Category: Protected – UOL Spring 2023

In MACRO & ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS, the French trust Le Pen more than Macron on the economy, the UK could use Macron's predicament to strengthen its cause, NHS promises look largely meaningless, French instability pushes the pound up and there's a response to rising fears of a "greenlash". In TECH NEWS, the US pushes for more China tech restrictions, TikTok advertisers brace for a ban, X gets a shake-up, Apple delays the roll-out of AI features in the EU, Apple and Meta talk about an AI tie-up and Baader launches an "AI-enhanced" ETF. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, China agrees to talks with EU on EV tariffs, van drivers still prefer diesel, first-time buyers face higher mortgage repayments, the UK jobs market stays flat and Prudential announces a jumbo share buy-back. AND FINALLY, I bring you an unusually skilled golfer...

In MACRO & OIL NEWS,the Bank of England leaves rates unchanged and BP does a biofuels deal. In FINANCIALS/SERVICES NEWS, NatWest takes on most of Sainsbury's banking business, Revolut seeks a punchy valuation, KPMG is to cut more jobs and YouGov gets a drubbing. In CONSUMER NEWS, EV demand craters across Europe, UK consumer confidence hits a high, Ocado slides and Chinese e-tailers suffer. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, hackers "jailbreak" AI models to highlight flaws, higher earners face more contact with AI, Honeywell does a big deal and Tate & Lyle buys CP Kelco. AND FINALLY, I bring you some good ol' kitchen dancing and lip-synching...

In MACRO NEWS, we take a look at French repercussions and how Britain could turn out to be an "island of stability". In CONSUMER & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS NEWS, we look at inflation in the everyday, Amazon faces a union vote in Cov and JP Morgan lifts the bonus cap. In TECH NEWS, we see that the AI boom doesn't lift all boats, Silicon Valley gets more paranoid and Sutskever launches his AI start-up. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Ferrari closes in on a new EV, Berkeley gets more confident and Games Workshop dishes out a nice bonus. AND FINALLY, I bring you a bit of Spitalfields tastiness...

In MACRO, COMMODITIES & ENERGY NEWS, one top Fed official signals higher chances of a rate cut, UK inflation hits its 2% target, China's surplus of copper implies a sluggish economy and warehouses consider solar panels on their rooftops. In TECH NEWS, Nvidia becomes the world's most valuable company but there's room for TSMC to rise as well. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Fisker collapses, Golden Goose decides not to lay the golden egg, Hargreaves Lansdown accepts an offer, Asda's sales weaken and digital comics become a target. AND FINALLY, I bring you a bit of a 90s music showdown...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, Chinese house prices continue to weaken and its industrial output looks shaky, London overtakes Paris as investors take fright and businesses try to keep their options open, investment in the UK lags other G7 members and wind looks set to overtake gas. In IPO-RELATED NEWS, Shein looks at new revenue streams ahead of its proposed London listing and ad agency Havas prepares for its IPO. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Apple ditches its BNPL service, Europe sparks investment in defence, BYD aims for Europe and the FT reckons that there's enough slack in state schools to absorb an influx. AND FINALLY, I bring you the fruits of media training...

In MACRO, OIL & ENERGY NEWS, Labour pushes forth, the oil industry warns against the North Sea tax, Russia continues to supply Europe with gas and Rolls-Royce puts the pressure on for SMRs. In BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS NEWS, Australia's trade with China booms, investment banks rake it in, defence companies hire like crazy, UK manufacturers expect a better H2, UK attractions make more effort and there's another side to the Texas thing while we also look at massive pay for junior London lawyers and summer job cuts. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Apple is charged under EU digital law, TDK makes a solid-state battery breakthrough, Nike faces tough competition and UK house prices stay at record highs. AND FINALLY, I show you the danger of puddles...

In MACRO, MARKETS & OIL NEWS, we look at the ructions in French politics, problems in Germany, the latest dramas in UK politics, the uptick in market sentiment, oil price predictions and Aramco's big LNG deal. In AUTOMOTIVE NEWS, Chinese EV manufacturers should remain unfazed, Ford expands EV sales, Stellantis looks to bring some Chinese manufacturing back to Europe, Tesla shareholders give Musk what he wants but prices for the Model 3 look like they'll go higher. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Wise shares fall, Crest Nicholson goes into loss and OpenAI gets punchier. AND FINALLY, I bring you something that's weirdly relaxing...

In MACRO & OIL NEWS, the Fed manages interest rate expectations, US inflation falls, the UK's GDP flatlines and the IEA warns of a major excess of oil. In CAR NEWS, the EU decides to impose a big tax on Chinese EVs and things just get worse for Fisker. In REAL ESTATE NEWS, Revolut expands in Canary Wharf, the UK rental market looks tricky and mortgage rates misbehave. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS,we look at the latest in financials, retail and tech. AND FINALLY, I bring you the origins of dad dancing...

