World Business Report

Strikes ground planes in Paris Jul 01, 2022

Travellers in France face a wave of flight cancellations as a four-day strike by airport workers in the capital grounds dozens of planes. We hear from French journalist Anne-Elizabeth Moutet and the Head of Aviation at the European Transport Workers' Federation Eoin Coates. Disney, Facebook’s parent Meta, American Express and Goldman Sachs are among the latest in a growing list of companies that say they will cover expenses for employees who travel out of state to access abortion care. But what happens to those who work for smaller employers who can't or won't provide extended health care? Marketplace's Meghan McCarty Carino has more on who the system leaves behind. Only a tiny handful of women have ever attempted to enter Formula 1. But now one team is trying to change that: Alpine. Formerly Renault F1 has launched a bid to get more women into the sport, we talk to their head of HR Claire Mesnier. The Indian government's recent reform of defence recruitment is under fire. Young people across the country have been protesting against the reduction of service to four years - as the country attempts to make the armed forces leaner and reduce pension expenditure. The BBC’s Archana Shukla explores why this reform is so controversial. The Sky Cruise is a huge aeroplane with thousands of rooms, parks and a pool powered by its own nuclear reactor. But it only exists in a video animation made by Yemeni science communicator and video producer Hashem Al-Ghail... for now. He told us why he thinks his design can soon become a real vacation cruiser.

Hong Kong: how has doing business changed 25 years after handover? Jul 01, 2022

On the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's transfer from British to Chinese rule, we ask how things have changed for businesses in the territory. Speaking at an event to mark the occasion, President Xi said the "one country two system" model of ruling Hong Kong must continue. He also oversaw the inauguration of Hong Kong's new pro-Beijing leader John Lee. Bloomberg's Asia Government Correspondent, Rebecca Choong Wilkins gives her insight into the day's events and looks at what the future holds for businesses in Hong Kong. US stocks have seen their worst first half drop since the 1970s. Shanti Kelemen, Chief Investment Officer with M&G Wealth, gives her analysis and considers how other global markets are being affected. Same-sex marriage is now legal in Switzerland, following a referendum on the issue in the country last year. Felix Fay from the Swiss Queer Wedding Association reacts.

US Supreme Court limits Biden's power to cut emissions Jun 30, 2022

Joe Biden's climate strategy suffers a major setback after the US Supreme Court rules that the Environmental Protection Agency doesn't have the authority to set standards on polluting emissions from existing power plants. A White House spokesperson says the ruling is a "devastating decision," we ask the BBC's John Mervin about the potential consequences. Global markets close after one of their worst performances in decades. As investors brace for further losses and even the prospect of a recession in the United States, we hear from FHN Financial's analyst Chris Low about their concerns. The Chinese President Xi Jinping has been visiting Hong Kong to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the British handover. As part of the deal, the city was meant to enjoy a high degree of autonomy until 2047 when it would become a fully integrated part of China. But critics say Beijing hasn't allowed Hong Kong residents to maintain those freedoms. We hear from Herbert Chow, a Hong Kong-based businessman. Unilever has sold the ice cream brand Ben & Jerry's to an Israeli licensee, opening the door for the dessert to be sold in the Palestinian territories. Ben & Jerry's has criticised its parent company for the decision. We speak to Michael Dickson, the executive director of Stand With Us - a pressure group that campaigns against boycotts.

NATO Madrid summit ends with pledge to boost spending on the military alliance Jun 30, 2022

NATO's two-day summit in Madrid has ended with a pledge to boost defence spending to strengthen the transatlantic military alliance and increase support for Ukraine. US President Joe Biden has announced a further $800 million in military aid. Senior defence consultant Fabrice Pothier tells us what the economic impact of increased defence spending may be for the countries offering greater support for the war-torn country. The pressure on global oil production is discussed at the latest OPEC+ meeting. We hear from former OPEC official and BP analyst Jorge Leon. A team from the International Monetary Fund leaves Sri Lanka without a bailout agreement, but with substantial progress made. Macroeconomist Ammar Khan explains what could be included in the deal.

Crypto plunge sends funds spiralling Jun 29, 2022

A major hedge fund faces liquidation following a cryptocurrency price crash. Singapore-based Three Arrows Capital has defaulted on loans of more than $700 million. Could it be a sign of worse to come? Digital Assets Correspondent for the Financial Times, Scott Chipolina, says it's not the first time confidence has been undermined. Walter Tood, President of US-based firm Greenwood Capital, gives us the latest insight into markets and global inflation. Sri Lanka, which is among the worst-affected countries, has suffered another blow, as the government admits a secure supply of petrol may not be available for more than three weeks. Joseph Stalin from the Ceylon Teachers' Union and Steve Hanke from Johns Hopkins University give us their insight into the country's troubles. Meanwhile, the UN says there's more demand than ever for fish worldwide. We look at the effect it's having with Chris Williams from the International Transport Workers' Federation. Alex Bell rounds up the rest of the day's business news.

