Business Daily
The daily drama of money and work from the BBC.
Tue, April 29, 2025
The adults saving the toy industry
What gift did you open for your birthday this year? Were you gifted any toys? Lots of adults were. In fact, figures suggest that adults buying toys for themselves is keeping the toy market alive, driving nearly a third of global sales. But what’s behind shift? In this episode we meet the makers, the sellers and the buyers. Produced by: Megan Lawton Presented by: Sam Gruet (Image: A man playing with cars. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, April 29, 2025
Trump’s tariffs: The price of spice
For thousands of years people have traded spices across continents, sharing recipes and wealth. But what could happen to the modern spice industry if costly barriers to free trade are imposed? As US President Donald Trump reaches 100 days in office, it is arguably his “reciprocal tariffs” that have caused the most upheaval in the US and global economies. We speak to three people working in the North American spice import and processing sector to see how it's impacting them. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Hannah Bewley (Image: Imported spices and seasoning at Phuoc Loc Tho Super Oriental Market in Florida. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, April 27, 2025
Why is Europe falling behind the US?
Even before there was talk of a trade war between the US and EU, Europe was on the economic backfoot. But it wasn’t always the case. In 2008, the EU was the world’s biggest economy - today, the US economy is $9.5 trillion bigger than the EUs. So what has happened? Presented and produced by Rob Young (Image: An employee fixes the seat to a Volkswagen AG Tiguan on the production line at the Volkswagen factory in Wolfsburg, Germany. The company said in March 2025 that profits had fallen amid high costs and Chinese competition. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, April 24, 2025
Meet the 'workfluencers'
From filming 'day-in-the-life' videos, to capturing casual conversations in the office, some employees are no longer just working behind the scenes. They're stepping into the spotlight as the creative forces behind their company's social media content. More businesses are moving away from paying for traditional social media influencers to market their brands, to asking their own staff to do it. Meet the 'workfluencers'. This type of in-house marketing might serve as a useful recruitment tool, or help to humanise corporations while boosting engagement, but it carries risks for a business. And how honest can employees be in what they post? Should they be paid extra to do this sort of work? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Deborah Weitzmann (Picture: Employees filming content for social media. Credit: Joe & the Juice)
Wed, April 23, 2025
What's going on with US egg prices?
Why are egg prices in the US so high? The price of a dozen eggs has risen dramatically this year, and in some stores, consumers face prices approaching the 10 dollar mark – five times the long-term average. Meanwhile, breakfasts are booming for US hospitality but restaurants are also raising their prices. In a country where the average citizen eats 280 eggs annually, is there an end in sight to the high cost of buying this household staple? Or is it time to look for an egg alternative? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Matt Lines (Picture: Empty egg shelves and a sign limiting purchases to one carton per customer are seen at a grocery store in New York, United States on 16 April, 2025. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, April 22, 2025
Wine in decline?
We're in Chile, where it’s grape harvesting time and vineyard workers are busy cleaning their barrels to make way for new batches. The South American country has more than a thousand different varieties of grapes, but it’s proving hard to reach a new generation of wine drinkers. It’s not just young people drinking less. Around the world wine production is in decline. This is often due climate change causing extreme droughts which affects harvests. How do wine-producing countries like Chile respond - and keep the industry thriving? Presented and produced by Jane Chambers (Image: Friends having fun and relaxing together drinking red wine during a rooftop party in New York East Village. New York is one of the key markets for new-style Chilean wine. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, April 21, 2025
How to reduce west Africa’s smuggling problem?
