News and views on business and the world of personal finance. Plus the very latest from the financial markets around the globe
Tech giants' earnings
Apple, Amazon, and parent company Meta have shared their companies’ earnings. Felicity Hannah will be delving into where each company has excelled and where they seem to be lagging.
2/2/2024 • 52 minutes, 59 seconds
Boeing Bears The Blame
“We caused the problem, and we understand that,” said Boeing CEO after its financial results. As it works hard to regain the confidence of regulators and customers after a problem with one of its planes, we look at how the company might turn its current crisis around.Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland are set to change - Will Bain speaks to one business about how it will affect them.And with an election looming in 2024, we speak to the Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, about the party’s plans to improve productivity and growth for companies in the UK.
2/1/2024 • 52 minutes, 55 seconds
Clouds Part Over Stormont
With the stage is set for the restoration of a devolved government in Northern Ireland, after almost two years of political deadlock, we hear how this could affect businesses.As two giants of the tech world, Microsoft and Alphabet, publish their latest results we look what they could reveal about the future direction at both companies.And as Dry January sees its biggest take-up ever, a hospitality boss tells us how the initiative, in combination with tough trading conditions have made January a difficult time for business.
1/31/2024 • 52 minutes, 51 seconds
Paperwork, Politics and People in Fields
Fresh paperwork is coming for European importers to the UK from the start of next month - but could it push up the price of food as some in the industry fear?With a general election due this year, we speak to businesses about what they consider to be important to have a good working relationship with any government.And as more music festivals are cancelled we look at the challenges faced by festival organisers - and what could be done to turn the situation round.
1/30/2024 • 53 minutes, 10 seconds
Profit Warnings on the Rise
Profit warnings are on the rise at UK-listed companies with latest figures showing them to be at a higher proporation than even the peak after the financial crash in 2008. We find out why.As the government announces a ban on disposable vapes, Sean Farrington speaks to one seller about what impact that could have on his business.And as Jurgen Klopp announces he's to step down as the manager of Liverpool at end of season we consider how does a leader know when it's the right time to leave?
1/29/2024 • 53 minutes, 25 seconds
Confidence Comeback
Felicity Hannah gets reaction to Ofcom proposing that Royal Mail reduces the number of days it offers deliveries.A report from the Institute for Fiscal Studies says promises of tax cuts during general election campaigns may have to be rolled back. So what does this mean the the UK's economy this year?
1/26/2024 • 53 minutes, 22 seconds
London Calling
Will Bain speaks to the boss of a British tech firm to hear how a trip to New York has persuaded him to float on the London Stock Exchange.He’ll also be hearing how commercial revenues have overtaken broadcast as the biggest source of income for the world's top football clubs.And as new research shows how live music venues have had their most challenging year of the last decade - we hear from one pub owner on the struggles they face to keep music live and keep afloat.
1/25/2024 • 53 minutes, 56 seconds
Setback for Hinkley
Will Bain takes a look at the Hinkley Point C nuclear plant in Somerset as costs continue to soar.He will also be analysing the latest trading results from streaming giant Netflix, as they acquire a new deal worth five billion dollars from WWE.And the Chair of the British Investment bank says the UK can't just be an incubator for companies that then go and list in the US.
1/24/2024 • 52 minutes, 57 seconds
Rishi vs Royal Mail
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
1/23/2024 • 53 minutes, 1 second
22/01/2024
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
1/22/2024 • 53 minutes, 46 seconds
Steel job uncertainty
Felicity Hannah takes a look at the impact of Tata Steel’s potential closure of its blast furnaces in Port Talbot, Wales.
1/19/2024 • 53 minutes, 28 seconds
Inflation Surprise
Will Bain gets reaction to that surprise inflation figure. Plus, what do the biggest strikes in Northern Ireland for 50 years mean for businesses there?
1/18/2024 • 51 minutes, 59 seconds
Privacy in the Age of AI
Will Bain hears more as artificial intelligence dominates the World Economic Forum. We talk to a former sub-postmaster as a Fujitsu boss apologises. Plus, we hear from the boss of LinkedIn as new data shows wage growth has slowed again.
1/17/2024 • 53 minutes, 14 seconds
Pricey Premiums
Will Bain has the latest as car insurance prices soar, according to one comparison site. We find out what's next for Everton and Nottingham Forest after the Premier League charged them with financial breaches. Plus, we have the latest from Hollywood and who won big at the Emmy's.
1/16/2024 • 52 minutes, 58 seconds
Another bump in the road?
Will Bain hears from businesses affected by shipping delays in the Red Sea. Plus, how much did damage to vehicles from potholes cost drivers in 2023?
1/15/2024 • 53 minutes, 33 seconds
Maersk mulls more delays
Will Bain looks at shipping, as the boss of Maersk says Red Sea delays could last months. Plus, does 2024 mark the end of the password?
1/12/2024 • 53 minutes, 25 seconds
A new source of power
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
1/11/2024 • 53 minutes, 23 seconds
Returning a CBE?
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
1/10/2024 • 53 minutes, 54 seconds
09/01/2024
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
1/9/2024 • 53 minutes, 33 seconds
08/01/2024
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
1/8/2024 • 53 minutes, 19 seconds
Electric Dreams
Felicity Hannah finds out about electric vehicle sales in the UK in 2023. And we hear from the man bidding to buy the Telegraph newspaper.
1/5/2024 • 54 minutes, 22 seconds
Mortgage Price War?
The UK's biggest mortgage lender has started cutting rates on its products, with more doing the same - Will Bain asks is this the start of a price war?With increasing speculation that 2024 will be an election year, we consider what Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer's respective speeches could look like.And after Luke Littler loses to Luke Humphries in the PDC World Darts Championship final, we speak to one darts retailer about the boost in orders he's seen since the 16 year old's impressive run.
1/4/2024 • 52 minutes, 51 seconds
Stunted Growth?