H&M plans global expansion to make up for Russia losses Jun 29, 2022

Fashion brand H&M is planning to open more stores in South America to make up for losses in Russia, where it's closed its shops due to the war in Ukraine. Before the conflict, Russia had been H&M's most important growth market. We speak exclusively to the group's head of investor relations, Nils Vinge, about the challenges ahead. As the economic crisis in Sri Lanka continues, we hear from people living in the capital, Colombo, as they struggle to buy enough fuel for their businesses. The country has suspended sales of fuel for non-essential vehicles for two weeks. Airbnb has permanently banned parties at homes around the world on its platform. We speak to an Airbnb host in the Bahamas whose home was rented and wrecked by partygoers.

The tragic cost of migrant smuggling Jun 28, 2022

At least 50 people from Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras have been found dead in the back of a truck outside the Texas city of San Antonio. Mexico has blamed a people smuggling crisis at the border with the US. So what makes people attempt the journey? Lillian Perlmutter, a journalist based in Mexico City, gives us the latest reaction. We'll hear reaction from across the continent. The tragedy comes amid plummeting costs across North and South America, and protests in the Peruvian capital. The country's former finance minister, Alonso Segura, tells us about a growing emergency in the country. Back in the US, and a number of companies are offering their employees guaranteed access to abortions. One of them is Alloy - we hear why from founder Laura Spiekerman - and discuss the legal aspects with Robin Fretwell Wilson, a law professor at the University of Illinois. New Jersey trader Joe Saluzzi has your markets update, and Alex Bell rounds up the rest of the day's business affairs.

Increase in defence spending debated at NATO summit Jun 28, 2022

Heads of state and government from NATO's 30 member countries are meeting in Madrid to decide what the organisation's strategic and spending plan should be for the next 10 years. The proposals include a dramatic increase to the number of troops in its rapid response force, increasing weapons stockpiles and strengthening command and control. But how will it all be paid for? We speak to former NATO advisor, Professor Gwythian Prins. A two-day demonstration has begun in Ghana's capital, Accra. Protesters are unhappy with recent fuel price rises and current economic conditions. Elsewhere, the fashion world mourns the death of Leonardo Del Vecchio, owner of eyewear company EssilorLuxottica - which produces Ray Ban and Oakley glasses.

Sri Lanka: fuel crisis 'worse day by day' Jun 27, 2022

In Sri Lanka, the government has banned all but essential sales of fuel for a fortnight. It follows months of surging prices, constrained supplies and political tensions. People there tell us about how difficult daily life has become. As the G7 draws up plans to tackle the Russia-Ukraine conflict, we ask former Canadian finance minister Joe Oliver whether it will be enough. Economics professor Caitlin Myers gives us the latest reaction to the decision to remove constitutional abortion rights from millions of women in the US, and a UN chief, Angela Me, analyses the findings of the body's latest report into the illicit drug trade. Peter Jankovskis from Arbor Financial Services in New York gives us the lowdown on market conditions, and Alex Bell takes Rahul Tandon through the rest of the day's business news.

G7 leaders discuss Russian oil price cap Jun 27, 2022

A proposed price cap on Russian oil is being discussed by G7 leaders, from the world's most advanced economies, at a three-day summit at a luxury resort in the mountains of Bavaria, Germany. The war in Ukraine is at at the top of the G7 agenda, with nations expected to promise further military support for Kyiv and more sanctions on Moscow. We discuss the price cap and look at how it could affect the cost oil globally if introduced. Elsewhere, criminal barristers in England and Wales go on strike in a dispute over legal aid funding and pay. As the Wimbledon tennis tournament gets underway, we consider its economic impact and find out about the value of tennis tournaments and sponsorships internationally.

US abortion decision could make women poorer Jun 24, 2022

The US Supreme Court has reversed its constitutional stance on abortion after 50 years. More than 30 million US women are set to lose their automatic right to end their pregnancy. Critics say it could result in worsening inequalities and push some women into poverty. Meanwhile, a number of workplaces have pledged to help women access healthcare in states where abortion will remain legal. We hear from both sides of the debate, and are joined by Rachel Fey from the healthcare support network Power To Decide. Britain's ruling Conservative party have taken another blow in crucial polls. Some have called for Boris Johnson to quit. Economist Jagjit Chadha says it's all about the grim state of the economy. Manuel Lodeiro from SITCPLA, a Spanish travel workers' union, explains why Ryanair staff are walking out in several European countries. Elsewhere, as the EU offers 1 million euros to help the victims of Afghanistan's deadly earthquake, a former finance minister weighs in.