Consumer goods as well as fuel and cocoa are all crossing Ghana’s northern border illegally, and in large volumes. It's costing the government billions of dollars in lost revenues. Ed Butler looks at perhaps the biggest illegal trade - gold - Ghana’s number one cash export. But even as the informal economy, unmonitored and untaxed, continues to grow, some are asking: isn’t there also a specific economic solution to the problem? In the second of two programmes, based at the northern Ghanaian border with Burkina Faso, he finds out what some are suggesting could be done to change the criminals’ incentives. Produced and presented by Ed Butler (Image: Illegal gold mining in northern Ghana)
Sun, April 20, 2025
Ghana: the real cost of smuggling
Consumer goods, fuel, gold and cocoa are all crossing the border illegally - it's costing the government billions of dollars - so can it be stopped? Ed Butler travels to the northern Ghanaian border with Burkina Faso, and hears from cocoa smugglers who are operating in the region. Produced and presented by Ed Butler (Image: A livestock market in northern Ghana. Traders, including those pictured, told the BBC they believe some of the livestock is contraband)
Thu, April 17, 2025
Argentina's 'agri-tech' innovators
Argentina, a country often associated with economic turbulence, is quietly leading a biotech start-up revolution in agriculture. Home to a third of Latin America’s ‘deep tech’ start-ups, companies like Unibaio, Beeflow and Punabio are breaking new ground. We explore how a blend of scientific talent, venture capital and cutting-edge research is transforming farming. While Argentina is becoming a global player in agricultural biotechnology, can this boom be sustained amid the country’s economic and political challenges? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk (Picture: Engineer Mario Nejamkin, and Claudia Casalongue, cofounder and scientific lead at agri-tech start-up Unibaio, standing in a potato field in Argentina. Credit: BBC) Presented and produced by Natalio Cosoy
Wed, April 16, 2025
Armenia: Silicon Valley of the Caucasus?
The small country of Armenia in the South Caucasus has long been positioning itself as an emerging technology hub. Hundreds of tech start-ups with strong ties to the US market through the Armenian diaspora are now based there. From 2020 to 2022, investments in small Armenian tech companies reached $48 million. The industry has been partly fuelled by the arrival of hundreds of Russian IT specialists following the invasion of Ukraine. We hear how the government wants the IT sector to develop the economy, talk to tech start-up founders, and find out how tech education for children is being prioritised. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk (Picture: Staff in the offices of Doctor Yan, a health care assistant app in Armenia. Credit: BBC) Presented and produced by Rayhan Demytrie
Tue, April 15, 2025
India’s frugal start-ups
In India’s villages, innovation is being born from necessity. From a fridge made of clay, to silk fashioned from lotus stems, to smart devices helping blind farmers manage their land, we meet the country’s grassroots innovators. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Devina Gupta (Picture: A lotus flower. Credit: BBC)
Mon, April 14, 2025
Can Finland compete as Europe’s start-up capital?
We’re in Helsinki where Europe’s biggest campus for startup companies is being built. What role could it play as Finland strives to create the continent’s most supportive environment for new businesses? We’ll look at some of the challenges the country’s facing as it competes for global investment and tech talent. And hear from Sweden - does it see Finland taking its start-up crown anytime soon? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Maddy Savage (Picture: Turkish entrepreneur Lalin Keyvan, who's founded a startup in Finland. Credit: BBC)
Sun, April 13, 2025
Start-ups: from campus to commerce
Thousands of businesses have 'spun-out' from universities - so is this an opportunity for further growth? The model has seen great success in the US, leading to booming commercial ventures such as Dropbox, iRobot, and Boston Dynamics. And now the UK government has plans for further investment in spin-outs from Oxford and Cambridge. But what evidence exists that this approach can be as effective in other parts of the world? And as global economies strive for growth, will there be competition for talent and investment? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick (Image: Oxford University in the UK)
Thu, April 10, 2025
Business Daily meets: Julia Hartz
From noticing a gap in the market, to launching a start-up with her husband, CEO Julia Hartz tells us how she's built Eventbrite to become one of the biggest event ticketing platforms in the world, distributing 272 million tickets to more than 1.7 million global events in 2024. The online site enables users to buy tickets to all kinds of community gatherings; with almost one-million creators publishing get-togethers like, cooking classes, yoga sessions and cold-water plunging. Julia shares how the company has dealt with challenging economic climates, the scourge of surge pricing, and how it's adapting to new ways of bringing the world together offline. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood (Picture: Julia Hartz. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 09, 2025
Is Colombia’s flower power under threat?