The cost of production in horticulture is stopping growth in the sector, according to a new report from the NFU. Will Bain finds out what fruit and veg farmers think will bring green shoots to the industry.As two of the world's biggest shipping firms say they will continue to avoid the Red Sea, we hear from a British furniture importer on how they've been impacted.And as Luke Littler continues his run at the World Darts Championships, what business options are open to a 16-year-old sporting prodigy?
1/3/2024 • 53 minutes, 17 seconds
02/01/2024
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
1/2/2024 • 52 minutes, 59 seconds
The best of Wake Up To Money 2023
Will Bain looks back at some of the highlights from Wake Up To Money in 2023. There's the story of the takeover of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft including an interview with the Microsoft President Brad Smith which made headlines around the world. Former England and Manchester United footballer Gary Neville explained why he's investing in property and the UK boss of Google Debbie Weinstein told us how AI is changing the world.
1/1/2024 • 56 minutes, 11 seconds
Taking the Mickey?
On the 1st of January 2024, the copyright for the original 'Steamboat Willie' character of Mickey Mouse is due to enter the public domain. Felicity Hannah finds out what it means when iconic intellectual property goes public.As fashion looks for a sustainability fix, the boss of second-hand clothing app Vinted explains what he sees as the future of the sector.And, with speculation that the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee could cut interest rates as early as March, we find out what that could mean for the mortgage market.
12/29/2023 • 28 minutes, 39 seconds
On record form
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
12/28/2023 • 24 minutes, 42 seconds
27/12/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
12/27/2023 • 28 minutes, 7 seconds
Singles All The Way?
On the day the Christmas Number One is announced, Felicity Hannah asks what does it mean, financially, for an artist to get to the top of charts?We also hear from a turkey farmer about how trade has been this year, and a pub owner ahead of what they expect to be their busiest weekend of the year.Plus, our panel of experts cast their eyes over the business stories of the week, including the slowdown in inflation and looking ahead to the imminent retail sales figures for November.
12/22/2023 • 53 minutes, 28 seconds
A rate cut in the spring?
Will Bain has the latest as inflation falls faster than expected. Plus, did UEFA and FIFA act against competition law when they blocked the European Super League back in 2021?
12/21/2023 • 52 minutes, 31 seconds
London Calling
As shipping firms pause Red Sea journeys amid continued attacks on their vessels we look at whether this could push up the price of oil and other goods.Presenter, Will Bain, looks at why young drivers under the age of 25 are paying more for their car insurance.And with final delivery dates looming for Christmas online shopping we speak to one independent book shop about the importance of the festive season for their business.
12/20/2023 • 52 minutes, 50 seconds
Red Sea put on pause
BP pauses all shipments of oil and gas through the Red Sea after rebel attacks. Our presenter Will Bain will be finding out what this means for our oil prices.
12/19/2023 • 53 minutes, 10 seconds
Shetland, we have lift off
Will Bain speaks to the boss of the UK's first vertical spaceport on the Shetland Islands. Plus, one of the bosses of the Nasdaq says more firms will choose to list in New York.
12/18/2023 • 52 minutes, 56 seconds
Kentucky for Christmas
A group of MPs say the Government is "asleep at the wheel" when it comes to sourcing the minerals needed for tech like car batteries and wind turbines - we'll be finding out from a Conservative MP why it's such a concern.We'll be looking back on a busy week of economic data, with UK GDP surprisingly falling and interest rates - unsurprisingly - staying at 16-year highs.And we're going to find out why people in Japan will be sitting down with a bucket of KFC for Christmas.
12/15/2023 • 53 minutes, 43 seconds
‘Higher For Longer’
We look at why the world's biggest economy has left interest rates unchanged again, is this a sign for what the Bank of England will do later? Will Bain will be bringing us the latest.GDP figures show that our film and TV sector saw one of the biggest falls ever in October.And it's that time of year again, work Christmas do's but how much cash is being spent on them?
12/14/2023 • 53 minutes, 14 seconds
Can Thames Water stay afloat?
The boss of Thames Water has told MPs it does not have enough money to cover its £190 million debt which needs repaying next year. Will Bain gets the latest.
12/13/2023 • 52 minutes, 28 seconds
Can Cop Work?
Presenter Will Bain takes a look at if COP28 is working, as questions are raised around the topic of fossil fuels.
12/12/2023 • 53 minutes, 3 seconds
How do your parcels get home for Christmas?
The UK rental sector hits an all time high and the UK boss of FedEx tells Will Bain how people are changing their methods for delivery to save costs.
12/11/2023 • 52 minutes, 44 seconds
Is cash still king?
As British Retail Consortium figures show 19% of purchases were made with notes and coins last year, Felicity Hannah speaks to one trader who went cashless out of necessity, rather than choice.Plus a panel of experts, Anita Frost, entrepreneur & founder of Green Bean Studios, George Godber, fund manager at Polar Capital and Vicky Pryce, chief economic advisor at the Centre for Economics and Business Research, join the programme to discuss the business stories of the week.
12/8/2023 • 52 minutes, 56 seconds
Chapel Down aims high
The EU has confirmed a three-year delay to tariffs that were due to hit electric vehicle exports from the UK into the bloc from the 1st January. Brussels confirmed that a 10 per cent levy on cars with batteries made outside the UK and EU has been pushed back to 2027.As Chapel Down - one of the UK's largest wine producers - looks to list on the Alternative Investment Market at the London Stock Exchange - Will Bain speaks to companies Chief Executive, Andrew Carter.And as Chanel heads to Manchester - we look at what having a luxury brand could do for the city's fashion profile and businesses.
12/7/2023 • 52 minutes, 41 seconds
Choco Lot of Ethics?
The Dutch chocolate maker, Tony's Chocolonely, charges shoppers around £3 a bar, and insists people are ready to fork out a bit more if they know it's been ethically sourced. Will Bain asks their CEO if it's possible to make ethics affordable to everyone.The organisation representing UK manufacturers is calling on the government to help with continued export challenges post-Brexit - how can they be solved?And the trailer for the next Grand Theft Auto video game arrives - we find out how much money there is to be made in the sequel to the world's second-bestselling game of all time.