Ryanair staff strike in Europe Jun 24, 2022

Ryanair staff have gone on strike today in protest against pay and conditions. Strikes will last for three days. Ernesto Iglesias from the USO trade union joins us from Madrid airport. President Zelensky has found a new way to connect remotely, using technology donated to Ukraine that beams him into venues around the world as a hologram. Last week he spoke at a technology event in the UK. The BBC’s Lara Lewington was there and we get the details from her. M&G Wealth’ Chief Investment Officer, Shanti Kelemen gives us a snapshot of how the markets are doing. The European Union is allocating €1 million in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, in response to a deadly earthquake that hit the country on Wednesday. Dr Nilab Mobarez is the acting President of the Afghan Red Crescent in Kabul. She explains the difficulties of getting aid into Afghanistan. Bangladesh’s prime minister will cut the ribbon on a new road and rail bridge across the mighty Padma river tomorrow. The $3.6 billion dollar bridge will connect the north with nearly 20 poorer districts in the south. The BBC's South Asia Correspondent Anbarasan Ethirajan tells us more. Swiss company Inores has developed a bar tending robot. Helmut Wede is the CEO explains exactly how the automaton serves drinks. (Picture: Ryanair Boeing 737 close up - stock photo. Picture Credit: Getty Images).

Ukraine inches closer to joining EU Jun 23, 2022

Ukraine has been awarded candidate status by the European Union, meaning it could become a member state in the future. It applied to join shortly after Russia's invasion back in February. Moldova has also been made a candidate. President Zelensky and some EU leaders have praised the decision - while the Kremlin appears uninterested. We'll get the latest on the decision. Also in the programme, Tom Howells, a humanitarian director with Save the Children, tells us of the 'resilience' of Afghan people in the wake of a deadly earthquake. A former Ecuador government minister, Daniel Ortega Pacheco, weighs in as protests in the country rage on. Roger also speaks to Stefania Palma of the Financial Times as gun advocates score another victory in the US.

Aid to Afghanistan Jun 23, 2022

Organisations are facing financial challenges getting aid to Afghanistan after Wednesday's devastating earthquake. Vivienne Nunis is joined by Dr Erica Moret, a senior researcher at the Graduate Institute in Geneva and the author of a recent report on financial access for NGOs in Afghanistan. European Union leaders are today set to formally designate Ukraine a candidate for future membership. Ukraine applied to join the bloc after Russia invaded in February, and leaders are meeting in Brussels. Marc Pierini, a former career EU diplomat for nearly 40 years, explains the process of joining the EU. Online dating is big business, but some businesses are going one step further when it comes to love in the metaverse. Hannah Mullane has been investigating if putting on a virtual reality headset can help with dating. Nike’s Air Force 1 went on sale today. It’s a collaboration with Off White, the luxury brand formerly owned by the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh. They sold for $185 but the resale value for such sneakers can be up to 400% higher. Radio and podcast host, Kish Kash explains how he got involved in the sneaker collecting phenomenon. (Picture: Villagers along with rescue workers examine the extent of damage at a village following an earthquake in Bernal district, Paktika province, on June 23, 2022. - Desperate rescuers battled against the clock and heavy rain on June 23 to reach cut-off areas in eastern Afghanistan after a powerful earthquake killed at least 1,000 people and left thousands more homeless. Picture Credit: AHMAD SAHEL ARMAN/AFP via Getty Images).

Afghanistan earthquake: Taliban appeal for international aid Jun 22, 2022

The Taliban in Afghanistan have appealed for international support, as the country deals with the aftermath of a devastating 6.1 magnitude earthquake. Over 1,000 people have died and at least 1,500 injured, according to local officials. Sri Lanka's prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says its troubled economy has collapsed and the country is unable to even pay for oil imports. Mr Wickremesinghe also said he is trying to put together a conference of donors, which, along with the above, would potentially also include China and Japan. Allegations of corruption pointed at senior government officials in Malawi.

One thousand people killed in earthquake in Afghanistan Jun 22, 2022

Today the Sri Lankan prime minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, said the country's economy has completely collapsed and needs international support. Addressing parliament, he said a donor conference would be convened to seek financial assistance from China, Japan and India. Dhananath Fernando is the Chief Operating Officer at the independent policy think tank the Advocata Institute in Colombo. He tells us what might have prompted the prime minister to conclude that an economic collapse had been reached. It's estimated that as many as one thousand people have died in an earthquake in Afghanistan and another 1500 people have been injured. The Taliban has called on aid agencies to help reach the worst-affected areas but so far few have been able to reach those in need. Head of delegation in Afghanistan for the International Committee of the Red Cross, Eloi Fillion joins us from Kabul. Prices in the UK are continuing to rise at their fastest rate for 40 years due to climbing food, energy and fuel costs. Russ Mould, investor director at AJ Bell, tells us how the markets have been reacting. In India financial content creators are seeing their popularity and their fortunes soar. Their fame coincides with the huge wave of retail investors coming into the equity markets. Our India Business Correspondent Nikhil Inamdar explains. After three long years many festivals are reopening their gates, and one of the world's most famous, Glastonbury, is starting this weekend in England. The BBC's Colin Paterson was there when Michael Eavis, the founder and organiser of the festival, welcomed people to the site once again. Director of MTN Bushfire festival, Jiggs Thorne, tells us how popular festivals are in Africa and the challenges faced. (Picture: Afghan people carry sacks of food grains distributed as an aid by the World Food Programme (WFP) in Kandahar on October 19, 2021. Picture Credit: JAVED TANVEER/AFP via Getty Images).

