FT News Briefing

The US Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as the next chair of the Federal Reserve yesterday, and the Bank of England is set to water down its rules on stablecoins. Plus, the popularity of Germany’s AfD party is growing after its criticism of the Iran war.Mentioned in this podcast:Senate confirms Kevin Warsh to succeed Jay Powell as Fed chairBank of England set to water down stablecoin rules after industry pressureGermany’s far-right AfD sees surge in support after it criticises Donald Trump’s Iran warHow could a Starmer leadership challenge play out?Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Katya Kumkova, Saffeya Ahmed, and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK gilt investors are weighing in on who they would like to see replace Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and the fund raising for Blue Owl is running dry. Plus, the US economy is hurting due to high inflation and eBay says no thanks to GameStop’s takeover bid. Mentioned in this podcast:Who do gilt investors want to lead Britain? UK borrowing costs surge as Starmer leadership crisis rattles bond Fuel, munitions and food: Trump’s Iran war rips across US economyUS inflation jumps to 3.8% as Trump’s Iran war sends petrol prices soaringBlue Owl retail fundraising evaporates amid private credit concernsEbay rejects $56bn GameStop bid as ‘neither credible nor attractive’Get in touch with us at [email protected] Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Katya Kumkova, Saffeya Ahmed, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump says the Iran ceasefire is on “life support”, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is fighting to save his premiership after the Labour party's disastrous showing in last week's UK local elections. Plus, we preview this week’s summit between Trump and China’s President Xi Jinping, and examine how business in the Gulf is holding up through the Iran war. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump says Iran ceasefire is on ‘life support’Starmer battles to stay in Number 10 as scores of Labour MPs urge him to quitHow the war hit the Gulf dealmaking machine A weakened Trump arrives in Xi’s court The Rachman Review podcastCredit: Associated Press We want to hear from you! What do you like about FTNB? What would you like to hear more of? Reach out to us at [email protected]: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Katya Kumkova, Saffeya Ahmed, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A gas shipment made it through the Strait of Hormuz as European oil majors cash in billions from the US-Israeli war on Iran, airlines across Europe are cutting prices for summer flights despite a potential jet fuel shortage, and bond giant Pimco says the war could prompt the Federal Reserve to raise rates. Plus, the FT’s Lucy Fisher explains what to expect from a make-or-break speech by UK prime minister Keir Starmer today. Mentioned in this podcast:Qatari gas shipment clears Strait of Hormuz after Pakistan-Iran talksEuro oil majors make billions off war  Coal shipments jump as countries seek alternatives to disrupted gas suppliesAirlines cut prices to entice holiday bookers worried about jet fuelIran war could prompt Federal Reserve to raise rates, Pimco saysStarmer faces fight for survival as calls to resign escalateBritain’s elections in maps and chartsPolitical Fix podcast Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Katya Kumkova, Marc Filippino and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been a dreadful night for Labour as council seats across the country have turned from red to turquoise. The Conservatives have not fared much better with Reform UK the big winner so far. With results still coming in, host Lucy Fisher discusses the fracturing of the vote and the future for beleaguered Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer with the FT’s deputy political editor Jim Pickard, Northern England correspondent Jen Williams and political columnist Stephen Bush.Have a question for the panel? We’re planning a question and answer episode on Monday May 11. Email your questions to [email protected] Lucy on X: @LOS_Fisher, and Bluesky: @lucyfisher.ft.com; Jim @PickardJE; Stephen @stephenkb & @stephenkb.bsky.social and Jen @JenWilliamsMEN and @jenwilliamsft.bsky.socialWant more? UK elections: Labour suffers heavy losses as Reform surgesFour things we learnt in the UK electionsScale of defeat should shake ‘big two’ parties into serious actionKeir Starmer defies calls to quit after heavy Labour council lossesUK local and devolved elections: Hour-by-hour guide to key resultsIn Labour’s bleak moment, Andy Burnham relishes his ownSign up here for Stephen Bush's morning newsletter Inside Politics for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue (mostly) in cheek. Get 30 days free.Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Clare Williamson. Manuela Saragosa is the executive producer. Original music and mix by Breen Turner. The broadcast engineers were Andrew Giorgiades and Petros Gioumpasis. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s global head of Audio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Big Tech groups are expected to generate the smallest amount of cash in more than a decade this year, and investors are dumping Indian assets. Plus, GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen, has set his sights on his next project: a huge leveraged buyout of eBay.Mentioned in this podcast:Big Tech’s $725bn AI spending spree sends cash flows to decade lowInvestors dump Indian assets as energy shock sends rupee slidingCan the meme stock king pull off audacious eBay swoop?Political Fix podcastNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Katya Kumkova, Saffeya Ahmed, and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Credit: CNBCRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US fuel exports have surged to a record level, and hedge funds had their best month since 2020. Plus, Samsung Electronics is locked in a feud with its workers over how to share the spoils of the AI-driven semiconductor boom, and LVMH is considering selling some of its iconic brands. Mentioned in this podcast:US fuel exports hit record in boon for oil companies and threat to TrumpLVMH goes from buyer to seller as luxury’s winter drags onTech rally hands hedge funds biggest gains since 2020Samsung workers demand bigger slice of surging AI profitsNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Katya Kumkova, Saffeya Ahmed, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Global oil reserves plunged at a record pace in April and the SEC said it was proposing to allow public companies to file earnings reports every six months. Plus, the US will start reviewing some AI models over national security concerns and HSBC’s profits took a major hit from “fraud-related” exposure. Mentioned in this podcast:SEC moves to scrap quarterly reporting requirementGlobal oil reserves plunge at record pace as Middle East war strains suppliesHSBC profits hit by $400mn ‘fraud-related’ exposureGoogle, xAI and Microsoft agree to US national security reviews of new AI modelsNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Katya Kumkova, Saffeya Ahmed, Fiona Symon, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US and Iran traded fire in the Strait of Hormuz, and Anthropic formed a more than $1.5bn joint venture with Wall Street groups including Blackstone, Hellman & Friedman and Goldman Sachs. Plus, the FT’s Anna Nicolaou explains whether Disney’s chief executive can handle the latest challenge thrown by the Trump administration.Mentioned in this podcast:US to ‘guide’ stranded ships out of Strait of Hormuz, says TrumpBlackstone and Goldman among backers for $1.5bn JV with AnthropicTrump vs Kimmel: inside Disney chief Josh D’Amaro’s baptism of fire‘Plastic shock’ hits Asia as Iran oil crisis strangles suppliesNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Katya Kumkova and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We tally the impact of war on industries around the globe as the conflict in Iran stretches into its third month. Plus, Britain braces for voters to deliver a potentially seismic change to the political system. And, though many industries are preparing to deal with shortages caused by the Strait of Hormuz closure, the US and Europe have a glut of milk.Mentioned in this podcast:Airlines slash flights as fuel shortage fears mountUAE fertiliser giant resorts to trucks to shift product out of GulfDetroit carmakers warn of $5bn commodities shock due to Iran warExxon and Chevron defy Trump pressure to boost oil productionOil market one month from crunch point as global stockpiles dwindleTrump’s war in Iran leaves US with sharpest fuel shock in G7Political Fix: Labour braces for ballot box bloodbathThe land of milk and no money: UK farmers are in a fixNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig and produced by Marc Filippino and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing a new video podcast from the FT: Does scientific, artistic or political brilliance translate into investing success? It’s a topical question with hedge funds today accused of sucking talent away from the rest of the economy. So, the FT’s Gillian Tett and Robin Wigglesworth sat down with reporter Toby Nangle, who has dug into the archives to assess the investment portfolios of Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Winston Churchill, John Maynard Keynes and other widely regarded geniuses of the past. What Toby found may surprise you, as will the historical wildcard he’s unearthed.To enjoy future episodes, be sure to subscribe to The Story of Money wherever you get your podcasts, also on the show's dedicated YouTube channel here.Learn more at ft.com/tsom Want more?Read Toby’s full FT article here.Toby’s sources:On Churchill: https://www.amazon.co.uk/No-More-Champagne-Churchill-Money/dp/1784081817 On J.M.W. Turner: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5718586 On John Maynard Keynes: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2023011 https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2287262 On Einstein: https://einstein-website.de/en/what-happened-to-the-nobel-prize-money/#:~:text=By%20May%201924%2C%20Mileva%20had,visible%20result%20of%20my%20musings%E2%80%9D On Jane Austen: https://jasna.org/publications-2/persuasions-online/vol36no1/toran/ Hosts: Gillian Tett and Robin WigglesworthGuest: Toby NangleProducer: Lulu SmythSenior Producers: Michela Tindera and Laurence KnightExecutive Producers: Flo Phillips and Manuela SaragosaOriginal music: Breen TurnerBroadcast engineers: Bianca Wakeman and Petros GiuompasisPodcast Development: Laura ClarkeFT Global Head of Audio: Cheryl BrumleyVideo editor: Josh Divney at Podcast Discovery Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple delivered another quarter of strong sales growth driven by what the tech giant called its “most popular” iPhone model ever, and we explore how some of the world’s biggest central banks are dealing with the energy shock from the Iran war. Plus, can Tinder win women back to its platform, and why the UK’s local elections next week will be a big test for the Labour government. Mentioned in this podcast:Apple credits ‘most popular’ ever iPhone for booming sales​​ECB and BoE warn of rate rises as they grapple with Middle East shockCan Tinder win back women?What Labour’s likely meltdown means for the UKNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig, Fiona Symon, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta said it would boost its spending on AI this year, and Jay Powell says he will stay on as a Federal Reserve governor once his term as chair ends. Plus, the special relationship between the UK and US held up under intense pressure, and defence stocks are struggling despite the US and Israel's war in Iran. Oil jumps to almost $120 as Trump signals extended Hormuz stand-offFed chair nominee Kevin Warsh secures Senate committee approvalOil surge divides US central bank as Jay Powell’s term at helm draws to a closeAmerica’s special relationship is ‘probably Israel’, says UK ambassador to USKing Charles defends transatlantic relationship in speech to CongressDefence stocks give back gains as investors buy rumour but sell warPolitical Fix podcastCredit: C-SPAN, Federal ReserveNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Federal regulators launched a probe into all Disney-owned TV stations after a late-night comedian made a joke about First Lady Melania Trump, and emerging market stocks have recovered all of their losses from the early stages of the Iran war to hit an all-time high, and the United Arab Emirates is leaving Opec after 60 years. Plus, the FT’s Bita Ghaffari in Tehran details life inside Iran’s blackout that’s been in place since the US and Israel attacked at the end of February. Mentioned in this podcast:Trump administration launches Disney probe after Jimmy Kimmel’s Melania jokeEmerging market stocks hit record high as Asian chipmakers surgeUAE to leave Opec in blow to oil cartelLife inside Iran’s internet blackoutCredit: Jimmy Kimmel Live!Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig, Saffeya Ahmed, and Fiona Symon. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The number of countries cutting energy taxes in response to the Iran war has doubled over the past month, and China blocked Meta’s $2bn purchase of the AI group Manus. Plus, big private equity backers have raised concerns that some firms may be waving through controversial deals. Mentioned in this podcast:Energy tax cuts spread across 39 economies as prices jumpChina blocks Meta’s $2bn purchase of AI group ManusPrivate equity backers raise new conflict concerns over sweetheart dealsNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Fiona Symon, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alleged Trump shooter is set to be charged in federal court Monday, Republican Senator Thom Tillis said he will allow confirmation of Fed nominee Kevin Warsh to proceed, and the world’s leading central banks are widely expected to hold off on inflation-fighting interest rate rises this week. Plus, Anthropic’s cybersecurity AI model could be so effective it actually backfires. Mentioned in this podcast:Alleged Trump shooter was targeting US officials, authorities sayUS prosecutors drop criminal probe into Federal Reserve chair Jay PowellLeading central banks play for time on interest rate risesAnthropic investigating unauthorised access of powerful Mythos AI modelNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta will cut 10% of its staff next month, BP suffered a heavy defeat at its annual shareholder meeting, and the Paramount–Warner Brothers Discovery deal is one step closer to being sealed. Plus, the Trump family’s crypto company is in hot water, and a US official is vying to get Italy into the football World Cup. Mentioned in this podcast:Meta to cut 10% of jobs to ‘offset’ Mark Zuckerberg’s AI spendingMicrosoft to offer 7% of US staff voluntary redundancy for the first timeBP suffers heavy defeat in investor climate voteCrypto billionaire Justin Sun sues Trump family’s World Liberty FinancialWarner Bros shareholders approve $111bn Paramount dealTrump envoy seeks to replace Iran with Italy in football World CupNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Fiona Symon. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michela Tindera, Gavin Kallmann, and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tesla’s profits rebounded from last year’s lows, Brent crude jumped back above $100 a barrel on Wednesday after Iran’s navy said it seized two commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, and China’s new trade rules have concerned businesses operating in the country. Plus, the FT’s John Burn-Murdoch unpacks a survey that finds the highest-earning workers are adopting AI in their jobs far faster than others and Switzerland hit UBS with a proposed $20bn capital increase.Mentioned in this podcast:Tesla shares rally as profits rebound from last year’s lowsTrump’s ‘dirty ceasefire’ tested as Iran hits shippingUS allies in Gulf and Asia have requested swap lines, Scott Bessent saysChina links tough new trade rules to Iran war and Panama port disputeHigh earners race ahead on AI as workplace divide widensSwitzerland hits UBS with proposed $20bn capital increaseCredit: ReutersNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Fiona Symon. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire with Iran until talks conclude, and Federal Reserve chair nominee Kevin Warsh sidestepped accusations that he would succumb to pressure from Trump to cut interest rates. Plus, a sneak peek at a new FT podcast on the lessons to learn in the history of finance. Mentioned in this podcast:Can Trump finally make a nuclear deal with Iran?Kevin Warsh sidesteps questions over Donald Trump’s influence on Fed rate policyIntroducing: The Story of MoneyCredit: C-SPAN Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Cook will step down as Apple’s chief executive in September, representatives for US President Donald Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ held discussions with DP World about managing supply chains in Gaza, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer fended off calls for him to quit over the Peter Mandelson vetting affair. Plus, wealth advisers at banks and independent brokerages generated billions of dollars in fees by steering individual investors into private market funds.Mentioned in this podcast:Tim Cook to step aside as Apple chief executive in SeptemberDonald Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ held talks with DP World over Gaza reconstructionKeir Starmer accused of scapegoating officials over Peter Mandelson scandalKeir Starmer was told to vet Peter Mandelson before appointing himWealth advisers made more than $2bn from private capital feesKevin Warsh: Trump’s next fall guy at the Fed?Credit: UK Parliament Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump said he’s sending senior officials to Pakistan for new negotiations with Iran, the European Commission will encourage remote working and public transport subsidies to cut fossil fuel use, and FTSE 100 companies boosted chief executives’ pay by almost a fifth in the past year. Plus, there’s a new craze hitting Wall Street: super-charged tax-loss harvesting. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump to send US officials to Pakistan for fresh peace talks with IranBrussels pushes remote working to ease energy crisisFTSE bosses receive 18% pay bump this year in global fight for talentThe tax-focused hedge fund craze taking over Wall StreetNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Global oil markets have faced historic disruption since the Iran war began in February. The FT’s Jamie Smyth speaks with shale pioneer Scott Sheffield and his son Bryan about energy security and why the crisis could reshape the future for oil and gas. Correction April 23, 2026: While Mike Sommers, CEO of the American Petroleum Institute, stressed the importance of restoring traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The API would like to clarify that the group does not have an opinion on the US government’s deployment of American troops to Iran.Mentioned in this podcast:Trump administration urges US oil bosses to increase drillingFracking pioneers look overseas as US shale revolution goes global ‘As big as Saudi Arabia’: the Permian oilman who sold Pioneer to Exxon Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts This episode was hosted and produced by Michela Tindera. It was edited by Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallman. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Donald Trump said Lebanon and Israel had agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, the US Treasury’s status as the world’s lowest-cost dollar borrower is facing a fresh challenge, and Netflix’s chair and founder is stepping down. Plus, Iran secretly acquired a Chinese spy satellite that has helped it target US military bases across the Middle East during the war, and shares in the world’s biggest chocolate maker aren’t looking so sweet.Mentioned in this podcast:Israel and Lebanon agree 10-day ceasefire, Trump saysUS’s status as lowest-cost dollar borrower challenged as investors shun Trump riskNetflix founder Reed Hastings to step down from boardIran used Chinese spy satellite to target US basesShares at world’s biggest chocolate maker Barry Callebaut plunge as cocoa prices collapseCredit: BBCNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Fiona Symon. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, David da Silva, and Michela Tindera. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gulf monarchies raised almost $10bn in private sales of bonds this month, oil shortages are coming if the Strait of Hormuz stays closed, and US President Donald Trump has renewed his threat to fire Federal Reserve chair Jay Powell. Plus, a second China shock is hitting the global economy, and Allbirds is pivoting from wool sneakers to AI. Mentioned in this podcast:Gulf states turn to private deals in $10bn wartime borrowing spreeOil shortages are coming, and with them some difficult questionsTrump threatens to fire Jay Powell and refuses to halt criminal probeChina shock 2.0: the flood of high-tech goods that will change the worldAllbirds is turning into an AI compute provider, because of course it isNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Fiona Simon and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ships are altering course as the US Navy’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz continues into its third day, and PwC plans to overhaul its global consulting business. Plus, insurers are turning to catastrophe bonds to cover data centres, and AI chatbots aren’t a substitute for doctors when it comes to medical diagnoses. Mentioned in this podcast:Strait of Hormuz tankers stop or turn around amid US blockadeIran war could slow global growth to weakest since pandemic, IMF warnsUS pushing Iran to agree 20-year moratorium on nuclear activityPwC plans overhaul of global consulting businessInsurers turn to catastrophe bonds to offload data centre risksAI chatbots misdiagnose in over 80% of early medical cases, study findsNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A key UK government official says Britain’s leaders have shown a “corrosive complacency” towards defence, OpenAI’s $852bn valuation is under increasing scrutiny from its own backers and fixed-income traders at Goldman Sachs suffered an unexpected drop in revenues at the start of 2026. Plus, the FT’s Raya Jalabi explains how Lebanon has become a sticking point in US-Iran negotiations.  Mentioned in this podcast:Starmer accused of ‘corrosive complacency’ on UK defence by former Nato chiefOpenAI investors question $852bn valuation as strategy shiftsGoldman bond traders take shine off bumper quarterThe 10 minutes that set Lebanon ablazeNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hungary’s prime minister Viktor Orbán concedes, US President Donald Trump says America will launch a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after peace talks with Iran failed, and Wall Street banks are set to report trading revenues of more than $40bn for the first quarter. Plus, Meta is building an AI version of its CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Mentioned in this podcast:Hungary’s Orbán concedes defeat as opposition heads for landslide winTrump announces naval blockade of Strait of Hormuz as Iran peace talks failFees for seas: a history of taxing waterwaysWall Street banks set to report $40bn trading haul as war rekindles volatilityMeta builds AI version of Mark Zuckerberg to interact with staffCredit: DWS News Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains at a standstill, sales of used electric vehicles are surging in the US, and the International Monetary Fund is warning that the war’s shocks will be felt by the global economy for a while. Plus, the FT’s Marton Dunai gives a rundown of the upcoming Hungarian elections.  Mentioned in this podcast:OECD urges governments to rapidly unwind costly fuel duty cutsRefineries rush to secure oil cargoes as Iran maintains grip on HormuzSales of used EVs surge in US as petrol prices pass $4 a gallonWho is Péter Magyar, Viktor Orbán’s nemesis?Donald Trump and JD Vance back Viktor Orbán ahead of Hungary’s electionCredit: AP Archive, C-SPAN, Reuters Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Middle East ceasefire is strained, the FT’s Jamie Smyth explains how the uncertainty is hitting oil markets and Pakistan has become a mediator between the US and Iran. Plus, the data chief of the NHS has vowed to ignore controversy about Palantir while setting out plans to deeper embed the US company’s technology.Mentioned in this podcast:Middle East ceasefire under pressure over Israeli strikes on LebanonSaudi Arabia’s key east-west oil pipeline hit as Middle East energy attacks continueIran demands crypto fees for ships passing Hormuz during ceasefireWhite House pushed Pakistan to broker temporary Iran ceasefireNHS data chief pushes for deeper rollout of Palantir technology despite outcryNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump said he would “suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks” subject to Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz, hedge