In MACRO & ENERGY NEWS,the US is to deepen Russia sanctions, Sunak pledges tax cuts, wages growth hits prospects for a rate cut and a massive battery storage facility is announced in the UK. In TECH NEWS, Apple overtakes Nvidia again, Musk drops his lawsuit against OpenAI but continues to court controversy, Mistral gets more funding, Rasperry Pi has a strong debut and BeReal is acquired by Voodoo. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, China's oversupply of empty property poses problems, Evergrande's EV division share price weakens, the EV trade war threatens luxury car exports, Redstone ends talks with Skydance and Invesco closes down UK equities. AND FINALLY, I bring you the difference between generations...

In MACRO NEWS, we look at the repercussions of Macron's election decision and how Meloni is now key as well as the latest developments in the race to number 10. In BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS NEWS, the prospects look good for global ad revenues and research shows that UK unemployment is increasing at the fastest pace of OECD countries. In TECH NEWS, Apple partners with OpenAI and Elon Musk doesn't like it. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, VW sells solar panels, private credit funds feel the pinch and a Boots listing gets booted. AND FINALLY, I bring you a satisfying trick...

In MACRO & ENERGY NEWS, the far-right makes big gains in Europe - prompting a snap French election - while central bankers ponder interest rate cuts, Meloni slows Italy's solar rollout and Nucleo plan a fleet of 20 mini-nukes for Britain. In BUSINESS, CONSUMER & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS NEWS,Indian companies takes on Musk in a space race, the US takes further measures to exclude the Chinese, the obesity drug phenomenon continues to gather pace, hopes rise for UK shops and pubs, new tools try to tempt workers back to the metaverse and we see why AI could be good for English grads and why permanent job numbers fall. In LISTINGS & MARKETS NEWS, the UK is on the verge of overhauling its listing rules, US biotechs queue up for IPOs, GameStop shares fall and another FTSE company considers a listing switch. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the EU is expected to slap tariffs on Chinese EVs and Google gets accused of excluding search rivals. AND FINALLY, I bring you a nightmarish rollercoaster...

In MACRO, MARKETS & CRYPTO NEWS, the ECB cuts rates, South Africa turmoil continues, UK growth forecasts are upgraded but issues persist, the LSE wants a screen, Shein's IPO faces scepticism (as does the Texas stock exchange) and Robinhood buys Bitstamp. In ENERGY NEWS, British energy faces hurdles and the US increases battery usage. In BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, private equity warns of lower returns, construction expands, UK rental growth slows while wages and price growth are expected to lose momentum. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Mike Lynch is cleared and Big Tech gets investigated. AND FINALLY, I bring you the most amazing cake I have ever seen...

In MACRO, MARKETS & COMMODITIES, China's economy gets a boost, Modi gets backing for a new government, Canada cuts interest rates, the ECB is expected to cut interest rates, private sector growth powers UK performance, Texas launches a new stock exchange, investors pull money from ESG, the UK IPO pipeline is improving, De Beers looks tricky and North Sea uncertainty prevails. In TECH NEWS, Nvidia becomes bigger than Apple and boosts a Microsoft/Amazon challenger while AI is used at St James's Place. In CONSUMER & RETAIL NEWS, pay growth in Japan jumps, Dollar Tree considers a sale and shoppers lift Zara. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, EV wobbles continue, new car sales rise and England's hospitals crumble. AND FINALLY, I bring you a very clever and amusing video...

In MACRO, COMMODITIES & MARKETS NEWS, we look at a shock in India, Germany's unexpected rise in unemployment, ructions in Turkey, political debate in the UK, challenges facing Mexico's new president, the latest on oil and short sellers getting burned. In TECH NEWS, UAE wants to get closer to US in AI, we see whether the sellside should fear AI and how publishers are suffering. In REAL ESTATE NEWS,we look at why commercial property values have fallen, LondonMetric's focus on warehouses pays off and Blackstone considers a rental housing push in the UK. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the Monsanto payout gets slashed, Stellantis and Mercedes-Benz postpone gigafactory plans, Paramount stays open-minded and UK clothing sales to the EU drop sharply. AND FINALLY, I bring you one man's way of avoiding buying a carrier bag for his grocery shop...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, the US and UK set out immigration policies, Russia's nuke threat diminishes, Sheinbaum wins the Mexico election, the NYSE cancels trades, Indian markets hit record highs, GameStop booms, Ackman sells a chunk of Pershing Square, La Niña's coming, ageing power stations soldier on, gas prices jump and oil prices slump. In BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS, Maersk lifts guidance, British factories rebound, private healthcare demand soars and retail sales stay sluggish. In AUTOMOTIVE NEWS, Chinese vehicle sales look strong and Toyota gets embroiled in another testing scandal. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Spotify jumps, AI makes investment decisions, Shein gets detractors and we look at some M&A and IPO action. AND FINALLY, I bring you the much-anticipated sequel to Barbara's Rhubarb Bar...