Russia warns Lithuania over blockade Jun 21, 2022

Russia has warned Lithuania of "serious" consequences after it banned some goods to the Russian territory of Kaliningrad. Kaliningrad - a strategic region where Russia's Baltic Fleet is headquartered - has no border with mainland Russia. Russia's senior security official Nikolai Patrushev said Moscow will certainly respond to such hostile actions. A British subsidiary of the mining company Glencore has pleaded guilty in a UK court to corruption offences, after being accused of paying millions of dollars in bribes to secure access to crude oil in Africa.

Biggest rail strikes in the UK for 30 years Jun 21, 2022

Only 20% of trains across England, Scotland and Wales are running as the RMT union strike for three days over job cuts, pay and pensions. The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson has said commuters must "stay the course" and urged rail bosses and unions to agree a deal. The BBC’s Rowan Bridge gives us an update from Manchester Piccadilly station in the north west of England. And it’s not just the UK. Yesterday, public sector health workers and teachers walked out over pay in Zimbabwe. There was also a nation-wide strike by trade unions in Belgium. Emeritus professor of economics at Ottowa University, Mario Seccareccia, explains. The Hungarian government is subsidising fuel to around $1.25 a litre. But the policy triggered a wave of fuel tourism, as drivers from neighbouring countries crossed the border to fill up their cars more cheaply. The government has said cheaper fuel would only be available to Hungarian-registered cars, something the EU says is discriminatory and could land Hungary in court. Gabor Egri, President of the Independent Petrol Station Association of Hungary, tells us how petrol station owners are reacting. India has been firefighting a diplomatic row with Arab countries because of derogatory remarks made by the spokesperson of the ruling Hindu nationalist party, the BJP, about the Prophet Muhammad. Following strong objections and protests in these countries the spokesperson has now been suspended. The BBC’s Devina Gupta tells us how much this has impacted India’s relations with the Gulf countries, where it does trade worth billions of dollars. A gigantic cruise ship being built in Germany could be sold for scrap metal before it ever sets sail. We find out more from Captain Ken Caine of shipbrokers QPS Marine Ships in Florida. A new book called "The No Club" explains how doing the jobs which keep managers happy day-to-day, can actually hold you back in your career. The BBC's Leanna Byrne spoke to the book's four authors: Professors Linda Babcock, Lise Vesterlund, Brenda Peyser and Laurie Weingart.

Zelensky: Africa is a hostage of Russia's war Jun 20, 2022

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called Africa "a hostage" of Russia's war during an address to the African Union (AU) on Monday nearly ten weeks after he first asked to address the continental body. African countries have been divided in their response to Russia's war in Ukraine. Hundreds of Zimbabwe’s public sector health workers have gone on strike over low wages and poor working conditions following a worsening economic crisis that has seen thousands of health workers leave public service in the last three years. (Image: President Zelensky in Kyiv. Credit: Getty)

Doctors and teachers on strike in Zimbabwe Jun 20, 2022

Hundreds of public sector health workers and teachers went on strike with organisers saying they can't afford to feed their families. The BBC's Zimbabwe correspondent Shingai Nyoka gives us an update. Columbia elected its first ever left-wing president at the weekend. Gustavo Petro is a former mayor of Bogotá and an ex-rebel fighter. Mr Petro defeated the right-wing millionaire Rodolfo Hernández in Sunday's run-off election with 55% of the vote. We get reaction from businessman Hernando Barreto and Director of Colombia Risk Analysis, Sergio Guzman in Bogotá. Investment Banker at AJ Bell, Russ Mould talks through the impact of airlines’ stock price and the markets reaction to more big retailers turning to online. Floriade is a huge horticulture exhibition taking place every 10 years. It's in the Dutch city of Almere this year. For 6 months, visitors will see displays of plants and flowers, horticultural innovation – and proposed solutions to global environmental problems, especially in the area of urban housing. Matthew Kenyon has been to visit and hear about the challenges of putting it together during the pandemic.

The World Trade Organisation agrees deals Jun 17, 2022

We hear from Alan Wolff, the former deputy directory-general of the World Trade Organisation about the deal on banning fishing subsidies - that has been achieved after more than 20 years of talks. After a tumultuous week we check in with the markets on Wall Street. Joe Saluzzi, Institutional partner at Themis Trading joins us. A BBC survey of more than 4 thousand adults in the UK shows people are cutting back on food and car journeys to save money. Nancy Marshall Genzer of our US partner programme Marketplace has been investigating how American Gen Zs are coping with the economic instability. Colombians go to the polls on Sunday in an election that commentators say will change the direction of the country - no matter who wins. Sergio Guzman, director of Colombia Risk Analysis, and Businessman Hernando Barreto give their views.

