World Business Report
Analysis of the big global business and economic issues, as they affect consumers and investors. Broadcast on weekdays.
What the paramount warner merger could mean for Hollywood
Paramount Skydance has settled a lawsuit with dozens of US states, removing a major hurdle to its $110bn (£82.8bn) merger with Warner Bros Discovery. We hear from the Hollywood film editor. Also in the show, we are looking ahead to talks between Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping this week and…
Novo Nordisk shares slide
Shares in Novo, the company behind Ozempic and Wegovy have fallen more than five per cent as the Danish pharmaceutical company sets out its future growth strategy. China and the US talk AI ahead of talks between the countries' leaders this week. And thousands protest in Barcelona against overtourism and…
Saudi Arabia halts October crude deliveries to some European refineries
The situation is a result of reduced deliveries of crude oil via Saudi Arabia's East/West pipeline which was attacked by Houthi rebels from Yemen. Warren Buffett's son Howard replaces him as Chair of Berkshire Hathaway. And we why US College football is coming to Wembley Stadium in London.
Japan is raising rates again
Japan's central bank has raised interest rates to their highest level since 1995, we'll be finding out how one business is feeling and will more rate hikes be the new normal. The Australian government is considering a total ban on smart glasses in its offices and schools over security concerns…
Canada wants closer ties with the European Union
Canada's PM Mark Carney is in Europe to discuss an EU-Canada Associate Member deal. President Trump suggests such a deal would be ‘hostile act’. Motorists in Nigeria express fury at the rising cost of petrol and diesel. And thousands of staff at a UK bank are demanding concessions after the…
How can the EU make a social media ban a success?
The European Union has announced plans for a social media ban for young people at the same time that tech bosses have backed restrictions for similar age groups. Luke Wilson hears from a researcher of Digital Child Futures about what makes a successful ban. Plus, as Americans Todd Boehly and…
Fed raises US interest rates by 0.25%
The Federal Reserve has raised rates for the first time since 2023 the bank focuses on inflation fight. Chair Kevin Warsh defied Donald Trump’s calls for lower borrowing costs. 2026 summer wheat exports from Russia and Ukraine will be 60% lower than pre-war average. Attacks on ports and shipping are…
US businesses brace for Fed decision
As businesses in the US prepare themselves for a potential interest rates hike, Luke Wilson hears from a dairy farmer about how it could impact his bottom line. Plus, as President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen backs a proposal for Canada to become an associate member of…
Can Bessent tame the bond market?
In recent weeks the US Treasury Secretary has tried to tame the bond markets. 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…
How rising fuel is affecting German industry
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?