In MACRO & OIL NEWS, Biden tries to make the most of Trump's conviction, Beijing turns the screws on Gazprom, the ANC gets a pasting and we look at US shale consolidation and the extension of production cuts by OPEC+. In IPO AND M&A NEWS, Shein gets closer to a London IPO and the LSE sees light at the end of the tunnel. In TECH NEWS,the Saudi's spread their bets on AI, Nvidia announces more new chips, Trump joins TikTok and Universal plans one of the biggest theme parks in the world - in the UK! In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Tesla retail investors get restricted, Wayve is to make waves in San Fran, EV car charging in apartment blocks gets a boost, booze looks cheap and councils sell off assets. AND FINALLY, I bring you Uncle Roger's latest roast...

In MACRO & OIL NEWS, Donny T gets in big doo-doo, Chinese factory activity falls, business confidence hits a new high, Saudi Arabia announces the sale of more Aramco shares and we look at why the European oil majors aren't mirroring the US oil consolidation frenzy. In CONSUMER, RETAIL & LEISURE NEWS, UK living standards since 2010 lag others, shoppers are staying at home, Walmart managers are offered an impressive package, Gap rebounds, Uniqlo remains confident, Dr Martens gets defensive, Subway announces a big bond sale and QR codes are being ditched for paper menus. In TECH NEWS,OpenAI admits that its models are being used for nefarious purposes, Nvidia becomes more valuable than the FTSE100 and Salesforce suffers. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Auto Trader reckons EV prices have further to fall and Rolls-Royce wins a chunky Japanese order. AND FINALLY, I bring you a bit of domestic travel inspo...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, NATO finds air weaknesses, attitudes towards defence change, sterling hits a new high, Labour is pushed to clarify, ConocoPhiliips buys Marathon Oil, Shell and Exxon sell out of the North Sea, BHP abandons its Anglo bid and OJ is in trouble. In BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS, Goldman aims at private credit, food delivery faces hurdles, consumer conglomerates face the potential of break-ups, reports of bird flu rise and Zoopla reckons prices won't go crazy. In RETAIL & LEISURE NEWS, profits at Boots rise, Pets at Home soldiers on and American Airlines admits business travel shortfall. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, we look at developments in tech, Royal Mail, cars, Boeing's problems and Sony Music's interest in Queen. AND FINALLY, I bring you a cottonwood fluff fire...

In MACRO & MARKETS NEWS, we look at Xi's call on behalf of China's youth, democracy at work in Mexico, more UK promises and the runners and riders in the FTSE100 reshuffle. In CAR NEWS, we look at rising EV costs, Tesla's latest appeals to suppliers, Faraday Future's nightmare and SUVs' collective effect on the environment. In CONSUMER NEWS, we compare and contrast what's going on with consumers on both sides of the Pond. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, we look at the latest developments in tech, regulation and M&A while Adam Neumann walks away. AND FINALLY, I show you how to float (good luck with trying this 🤣)...

In MACRO NEWS, the AfD hits a bump, Sunak's campaign courts controversy and Labour gets Big Business endorsement. In RETAIL & CONSUMER GOODS NEWS,shop price inflation falls, online shopping sees a concerning trend forming, senior politicians urge more scrutiny of a potential Shein IPO, Korean ramyun gets hot and sneaker rivals try to get a new spring in their step. In TECH NEWS, Scarlett Johansson's AI clash could prompt further skirmishes, xAI hits its fundraising target and China raises big money to boost its chip industry. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, we hear that hybrids aren't all that, Essex University could be in a quandary and Latham & Watkins races up the rankings. AND FINALLY, I show you how to make nachos for 20 people at the same time...

In MARKETS, MACRO & CURRENCY NEWS,US stocks weaken, markets take in Sunak's election announcement, Sunak suffers more blows, Argentina's peso plunges and ethereum gets the nod. In BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS, we see the ending of US "revenge" travel, Western countries gearing up for war and office trends in the US and UK. In TECH NEWS, Elon Musk drums up more financing for xAI and Nvidia's jump looks astounding. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the DoJ sues Live Nation and Xiaomi puts in a strong performance. AND FINALLY, I bring you something I might actually make for lunch next week...