Colombia has emerged as the world's second-biggest exporter of cut flowers, and the largest supplier to the United States. Local growers suffered a scare this year when US president Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs of 50% on imports from Colombia. The dispute was quickly resolved but, even so, the threat of tariffs remains. And the sector faces other challenges, particularly around sustainability. We visit a flower farm in Colombia and go to Bogota airport to see how the country exports this most delicate and perishable of goods. We also talk to an academic who says the industry is changing rapidly, with an emphasis on growing flowers locally rather than flying them around the world. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Gideon Long (Picture: A female employee handling roses at a flower farm, Flores de los Andes, near Bogotá, Colombia. Credit: BBC)
Tue, April 08, 2025
South Korea: why are more stores going staff-free?
A shortage of workers is leading some retailers to forgo hiring altogether. The number of unmanned, or staff-less stores in South Korea has grown rapidly in recent years - from ice cream shops to bustling cafes and bars. We’ll explore how these unmanned stores operate and if they can offer a solution to the country’s demographic problems. Is this the answer for business to keep things running when there aren’t enough people to work? Produced and presented by David Cann (Image: An unmanned bar in Seoul, South Korea)
Mon, April 07, 2025
South Korea: Can immigration grow its workforce?
The country is facing a labour shortage following decades of low birth rate and depopulation. By the year 2032, it’s estimated South Korea will need more than 890,000 additional workers to maintain the country’s long term economic growth goal of 2%. But with 95% of the country’s population identifying as ethnically Korean, the public opinion on immigration is mixed. In the second of our three-part series looking at South Korea’s low birth rate and population decline, we ask if the immigration can fill the gap in labour, and what the challenges are. Produced and presented by David Cann. (Image: A worker from the Philippines holding a baby in South Korea. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, April 06, 2025
South Korea: How has it managed to reverse depopulation?
South Korea has grappled with an unprecedented decline in birth rate over the past nine years. However the latest figures show a slight rise in the number of babies born. Although the number remains low, the news is being welcomed with cautious optimism. The increase follows years of pro-parent policies and heavy investment by the government and businesses. In the first of our three-part series looking at South Korea’s low birth rate and population decline, we look into the efforts it took to achieve this turnaround, and find out how the number got so low in the first place. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by David Cann (Image: A mum and child in South Korea. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, April 03, 2025
Microsoft at 50
In its 50th anniversary year, we chart Microsoft's history and look at where the tech giant is heading into the future. It's one of the world's biggest companies - we get exclusive access to the Seattle HQ. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producers: Imran Rahman-Jones, Georgina Hayes and Rumella Dasgupta (Picture: A Microsoft sign is seen outside the company headquarters on July 3, 2024 in Redmond, Washington. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 02, 2025
Saudi Arabia: The saviour of boxing?
Two years ago, boxing was on the ropes. Fans were fed up, and rival promoters were playing the blame game, as egos, finances and broadcaster commitments got in the way. Now, it's all changed, largely thanks to investment from Saudi Arabia. We head to the boxing ring to look at the revival of this global sport – and find out whether the Kingdom's increasing involvement in sport is being universally welcomed. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Matt Lines (Image: Britain's Tyson Fury (red) and Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk (blue) compete during their heavyweight world championship rematch at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on December 22, 2024. Credit: AFP via Getty Images)
Tue, April 01, 2025
Is the Vatican Jubilee living up to its promise?