Ukraine moves a step closer to EU membership Jun 17, 2022

The European Commission has recommended to give Ukraine and Moldova candidate status, moving their application forward in a process that will still take many years to complete. European leaders will meet next week to vote and the approval of all 27-nations is needed for both countries to be officially declared candidates to join the EU. Oleg Chernyak, CEO of CHI Software, tells us about the hopes this brings to a war-torn country. India is seeing violent protests against a new military recruitment scheme. One person was killed in the southern city of Secunderabad after police opened fire to disperse a mob attacking a railway station. Sushant Kumar Singh from the Centre for Policy Research in India explains why the scheme is controversial while the BBC's Surekha Abburi brings us the latest from the protests. The director of the World Trade Organisation Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala says marathon talks in Geneva have produced a series of trade deals that will make a difference to the lives of people around the world. We talk to Alan Wolff, former deputy director-general of the WTO, and BBC Africa's Charles Gitonga. President Vladimir Putin says sanctions against Russia over the invasion of Ukraine are an 'economic blitzkrieg' that backfired on the West. We hear from Shanti Keleman, chief investment officer at M&G Wealth, about this and other developments taking place in the markets. The Netherlands has invested 100 million euros to start flying hydrogen planes to London by 2028. We talk to Michel Van Ierland, an entrepreneur who participates in the project.

Global interest rate rises Jun 16, 2022

Central banks across the world have raised interest rates in the last six months, in a bid to contain the most rapid inflation in decades. We speak to Cary Leahey an Economist in New York. Leaders of Germany, France, Italy and Romania have said they support Ukraine's bid to join the European Union. Deputy Director at the Bruegel economic think tank, Maria Demertzis, tells us what the likelihood is of a union with Ukraine. Tesla boss, Elon Musk, has been speaking to Twitter employees today. Editor of The Verge, Alex Heath, has been following the story since it began. The value of bitcoin has fallen about 30% in the last 10 days. The BBC’s Joe Tidy visited the capital, San Salvador, to see how widespread the use of bitcoin is there. Cosmetics firm, Revlon, has filed for bankruptcy protection as it struggles against massive debts and stiff competition. Lauren Thomas from CNBC tells us why such a big brand failed to survive in a pressured economic climate.

UK follows Fed with rates rise Jun 16, 2022

We explore the fallout of the US Federal Reserve's interest rate hike. The Bank of England has followed suit by raising the cost of borrowing by 0.25 percent in an attempt to control inflation. We hear from Jason Furman, an economics professor at Harvard and a former economics advisor to President Barack Obama. The value of bitcoin has fallen about 30% in the last 10 days, devaluating investors' funds around the world. One of them is the government of El Salvador, where bitcoin was made legal tender last year. The BBC's Joe Tidy visits the country to see how widespread the use of the cryptocurrency is while Stephen Obehi, a Nigeria based cyber security analyst, tells us about a similar policy in the Central African Republic. Transport in Tunisia has been suspended as hundreds of thousands of state employees hold a 24-hour strike to demand better pay amid soaring inflation. Souhail Khmira, a journalist in Tunis, explains the reasons. Plus, we discuss Elon Musk's attempt to buy Twitter as he is expected to speak to staff this week for the first time. We talk to Ross Gerber, president of California based investment firm Gerber Kawasaki, an investor in both Twitter and Tesla.

Federal Reserve announces biggest interest rate hike in almost 30 years Jun 15, 2022

The US central bank has announced its biggest interest rate rise in nearly 30 years – raising its headline rate to a range between 1.5% and 1.75%. President and CEO of Carver Federal Savings Bank, Michael Pugh joins us from Harlem, New York City. We also hear from a restaurant and bakery owner in the US. China and Russia have agreed to deepen their strategic cooperation, Associate Professor in Global Communication at Georgia State University, Maria Repnikova tells us why Beijing is looking to strengthen its relationship with Russia. Also on the programme, after 27 years, Microsoft is retiring Internet Explorer for good. Author of Retro Tech Peter Leigh tells us about its history and why it’s coming to an end.

All eyes on the Fed Jun 15, 2022

With inflation at its highest level for the past 40 years, the eyes of the global financial world are on the US Federal Reserve, whose Chairman Jerome Powell is expected to announce an interest rate rise to help tackle inflation. We hear from Randall Kroszner, former governor of the Fed. We also talk to senior market analyst at City Index Fiona Cincotta about the European Central Bank's latest emergency meeting and why a senior minister in Pakistan is advising people to reduce their tea consumption to help the economy. Spain has recorded the hottest June in 20 years with temperatures as high as 43°C. We speak to different businesses there about how they manage to operate in such a hot weather. Plus, K-pop idols BTS have decided to take a break to pursue solo projects. The best-selling artists of 2021 say it's time to 'mature' as individuals. We hear more from Choi Ji-Won, a K-pop reporter for the Korea Herald.

A four day working week in Sri Lanka Jun 14, 2022

Sri Lanka is experiencing severe inflation, along with food and fuel shortages. Now around a million workers have been told to work four days a week instead of five. But will it work? Officials say an extra day each weekend will save citizens money, and allow them to grow food in their gardens. But some economists fear it could spark further unrest in the country - and do little to remedy economic woes. Prominent Sri Lankan economist and political writer Asanga Abeyagoonasekera joins us live on the programme to discuss where the country is heading. The UN's Humanitarian Co-ordinator in Yemen, David Gressly, gives a stark warning about another potential fuel crisis facing the world. It's been another rough day in US and European markets, as trader Joe Saluzzi explains. Global supply chain issues have affected supplies of tampons in the US - Dana Cohen from the sanitary brand Cora can tell us why. We'll also hear about the controversy surrounding Pixar's latest film in the Middle East, with Hollywood writer Sandro Monetti.