In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, Sunak calls an election, inflation doesn't behave, the US gets pernickety and BHP's final offer looks insufficient. In TECH NEWS, Nvidia's revenues climb, China has hopes for "Chat Xi PT" and OpenAI signs a deal with the WSJ's owner. In RETAIL NEWS,Amazon pumps up its distribution, Target announces weaker sales and M&S booms. In CAR NEWS, China asks carmakers to buy local, EU car registrations jump but Tesla sales drop. AND FINALLY, I bring you some amazing kitchen gadgetry...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, the EU trading deficit with China shrinks, the UK tries to mend fences with the UAE, the IMF gets bullish about UK interest rate cuts, the Bank of England signals a cut will be next, the government advises stockpiling, factory output rises, an Anglesey nuclear power station is on the cards, Adani faces more allegations, metal prices rise and ether gets a boost. In TECH NEWS, Microsoft pushes Copilot, traders brace themselves for Nvidia and Amazon has a change of heart. In RETAIL & CONSUMER NEWS, US retailers cut prices, Lululemon has a management restructure, B&Q's owner is downbeat and Nestlé reformulates its food. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, we see a data centre-driven real estate frenzy, whether China's real estate plan will actually work, Cazoo's failure, Nio's progress, Grant Thornton's streamlining, Pixar's cuts and AstraZeneca's grand plan!. AND FINALLY, I bring you a filet mignon that isn't a filet mignon...

In MACRO, MARKETS, COMMODITIES & CRYPTO NEWS, we look at the implications of the Putin/Xi meeting, Japan's GDP contracts faster than expected, Dutch government looks set to cause ructions with Brussels, Sunak hopes for a miracle, the Dow hits a new high, there's more oil consolidation, Chevron pulls out of the North Sea, Copper looks vulnerable and the CME considers bitcoin trading. In RETAIL, CONSUMER GOODS & LEISURE NEWS, Walmart sees sales growth, JD.com beats estimates, Shein turns to London, Watches of Switzerland bets on US growth, Under Armour wobbles, Premier Foods booms and EasyJet is positive. In TMT NEWS, Microsoft offers relocation, Meta's under EU pressure, Sony warns global tech, TikTok takes an interesting turn, Reddit surges and BT wrong-foots the naysayers. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, fixed-rate mortgages costs fall and Love Islanders are charged. AND FINALLY, I bring you an amazing table tennis rally and a song that I just can't get out of my head...

In MACRO & "GREEN" NEWS, Putin arrives in China, Argentina's inflation moderates, the UK's economy outpaces the Eurozone's, the Dutch far-right form a government, Labour lays out its stall, the Bank of England gets a poor report card, AI start-ups aim to tackle climate change, Calpers channels money into green investments, aviation chases green fuel and M&S takes initiative with packaging. In TECH NEWS, Microsoft's emissions jump, data centres prompt Big Tech spending, Google uses AI for the good, PolyAI attracts a nice valuation and Raspberry Pi heads for flotation. In CONSUMER GOODS, RETAIL & LEISURE NEWS, Burberry profits weaken, Gail's goes to Waitrose, TUI delivers and Eurostar gets bullish. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS,China makes big plans for a real estate solution, we look at some M&A developments and difficulties facing UK universities. AND FINALLY, I bring you some incredible ab control!

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, Putin visits China, Biden tries to outdo Trump, new US tariffs will hit clean tech, Pill sounds caution about UK rate cuts, Vietnam promises more energy, UK fusion gets shut out and Blackrock gets big in crypto. In TECH NEWS, Google unveils a new AI assistant, Sutskever resigns from OpenAI, Selipsky resigns from AWS, SMIC warns of a chip price war, Tencent booms and Sony profits jump. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, China EV makers aim to conquer the world (ex-US), Stellantis is to sell cheap Chinese EVs and we look at how to improve the economics of charging. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Anglo American announces a break-up plan, Currys returns to sales growth, Greggs feels the heat, Revolution's plans are put on hold and HSBC and Deloitte grads take a hit. AND FINALLY, I bring you a handstand competition and a joke for lawyers...

In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, the City gets excited about the UK, BHP gets its latest offer rejected and we look at why everyone's getting so hung up on copper. In TECH NEWS,Microsoft is to face EU competition charges, Hunt has $1tn tech dreams, Apollo and Intel consider building a chip plant in Ireland, Permira takes Squarespace private, OpenAI rolls out updates and SoftBank reports solid performance. In RETAIL NEWS, Temu's US growth slows, Walmart announces layoffs, GameStop booms again, Heathrow lays into the tourist tax and Asda aims to build a new "town centre". In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, EVs emerge as the top company perk, superfans offer opportunity and housebuilding slows. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd bring you a mesmerising pancake...