More than 30 million pilgrims are expected to visit The Vatican city this year, to pass through the Holy Door at St Peter's Basilica, opened especially for 2025. In the Italian capital Rome, which surrounds The Vatican, officials have been planning for years to accommodate the extra tourists, including major disruption for locals, but three months in business leaders are reporting that figures are down 15% on the previous year. The city's hotel association says accommodation rates are being lowered in the hope it will encourage more non-Jubilee visitors who may have been put off travelling. But other businesses are cashing in - we hear from faith based tourist groups around the world who say they are doubling their bookings to Rome. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney (Image: Faithful carry a wooden cross on Via della Conciliazione in Rome during the pilgrimage route to the Holy Door of St. Peter's basilica in the Vatican, as part of the Catholic Jubilee Year, on 22/02/25. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 31, 2025
How Finland became a hotspot for defence tech
We’re in Helsinki to find out why this small, cold, Nordic capital is spawning growing numbers of technologies designed to help countries protect and defend themselves against war. We meet some of the Finnish defence tech and dual-use start ups attracting global interest, hear why these sorts of businesses have become more attractive for European investors, and dig into the challenges facing the sector. Presented and produced by Maddy Savage (Image: A Kelluu airship flying over snowy fields. Image credit: Kelluu)
Sun, March 30, 2025
How the Covid pandemic changed us
Restrictions and government assistance varied, but for small business owners the challenges were similar. Five years on, we hear from three entrepreneurs about their experiences - the manager of a tourism company in Tanzania, a bar owner in England, and a former gym owner in the US. What have they learnt? And has it changed the way the operate and make decisions? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Josh Martin (Image: A coffee shop owner serves a customer in the US. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, March 28, 2025
Business Daily meets: Benedetto Vigna
The CEO of the Italian luxury car maker tells Business Daily how his background in physics and electronics is helping him lead the company through unprecedented change, as the furious scream of high-powered petrol engines gradually gives way to the whisper of clean but quiet electric motors. How can Ferrari stay relevant in a rapidly changing world? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Theo Leggett Producer: Amber Mehmood (Picture: Benedetto Vigna, CEO of Ferrari, sitting in the company's Mayfair dealership in London, in front of a car. Credit: BBC)
Thu, March 27, 2025
The future of the Olympics
We're in Greece to find out what challenges await the new IOC president Kirsty Coventry - the first woman and first African to hold the most powerful role in sport. The IOC faces several challenges, including the issue of paying prize money to athletes, finding a host for the 2036 Summer games and climate change. There are also questions around the future of boxing as an Olympic sport and securing future revenues with NBC's multi-billion dollar deal due to expire after the Brisbane games in 2032 and other sponsorship deals up for renewal. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Alex Capstick (Image: Kirsty Coventry reacts as she delivers a speech after being elected as the new IOC President on Day Two of the 144th International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session on March 20, 2025 in Costa Navarino, Greece. Credit: Milos Bicanski/Getty Images)
Wed, March 26, 2025
Chile's salmon farming puzzle
Despite its growing popularity and its success as a global export, the industry is facing a number of challenges. We found out how the South American country is adapting. Produced and presented by Jane Chambers (Image: Workers processing salmon. Credit: Multi Planta)
Tue, March 25, 2025
'Made in Canada': is manufacturing coming home?
'Made in Canada': Words that are now a common sight on Canadian shelves, after Donald Trump's tariffs sparked a trade war with the country. The US president has imposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada. Trump has also vowed to impose a sweeping range of "reciprocal" tariffs on 2 April. North of the United States' border, the trade dispute has generated a wave of patriotism, with some consumers and businesses boycotting American products. But what impact has it had on business? In this programme, we hear from the Canadian firms choosing to bring operations back to Canada and learn about the hurdles along the way. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Sam Gruet Producer: Megan Lawton (Picture: An employee covers a stack of aluminum billets with plastic. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 24, 2025
USAID: What happened when the funding stopped?