funds made record bets against European stocks, Turkey has sold or loaned out $20bn of gold since the outbreak of the Iran war, and a project for a German warship has turned into a defence procurement disaster. Plus, four astronauts made a historic trip around the Moon.Mentioned in this podcast:Middle East live blogHedge funds make record bets against European stocksEurope’s rearmament meets reality: the story of a failed frigate projectTurkey’s gold sales deepen bullion slumpArtemis II astronauts head back to Earth after record-breaking Moon tripCredit: CNN, NBC New York Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US and Iran rejected each other’s peace proposals, EU officials are urging governments to avoid excessive support to offset surging energy prices, and the value of buyouts by private equity groups fell by more than a third in the first quarter of the year. Plus, Cuba is offsetting power blackouts and shortages with the help of soaring imports of solar technology from China.Mentioned in this podcast:US and Iran reject each other’s proposals to end warEU warns capitals against turning energy crunch into fiscal crisisPrivate equity buyouts slump as AI fears and war dent dealmakingPower-starved Cuba deepens reliance on Chinese solar techNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a special edition of the FT News Briefing, reporter Guy Chazan explains the cost of US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. We hear from business owners and people affected by the policies in the Rio Grande Valley of south Texas.Mentioned in this podcast:The economic cost of Trump’s migrant crackdownSources: White House, Fox, ABCNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig and produced by Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

America’s tariff regime affected all aspects of life from the global economy to the day-to-day of average business owners. In this special episode, the FT’s US Economics Editor Claire Jones explains what changed, and what didn’t, because of those tariffs. Mentioned in this podcast:Listen to the rest of our Liberation Day series Listen to Swamp Notes Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson.  Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Donald Trump fired US attorney-general Pam Bondi, and private credit investors are requesting their money back from Blue Owl Capital at an alarming rate. Plus, the FT’s Robert Armstrong continues our series on Trump’s tariffs with analysis of the Taco trade theory a year later. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump fires US attorney-general Pam BondiBlue Owl struck by $5.4bn of redemption requestsTaco trade theory and the US market’s surprise comebackListen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series hereNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump updated Americans on the war in Iran, and Chinese government bonds have sidestepped a global debt sell-off since the start of Washington’s conflict with Tehran. Plus, in part four of our tariff anniversary series, the FT’s Gideon Rachman explains how Trump’s tariffs reshaped the geopolitical landscape. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump offers mixed messages on war in IranChinese government bonds emerge as lone war havenListen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series hereNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann andD avid da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Foreign central banks have slashed their holdings of Treasuries at the New York Federal Reserve to the lowest level since 2012, and a preliminary estimate showed that Eurozone inflation jumped to 2.5 per cent in March. Plus, we hear from two small US business owners about how they have navigated a year of President Donald Trump’s tariffs. Mentioned in this podcast:Foreign central banks sell US Treasuries in wake of Iran warThe ECB’s three-pronged monetary strategyTrump tariff tracker: US trade, markets and the economyListen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series hereChris Giles on Central BanksNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, Saffeya Ahmed, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Swiss lawmakers have assured senior UBS executives that they will water down stringent new rules and the Trump administration took its first step in opening the more than $10tn US retirement marketplace to private markets. Plus, as part of our series marking one year since so-called Liberation Day, the FT’s Stefania Palma explains the rocky legal future of US tariffs. Mentioned in this podcast:Swiss lawmakers signal compromise on $22bn UBS capital planTrump to take first steps in opening retirement funds to private marketsThe Supreme Court sends tariffs on a turbulent descentListen to the FT News Briefing’s tariffs series hereNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump has said he wants to ‘take the oil in Iran’ and could seize the export hub of Kharg Island. Uncertainty about what happens next in the war is sending nervousness through global markets. Plus, this week marks one year since President Trump’s so-called Liberation Day announcement. How has the global trade landscape changed since then?Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump says US could ‘take the oil in Iran’Global markets recoil as Marco Rubio warns war in Iran could stretch for weeksUS bond market shows signs of strain as Iran war sparks Treasury tumultHow has the global economy changed since ‘liberation day’?Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcastsToday’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig and produced by Nisha Patel and Marc Filippino. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Untold host Antonia Cundy uncovers the cultural and political influence of a controversial Catholic organisation in America. Opus Dei exists to help people get closer to God, but some members say they found other agendas – and unexpected harm – entangled in that spiritual mission.We meet Sarah – a young girl drawn to Opus Dei’s message that professional work can be a path to holiness. At 18, Sarah says goodbye to her family and moves into an Opus Dei centre to learn how to make her work an offering to God. But what she experiences there feels different to the organisation she thought she knew. Sarah chafes at unexpected rules, unquestioning obedience and dehumanising treatment.Subscribe and listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to podcasts.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The United Arab Emirates has told allies that it would participate in a multinational maritime task force intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and Hong Kong is weighing tax cuts for asset managers. Plus, London has embraced a controversial form of energy production: burning rubbish. Mentioned in this podcast:UAE pushes for international force to reopen HormuzHong Kong weighs ‘big bang’ tax cuts for asset managers‘It’s good business’: how London became an ‘energy from waste’ capitalNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Mischa Frankl-Duval, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iran’s top military leadership dismissed Donald Trump’s claims that the Islamic republic was ready to make a deal, the US president appears to make abrupt policy pivots based on swings in oil prices, and the EU’s trade commissioner says time is running out to stop the World Trade Organization from fading into irrelevance. Plus, how worried should investors be about the caps on redemptions at private credit funds?Mentioned in this podcast:Iran’s military leaders dismiss Donald Trump’s deal claimsIran war tests Donald Trump’s tolerance for ‘pain’ in oil marketMeta and Google liable for social media harm to children’s mental health in landmark US caseWTO risks sliding into irrelevance, EU trade commissioner warnsPrivate credit’s game of footsie is getting riskierAres limits withdrawals from $10.7bn private credit fundNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Henry Larson, Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta and OpenAI will be among the first customers of Arm’s long-awaited new AI processor, the haven asset gold hasn’t been looking like its usual self, and Volkswagen is in talks to switch production at one its factories from cars to missile defence for Israel. Plus, Lebanon is worried Israel will push further into its southern region and occupy it. Mentioned in this podcast:Arm launches own AI chip in high-stakes strategy shiftUnhedged: Is gold an unsafe haven asset?Listen to the Unhedged podcast hereVW to shift from cars to missile defence in deal with Israel’s Iron Dome makerThe sum of all fears for LebanonNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sources tell the FT that Pakistan is positioning itself as the lead mediator trying to broker an end to the US’s and Israel’s war against Iran, and the US ambassador to the EU says the bloc must implement its trade deal with the US or risk losing its “favourable” access to liquefied natural gas shipments from American exporters. Plus, carmakers are panic buying aluminium because of the Middle East conflict, and some Israeli opposition parties are being surprisingly hawkish on Iran.Mentioned in this podcast:Pakistan steps up as go-between in Trump’s Iran crisisUS warns EU to pass trade deal or risk losing ‘favourable’ access to LNGCarmakers rush to secure aluminium as Middle East war hits supplyBenjamin Netanyahu’s rivals compete to outdo him over IranNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Victoria Craig and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World Food Project warns millions more could be pushed into acute hunger if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Plus, energy executives meet in Houston as war in Iran rages, and China pitches itself as a “harbour of stability” to global CEOs. And Trump escalates his rhetoric on Cuba, raising fears of U.S.