In MACRO, OIL & BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS,China goes for growth, Spain gets a reprieve, US shale faces accusations, China and ESG ETF closures increase, China pushes Hainan, Miniso has big ambitions, Saudis get frustrated with management consultants, takeover interest in UK companies rises, business parks empty and office rents rise. In EMPLOYMENT, CONSUMER & RETAIL TRENDS, we see the end of The Great Resignation, wage rises raise inflation concerns, longer-term mortgages raise retirement concerns, sake hits the UK and Fever-Tree aims at Aperol Spritz. In CAR NEWS, Chinese EVs ratchet up the pressure, Tesla turmoil prompts uncertainty and motorbikes head the same way as cars. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Alibaba becomes a leading AI investor, Apple faces newspaper ire, Musk defends X, Arm aims at AI and Didi wants to have another crack at the UK. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd bring you an annoyingly catchy song and skilful dance...

In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, the UK exits recession, the Bank of England leaves interest rates unchanged, Sweden cuts them, Trump allegedly tries to do a deal with the oil industry, Calpers considers its vote in the Exxon saga, oil companies face hurdles going stateside and the Anglo American saga drags on. In BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, China's trade hits growth again, Chinese tech migrates to the Middle East, the US pours money into tech, HSBC sides with China and tourists swerve Britain for tax-free shopping. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS, Asia cracks down on Big Tech, TikTok makes AI updates, we look at Arm's valuation and Warner takes a hit. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, BYD wants Europe, Ferragamo revenues are dented and Gordon Ramsay is to open a sky-high restaurant. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd show you how to choose the right dried pasta...

In MACRO, MARKETS & CRYPTO NEWS, Sunak has one final job, the IPO pipeline is building up and FTX is ready to compensate. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS, Intel cuts its outlook, Arm underwhelms, Informa does a deal with Microsoft, Shopify drops and Uber hits a speed bump while Disney and Sky offer more streaming options. In CAR NEWS, VW sticks up for China, Tesla is "under investigation for fraud", Toyota continues to play catch-up and Cazoo faces administration. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the housing market stutters, the jobs market reaches a turning point, Direct Line is under the weather, Airbnb gets wary and AstraZeneca signals the end of an era. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd show you what A&E would look like if it was based on homeopathy...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, global debt hits new highs, rampant Argentinian inflation necessitates 10,000 peso notes, Sweden is expected to cut rates and taxpayers are to fund HS2 in London after all. In CAR NEWS,Chinese dealerships ditch foreign brands, Musk sends a fixer to China, UK carmakers appeal for help in the EV snub and Ford is ready to restrict the sale of petrol models. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS, Microsoft makes a "secret" AI tool for US spies, Apple unveils a new powerful chip, the US tightens the ban on supplying chips to Huawei, TikTok fights back, Reddit beats expectations and Ofcom pressures the tech industry while Disney plans for the future. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the UK construction sector grows, house prices steady in April, student accommodation becomes a cash cow and UBS profits from its rival's misfortune. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd show you that Big Brother is watching you on London Underground...

In MACRO & CRYPTO NEWS, global trade is expected to grow sharply, the EU and France appeal to China, the Bank of England remains divided, a Labour government could be a boost, the SNP gets a new leader and Robinhood warns of a lawsuit. In CONSUMER & EMPLOYMENT NEWS, spring sales are dampened, Pandora benefits from lab diamonds and employers rein things in. In REAL ESTATE NEWS, Savills does a U-turn on house prices, the London exodus runs out, there's doubt about a lab rescue and Heineken plans a pub refresh. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, EV taxes are imposed, a British driverless car start-up raises $1bn, Qualcomm is to get an AI boost and Boeing slips up yet again. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd bring you some plane passenger initiative...