On his first day in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order stopping USAID projects worldwide, saying he wants overseas spending decisions to align with his election policy to "put America first". USAID is the US government's main overseas aid agency and it administers humanitarian aid programmes on behalf of the US government. It has bases in more than 60 countries and works in dozens of others. However, most of the work on the ground is carried out by other organisations that are contracted and funded by USAID. The vast majority of projects have been abruptly halted. But what has this decision meant for the people who relied on them? From Kenya’s Lake Victoria to Nairobi’s slums, we explore the profound impact on lives, businesses, and livelihoods. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick (Image: Little boy walking on railroad tracks with Kibera slum in the background. Nairobi, Kenya. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, March 21, 2025
Business Daily meets: Sim Tshabalala
Sim Tshabalala is the CEO of one of Africa's largest banks, Standard Bank. In this edition of Business Daily, he tells Ed Butler about his journey from growing up under apartheid in South Africa, to be becoming a lawyer, then investment banker. He discusses the risks of lending to companies; how the continent is improving its trade relationships; and what he thinks the future of Africa will look like. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood Additional material: Reuters/British Pathé (Picture: Sim Tshabalala, CEO of Standard Bank Group, speaks at Semafor's The Next 3 Billion Summit at The Pierre Hotel on September 24, 2024 in New York City. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, March 20, 2025
Myanmar scam: A victim's story
We hear from a Sri Lankan woman who was trafficked and forced to conduct illegal online activity, including cyber fraud against vulnerable victims. Aneka Boram is one of thousands of people who've recently escaped from so-called scam centres. She talks about her captivity and describes the harsh punishments and conditions she was forced to work in. The scam centres are offices inside Myanmar or Cambodia, where people have been forced to work scamming internet users from around the world. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Ed Butler (Image: Aneka Boram)
Wed, March 19, 2025
Is DEI really dead?
Many prominent US companies have been pulling back on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. US President Donald Trump and his allies have regularly attacked DEI policies. When he returned to the White House in January, President Trump ordered government agencies to eliminate such initiatives - and it appears some of the country's biggest corporations are following suit. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Lexy O'Connor (Image: Hands holding "equality for all" cardboard sign". Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 18, 2025
How to deconstruct an oil rig
Thousands of oil and gas rigs are becoming redundant around the world – and taking them out of service, known as decommissioning, is a multi-billion dollar business. It’s also a complex operation beset by sometimes opposing interests. In this programme, we meet the makers of the world’s biggest ship - a machine at the cutting edge of rig removal, and the visit the port that can recycle over 95% of a rig. As concerns grow over delays to decommissioning in the North Sea and Gulf of Mexico, we look into whether enough progress is being made with removing old rigs around the world. Produced and presented by Laura Heighton-Ginns (Image: The Brent Bravo topside oil platform is transported on the barge ‘Iron Lady’ into the mouth of the River Tees on route to the Able UK Seaton Port site for decommissioning on June 20, 2019 in Teesport, England. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 17, 2025
Can New Zealand’s economy bounce back?
More than a year after a change in government, businesses are closing, unemployment is rising and workers are leaving for neighbouring Australia. As New Zealand's recession continues, uncertainty remains. So what is the government's plan? And could there be brighter times ahead? Produced and presented by Alexander van Wel (Image: Workers repairing the road in Auckland. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, March 13, 2025
Business Daily meets: Roblox CEO Dave Baszucki
The international gaming giant has more than 80 million daily users, and is hugely popular with children. It was started by Dave Baszucki and Erik Cassel, and Dave Baszucki is now CEO. In his first ever BBC interview, he tells us about developing the game, the struggle to monetize it, and concerns over child safety - Mr Baszucki insists Roblox is vigilant in protecting its users. Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producers: Georgina Hayes and Imran Rahman-Jones
Thu, March 13, 2025
Can Germany's ailing economy get back on track?
