World Business Report

In recent weeks the US Treasury Secretary has tried to tame the bond markets. The cost of bonds affects how much you pay for borrowing such as mortgages and credit cards. But can Scott Bessent succeed where so many before him have failed?Also the luxury brand LVMH appears to be losing some of its shine. Why has the luxury giant lost its appeal and how much is the second-hand market to blame?Elsewhere the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has killed more than 3,400 people, what does it take to develop a vaccine?PHOTO CREDIT: EPA/Shutterstock

As fuel prices rise across the world, Luke Wilson hears from an economist in Germany about the impact on the country's industry.Plus, how are costs to borrow money affecting mortgage rates?

Anthropic co-founder Jack Clark speaks to the BBC about the dangers of AI development and need for regulation, as the world's biggest AI bosses call for a pause in development, we find out does AI need a kill switch?Also, Africa’s biggest ever share sale has been launched, Aliko Dangote wants millions of Nigerians to own a piece of his oil refinery, to help his plans for expansion. And Russia’s wartime economy may still be growing, but are businesses and ordinary Russians beginning to feel the strain?PHOTO CREDIT: BBC NEWS YOUTUBE

As bosses of AI companies call for a 'slowdown' in the development of the technology, the BBC's Luke Wilson explores if it's even possible without China onboard. Plus, Africa's biggest ever public share has opened in Nigeria and how are oil prices reacting to the closure of a key pipeline in Saudi Arabia.

The Houthis now control the vital Red Sea waterway including the key shipping lane through the Bab al-Mandab Strait. We hear from maritime and security experts.    As oil prices hit an unprecedented six dollars per barrel in the U.S., we go to South Dakota and Massachusetts to speak to American business owners about the impact of higher prices and lower wages.    And on the twenty fifth anniversary of 9/11,  the Speaker of the New York City Council tells us about how her city fought back, but also about the environmental consequences of the attack.   (Image Credit: EPA/Shutterstock)

Prices in the US rose by 3.4% in the year to August, with the cost of living being pushed up by higher gasoline prices. We hear how one business is being impacted. China sets targets to boost the percentage of EV's and autonomous vehicles on its roads. And athletes compete for a share of 10 million dollars at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest Hungary. Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Barbara George

The visit to New Delhi is Xi Jinping’s first trip to India in seven years. But will this diplomatic overture lead to stronger business ties between the two countries? We go to our correspondent on the ground who tells us more. How much does the BRICS summit matter? A Brazilian economist tells us her view. An expert on Yemen explains the latest shipping crisis in the region, after Houthi rebels take the city of Mocha on the Red Sea.We go to New York to speak to a mathematician who says the field is in trouble — because of AI.And the revelation that AI companies are buying rare books and destroying them has sent shockwaves through the books market — one rare book seller tells us why AI companies want the books and what it's doing to his business.(Image Credit: Reuters)

The European Central Bank has raised its key interest rate to 2.5%, as it steps up efforts to bring inflation under control. Will be taking a look at the kind of impact this is having and will other central banks follow suit. Oil as hit over a hundred dollars a barrel, with jet fuel costs in some parts of the world pushed even higher. And the Chinese telecoms giant Huawei goes on trial in New York. Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Barbara George

An Anthropic researcher's post on X that there is a 10% chance that AI "could kill all humans" has been viewed more than ten million times. It comes as Jacob Coxon resigns from the company warning that the two top companies are not "acting responsibly." But others say the warnings are overblown. We hear from experts and the public. We go to the U.S. where Apple is launching a new product, the first foldable iPhone — the first such launch with new CEO John Ternus. And a food safety crackdown in Mumbai, India's financial capital, has gone viral — with thousands of restaurant raids, and photos of filthy kitchens shared widely online.(Photo: REUTERS/Manuel Orbegozo )

Oil prices rise above $100 a barrel for first time since July as tensions escalate in the Middle East, we'll be finding out what this means for consumers this winter. Some of Europe's biggest airlines call for firings over air traffic control outages in the UK as hundreds of flights are cancelled in the UK's busiest airport. And Apple gets set to unveil its latest products with a new boss at the helm. Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Barbara George