In MACRO, COMMODITIES & ENERGY NEWS, Turkey stops trade with Israel over Gaza, the OECD sticks the boot into the UK, Shell beats profit forecasts, Gazprom has its worst loss in decades, US cattle prices fall and Ørsted warns of the high price of renewables. In TECH NEWS, Apple's revenues fall, Chinese AI start-ups chase OpenAI and TikTok's feistiness continues. In M&A NEWS, Sony and Apollo make Paramount an all-cash offer, Nightcap considers a bid for Revolution Bars, Mayer Brown is to spin off its China business, Special Opportunities REIT looks to list in London and investors look to other ways to access IPOs. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Lloyd's insurers count the cost of Baltimore, Maersk's profit falls, Goldman Sachs removes the bonus cap, Peloton's latest CEO exits and Novo Nordisk gets fat from weight-loss drugs. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd bring you some holiday inspo😁...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, US interest rates look like they'll be higher for longer, Sunak faces a reckoning, councils suffer, UK manufacturing falters and UK universities face more course closures. In RETAIL, CONSUMER GOODS & LEISURE NEWS, Mulberry sales fall, Next surges, Mango plans more UK stores, Flutter shareholders vote for New York and Viking has a decent debut. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, Chinese EV makers post higher sales, Tesla's move away from charging freaks companies out and Aston Martin makes more promises. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Johnson & Johnson wants to make a deal, OnlyFans faces investigation and UK house prices fall. AND FINALLY, I bring you what looks like a very satisfying beverage...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, Biden looks to loosen marijuana rules, the EU exits recession and investigates greenwashing, food importers brace for cost increases, council funding looms large, a lithium miner eyes Durham and cocoa prices drop suddenly. In RETAIL, CONSUMER GOODS & RESTAURANTS NEWS, Amazon sees sales surge, Adidas sees profits boom, Puig goes for a chunky IPO valuation, fast-food giants acknowledge price-strapped customers and Starbucks undershoots expectations. In CARS NEWS, Musk fires his entire supercharger team and a major vehicle-carrier warns of a new wave of car imports. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, eight newspapers sue OpenAI and Microsoft, Huawei takes Apple market share, Binance's CZ gets a four month sentence and UK mortgage approvals rise. AND FINALLY,I bring you an amazing bike stunt...

In MACRO, BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, China's factory activity increases, German inflation remains stubbornly high, Scotland's in a kerfuffle, ad jobs are hit by spending cuts, Getir goes back there and non-food shop prices fall. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS, Apple poaches Google staff, the FT signs a deal with OpenAI and Meta faces EU investigation. In RETAIL & LEISURE NEWS, Frasers Group hoovers up MatchesFashion assets, Vinted gets minted and McDonald's doubles down on China. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Tesla gets a China boost, Ford faces safety issues, house sales rise, rents hit new highs and WeWork comes up with a way to shut out Neumann. AND FINALLY, I bring you an example of making the moment count...

In AUTOMOTIVE NEWS, European makers embrace Chinese tech, Musk makes a pit stop in China, the EU ponders car tariffs on Chinese car imports, luxury cars succumb to a weakness and car insurance rises. In CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, the cost-of-living crisis hits leisure spending, job vacancies fall, business travel returns and Gucci suffers from fakery. In IPO AND M&A NEWS, CVC shares jump on debut and Darktrace gets taken out. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, new aeroplanes pile up, cheap solar boosts desalination and Pedro Sanchez makes a big decision. AND FINALLY, I bring you the right way to drink an espresso...

In MACRO, MARKETS & MINING NEWS, Biden takes a hit, the Bank of Japan keeps interest rates unchanged, markets drop on US disappointment and we take a closer look at the BHP deal. In TECH NEWS, the US pushes for more China chip bans, Intel disappoints, Microsoft benefits from its AI push, Alphabet breaks $2tn, Musk's xAI gets a Sequoia boost and LG Electronics' profits rebound. In EV NEWS, Stellantis moans about EV quotas, global battery production rises (but not fast enough), South Korea warns of China's EV supply chain dominance and Toyota puts big money into its Indiana facility. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, luxury is looking good as Hermès puts in a solid performance, WH Smith expects a busy summer, consumer confidence rises, Canary Wharf Group suffers and we look at the effect of the decision on non-compete clauses. AND FINALLY, I bring you an example of Finnish bus driving...

In MACRO, MINING & ENERGY NEWS, Spain's PM considers resignation, Indonesia raises interest rates, BHP suggests a takeover of Anglo American and the UK generates a record low proportion of fossil fuel-generated electricity. In TECH NEWS, China searches for its own ChatGPT, the EU investigates Nuctech, the CMA looks into Big Tech's AI deals, call centre days look numbered, Meta's shares fall on AI spending concerns and IBM buys HashiCorp. In LUXURY & CONSUMER GOODS NEWS, Moncler and Prada put in decent performances, Burberry looks increasingly like a takeover target and Reckitt Benckiser shines. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Suez trade drops sharply, car production falls, Lloyds Bank takes a hit to profits and Boeing burns through cash. AND FINALLY, I bring you some very clever videos...

In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, the US Senate passes a $95bn aid bill, the Bank of England's chief economist sounds cautious, UK borrowing is higher than expectations, we look at UK election timing options, Ithaca buys Eni assets, De Beers' output falls, farmers expand cocoa planting and Tianqi Lithium warns of losses. In EMPLOYMENT, CONSUMER & RETAIL NEWS, the US regulator bans non-compete clauses, UK grocery prices slow down, Asda sees a fall in sales, JD Sports expands in the US, ABF gets upbeat and Kering gets downbeat. In CAR NEWS, GM raises its profit outlook and Tesla doubles down on affordable EVs. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Congress approves a ban on TikTok, Spotify's profits boom, Mattel falls short and Sunak champions investing in defence. AND FINALLY, I bring you a really expensive way to chop carrots...