-Cuba confrontation.Mentioned in this podcast:Piles of wheat and canned food stuck in transit as Iran war disrupts aidIran war is the greatest threat to global energy ‘in history’, warns IEACanada’s oil producers in line for C$90bn windfall from Iran war China touts itself as ‘harbour of stability’ amid Iran war Cuba hit by second nationwide power outage in a weekCredit: NBCNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Investors sounded the alarm on Thursday after a major Qatar gas facility took serious damage, and amateur traders are going wild for five-minute bets. Mentioned in this podcast:‘Armageddon scenario’ for gas markets as Qatar hit by missilesFive-minute bets are the new craze sweeping crypto marketsStocks and bonds tumble as investors price in ‘protracted energy shock’CERAWeek conferenceNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Fiona Symon, Victoria Craig, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US has relaxed sanctions on Venezuela’s state-owned oil group Petróleos de Venezuela and the Federal Reserve has stuck with plans to cut rates later this year. Plus, Walmart won patents to give algorithms more sway over prices and fears of an immediate escalation in the conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan have eased.Mentioned in this podcast:Federal Reserve chief Jay Powell says Iran oil crisis will worsen US inflationPakistan and Afghanistan pause hostilities after Kabul hospital attackWalmart wins patents to give algorithms more sway over pricesUS relaxes sanctions on Venezuela’s PDVSA amid global energy squeezeSend us your tariff story: [email protected]: Federal ReserveNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Fiona Symon and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The EU wants to make mergers a bit easier, Wall Street banks are offloading $18bn of debt tied to video game maker Electronic Arts, and investors are piling into cash at the fastest rate since the Covid-19 pandemic. Plus, the FT’s Ahmed Al Omran explains why Saudi Arabia’s recent truce with Iran has not paid off. Mentioned in this podcast:EU weighs curbs on national powers to block mergersBanks prepare to offload $18bn in debt tied to EA take-private dealInvestors pile into cash at fastest pace since pandemic on Iran fearsHow MBS’s bet on Iran backfiredSend us your tariffs story: [email protected]: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello, and David da Silva. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT’s Gideon Rachman explains what the Strait of Hormuz’s closure means strategically for Iran, Italy’s UniCredit has launched a €35bn takeover offer for Commerzbank and China’s oil stockpile is put to the test as the strait remains closed. Plus, scientists have identified a potential new type of planet.Mentioned in this podcast:Why Hormuz will haunt us long after this war endsBiggest Nato allies reject Trump’s Hormuz armada demandUniCredit launches €35bn Commerzbank takeover offerIran war tests Xi Jinping’s plan to build China’s stockpilesHellish new planet identified beyond solar systemNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Marc Filippino, Saffeya Ahmed, and Victoria Craig. Our show was mixed by Kent Militzer. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump warned Nato faces a “very bad” future if US allies fail to assist in opening up the Strait of Hormuz, and though oil prices have breached $100 per barrel, America’s shale producers aren’t celebrating. Plus, wealthy individuals have sought to pull more than $10bn from some of the largest private credit funds in the first quarter. And, what to expect from eight central bank meetings this week. Mentioned in this podcast:Donald Trump warns Nato faces ‘very bad future’ if allies fail to help US in IranEU ministers to discuss possible naval options for Strait of HormuzWhy America’s shale patch is not celebrating $100 oilRich investors seek to pull billions from private credit funds Iran war reawakens global inflation fearsNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Victoria Craig, and produced by Julia Webster. Our show was mixed by Alex Higgins. Additional help from Peter Barber. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing Artificial intimacy from Tech Tonic. For the next episodes in this season go to the Tech Tonic feed.Calder Quinn has fallen into a relationship with a chatbot called Sara. She’s kind, emotionally intelligent and creatively inspiring. But how can he tell his wife he is having sex with an AI girlfriend? In the first episode of Artificial Intimacy we look at how people are developing romantic bonds with AI companions. What does it feel like to be in love with AI? What impact could it have on human relationships? Could it replace them altogether? Host Cristina Criddle speaks to Giada Pistilli, an AI ethicist who now works at Mistral; Calder Quinn, writer at ‘AI, But Make It Intimate’; Amelia Quinn, Calder’s wife; and Alaina Winters, professor emeritus of communication who publishes on meandmyaihusband.com.Presented by Cristina Criddle, produced by Persis Love and Edwin Lane. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Sound design by Breen Turner and Sam Giovinco. We used ElevenLabs to create Sara’s voice. All other voices are real. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.