The UK has announced new measures targeting Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including a ban on trade with settlement businesses. The move follows a joint declaration supported by 12 countries, amid concerns over the expansion of settlements. Israel has responded by announcing the closure of the British consulate in East Jerusalem and imposing entry bans on a number of British officials.Canada is hitting back at the latest US tariffs, imposing duties on around $20 billion of American imports in a dollar-for-dollar response.And thieves have stolen two paintings worth millions from a museum dedicated to impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir.(Photo: Jamal Awad / Reuters)

Canadian retaliatory tariffs on a range of US goods worth around £20bn dollars have come into effect. We'll hear from a dairy farmer in Ohio about the impact of this.The boss of Dubai Airport says it's bouncing back, even while war in the Middle East continues. And Singapore's Prime Minister gets a 1 million dollar pay rise. Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Barbara George

Europe's carmakers are facing challenges from every direction. With Jaguar Land Rover announcing 4,000 job cuts worldwide and Volkswagen's plans to cut 50,000 jobs, we look at why some of the industry's biggest names are feeling the strain. And how much of this is being driven by the changing market in China?The boss of the biggest UK headquartered tech firm, chip design company Arm Holdings, has said that AI will find a cure for cancer that humans can not in our lifetimes; he also thinks that AI will lead to the widespread manufacture of humanoid robots in the next five years.And we look at why the European Union is betting big on Greenland.(Image Credit: EPA/Shutterstock)

A victory for the far-right in Germany the AfD fuels calls for faster growth in Europe's biggest economy as businesses call for an economic reform. Meanwhile China pumps tens of billions of dollars into its banks to try and boost growth. And Jaguar Land Rover becomes the latest carmaker to cut thousands of jobs Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Barbara George

It is birthday celebrations for Aardman Animations. The award-winning British studio behind Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep celebrates 50 years since it was founded in the UK.And we head over to the US as their latest figures shows they added more jobs than expected but wages are still falling behind inflation. While in Canada, job losses are hitting their retail and finance sectors. We hear from businesses across the two countries about the challenges they are facing.(Photo: Aardman characters Wallace and Gromit. Credit: PA)Presenter: Andrew Peach Producer: Barbara George Editor: Stephen Ryan

The board of German car giant Volkswagen has approved a plan to cut another 50,000 jobs as part of the biggest restructuring in the group's history.It brings the total number of roles the carmaker - which includes Audi, Porsche, Skoda as well as the VW brand - plans to shed by 2030 to 100,000, after announcing in March that it would cut 50,000 roles.Kenya's President William Ruto has told one of India’s major chemical companies, Tata Chemicals, to “pack up and leave”. The president says the company has not delivered enough benefits for Kenya, accusing it of exporting soda ash rather than processing more of the mineral locally.And British studio Aardman Animations, creator of Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and many other well-loved characters, is celebrating 50 years since it was founded in Bristol by childhood friends Peter Lord and David Sproxton. Since then, its films have brought in more than $1.1 billion at the global box office and won four Academy Awards.Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producers: Huma Shah & Guy Kilty

The "supersized" El Niño weather system is hitting the global economy, with cocoa farmers in Ecuador already seeing prices for their products fall.As the Panama Canal operator limits the number of vessels passing through the waterway, we ask what further trade shocks are to come.And US basketball team the Los Angeles Clippers has been hit with a record $30 million fine by the National Basketball Association for violating salary rules. What will it mean for the team and for the game?Photo: Reuters/Enea Lebrun

The LA Clippers have been fined $30 million by the National Basketball Association after an investigation revealed that the club had circumvented salary rules to channel funds to their star player Kawhi Leonard. The fine is the largest in the league’s history - the Clippers said they will appeal against the decision. Also, as the Dutch central bank moves more than 78 tonnes of gold from New York to London, presenter Bisi Adebayo looks at why countries store gold abroad in the first place. And - robotaxis have hit the streets of London for the first time, as Uber launches 15 self-driving cars. So why is there a human still in the driving seat? We find out.Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Senior producer: Craig Henderson Producer: Huma Shah

US oil giant Chevron says it will expand operations in Venezuela, with plans to invest more than $7 million to double its output there over the next five years.As Uber leaves the Nigerian market, we'll look at what that means for drivers and passengers who depend on the platform every day.Plus, the Venice Film Festival has rolled out the red carpet. So why does it feel a little less glamorous this year?Photo: EPA/Shutterstock