12/6/2023 • 52 minutes, 51 seconds
05/12/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
12/5/2023 • 53 minutes, 59 seconds
Huel Up
Presenter Will Bain hears from the CEO of the British instant meal maker Huel as he shares some insight on whether they will list on the stock market after massive popularity.
12/4/2023 • 52 minutes, 42 seconds
Tributes Paid To Alistair Darling
Former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair has called Lord Darling "a rarity in politics".
12/1/2023 • 54 minutes, 13 seconds
30/11/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/30/2023 • 53 minutes, 25 seconds
Baby Steps for Childcare Funding
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/29/2023 • 53 minutes, 23 seconds
28/11/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/28/2023 • 52 minutes, 25 seconds
27/11/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/27/2023 • 52 minutes, 40 seconds
Maritime jobs on the line?
In the UK more than 900 maritime staff face uncertainty as Carnival UK, which owns cruise companies P&O Cruises and Cunard, proposes new job terms.
In the week of the Autumn Statement, Felicity Hannah considers what Jeremy Hunt’s spending plans will do for business and the economy.
And as Doctor Who turns 60, we look at how the creative industries, including film and tv, contribute to the UK economy.
11/24/2023 • 53 minutes, 39 seconds
Lower Taxes, Higher Growth?
After the chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveiled the government's plans for tax and spending in his Autumn Statement yesterday, Will Bain speaks to businesses and experts on what it means for industry and the economy.
11/23/2023 • 52 minutes, 56 seconds
Time for tax cuts?
Will Bain looks ahead to the chancellor's Autumn Statement. Plus, the latest as the boss of Binance steps down and pleads guilty to money laundering charges in the US.
11/22/2023 • 52 minutes, 53 seconds
The Final Countdown
It is Autumn Statement Day tomorrow and we hear from Andy Bell the founder of investment platform, AJ Bell which has £76.1 billion in assets under administration. He tells Will Bain what he wants to see on ISA's and what tax needs to be cut
The saga continues with OpenAI as over 700 staff have called on the board of the artificial intelligence company to resign after sacking of their former boss Sam Altman. We get the latest from a former Senior Vice President of Microsoft on how the situation has been handled.
Plus, we will be doing a 'deep dive' into the jargons of the corporate world.
11/21/2023 • 52 minutes, 54 seconds
Should He Stay or Should He Go?
The ousted CEO of OpenAI Sam Altman stepped back into their offices on Sunday as pressure from investors mounted to reinstate the chief executive they sacked on Friday. Will Bain will be getting the latest on why Altman was initially fired and what other projects he may be working on.
Ahead of the Autumn Statement on Monday some of the UK's publicly listed companies are calling for reforms. With so many companies experiencing a lack of investment we hear from the body representing them.
Plus we get the highs and lows at the Women's Manchester Derby and how this game is a big step up from last season.
11/20/2023 • 53 minutes, 26 seconds
17/11/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/17/2023 • 53 minutes, 21 seconds
16/11/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/16/2023 • 55 minutes, 7 seconds
The Nation's Inflation
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/15/2023 • 53 minutes, 26 seconds
Can Royal Mail deliver the goods?
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/14/2023 • 53 minutes, 34 seconds
Little Shop of Horrible Customers
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/13/2023 • 52 minutes, 56 seconds
10/11/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/10/2023 • 53 minutes, 38 seconds
End of the Line for Train Strikes?
RMT members are going to vote on a pay deal that could put an end to the union's current wave of industrial action - is this the end of the line?
The Walt Disney Company beats expectations in its full year results - we delve into the detail to see why investors are getting excited.
Plus, Rockstar Games announces when fans will get a sneak preview of the next Grand Theft Auto game - how big a deal is one of the most successful entertainment franchises of all time?
11/9/2023 • 52 minutes, 28 seconds
Leasehold Grip Loosens
After proposals banning leaseholds on new houses are announced in the King's Speech, Will Bain asks how much difference the new reforms could make to issues faced by current leaseholders.
We take a look ahead to retailer M&S's third quarter results and find out what it could say about the wider sector.
Plus, what are this Christmas's top toys expected to be, and why?
11/8/2023 • 53 minutes, 11 seconds
Blast is the Past?
As British Steel confirms plans to replace its blast furnaces in Scunthorpe with low-carbon ones there and in Teesside, Will Bain finds out what it could mean for the workforce, for the region and the UK steel industry.
New figures suggest consumers are tightening discretionary spending - the boss of department store Fenwicks tells his side of the story.
And Elon Musk has launched his own AI chatbot, Grok, we ask an expert how it compares to existing rivals such as Chat-GPT and Bard.
11/7/2023 • 53 minutes, 11 seconds
06/11/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/6/2023 • 52 minutes, 19 seconds
Crypto King Guilty
Felicity Hannah has the latest as Sam Bankman-Fried is found guilty in a New York court. Plus how much does Bonfire Night generate for UK businesses?
11/3/2023 • 53 minutes, 37 seconds
Tata workers in limbo
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
11/2/2023 • 51 minutes, 55 seconds
UK AI Safety Summit
Business owners react to the Covid inquiry plus the latest on the UK's AI Safety Summit
11/1/2023 • 52 minutes, 12 seconds
Business on the Brink
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
10/31/2023 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
HSBC rides rising rates tide
Will Bain has the latest as HSBC announces third quarter results. Plus, Happy Birthday Ikea!
10/30/2023 • 52 minutes, 43 seconds
Trick or Treat?
It’s been an impressive week for the US tech sector with Microsoft, Alphabet and Meta all beating market expectations and seeing increased revenue and profits. So why have they done so well?
Is the party over for major high-street banks? Felicity Hannah goes through this week’s financial results.