Shorter working week for crisis-hit Sri Lanka Jun 14, 2022

Sri Lanka has approved a four-day week for public sector workers as it struggles to deal with a chronic fuel shortage. The workers impacted will also be encouraged to grow their own food. We hear from a young Sri Lankan about his experiences in the crisis-hit country. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces an ambitious civil service recruitment drive, aimed at employing one million people. We also discuss the future of vaccine manufacturing in Africa, with the head of a major South African pharmaceutical company.

Brexit: the Northern Ireland puzzle Jun 13, 2022

The UK has denied breaching international law over changes to its Brexit deal with the EU. The changes are all about transporting goods to and from Northern Ireland. We'll hear what this could mean for business from Elvire Fabry, a trade expert from the Jaques Delours Institute. Famine is again looming over parts of Africa due to the war in Ukraine, according to UNICEF Deputy Regional Director Rania Dagesh. Peter Jankowskis gives us the latest updates on a turbulent day for the markets. Finally, a potential multi-billion dollar deal could see India's biggest cricket league grow even bigger. Sports journalist Sauruh Somani and the 'image guru', Dilip Cherian, tell us why the money is right.

Covid restrictions return to Beijing Jun 13, 2022

Beijing has reinstated some coronavirus restrictions following an outbreak of Covid-19 in China's capital. It comes little more than a week after some curbs, including those on indoor dining, were eased. We look at the economic impact of China's 'zero Covid' policy in Beijing itself, in the country as a whole and on a global scale. Elsewhere, the Africa CEO Forum gets underway in Abidjan on the Ivory Coast. Around 2,000 business leaders, investors and policy makers from all over Africa gather to discuss ways that the private sector can help further develop the continent. We also hear from India, where bidding has begun for broadcasting rights to the highly lucrative Indian Premier League cricket competition. (Image: woman looking through window with mask, Beijing. Credit: Getty Images)

US inflation hits fresh 40-year high Jun 10, 2022

Inflation continues to squeeze American households with an 8.6% rate in May, the highest since 1981. Food and energy prices lead the rally with double-digit increases. A consumer and a business owner in different parts of the country share their struggles as we ask Peter Jankovskis, vice president of Arbor Financial Services in Chicago, for his input on how the Federal Reserve may react to this rise. The US is dropping its Covid test requirement for air travellers and Japan has reopening its borders to holidaymakers from almost 100 nations after two years of strict restrictions. We talk to Yukari Sakamoto who takes tourists on tours of food markets in Tokyo. The president of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, is on his first international trip for three years for political and economic talks. He has visited Turkey, Algeria and Iran after being excluded by the US from the Summit of the Americas. Venezuelan economist Francisco Rodriguez explains the current situation of the country's economy. The government of Saudi Arabia has introduced a lottery system for Westerners who want to attend year's Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. We ask the director of The Ayaan Institute, Jahangir Mohammed, about the controversy this has created.

Japan reopens to tourists Jun 10, 2022

As coronavirus eases, Japan is opening up to tourists, but with strict rules in place. They will have to be part of a package tour, and must wear face coverings in all public places. Yukari Sakamoto takes tourists on tours of food markets in Tokyo, and brings us her perspective on the latest move. And we hear about the economic impact a lack of tourists has had on Japan, from the BBC's Mariko Oi. Also in the programme, Saudi Arabia has introduced a lottery system for westerners hoping to undertake their Hajj pilgrimage this year. That has led to complaints from people who had already booked flights and hotels, and now fear they'll be denied permission to visit Mecca. We find out more from Sean McLoughlin, who is Professor of the Anthropology of Islam at the University of Leeds, and specialises in the industry surrounding the Hajj. The UK Competition and Markets Authority is to investigate Google and Apple for a possible duopoly in their Chrome and Safari web browsers on mobile devices. Andrew Griffin is technology editor of the Independent news website, and discusses the implications. Plus, the BBC's Elizabeth Hotson pays a visit to the UK's Electromagnetic Field event, a four-day jamboree of original thinking and all things nerdy. Today's edition is presented by Rob Young, and produced by Nisha Patel, George Thomas and Elizabeth Hotson.