Dr Joachim Nagel isn't just Germany's chief central banker, he's one of the most powerful economic policy-makers in Europe. In this exclusive interview, he tells Business Daily how he thinks Germany, and the European Union as a whole, should be responding to a time of unprecedented economic peril. It's a shaky time for the world's third-largest economy, which has been experiencing stagnant growth for five years. As a trade war between Europe and the US escalates, what does the future look like for Germany? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Ed Butler Analysis: Faisal Islam, BBC economics editor Producers: Olie D'Albertanson and Elisabeth Mahy (Image: Joachim Nagel, president of Deutsche Bundesbank in Jan 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, March 12, 2025
The internet’s memory problem
The internet is where much of our modern cultural, societal and political history is stored, but as researchers are discovering, the internet has a big memory problem. Without businesses paying to keep servers and archives up, more and more of our history online is disappearing forever. We take a look at what this so called 'link rot' means for our collective understanding. Produced and presented by Frey Lindsay (Image: A man looking confused at his phone. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 11, 2025
The ultramarathon business
The south of France is among thousands of places around the world that now stage ultramarathons: extreme running events covering anything above 26.2 miles to more than 100. They often take place on challenging terrain and require considerable physical and mental resilience. And they've become big business. To find out more, Business Daily went to the Nice Côte d'Azur 100-mile race to speak to runners and organisers about the popularity of these sorts of events, and how they make money. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by John Laurenson (Picture: Woman and man running in a forest in the dark. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 10, 2025
Is Milei’s economic gamble paying off?
An hour’s drive north of Buenos Aires is Pilar, a municipality that houses the largest industrial park in Argentina, as well as a population of 400,000. Some rich and middle class Argentines live in its many gated communities, but Pilar has a poverty rate of almost 60% - well above the national figure. We speak to residents and businesses about libertarian President Javier Milei's first year in office. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Natalio Cosoy (Picture: Argentina's President Javier Milei looks on during the inauguration of the 143rd ordinary session of Congress at the National Congress in Buenos Aires on March 1, 2025. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, March 07, 2025
Business Daily meets: The women of heavy industry
We speak to three businesswomen working in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Anna Mareschi Danieli from the Italian-based global steel company Danieli group. Caroll Masevhe, founder of a women-only construction business - Kapcor construction, in Johannesburg; and Patty Eid from Petrofac, a leader in the Middle East’s oil and gas industry. Produced and presented by Sam Fenwick (Image: L-R Patty Eid, Anna Mareschi Danieli, Caroll Masevhe)
Thu, March 06, 2025
The rise of the 'micro-influencer'
Unlike 'mega-influencers' with huge audiences on social media, 'micro' and 'nano-influencers' have far fewer followers. But small can be mighty in this business. These lower-profile influencers have anywhere between 250 and 10,000 followers, but businesses are increasingly turning to more niche, content creators in a bid to get more authentic engagement. We hear how they're redefining the way brands are connecting with consumers. Micro-influencers Kadide Francy, in Kenya, and Jerlyn De Silva, in India, reveal what kind of money they make from these collaborations. And East African Brewery marketing manager, Kanye Kiuru, tells us how using these kinds of influencers led to a hugely successful marketing campaign for the company. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield (Picture: Kadide Francy, a lifestyle micro-influencer in Kenya. Credit: Kadide Francy)
Wed, March 05, 2025
Adding value to Ugandan bananas
The fruit is a beloved staple of the African country's cuisine, and a key export. But is there a missed opportunity when it comes to Ugandan matoke, or bananas? We speak to entrepreneurs who are making banana wine, fertilizers and hair extensions - adding value for local and international markets. Produced and presented by Zawadi Mudibo (Image: A man drives a motorcycle carrying matoke in Kampala, Uganda in June 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 04, 2025
The battle of the VIP lounges
For most people travelling abroad by plane, the airport experience can feel fairly nondescript - something to be endured rather than enjoyed. But for those with certain credit cards, a luxury experience awaits. Around the world, card issuers are spending large amounts of money building high-end lounges in airports and prime city centre locations, in a bid to attract and keep customers. And their attempts are getting more and more extravagant. But who’s paying for all of this? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Rowan Bridge (Picture: Dining area at the American Express Centurion New York restaurant in New York, US, occupying the 55th floor of the One Vanderbilt skyscraper. Credit: Getty Images/Bloomberg)