And with Halloween just around the corner, spending on the celebration will reach £1 billion in the UK for the first time.
10/27/2023 • 53 minutes, 2 seconds
Meta Gets Better
Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, has delivered earnings that beat expectations for both its top and bottom lines. But can the company continue to drive growth with competition from AI, and in the face of lawsuits alleging that Facebook and Instagram's features geared toward children are addictive?
As music investment fund Hipgnosis faces a crucial AGM, Will Bain, looks at what’s at stake and why some shareholders are looking to overhaul the board of the company.
And as the iconic travel guide Lonely Planet celebrates its 50th birthday, what place do guidebooks have in a world of social media and blogs?
10/26/2023 • 51 minutes, 3 seconds
Banks, Bonuses and Balance Sheets
Bankers’ bonuses will be removed at the end of the month according to financial regulators. Will Bain finds out the potential impacts of getting rid of the cap.
Two of the world’s biggest technology giants are boasting increased profits, but what about cloud (services) on the horizon?
And ONS data shows that less people are choosing to be self-employed after a boom during the pandemic – we look at why people are choosing full-time over freelance.
10/25/2023 • 53 minutes
'Real’ Living Wage Rises
The real living wage not the one the government sets out will be increasing to £12 in the UK and £13 in London. Will Bain will be finding out what this means for businesses.
We look at the devastating impact of Storm Babet and how one business is struggling to stay afloat as they can’t take out insurance cover.
And we head back to the 90’s with Sonic and Super Mario. The latest versions of the video games have launched but what do gamers make of it?
10/24/2023 • 53 minutes, 51 seconds
The Babet Clear Up
As the impact of Storm Babet continues to be felt across several parts of the UK, Will Bain finds out how businesses in Scotland have been affected, and how they’re coping with the work needed to clear up in its wake.
Plus the latest data showing how sales are faring on the high street, why the sale of The Daily Telegraph is more complex than it might first appear, and we delve into the world of lab grown diamonds.
10/23/2023 • 52 minutes, 41 seconds
Not So Smart Meters
MPs tell the government that it hasn't done enough to roll out smart meters or convince the public they're a good thing... Felicity Hannah will be finding out what more can be done.
Victoria Secret announce they are bringing sexy back as they drop the feminist makeover after sales slump
And we hear your thoughts on tipping, do you go above the required or nothing at all?
10/20/2023 • 53 minutes, 51 seconds
The Cost to Subscribe
Will Bain has the latest as streaming giant Netflix puts up its prices. Plus, we hear from the boss of Screwfix about why there is more demand in the trade sector than can be met. And profits are down at Tesla - is it out of the driving seat?
10/19/2023 • 51 minutes, 54 seconds
DJ D-Sol Drops the Beat
Goldman Sachs boss stops DJing high-profile gigs after criticism it created a distraction. Plus, the UK's motor industry trade body warns post-Brexit tariffs could cost motorists. We also hear from the chief executive of Citroën.
10/18/2023 • 52 minutes, 48 seconds
Knocking the Stuffing Out of Cash
Will Bain finds out about new trend 'cash stuffing' and why one insurer is warning savers. Six months after closing Tech Nation, the support scheme for UK tech start-ups relaunches. Plus, food and drink makers cut their prices - are we seeing it on the shelves?
10/17/2023 • 53 minutes, 21 seconds
Mickey Mouse and Manchester United
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is one step closer to owning a slice of Manchester United. We look back on 100 years of Disney and get assess reports that the UK will avoid a recession
10/16/2023 • 52 minutes, 8 seconds
Record Fee for KPMG
Auditing giant KPMG has been fined £21m due to failures in its assessments of the collapsed construction firm, Carillion. Felicity Hannah hears what went so wrong.
If you've been online recently to compare car insurance quotes, you'll know the prices have shot up we look at why this is the case.
And Taylor Swift's new film featuring her current sell out concert tour hits UK cinema screens, we hear all about Swiftiemania.
10/13/2023 • 53 minutes, 42 seconds
12/10/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
10/12/2023 • 53 minutes, 10 seconds
Build Baby Build
As Labour promises to build over a million homes if they win the next general election Will Bain we'll hear from the industry leaders about what they make of that pledge.
Are luxury goods companies immune from the cost of living crisis? We'll get the latest from the former boss of LVMH
And we find out why a popular gaming development boss has resigned over a price issue.
10/11/2023 • 53 minutes, 19 seconds
Metro bank founder weighs in
Metro Bank founder weighs in on the banks latest rescue deal which includes a £325m cash injection. Will Bain will be speaking to the founder Antony Thomson.
We hear from the Labour Party conference about Sir Keir Starmer ahead of the general election next year.
And with Halloween only three weeks away we look at the new trends of pumpkin picking businesses.
10/10/2023 • 53 minutes, 37 seconds
09/10/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
10/9/2023 • 53 minutes, 31 seconds
Banks, Bonds and the Body Shop
Felicity Hannah discusses the big business stories of the week including HS2, Metro Bank, a possible new buyer for the Body Shop and the return of Big Brother.
10/6/2023 • 52 minutes, 49 seconds
Rishi Railway Reveal
On the final day of the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, used his speech to set out plans to scrap the Birmingham to Manchester leg of HS2, and to protect children in England from smoking. Will Bain unpicks the detail and what it could mean for business.
And Spotify have unveiled plans to offer premium subscribers access to audio books. What sort of impact could this have on the publishing industry?
10/5/2023 • 52 minutes, 57 seconds
Would you pay for TikTok?
TikTok is trialling a new monthly ad-free subscription service, with other social media companies reportedly considering similar plans. It’s understood the tests are in an English-speaking market outside the US, but the company has declined to comment on exactly where. Is the future of social media in paid subscriptions?
As the trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of the collapsed cryptocurrency exchange FTX gets underway in New York, we hear from a lawyer in the UK representing investors who lost their money held in FTX.