US regulator ramps up scrutiny over Tesla’s autopilot feature Jun 09, 2022

The United States vehicle safety regulator is to upgrade its investigation into the autopilot function of Tesla electric cars after more than a dozen of them crashed into parked first-responder vehicles in four years. We hear more from our North of America Business Correspondent Michelle Fleury and Columbia University's economist Cary Leahey. In its first report since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation has warned that poor countries will have to pay more money to receive less food this year. One of these nations is Ethiopia, where Doctors Without Borders are seeing more children die of malnutrition. We speak to Raphael Veicht, their Emergency Coordinator in Addis Ababa. After decades of stable or falling prices, a 2.5% inflation rate has come as a shock for Japanese shoppers. The BBC's Mariko Oi reports from Tokyo. Algeria is "immediately" suspending a 20-year friendship treaty with Spain, after Madrid reversed its neutral stance towards Western Sahara. Algerian researcher at the University of Glasgow Zine Ghebouli explains why. (Picture: Tesla's logo. Picture credit: Reuters)

UN warns over food insecurity Jun 09, 2022

We hear why Russia's invasion of Ukraine could cause the global food import bill to rise to a record $1.8tn this year from Upali Wickramasinghe, senior economist at the FAO. And we find out about the challenges faced by people in Uganda with food prices from Nebert Rugadya, who is a business reporter in Kampala. Also in the programme, the BBC's Mariko Oi reports from Tokyo on why inflation in Japan is significantly lower than in many other parts of the world. There's been an overhaul of drugs laws in Thailand, where it's now legal to cultivate marijuana, and some consumption of it is now also allowed. The BBC's Jonathan Head has been to visit some farms in the north of the country, where cannabis plants are being handed out to farmers. Plus, energy price rises as a result of the conflict in Ukraine have focused attention on the prospects for more renewable energy. But one challenge is how to store solar and wind power so that it can be used when the sun isn't shining or the wind isn't blowing, and the BBC's Hannah Bewley explores a range of promising new technologies aimed at tackling the issue.

UN warns of global global 'wave of hunger' Jun 08, 2022

'No country' will be left untouched by cost of living crisis, says the UN chief Antonio Guterres as pressure on Russia to end blockade of Ukrainian ports grows. Increase in prices of energy and food can be felt everywhere, but for nations in the Horn of Africa the situation is dire as people in rural areas are on the brink of starvation. We talk to Hassan Khannenje, director of Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies. India has increased interest rates for the second time this year, with an increment of 0.5%. The country is struggling to control rising inflation, which stands at 8%. Sanjay Aggarawal of Paramount Cables Group and Pradeep Multani of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry tell us more. A TikTok executive has stepped back after claims that he participated in an aggressive work culture. We hear from Financial Times reporter Cristina Criddle about the allegations. Walmart heir Rob Walton and his family have won the bidding to buy NFL's Denver Broncos. The Walton-Penner family is reported to have made a bid worth 4.65 billion dollars. Sports Business Journal's Ben Fischer explains the details. (Picture: UN Secretary-General Guterres. Picture credit: European Pressphoto Agency)

Turkey seeks to unblock Ukrainian grain Jun 08, 2022

Talks were held between Russia and Turkey on a UN plan to restart Ukrainian grain exports. Western countries have accused Russia of risking global famine by shutting Ukraine's Black Sea ports. Arnaud Petit is executive director of inter-governmental group the International Grains Council, and discusses the challenges involved in getting Ukraine's grain supplies moving again. Also in the programme, the UN's World Food Programme is working with the California ride-hailing app Uber to use its technology to help move emergency supplies of food and water within Ukraine. The BBC's Zoe Kleinman explains how the software might help lower the risk of delivery trucks becoming targets, by enabling supplies to be moved around in much smaller vehicles. Plans for compulsory quotas for women in senior positions have been agreed by the European Parliament and EU member states. A third of all directors in companies employing more than 250 people will need to be women within the next four years. We find out more from Lara Wolters, who is a Dutch socialist member of the European Parliament, and who also led negotiations on the change. Plus, the BBC's Vivienne Nunis reports on concerns around oil development in the Congo basin which may threaten peatland storing 30bn tonnes of Carbon Dioxide. Today's edition is presented by Mike Johnson, and produced by Nisha Patel, Elizabeth Hotson and Gabriele Shaw.

World Bank boss warns tough economic conditions could last for another year Jun 07, 2022

David Malpass, president of the World Bank Group, tells Sam Fenwick about the economic challenges countries are facing globally, and how they might continue for another year. As consumer credit hits a record high in April for Americans, we speak to Aviva Investors' Susan Schmidt about how the US economy is fairing. As India continues to tackle temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius, we speak to Indian journalist Mayank Aggarwal on the ambitious climate targets set by the government and how billionaires are throwing their money behind solar energy. We also hear from South Americans who are heading to the United States in a migrant caravan, in time for a meeting of Western Hemisphere leaders in Los Angeles, and speak to freelance journalist Lilian Perlmutter about the journey. (Picture: World Bank Group logo. Picture credit: Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Sri Lanka's economic crisis deepens Jun 07, 2022

Sri Lanka's government says it needs $6bn to maintain citizens' basic standard of living. Sajid Nazmi is an IT worker in the capital Colombo, and discusses the impact of the country's financial crisis. And political economist Ahilan Kardigamar of the University of Jaffna talks us through what the government is trying to do to alleviate the situation. Also in the programme, Wednesday this week marks World Ocean Day, which aims to raise global awareness about the health of our seas. The campaign group Oceana has organised a marine expedition in the Alboran Sea off the coast of Spain, to document levels of plastic waste there. We find out more from marine biologist Ricardo Aguilar, who is on board the monitoring boat. The BBC's Rahul Tandon reports on the economic challenges caused by a severe heatwave in India. Plus, we hear from Politico reporter Peter O'Brien about a move by the European Union to standardise charging cables for smartphones, tablets and digital cameras. Today's edition is presented by Mike Johnson, and produced by Sara Parry and George Thomas.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson wins confidence vote Jun 06, 2022