In MARKETS & M&A NEWS, the FTSE hits a record high, investors start pricing in a US rate increase, the FTC attempts to scupper a deal and City advisers rake in the Nationwide fees. In TECH NEWS, TikTok faces pressure on both sides of the Atlantic while Chinese tech workers get hit by the "curse of 35". In CAR NEWS, Tesla continues to suffer as EU sales slide. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS,consulting firms continue to streamline, the Bank of England warns about shadow banking, Revolut keeps pushing, Thames Water wants bills to go higher and Orkney looks to power cruise ships. AND FINALLY,I ask whether you can pass the "old man" test🤣...

In AUTOMOTIVE NEWS, we see that an EV glut could cause problems, Tesla has a tough time and Nissan cuts profit estimates. In AI NEWS, the US seeks an alliance with Abu Dhabi and commodities traders use AI to get an edge. In CONSUMER & REAL ESTATE NEWS, UK households cut spending the most and asking prices in the UK approach record highs. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Chinese flying taxis take off and the Resolution Foundation says that higher interest rates could hold back the green energy transition. AND FINALLY, I show you what sort of apartment you could get in New York City for a mere $54.6m...

In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, Iran takes action, Sunak faces a big test and there's bad news for chocolate fans. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS, Google streamlines and Meta unveils a new model while Big Tech seeks AI monetisation, TSMC considers charging more for certain chips and Netflix benefits from the password crackdown. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, EV sales in Germany crater and UK car insurance prices fall. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, LVMH has impressive export stats, Thames Water woes continue and Brevan Howard makes deep cuts while Citadel doubles its office space. AND FINALLY, I show you how astronauts drink coffee...

In MACRO & BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS, the Israeli public is split on how to respond, the Vix soars, China relies on manufacturing as a saviour and Bailey banks on a "strong drop" next month. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS,ASML forecasts a chip rebound, we look at how AI's growth will impact the global supply of electricity, how OpenAI's model matches doctors and the current state of investigations into TikTok. In RETAIL & LEISURE NEWS, Amazon has a secret operation, Asos tries to fend off a Shein onslaught and Saga seeks support. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Tesla pushes for change, VW aims to lower EV costs, Prologis warns of a slowdown and UK rental costs rise. AND FINALLY, I bring you a great trick to keep your brown sugar moist...

In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, US inflation remains stubborn, the IMF sticks the boot into the UK again, Hunt it hopeful about tax cuts and Bailey is hopeful about interest rate cuts while wage growth slows and unemployment rises. We also look at Israel's potential next moves. In RETAIL & LEISURE NEWS, LVMH is held back, B&M powers on, DM's chief departs, Superdry limps on and TGI Fridays' aims for a London listing. In FINANCIALS NEWS, loan growth at US banks stalls while Morgan Stanley is bullish on M&A. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, AI investment continues and Tesla disappoints with Cybertruck delays. AND FINALLY, I bring you a fancy way of picking up a bottle...

In MACRO, MARKETS & COMMODITIES NEWS, Iran forces action, US stocks have a wobble, China's GDP growth jumps, oil stays calm but metals prices rise. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS, Samsung boosts US chipmaking, we look at AI development, Apple loses its top spot and Trump Media takes a tumble. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, hybrids trounce EVs, Tesla announces a 10% headcount reduction, Britishvolt's former site looks like it's set for a data centre future and Inchcape sells up. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Goldman does what it does best, CVC goes Dutch and Page Group suffers. AND FINALLY, I introduce you to the best camping buddy...

In MACRO, OIL & MARKETS NEWS, Biden reacts to Iran dialling things up, the oil price implies that the situation isn't expected to escalate, Shell's latest threat could have major consequences and China's capital markets slow down. In BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, Serbia buys French fighter jets, Asahi moves towards non-alcoholic beverages, Jaguar becomes the latest carmaker to rein in EV eagerness, weather damage claims hit a new high, rents halve and drivers face price rises. In LEGAL NEWS, the UK rethinks AI legislation and legal changes could threaten David vs Goliath actions. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, CVC and Zopa consider respective IPOs and we see just how rubbish the Bank of England has been. AND FINALLY, I show you how to backflip...