And with an announcement on the future of HS2 expected imminently Will Bain looks at the case for and against the project.
10/4/2023 • 53 minutes, 33 seconds
HS2 Be... Or Not To Be?
After weeks of speculation rumours are rife that the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, could be about to announce the axing of the northern leg high of the speed rail line, HS2, between Birmingham and Manchester. Will Bain looks at what this would mean for business.
The government has announced six companies selected to advance to the next stage of the Small Modular Reactor (SMR) competition for innovative nuclear technologies. The boss of one of those companies - The Chief Executive of Rolls Royce SMR - gives his thoughts on making the shortlist.
And as the boss of John Lewis, Dame Sharon White, is to step down after five years in the job, making her the shortest-serving chair in the partnership’s 100-year history, what qualities will her successor need to bring to the role?
10/3/2023 • 53 minutes, 36 seconds
Showing The Party Line
It's business day of the Conservative Party conference, with Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt due to make a speech making his case to both party members and the business community. Will Bain finds out what people might be hoping for.
New green lane-red lane rules for EU border checks in Northern Ireland are enforced from today - what could this mean for Ulster businesses?
And after the first weekend of the new season of the Women's Super League has got off to a roaring start, we ask when this might turn into fresh investment coming in.
10/2/2023 • 52 minutes, 4 seconds
The week's big stories on the Friday Panel
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
9/29/2023 • 53 minutes, 4 seconds
Winter lights set to stay on
Winter lights set to stay on
9/28/2023 • 52 minutes, 23 seconds
27/09/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
9/27/2023 • 53 minutes, 10 seconds
Deal or No Deal
The longest strike to affect Hollywood in decades could be about to end.
9/26/2023 • 53 minutes, 23 seconds
HS-Too Expensive
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is under mounting pressure to clarify if the northern leg of HS2 will be completed. Vivienne Nunis will be looking at the latest reports that say it could be scrapped due to rising costs.
The latest EU sanction on Russia will mean several steel companies will have to prove Putin isn't in their supply chain.
And Vivienne will look into the latest report predicting the best number of days to work from home.
9/25/2023 • 53 minutes, 16 seconds
Another Succession Finale
Felicity Hannah has the latest as Rupert Murdoch steps down as Chairman of Fox and News Corp. Plus, reaction to the week's business news which saw inflation unexpectedly fall.
9/22/2023 • 53 minutes, 31 seconds
Net zero targets delayed
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has delayed the UK’s chance of achieving net zero by 2050. Felicity Hannah will be finding out what this means for businesses.
Will the Bank of England raise the UK's interest rate for a 15th time, or will it hold steady after the surprising inflation fall?
And are you one of those people giving your homes a facelift instead of facing the cost of moving?
9/21/2023 • 54 minutes
Is Net Zero Possible?
The Government is rumoured to be watering down some of their net zero policies. Felicity Hannah will be getting the latest reaction from businesses.
The world’s richest man Elon Musk says he might start charging people to use his social media platform - will the plan work? We get the insights from a former Twitter boss.
And are online retailers cracking the code on returns? H&M are the latest store to start charging customers for sending their items back.
9/20/2023 • 54 minutes, 4 seconds
First strike for everything
NHS consultants will begin a 48-hour walkout on Tuesday, followed by a 72-hour walkout from junior doctors on Wednesday. This is all part of an ongoing dispute over pay. Felicity Hannah finds out just how much they are asking for.
Oil prices are on track to reach $100 a barrel this month for the first time in 2023 due to Russia and Saudi Arabia cutting production cuts. As we head into winter and demand becomes tighter, how will our economy cope?
And Britain’s public service broadcasters are developing a new free TV service that will deliver live TV over broadband. We find out if this new service will rival the likes of Disney+ and Netflix.
9/19/2023 • 53 minutes, 6 seconds
Rents rising at record rate
As the UK rented sector remains stuck in a period of low supply and high demand. Felicity Hannah finds out how fast rent is rising in London and Scotland and what this will mean for renters and landlords across the UK.
Fashion brand Missguided could be sold to Chinese fashion retailer Shein as the owner is in talks to sell the online clothing label. Are these talks a strategic move into the British fashion market?
And a Japanese company is piloting a holiday clothes rental service which they say will cause less stress and reduce carbon emission. Could waiting for your suitcase at arrivals be a thing of the past?
9/18/2023 • 52 minutes, 39 seconds
Are supermarket loyalty deals all they're cracked up to be?
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
9/15/2023 • 53 minutes, 49 seconds
Costing an Arm
As the Cambridge-based semiconductor designer and British tech success story, Arm, goes up for sale on the Nasdaq - Felicity Hannah finds out why it's set to be the biggest IPO of the year, and if it will live up to the hype.
The pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca is upgrading two of its UK sites to run on biomethane - is this the green boost medicine needs?
And Manchester City Women will be the first women's football club to have their own dedicated stadium - could this be the start of a sponsorship boom?
9/14/2023 • 52 minutes, 6 seconds
BP CEO Resigns
The head of oil giant BP has resigned as chief executive amid a review of his personal relationships with colleagues. After starting as chief executive in 2020 with a plan to transition the company to a low-carbon future, Rahul Tandon asks where that leaves BP now.
After new data shows the number of mortgages in arrears has climbed to the highest level since 2016, a broker tells us what he's seeing on the ground.
And could Everton F.C. become the latest football club to become American-owned?
9/13/2023 • 52 minutes, 52 seconds
Wilko Will Go
The Wilko is to disappear from UK high streets after a rescue deal for the chain fell through, costing some 12,500 staff their jobs - Rahul Tandon looks at what went wrong.
With the latest official UK jobs and wages data due, we take a closer look at how the recruitment sector is faring.
And could a campaign to ban re-selling event tickets for profit get its hearing?
9/12/2023 • 53 minutes, 48 seconds
State of the Nation
With data on the UK's jobs, wages and GDP all due this week, Rahul Tandon speaks to a panel of business owners across various industries to get an idea of what's affecting them right now.