The Prime Minister of the UK secured the support of almost 60% of his party after many rebel politicians issued a vote of no confidence, we speak to our UK political correspondent Rob Watson to find out what this could mean for Boris Johnson. We ask American financial expert Peter Jankovskis what might happen to the British pound after this vote. As a major four day work week trial begins in the UK, we speak to Heather Payne, CEO of Juno College in the Canadian capital of Toronto, and is one of the first companies to adopt a four day working week in the country to find out the surprising effects the change has had on her school and staff. Heads of state from across the Americas are also heading to the United States to discuss inflation, climate change and migration, and we're speaking to the Antiguan Bardudan ambassador to the US, Sir Ronald Sanders who is attending the summit about what he hopes to discuss, and why Cuba and Nicaragua aren't invited. (Picture: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Picture credit: LEON NEAL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Four day work week trial under way Jun 06, 2022

The most extensive trial yet of a four day working week is now under way in the UK. More than 3,000 workers at 70 companies will work a day less without having to increase hours over the four remaining days. Edward Siegel is chief executive of Charity Bank, which is taking part in the trial, and tells us why he signed the organisation up. And we hear about some of the possible problems that might be encountered from Abigail Marks, professor of the future of work at Newcastle University. Also in the programme, negotiators from almost 200 countries are meeting in Bonn in Germany for talks to inspire fresh action on tackling climate change. Eddy Perez of campaign group Climate Action Network Canada is one of the attendees, and discusses the mood at the gathering. The budget airline Ryanair is facing criticism in South Africa, where it has been requiring South African nationals to take a test in Afrikaans, amid concerns about the high number of fake passports circulating in the country. The BBC's Nomsa Maseko explains why the move has led to accusations of racial discrimination. Plus, the BBC's Clare Williamson reports on concerns that some older people are getting left behind as banks close branches and move online. Today's edition is presented by Mike Johnson, and produced by Nisha Patel, George Thomas and Gabriele Shaw.

Mixed signals in the US job market Jun 03, 2022

The American labour market added more new jobs than expected in May, with payrolls rising by 390,000. But the tech sector has started to step on the brakes in fear of a recession. Tesla's CEO Elon Musk has warned that the electric carmaker needs to cut about 10% of its staff, saying he has a "super bad feeling" about the economy. We ask Chris Low, financial analyst at FHN Financial what this means for the economy. The head of the African Union, Macky Sall, has been in Moscow to urge Russian President Vladimir Putin to consider the people suffering from food shortages on the continent, who rely on Ukrainian and Russian cereals and fertiliser. We hear from the World Food Programme's Regional Director for Eastern Africa, Michael Dunford, and the BBC's correspondent in Nigeria Ishaq Khalid. Inflation in Turkey has risen to more than 73%, the fastest rate in 24 years. The cost of everyday goods has surged because of the war in Ukraine, higher energy costs and the decreasing value of the Turkish currency -- the lira. Erinc Yeldan is a professor of Economics at Kadir Has University in Istanbul, Turkey. Memorial Day in the US this week marked the end of the official Broadway season. It was the first with in-person shows since the pandemic. We hear a special report from our US partners Marketplace. The UK is marking the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II with a four day weekend. We talk to British and foreign royal fans gathered in the streets of London to celebrate. The Queen is the head of fourteen other countries in the Commonwealth realm besides the UK. However, over the years, members like Trinidad and Tobago have preferred to become a republic instead. Are they celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee? We ask Ian de Souza, CEO of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

The economics of the Jubilee Jun 03, 2022

We broadcast live from the rooftop of the BBC to ask whether a four-day weekend be a help, or hindrance to the economy? We talk to Brand Finance's Chief Executive, David Haigh, over a very British cup of tea and ask him to go over the figures. And Jace Tyrrell, chief executive of the New West End Company tells us how the business partnership of 600 UK & international retailers, restaurateurs, hoteliers, galleries and property owners in London's West End, has recovered from the pandemic. Plus, the BBC's Victoria Craig report from a very British institution - the street party - and looks at the money generated for the local economy. Plus, Germany is extremely reliant on Russian gas and analysts predict the country’s income will contract if there is an imposed embargo on it - there is therefore pressure to transition to home-grown sustainable energy - we hear from Andreas Schierenbeck, founder of the green hydrogen energy company HH2E. And Malaysia has banned the export of chicken, in a bid to control prices at home. It's having a big impact on countries that rely on the imports, such as Singapore and we hear from the BBC's Monica Miller in Singapore about the rising price of the country's famous 'chicken and rice' dish.

Review of the year - 2021 Dec 24, 2021

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

Review of the year - 2020 Dec 25, 2020

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

Hong Kong pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai detained Dec 03, 2020

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

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