A controversial oil deal gives the United States control of more than a fifth of Venezuela’s reserves. Plus, could Kenya be running short of milk? And thousands of US sailors deployed to the Strait of Hormuz reach dry land, after a record stretch at sea. Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producers: Victoriya Holland and Huma Shah Editor: Naomi Rainey

Escalating conflict in the Gulf is pushing oil prices ever higher. We explore the connection between energy prices and government borrowing to find out why falling bond prices across the world matter to jobs and inflation. The appearance of Russia's finance minister at the G20 talks in North Carolina caused some awkwardness among his European counterparts. Beyond the embarrassing family photo shoot, we try to find out what Russia hoped to gain from the summit. And after almost 20 years without turning a profit, Victoria Beckham's fashion and beauty business has finally turned a profit. What's changed?(Picture: A passerby walks past a screen showing the yield on the 10-year Japanese government bond in Tokyo, Japan, 31 August 2026. Credit: Franck Robichon,EPA/Shutterstock)

Shein finally makes its stock market debut in Hong Kong, after failed attempts to list in New York and London. And the company is now valued at around a quarter of its 2022 peak. We look at whether it really is third time lucky for the fast-fashion giant. China tightens the rules for its carmakers, warning against aggressive price cuts as brands such as BYD look overseas for growth. We hear from former Nissan and Aston Martin executive Andy Palmer. Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producer: Amber Mehmood

In the 15 years since he's been charge at Apple, Tim Cook has turned the consumer tech company into a multi-trillion dollar success. What does new CEO John Ternus need to do to keep Apple on top? Also, what's on the minds of those running the world's biggest economies? We take the temperature at the G20 summit in North Carolina. And as Sony Music Publishing and Warner Chappell become the latest industry names to take legal action against an AI giant, we speak to someone at the heart of the debate: a real-life musician. Photo: REUTERS/David Swanson

The US and Iran exchange fire for the first time in a month, as an oil tanker reportedly hits mines in the Strait of Hormuz. We look at what the renewed fighting could mean for oil supplies, shipping and the global economy. Also, China and Russia hold talks as world leaders gather for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. And after 15 years at the top, Tim Cook prepares to step down as CEO of Apple.Producer: Bisi Adebayo Presenter:Luke Wilson

The head of the US Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh, says policymakers "have work to do" if they are not confident cost-of-living pressures are easing for Americans.Policy makers from 10 nations neighbouring the Baltic Sea have been meeting today to discuss hybrid attacks on their countries. Earlier this month Leipzig Airport in Germany was shut after drones targeted planes.And a group of more than 80 performers have written to the British Prime Minister urging his government to take action over companies using Artificial Intelligence to clone their voices.

In his first speech at Jackson Hole as Federal Reserve Chair, Kevin Warsh said that while inflation data had been better than expected over the summer, it did not suggest the outlook had "meaningfully improved". However, he stressed that his remarks should not be seen as a guide to future interest rate decisions. And more than 80 British actors and voice artists are calling for stronger legal protections against AI-generated copies of their voices. Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producer: Amber Mehmood

They warn cyber-attacks which use AI will become both more widespread and more sophisticated in a matter of months as the technology rapidly improves.UEFA is preparing criminal legal action against the President of FIFA, Gianni Infantino.And a barrel of single malt scotch whisky bought in 1971 for $175 has been valued by auctioneers at $370,000.

More oil is making its way through the Strait of Hormuz, despite the continuing war with Iran, with Kuwait and Qatar among the Gulf producers finding new ways to keep supplies moving. Could tighter restrictions on Facebook and Instagram actually make children safer online? A former Meta engineering director and whistleblower says changes agreed in a multibillion-dollar US settlement won't go far enough. And Forbes Russia has named Wildberries founder Tatyana Kim the country's wealthiest woman, despite Ukrainian attacks on the company's warehouses.