After the Trades Union Congress kicks off by reporting the UK government to the United Nations' watchdog over a new strike law, what else could come out of this week's event?
Plus, the world's biggest maritime conference of its kind, London International Shipping Week, gets under way - and insiders are saying they're optimistic for the industry.
9/11/2023 • 54 minutes
All Sold Out
Felicity Hannah digs into the Covid trend that's killing spontaneous days out. And we'll cross to Asia to examine the latest wobbles in the Chinese economy. Plus it's nearly time for kick-off at the Rugby World Cup in France, could it boost the fortunes of club rugby back here in the UK?
9/8/2023 • 53 minutes, 36 seconds
It's Raining Debts and Dogs
Felicity Hannah dives into the cost of taking pets to the vet as the CMA launches a review. And, the UK's first car manufacturing plant making only electric vehicles opens up. PLUS, a music mega-deal which means bigger payouts for music artists when it comes to streaming.
9/7/2023 • 53 minutes, 26 seconds
Back to Work
Will Bain has the latest as the government wants more disabled people back in work. And the UK's largest local authority, Birmingham City Council, goes bust. Plus a Danish pharmaceuticals giant has become Europe's most valuable firm - we find out why.
9/6/2023 • 53 minutes, 19 seconds
Drop the Drip?
Will Bain looks into drip pricing as a review is launched into sneaky extra fees. We get the latest on the fate of Wilko and how things are looking on Britain's high street. Plus, a race of the banks - Santander leads the way in offering the best savings rates for easy-access accounts.
9/5/2023 • 53 minutes, 58 seconds
Crumbly Concrete Concerns
Will Bain hears more as the Chancellor pledges to make schools safe from the RAAC concrete. And we speak to one airline boss following the NATS air traffic control meltdown. Plus, 25 years of search.... Google celebrates a quarter of a century!
9/4/2023 • 53 minutes, 40 seconds
Adieu to e-scooters
Felicity Hannah finds out why Paris has banned electric scooter rentals. Plus, Warner Music becomes the first big record label to sign an artist whose voice comes from AI.
9/1/2023 • 53 minutes, 41 seconds
Not just any promotion...
Not just any promotion... this is Marks and Spencer's promotion.
8/31/2023 • 53 minutes, 1 second
House sales hammered
House sales hammered - predictions show UK on course for lowest sales since 2012.
8/30/2023 • 53 minutes, 11 seconds
Air Grievances
Will Bain looks into consumer rights after the travel chaos of the Bank Holiday.
As the expanded ULEZ gets underway in Greater London we speak to one worried business owner.
And as shares in the Chinese property developer Evergrande fall by nearly 90%, we look at the background to the company’s struggles and at what’s happening in China's property sector.
8/29/2023 • 52 minutes, 55 seconds
Hope for Wilko?
Felicity Hannah with the latest on a last-ditch rescue offer for Wilko that could save some of the company's stores and jobs. Plus Ofgem will announce today its energy price cap for the next quarter which will determine bills for households - but how are energy costs affecting businesses? And as the UK’s Trade Secretary visits India with hopes of making progress on a trade deal - what would a good agreement look like for the UK?
8/25/2023 • 53 minutes, 35 seconds
End of the road for Wilko?
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
8/24/2023 • 53 minutes, 24 seconds
Microsoft rejigs Activision deal
Rahul Tandon discusses the latest developments in Microsoft's proposed takeover of the video game maker Activision Blizzard. Plus more on the world's first and only retail platform dedicated to women's football gear that has just secured a £290k investment.
8/23/2023 • 52 minutes, 49 seconds
Big bucks for big bosses
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
8/22/2023 • 52 minutes, 53 seconds
Lionesses’ legacy
Rahul Tandon looks at how the economic problems in China will be felt here. He also finds out about Rightmove's latest house prices data, and although it wasn't the result the Lionesses or England fans were hoping for in Sydney, are we seeing a big financial boost for the women's game?
8/21/2023 • 53 minutes, 49 seconds
Less dash for cash
Felicity Hannah looks at new rules to make cash free and easily accessible for all. Plus. what's causing investors to abandon China?
8/18/2023 • 53 minutes, 25 seconds
Degree or Not Degree?
As A-level students open their results, a popular professional network suggests more employers are listing jobs that don't ask for degrees. Are we seeing a change in attitudes towards recruitment? Felicity Hannah finds out.
One of China's biggest property developers is facing billions of dollars of losses. How much could it hit affect financial markets and the world's second-biggest economy?
And with the Lionesses on their way to the final in the Women's World Cup, we speak to the boss of a sports marketing agency on the impact it's having on interest in making money from the sport.
8/17/2023 • 53 minutes, 55 seconds
Wilko: To Go or Not To Go?
Will Bain has the latest on deadline day to save high street retailer Wilko.
The UK's rate of inflation is expected to fall - but could the new revelation of wage growth mean the Bank of England will have to hike interest rates again?
Plus, England's lionesses play for their spot in the Women's World Cup final later this morning - what is the tournament doing for businesses?
8/16/2023 • 52 minutes, 54 seconds
Could Wages Overtake Inflation?
Ahead of the Office for National Statistics releasing its latest data on employment and wages, Will Bain finds out what the new figures could mean for inflation, interest rates and the economy as a whole.
China publishes a raft of economic data - is its economy still stuttering or are signs of a comeback appearing?
And more young people are avoiding nights out - we speak to the owner of dozens of nightclubs about how the cost-of-living squeeze is hitting hedonism.
8/15/2023 • 53 minutes, 1 second
Wage war?
As new research suggests more than two-thirds of employers are having to match or better rivals' pay deals to keep their staff, Will Bain finds out the impact that could have on the labour market.
The UK's sixth-wettest July on record has meant disappointment and woe for many, but it's been a surprise success for some in the burgeoning English wine industry - we speak to one of those involved.
