two publicly traded companies. Plus, Brazil is hoping to sell its first sovereign debt in the Chinese market to strengthen trade and investment ties.Mentioned in this podcast:Panama Canal boss warns MSC ports deal threatens principle of neutralityTrump administration to deploy hundreds of Marines in Los AngelesDonald Trump tests limits of presidential authority by sending troops into Los AngelesWarner Bros Discovery to split its TV and streaming businessesBrazil plans panda bond as Lula looks to bolster ties with ChinaToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Mischa Frankl-Duval and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During the US president's first term in office, Tim Cook appeared to be the ultimate Trump whisperer, winning tariff exemptions despite Apple's heavy reliance on Chinese manufacturing. Now, the iPhone-maker-in-chief has found himself under the toughest pressure yet from Trump, who has threatened smartphone tariffs as high as 25%. Does Tim Cook still have a way out, or is Apple out of options? And what does Cook's relationship with Trump tell us about the future of the trade war?FT tech editor Murad Ahmed speaks to Patrick McGee, author of Apple in China: The Capture of the World's Greatest Company; Doug Guthrie, a former negotiator for Apple in Beijing; and FT tech correspondent Michael Acton about the complicated relationship between Cook and Trump.Free to read:Donald Trump threatens Apple and Samsung with 25% tariff on devices Apple set to expand India supply chain through $1.5bn Foxconn plant Apple delays iPhone AI features as it stumbles in race with rivals This season of Tech Tonic is presented by Murad Ahmed and produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon. The senior producer is Edwin Lane and the executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music, Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz are the FT's acting heads of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Syria is preparing to rejoin the international banking system, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's rightwing government is trying to prevent a change to the country's citizenship rules. Plus, US junk bond sales are booming ahead of fresh tariff uncertainty, and a German fintech is trying to bring cheap retail investing to Europe.Mentioned in this podcast:Syria to reconnect to global economy after 14 years as pariah stateItaly's vote on who gets to be ItalianItaly votes on speeding up citizenship for foreignersJunk bond sales surge as companies try to beat fresh tariff uncertaintyBlackRock-backed fintech raises funds to be ‘European Charles Schwab'Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon, Ethan Plotkin, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Lulu Smyth, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Jake Fielding, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Tim Cook save Apple from the trade war? Has Mark Zuckerberg really been a fan of Donald Trump all along? And is the bromance between Elon Musk and the president really over? In a new season of Tech Tonic, Murad Ahmed explores the relationships between Trump and some of the titans of the tech world. What is really driving those relationships, and what might they mean for the future of technology in the US and beyond?Free to read:‘He is power': billionaires line up for Donald Trump's inaugurationDonald Trump lashes out at Apple over plan to ship US iPhones from IndiaHow Jeff Bezos made peace with Donald TrumpWhat has Elon Musk's Doge actually achieved?How Joel Kaplan became Mark Zuckerberg's most trusted political fixerHow Peter Thiel and Silicon Valley funded the sudden rise of JD VanceThis season of Tech Tonic is presented by Murad Ahmed and produced by Josh Gabert-Doyon. The senior producer is Edwin Lane and the executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Breen Turner and Samantha Giovinco. Original music by Metaphor Music, Manuela Saragosa and Topher Forhecz are the FT's acting co-heads of audio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump and China's leader Xi Jinping agreed to launch a new round of high-level trade talks, the European Central Bank cut interest rates by a quarter point and Europe is being flooded with steel diverted from the US because of high tariffs. Plus, the FT's Aanu Adeoye explains how a Russia-backed junta leader in Burkina Faso became an icon across Africa. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump and Xi Jinping agree to launch new round of trade talksChristine Lagarde signals ECB rate-cutting ‘nearly concluded'‘The cult of Saint Traoré': how a Russia-backed junta leader became an iconEU hit by surge in steel imports as US tariffs divert shipmentsToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Henry Larson, Fiona Symon, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Sam Giovinco, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our intern is Michaela Seah. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple's rollout of artificial intelligence services in China with Alibaba is being held up, Wells Fargo faces an uphill battle to catch up with its rivals after asset cap was lifted, and US President Donald Trump says Russian President Vladimir Putin is not ready for “immediate peace” with Ukraine. Plus, the European Commission has finally given Bulgaria the green light to join the Eurozone in 2026.Mentioned in this podcast:Apple and Alibaba's AI rollout in China delayed by Trump trade warWells Fargo has finally shed its dunce capWells Fargo asset cap lifted after ‘fake accounts' scandalPutin planning to retaliate for Ukraine drone attack, says TrumpBulgaria to join Eurozone in 2026Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Lulu Smyth, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof resigned after far-right leader Geert Wilders walked out of his coalition government, Mexico's new supreme court is set to solely contain judges nominated by the ruling coalition, and Eurozone inflation fell below the European Central Bank's 2 per cent target. Plus, the FT's Akila Quinio explains how the Royal Bank of Scotland was nationalised in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis and then reborn. Mentioned in this podcast:Far-right Dutch leader Geert Wilders quits governmentTiny slice of Mexicans elect supreme court closely tied to ruling partyEurozone inflation falls below target to 1.9%The RBS story: how the world's biggest bank was nationalised and then rebornSouth Korean leftwinger Lee Jae-myung wins presidential electionToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Ethan Plotkin, Fiona Symon, Mischa Frankl-Duval, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Our intern is Michaela Seah. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk's xAI is launching a $300mn share sale that values the group at $113bn, and China's property sector woes are compounded by tariff worries. Plus, Poland's new president is going to make life hard for the country's prime minister, and the FT's Amelia Pollard explains why US president Donald Trump wants to take mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac private. Mentioned in this podcast:EU companies more concerned about China slowdown than tariffsDonald Trump's plans for Fannie and Freddie would mean payday for hedge fundsNationalist candidate Karol Nawrocki wins knife-edge Poland presidential electionElon Musk's xAI seeks $113bn valuation in $300mn share saleToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Ethan Plotkin, Kasia Broussalian, Fiona Symon, Mischa Frankl-Duval, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our intern is Michaela Seah. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Private equity dealmaking around the world slowed down in the second quarter of 2025, and South Korea holds elections on Tuesday after months of political instability. Plus, office space construction in the UK has reached a ten-year low, and Wall Street is warning that a little-publicised foreign tax provision in Donald Trump's budget bill could upend markets. Mentioned in this podcast:Trump tariffs cut off recovery in private equity dealmakingLeftwing ‘brawler' on verge of South Korea presidencyThe ‘quiet' crisis brewing between the US and South KoreaForeign tax provision in Trump budget bill spooks Wall StreetUK office construction drops to 10-year lowToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Ethan Plotkin, Kasia Broussalian, Henry Larson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Peter Barber. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The White House is fighting court rulings that US President Donald Trump's ‘liberation day' tariff scheme is illegal, and a former Goldman Sachs banker was sentenced to two years in prison for his role in the 1MDB scandal. Plus, how Wall Street offloaded billions of dollars of debt from Elon Musk's Twitter deal.Mentioned in this podcast:Court tariffs bombshell should inspire trading partners to defy TrumpTrade Secrets NewsletterFormer Goldman Sachs banker sentenced to two years in prison for 1MDB roleHow Wall Street offloaded $13bn of debt tied to Elon Musk's Twitter dealToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Fiona Symon, Henry Larson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Michael Lello, and Gavin Kallmann. Blake Maples mixes our show. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A US court invalidated President Donald Trump's “liberation day” tariff scheme yesterday. Nvidia reported a nearly 70 per cent surge in quarterly revenues, and the US has said it will not renew Chevron's oil licence in Venezuela. Plus, Texas and Nevada are seeking to challenge the dominance of Delaware with company-friendly law.Mentioned in this podcast:US trade court invalidates Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffsNvidia quarterly revenue surges nearly 70% on AI boomUS government will not renew Chevron's Venezuela oil licenceTexas vs Nevada — the battle to woo companies is heating upToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Henry Larson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples and Michael Lello. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US stocks jumped yesterday after President Donald Trump said trade talks with the EU were headed in a "positive" direction, and McKinsey cut 10 per cent of its staff in an effort to increase profits. Plus, Asian currencies are getting a boost from investors' bets on US trade deals and the FT's Leslie Hook explains what's next for Rio Tinto after it asked its chief executive Jakob Stausholm to step down. Mentioned in this podcast:US stocks jump as Donald Trump touts ‘positive' progress on EU trade talksAsian currencies boosted by investor bets on US trade dealsMcKinsey sheds 10% of staff in two-year profitability drive Rio ousted chief Jakob Stausholm to seek boss with more mining experienceToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Blake Maples and Michael Lello. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 kicked off a massive arms procurement race for Kyiv. Officials looked just about everywhere for weapons they could ship to the frontlines. However, Ukraine has lost hundreds of millions of dollars on fraudulent arms deals in the process. The FT's Ukraine correspondent Isobel Koshiw and investigative reporter Miles Johnson share their reporting. Mentioned in this podcast:How Ukraine lost hundreds of millions on arms deals gone wrongUkraine arms procurement feud risks eroding western trust, G7 warnsToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Ethan Plotkin, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Sam Giovinco, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Republicans in the US House of Representatives narrowly passed President Donald Trump's major budget bill on Thursday, and BYD has sold more electric vehicles in Europe than Tesla for the first time. Plus, Nvidia builds a buffer to the global trade war, and the US is starting to take the penny out of circulation.Mentioned in this podcast:US House passes Trump's showpiece tax billBYD sells more electric vehicles in Europe than Tesla for first timeNvidia seeks to build its business beyond Big TechNvidia chief announces major Taiwan chip investmentsUS to become penniless with phasing out of one-cent coinToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Ethan Plotkin, Lulu Smyth, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Sam Giovinco, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Telegram leapt to a $540mn profit last year despite the ongoing legal threat to its leadership, yields on the longest-dated Japanese government bonds surged to record highs, and UK inflation rose more than expected to a 15-month high. Plus, Germany is considering banning the far-right Alternative for Germany party, but has it become too big to outlaw? Mentioned in this podcast:Telegram jumps to $540mn profit despite founder facing legal perilJapan's long-term borrowing costs hit record high on demand fearsUK inflation jumps to 3.5% in AprilWill Friedrich Merz ban the far-right Alternative for Germany?Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Lulu Smyth, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Simon Panayi, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

European and Asian investors have pumped record sums into global equity funds that exclude the US market, and shares in Chinese battery maker CATL surged 16 per cent on their debut in Hong Kong. The EU plans to levy a flat fee on billions of small packages entering the bloc, mainly from China. Plus, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing calls to scale back his military operation in Gaza and let more aid into the enclave.Mentioned in this podcast:Investors flock to equity funds that exclude US after Trump's return to powerChinese battery maker CATL surges 16% in biggest listing of 2025EU to impose €2 tax on low-cost items in blow to Temu and SheinUK halts trade talks with Israel over Gaza offensiveIsrael's Gaza aid plan could lead to ‘war crime', UN agency chief saysBenjamin Netanyahu says Israel plans to take over all of GazaToday's FT News Briefing was produced by Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian, Lulu Smyth, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Sam Giovinco, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT's acting co-head of audio. The show's theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.