In MACRO & ENERGY NEWS, China's inflation weakens but strong inflation hits US and UK election prospects, the ECB sticks, Vietnam condemns a fraudster to death, UK energy imports are set for a new high, western countries facilitate Russian LNG exports and 💩 fuel is set to power planes. In TECH & MEDIA NEWS, there's a piece missing in the US chip puzzle, the CMA is concerned about AI, Taylor Swift returns to TikTok, Spotify plans new tools and Instagram makes some safeguarding efforts. In BUSINESS & CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS,drugmakers seek out China alternatives, UK job vacancies rise and mortgage demand returns to growth. In M&A NEWS, BP gets targeted, Fortress buys Poundstretcher and Lok'nStore recommends a takeover. AND FINALLY, I bring you some cool gadgets you never realised you needed...

In MACRO & REGULATION NEWS, US inflation rises unexpectedly, China gets downgraded, the IMF warns about trade wars, the FCA proposed ditching MiFID rules and watered-down Basel III rules could be good news for US banks. In EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS, McKinsey makes more cuts, Lloyds Bank decides to cut risk staff and UK SMEs lack confidence. In CAR NEWS,VW sees EV sales drop and Aston Martin commits to petrol. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, new AI models launch but risk controls struggle to keep up, Tesco triples profits, Revolution Bars still chases funding, Blackstone splashes out in New Bond Street and UK estate agents report a continued rise in demand. AND FINALLY, I bring you a pet peeve of mine...

In BIG PICTURE NEWS, China and Russia get closer, the EU investigates Chinese wind turbines and BP gets downbeat but drilling is set to start at a big North Sea oil field. In CAR NEWS, Chinese vehicle sales rise but Chinese EV imports pile up at European ports and GM tries again with Cruise. In TECH NEWS,OpenAI and Meta prepare new AI models while Klarna puts AI over people. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Frasers and Next circle the carcass of Ted Baker, Stonegate struggles and HSBC sells its Argentina business. AND FINALLY, I bring you a talented axe-man...

In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, Jamie Dimon warns of global economic risks, German factory production expands, gold hits a record high, Shell threatens to head across The Pond and Vitol puts in another strong performance. In RETAIL & BEAUTY NEWS, UK retail sales growth picks up, we look at John Lewis's new boss, Ted Baker closes stores and Puig eyes an IPO. In TECH NEWS,TSMC plans to make chips in the US and Microsoft invests in AI in London. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, European defence firms warn about over-reliance on Chinese cotton, Tesla settles an Autopilot lawsuit, Lotus promises to make more cars and mortgage costs calm down. AND FINALLY, I bring you the beginning of McDonald's...

In MACRO NEWS, Biden gets shirty with China, Aukus may get a new member and the UK looks like it's out of recession. In BUSINESS, EMPLOYMENT & CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, recruitment and starting pay growth lose momentum, flexible working rules take criticism, calls for City law firms to ease off increase, McKinsey's job cuts signal a change, investment banks want more freedom to sack staff in France and an increase in student numbers presents future challenges while consumers continue to face a number of challenges. In RETAIL & LEISURE NEWS, retail insolvencies boom, London hopes to bask in Paris's moment, staycations come off the boil and consumers seek out "immersive hospitality". In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the National Grid is criticised for not doing enough to store power, a superfund is set to launch that will back fast-growing companies and China's property crisis could prove to be problematic for the City. AND FINALLY, I bring you a chirpy lad showing you how to do a ridiculously hard exercise...

In TMT NEWS, LG is downbeat, Samsung is upbeat, a Chinese robot maker is determined, the music industry pushes back against AI, Google's move to charge for AI power could bring cheer for rivals, X dishes out the blue ticks, Disney wants a password crackdown and Vodafone/Three faces scrutiny. In REAL ESTATE NEWS, European house prices fall, the UK housing market perks up and Kering buys its Saint Laurent store in Milan. In CONSUMER & RETAIL TRENDS NEWS, UK wage growth slows, retailers suffer and Amazon sellers face a rise in scam returns. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, EV demand continues to wane, Ford delays EV launches, JP Morgan moves into advertising and Alaska Air gets some compensation from Boeing. AND FINALLY, I bring you a fun dad...

In MACRO NEWS, US inflation stays high and might delay our interest rate cuts (which might dent Sunak's bid for re-election), Eurozone inflation falls and more Baltimore repercussions emerge. In MEDIA NEWS, Bob beats Nelson, Paramount enters exclusive talks with Skydance and Spotify looks to raise prices again. In CAR NEWS, Tesla looks for gigafactory sites in India and Ford EV sales surge while Fisker's troubles worsen. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Google considers charging for AI, the Taiwan earthquake underlines the need for diversification, the EU investigates Chinese solar manufacturers, the beauty industry slows down and Morgan Stanley decides to stay in Canary Wharf. AND FINALLY, I thought I'd bring you some very fancy potatoes...