Plus, as overseas travel numbers recover, can the UK's seaside towns hold on to their staycation bounce?
8/14/2023 • 52 minutes, 53 seconds
11/08/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
8/11/2023 • 53 minutes, 48 seconds
10/08/2023
News and insight from the business world. Download the podcast via the BBC Sounds app.
8/10/2023 • 52 minutes, 28 seconds
Battery Boost
Will Bain hears from the UK lithium company awarded millions to mine in the West Country.
And a surprise windfall tax on Italy's banks to help people with the cost of living sends shares sliding.
Plus, we have the latest forecast on when UK inflation might finally hit the Bank of England's 2% target.
8/9/2023 • 53 minutes, 17 seconds
Halt on Britishvolt
Will Bain has the latest as the company buying Britishvolt misses its pay deadline. And we ask if Germany is the "sick man of the Eurozone?" as it battles flat growth. Plus ticket sales for gigs are leading the charge when it comes to summer spending, despite cost of living pressures.
8/8/2023 • 52 minutes, 23 seconds
Wake Up To Money Special - Gary Neville
He's most famous for his football career and more recently, his punditry, but Gary Neville is also hugely successful in the worlds of business and property developing.
In this interview, he tells Sean Farrington about his plans for a new £400 million project in the centre of Manchester.
They discuss how rising interest rates are affecting the building trade, why Gary feels the hospitality industry is paying the best wages it can afford to, and Gary’s new role on Dragons’ Den.
This is an extended version of an interview first broadcast on Wake Up To Money on July 6th, 2023.
7/6/2023 • 35 minutes, 32 seconds
Wake Up To Money - Elon Musk
The BBC's North America Technology Correspondent James Clayton talks exclusively to Elon Musk about Twitter. They discuss why he bought the social media site, controversy around tackling disinformation and the future for blue ticks.
4/12/2023 • 48 minutes, 40 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Sir Ian Livingston
Sir Ian Livingstone talks to Rahul Tandon about founding Games Workshop and the popularity of Dungeons and Dragons. He reveals his collection of hundreds of board games as well as discussing the development of Tomb Raider.
12/29/2022 • 26 minutes, 30 seconds
Million By 30: Timothy Armoo, part 2
Timothy Armoo talks to Sean Farrington about his decision to sell the business he founded in a multi-million pound deal. He discusses why he decided to sell, what he's learnt and his plans for what he's going to do next.
8/17/2022 • 46 minutes, 35 seconds
Business of Sport: The Ashes
Rahul Tandon looks at the money behind The Ashes. He discusses how important sponsorship is in cricket, how to grow the fanbase and get more people involved in the game. Rahul also speaks to Manoj Badale, one of the owners of the IPL team the Rajasthan Royal.
12/10/2021 • 24 minutes, 42 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Guy Hands, founder Terra Firma
One of the biggest names in the world in private equity, Guy Hands, talks candidly about what he calls 'going from hero to zero'.
Speaking with Felicity Hannah he shares his experience of growing his business Terra Firma Capital Partners which became one of the largest investment companies in the world.
He discusses the controversy around his ownership of record label EMI and losing control of the care home company Four Seasons.
He also talks about being dyslexic and how it's affected his life as well as the challenge of making business greener.
11/12/2021 • 33 minutes, 12 seconds
Boardroom Stories: John Lyttle, Chief Executive, Boohoo
John Lyttle, chief executive of Boohoo, tells Sean Farrington about the company's massive growth and future expansion plans. He says the company doesn't make throwaway fashion and is taking measures to tackle climate change. He also discusses the recent controversy around allegations of mistreatment of staff at some of its suppliers in Leicester.
8/11/2021 • 37 minutes, 52 seconds
Business of Sport: Tokyo Olympics
Felicity Hannah looks at how the Olympic games are financed and the competitors are funded.
She's joined by Sir Keith Mills, former Deputy Chair of London 2012 organising committee; Nigel Walker who's National Director of the English Institute of Sport; Marie Oldham, Executive chair of the advertising agency VCCP Media and Danny Downs of online sports retailer Fanatics.
7/23/2021 • 28 minutes, 35 seconds
The Origins of Reebok
Joe Foster, founder of Reebok talks with Sean Farrington and Reggie Nelson about creating one of the world's biggest brands. From the origins of a family business to breaking America and making trainers a must-have fashion item.
6/15/2021 • 33 minutes, 59 seconds
Million By 30: Roei Samuel
Roei Samuel talks to Sean Farrington about setting up e-sports business Real Sport which he sold in a multi-million pound deal and about how having ADHD affected his education and career choices.
6/9/2021 • 35 minutes, 29 seconds
Million By 30: Tom Beahon, co-founder Castore
Tom and Phil Beahon set up their sportswear brand Castore in Liverpool after their professional sporting careers came to an end. They chat with Sean about growing the brand, how their parents re-mortgaged their house to give them the money to get it off the ground and working with Sir Andy Murray and football clubs Rangers and Wolves.
5/23/2021 • 44 minutes, 26 seconds
Million By 30: CC Clarke
CC Clarke talks to Sean Farrington talks about growing her fanbase to more than two million followers and setting up her make-up business. She discusses how she's carried on with her singing career and dealing with social media trolls.
4/25/2021 • 32 minutes, 36 seconds
Business of Sport: Future of Football
After the collapse of plans for a European Super League, Sean Farrington discusses the future of football with current and former club bosses, fans and sport business experts.
4/21/2021 • 35 minutes, 5 seconds
Million By 30: Grace Beverley, influencer and founder of sustainable style brand TALA
Sean Farrington chats with Grace Beverley about how she built up a million followers on Instagram before going on to launch her own fitness brand Shreddy and sustainable style brand TALA.
Photo courtesy: Andy Cuthbert
3/19/2021 • 51 minutes, 9 seconds
Million By 30: Chester Mojay-Sinclare, founder and chief executive of Enthuse
Sean Farrington chats with Chester Mojay-Sinclare who first got his business off the ground by launching a potato into space. Eleven years later, he has raised over £100 million for charities through his company Enthuse.