The Facebook and Instagram owner was accused by several US States of having addictive products that harm children.Shares in US chip designer Nvidia rise in after hours trading after its 2 quarter results beat market expectations. It remains the world's most valuable company.And we hear about the amazing business acumen of the country music star Dolly Parton who died yesterday.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has agreed to an $18bn settlement with 29 US states over claims that its platforms harmed children. The deal, which is subject to court approval, would require Meta to introduce new rules for teenage users, including daily limits and overnight blocks. The collapse of what was once one of China’s biggest property developers is now threatening to become a multi-billion-dollar headache for PwC. A Hong Kong judge has ruled that Evergrande’s liquidators can pursue PwC’s global organisation, as well as its Chinese affiliates, over alleged audit failings. They’re seeking around $8.4bn in damages. And Dolly Parton, one of country music’s biggest stars, has died aged 80. She sold more than 100 million records during a six-decade career, while building a business empire spanning music publishing, film, television and her Dollywood theme park.

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced ‘dollar-for-dollar’ counter-tariffs on a swath of U.S. goods — with a sliding scale of 15, 25 and 50 per cent.Ed Butler speaks to an shipping expert and asks if anyone really knows how much oil and gas is currently being exported from the Middle East via the Strait of Hormuz.And Volkswagen's Chief Executive has embarked on tour of German plants amid a plan for the auto giant to cut tens of thousands of jobs at home.

We take a look at what the latest US sanctions could mean for Iran's trading partners. Plus, India's taking "express" action to bring down soaring onion prices, and Lego has built record sales. Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producer: Barbara George

The US has announced a host of sanctions against Iran and threatened its supporters in what Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said is "the single greatest financial offensive ever".Trade relations between Canada and the United States have sunk to a new low after weeks of urgent talks fell apart over the weekend.Meanwhile Ed Butler takes a look at the growing trade tensions between the European Union and China.

What could new sanctions mean for Iran's economy and its trading partners? Meanwhile, President Trump announces plans for a 50% tariff on Canadian vehicles from 2027. Also, Singapore announces a $55,000 incentive aimed at encouraging people to have more children. And China showcases its growing humanoid robot industry.Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producer: Niamh Mc Dermott

Long: Meteorologists warn a developing El Niño could be the strongest in living memory, with scientists saying next year could become the hottest on record. We look at what that could mean for businesses and global trade as low rainfall forces the Panama Canal to restrict shipping. Also, Premier League clubs spend billions on new players despite new financial rules. And how a low-budget animated film became an unlikely box-office hit in China. (Photo: Panama Canal Authority limits daily ship traffic due to El Nino drought, Panama City - 20 Aug 2026. Credit: EPA/Shutterstock

A strong weather system which causes the globe to heat up is already having an impact on business with the Panama Canal reducing the number of ships which can pass through and certain food prices in India risingJapan's inflation hits its highest level of the yearand the Golden Ball - why a football could sell for $10 million

US government debt has topped $40 trillion for the first time, raising fresh questions about America’s finances and the cost of borrowing. We also look at a new trade deal between Switzerland and China. And the workplace behaviours most likely to land employees in trouble with their bosses. (Photo:A screen displays the total U.S. National Debt, which surpassed $40 trillion for the first time according to the Treasury Department, in New York City, U.S., August 19, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Brendan McDermid)

Moderna shares soared more than 172% after strong results for its vaccine for melanoma skin cancer. Elsewhere, the Evergrande saga came to a dramatic conclusion in a Shenzhen court. And what will Walmart spend its $3 billion Trump tariffs rebate on?World Business Express - Finance, economy and business news from BBC journalists around the world. The stories that matter: World Business Express brings you the essentials on the fast-changing global economy. What forces are driving the markets and industry? Hear unique insight from top CEOs, investors, economic thinkers and small business bosses.

Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledges that Ukrainian attacks and sanctions are affecting his country’s economy, while insisting there have been no critical consequences. In this special episode, we examine the economic pressures created by Russia’s war in Ukraine, and look at how the conflict has transformed the drone industry, with Ukraine planning to produce millions of drones this year. (Photo: A firefighter works at a burnt-out hypermarket following an overnight Ukrainian drone strike, in the course of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in Donetsk, a Russian-controlled city of Ukraine, August 16, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Alexander Ermochenko)

The US has paused 50% tariffs on Canada, hours before they were due to come into effect as the countries firm up a trade deal. Donald Trump said a deal has been reached, but the Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said there was still important work to be done.In China, the world's biggest humanoid robot manufacturer, Unitree Robotics, has seen its share price soar more than 500% on its stock market debut in Shanghai.And why are businesses banning Meta smart glasses?Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Niamh Mc Dermott

Tech giant Meta on trial over claims it deliberately keeps young people scrolling. Four US states are seeking billions of dollars from the company, as part of a wider case brought by 29 states.New trade tariffs set to be imposed on Canada by the USA unless there's a late breakthrough in trade talks.And why does the owner of the LA Lakers, the LA Dodgers and part owner of Chelsea FC need to raise a lot of money quickly?

