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World Business Report Podcast Profile

World Business Report Podcast

English, Economic, 1 season, 292 episodes, 5 days, 9 hours, 54 minutes
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The latest business and finance news from around the world from the BBC
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Ukrainian grain destroyed near Polish border

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Global demand for Chinese goods fell by 14.5% last month compared to the same time last year. It's a bigger than expected decline and reflects the threat of recession in the US and Europe, combined with high inflation. Imports also fell for the ninth straight month, showing soft domestic demand.
8/8/202326 minutes, 26 seconds
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Mo Ibrahim - founder of one of Africa's biggest mobile phone companies

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

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

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

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