3/12/2021 • 26 minutes, 17 seconds
Million By 30: Jenna Brown, co-founder and chief executive of Shipamax
How Jenna Brown turned her passion for start-ups into a multi-million backed business.
2/26/2021 • 33 minutes, 32 seconds
Million By 30: Alex Lovén, founder of Net World Sports
Sean Farrington chats with Alex Lovén, who started selling cricket bats when he was 13 to his mates at school, graduated to selling the bats on eBay and made £1m in sales by 22 and now, aged 33, his sports equipment business makes £50m in turnover.
2/19/2021 • 34 minutes, 27 seconds
Million By 30: Kofi McCalla, The Unknown Vlogs
Kofi McCalla, a menswear fashion YouTuber, on how he hit over 100 million views. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast please visit the BBC Action Line website https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/
2/12/2021 • 33 minutes, 12 seconds
Million By 30: Liberty Foreman, CEO and founder of DynamXMedical
Sean Farrington interviews Liberty Foreman, who started up a cancer screening tech company DynamX Medical by spinning it out from her PhD. Since then she’s raised millions in investment all before the company has even turned a profit. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast please visit the BBC Action Line website https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/
1/18/2021 • 33 minutes, 1 second
Million By 30: Maciek Kacprzyk and Karina Sudenyte, founders of Flawsome!
Sean Farrington interviews Maciek Kacprzyk and Karina Sudenyte, the founders of Flawsome!, a food waste company that saves wonky fruit from landfill and makes them into cold pressed juice and sparkling fruit juice waters.
1/11/2021 • 31 minutes, 30 seconds
Million By 30: Timothy Armoo, chief executive of Fanbytes
The story of how 26-year-old Timothy Armoo built a million-pound marketing business.
12/1/2020 • 32 minutes, 38 seconds
Million By 30: Adnan Ebrahim, founder of Car Throttle
Sean Farrington chats with Adnan Ebrahim who sold his first website before he was 18. He then founded Car Throttle, which quickly reached millions of followers around the world. He sold it in his mid-20's and has since embarked on a new venture
11/20/2020 • 33 minutes
Business of Sport: Rugby World Cup
Sean Farrington looks at the money behind the Rugby World Cup in Japan including how can smaller countries break into the top tier of the game.
10/11/2019 • 57 minutes, 52 seconds
Business of Sport: The Price of Gold
It's a year until the Tokyo Olympics will be getting underway. The British Olympics Association has told us it could be one of the most expensive yet.
A number of sports will be making their debut at the games - one of them is competitive climbing. But who sponsors a brand new sport, and how do they get funding?
8/30/2019 • 26 minutes, 30 seconds
Business of Sport: Not just about the scores
Sean and Mickey look at how sport is being reported off the pitch, from long reads to podcasts to social media.
8/9/2019 • 26 minutes, 21 seconds
Business of Sport: eSports
The industry is worth over $1bn globally. Is it time to take gaming as a competitive activity a bit more seriously?
8/2/2019 • 25 minutes, 14 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Sanjeev Gupta, Liberty Steel
Danni Hewson talks with Sanjeev Gupta, boss of one of the world's largest steel producers Liberty Steel.
12/27/2018 • 29 minutes, 10 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Co-Op
Chief Executive of the Co-Operative Group, Steve Murrells talks with Danni Hewson about supermarkets; funerals and schools and how it's recovered from a difficult period.
12/3/2018 • 30 minutes, 24 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Lovehoney
Lovehoney co-founders Neal Slateford and Richard Longhurst talk about developing their online sex toy company, meeting the Queen and adapting their business for international markets.
11/20/2018 • 27 minutes, 25 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Paul Pomroy, McDonald's UK
Wake Up To Money's Sean Farrington meets Paul Pomroy, the Chief Executive of McDonald's for the UK and Ireland to discuss the High Street crisis; plastic straws; Brexit; zero hours contracts and waste.
7/31/2018 • 33 minutes, 16 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Linda Jackson, Citroen
Linda Jackson, Chief Executive of Citroen talks about women in the car industry, electric cars and whether the 2CV could ever make a comeback.
7/20/2018 • 26 minutes, 16 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Rob Stringer of Sony Music Entertainment
Working with David Bowie on one of pop’s best kept secrets and how he won George Michael back after the star’s bitter split from Sony.
7/5/2018 • 40 minutes, 7 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Pure Gym
Humphrey Cobbold, boss of Pure Gym talks to Sean Farrington about how the chain has gone from zero to a million members in less than a decade.
Plus how the treadmill is falling out of fashion as workouts change with the times.
6/19/2018 • 30 minutes, 33 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Intu's David Fischel
The boss of the company which owns some of the UK’s biggest shopping centres tells Wake Up To Money’s Mickey Clarke that retail is alive and kicking.
4/9/2018 • 28 minutes, 46 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Marston's Ralph Findlay
Marston's Chief Executive Ralph Findlay, Quality not quantity: How drinkers’ tastes have changed and why so many restaurants are struggling at the moment.
3/2/2018 • 29 minutes, 57 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Domino's Pizza
Domino's Pizza CEO David Wild on executive pay, The Simpsons and chanting.
2/20/2018 • 24 minutes, 56 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Bronek Masojada, Hiscox
Terrorism, cyber crime, luxury cars and diamonds. Who says insurance is boring? Bronek Masojada boss of Hiscox talks insurance with Wake Up To Money’s Louise Cooper.
2/9/2018 • 30 minutes, 18 seconds
Boardroom Stories: Craig Donaldson
Why banks need more branches and "it was a miserable place to be”: Life at RBS during the bailout.
1/29/2018 • 32 minutes, 18 seconds
Boardroom Stories: David Duffy
David Duffy, Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks boss, talks Open Banking, drones and the rise of the robots.