Facebook and Instagram's parent company, Meta is heading into a legal battle against a group of US states that argue it deliberately designed its products to be addictive for younger users. It could pose the biggest threat yet to social media operations with the states demanding changes.In Canada, pressure is rising to reach a trade deal with the US or be hit with Donald Trump's new 50% tariff on hundreds of Canadian goods.We find out why borrowing costs for some of the world's major economies are on the rise.And why is price of wool is skyrocketing?Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Niamh Mc Dermott

The US has threatened Canda with a 50% tariff on goods, with billions of dollars of trade at stake. But can Canada persuade President Trump to change course? We take a look into the talks that have been happening so far. We’ll also explore Chinese tech giant Alibaba’s latest move in the AI race.And we ask if changing jobs is becoming a gamble fewer workers are willing to take?

We speak to the creator of the Katsu Curry Index about what the price of the iconic Japanese dish can tell us about the yen, inflation and the country's tourism boom. Elsewhere we dig into the Chinese economic data released today and ask if European companies should be worried by a retail spending slowdown in the world's second-largest economy. World Business Express - Finance, economy and business news from BBC journalists around the world. The stories that matter.

International Labour Organisation reported that joblessness among young people rose globally in 2025. We take a look at the issue of youth unemployment.Elsewhere, President Trump says he'll declare the Strait of Hormuz US territory, as the US threatens to subject Iran to economic isolation. We examine what further sanctions Washington might have in mind.And in Indonesia, the president has hit out at official corruption and vowed greater state intervention in the economy. We take a closer look at the country's economy and investment opportunities. PHOTO: Job seekers and recruiters for garment factories gather on a street in Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong province, China, REUTERS/Go Nakamura

Australian lawmakers have been questioning executives from the likes of Meta and Tiktok over the country's social media ban for under 16s.Data suggests the majority of Australian teens still use the platforms, despite December's law change. The companies have told politicians not to focus too much on this early data and that they don't need to face tougher penalties.Also, President Trump has announced tariffs of up to 100% on imports of drones and their components to try and reduce reliance on Chinese technology.

Incheon Airport near the South Korean capital of Seoul has become the world's busiest international airport for the first time, handling more than 38 million international passengers in the first half of the year. We find out what is shifting air travel habits and what UK travellers want from airports.Elsewhere, we speak to the CEO of Watt Electric Vehicle Company about a new deal that will see it build the first electric vehicle factory in Qatar to develop cars for the intense heat of Gulf countries.Also, we hear from the CEO of Maersk about why it managed to make higher profits than analysts expected.And we find out how prepared young people are for budgeting and cooking for themselves once they take the leap to move away from home for education.PHOTO CREDIT: REUTERS/Kim Soo-hyeon

Maersk's CEO exclusively tells World Business Express the company is investing more in alternative routes after the trouble in the Strait of HormuzThere's a new holder of the title of the world's busiest airportand step inside the human fridge in Japan

The Los Angeles Lakers are to be sold for a reported record-breaking $12.5bn to American businessman Josh Kushner and former Disney chief executive Bob Iger. We hear from a former insider on what this means for one of the world's biggest sports brands. Elsewhere as Colombia recovers from a devastating earthquake, we hear about recovery efforts and the impact on its economy. Also, with less than a week to go before Donald Trump's latest tariff deadline we hear from one business on what measures they are planning to take to keep trading. And, a new jet, being billed as China’s answer to Boeing or Airbus is made its first international commercial flight. What does this mean for the nation?PHOTO CREDIT: REUTERS/Mike Segar

The latest US inflation data is out, but with the cost of living still a major concern for households, how are Americans feeling about their finances? Plus, Colombia’s new president is set to declare an economic emergency after Monday’s devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake. And the chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of India’s vast Tata conglomerate, is stepping down when his term ends next February, after failing to secure board backing for another term.