Mon, March 03, 2025
Insuring the uninsurable
We hear from businesses in California, Fiji and the UK that have been hit hard by natural disasters like floods, wildfires and extreme storms - followed by rising insurance premiums - or companies refusing to insure them at all. An alternative type of cover, parametric insurance, is being offered as a way of giving people some cover. But does it work for everyone? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Lexy O'Connor (Image: A view of flash flood in Daddu district southern Sindh province, Pakistan, on September 07, 2022. Credit: Farhan Khan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Fri, February 28, 2025
Lights, camera, Budapest
We’re in Budapest to find out how Hungary – once part of the Soviet Union – is now one of the world’s top film destinations, with movie-makers seduced by the central European country's generous tax breaks and incentives. Academy Award nominees this year, The Brutalist and Dune 2, were filmed here – plus 2024 Oscar winner, Poor Things. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Wayne Wright (Picture: Actors perform a scene of the movie "Hunyadi" (Rise of the Raven) during the opening ceremony of Hungary's National Film Institute's new studio complex in Fot, close to the capital Budapest, during the complex's inauguration on January 30, 2025. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, February 27, 2025
Business Daily meets: Tsunekazu Ishihara
Pokémon started as a hugely successful game for Nintendo’s Gameboy nearly 30 years ago. Since then, it's become a billion-dollar global media brand. Despite the firm's huge revenue, the Pokémon Company remains private. The firm doesn’t release its historical earnings figures, but some analysts estimate it has sold up to $150 billion worth of products, making it the world’s highest grossing media franchise. Mariko Oi speaks to Pokémon Company president, Tsunekazu Ishihara, about the firm's successes over the years, and the challenges it faces - like counterfeits and the resale market. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Mariko Oi (Picture: Pokemon CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara welcomes guests during the 2022 Pokémon World Championships at ExCel, London, UK. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 26, 2025
How do you save a brand in crisis?
We look at how to rescue brands on the brink. We hear inspired sloganeering and learn about the audacious marketing that have helped companies – even towns and cities – to turn their reputations around. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by David Reid (Picture: A businessman covers his eyes and extends his arm in a futile effort to prevent the inevitable a series of heavy walls from falling on him. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, February 25, 2025
Philippines: back-office powerhouse
The outsourcing sector in the Philippines has seen significant growth, positioning itself as a global leader. However, the rise of AI technologies is reshaping the job landscape, potentially displacing traditional roles. In the second part of our series looking at the Philippine economy, Sam Fenwick investigates how the government is adapting to the change by investing in infrastructure and promoting foreign investment. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick Additional reporting by Camille Elemia (Picture: Customer agents sit behind computers on the AI training in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 24, 2025
Philippines: the remittance lifeline
The estimated 2.3 million Filipino overseas workers form the economic backbone of their nation. The remittances they send home are vital; sustaining household incomes, driving consumer spending, supporting community development, and ensuring national economic stability - contributing 8.5% to GDP. In the first of our two-part series looking at the Philippine economy, Sam Fenwick meets overseas workers who send money home and those who have returned to set up businesses. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick (Picture: Angel Kho, a head chef, in the kitchen of a care home in the UK. Credit: BBC)
Fri, February 21, 2025
Where does the Mittelstand stand?
Could Germany benefit from drastic Javier Milei-style reforms? One business owner in Berlin thinks so, and many others want a reduction in the amount of bureaucracy bosses are responsible for. As a federal election takes place in Germany, members of the Mittelstand, Germany’s famous small and medium-sized businesses known as the “backbone” of the country's economy, tell Business Daily what a new government could do for them. Theo Leggett travels to a science and research park on the outskirts of Berlin where the boss of an underwater robot company and other tech businesses are based. There's a lot of innovation happening in the buildings, but confidence in politics is low. And Anouk Millet looks at the Hamburg businesses trying to modernise and forge a path towards an uncertain future. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Theo Leggett Producer: Hannah Bewley Reporter: Anouk Millet (Image: Fabian Bannasch, CEO of Evologics,holding a robotic "penguin". Credit: BBC)
Thu, February 20, 2025
Are the brakes on Germany's car industry?
Germany's once mighty motor industry is losing momentum, as high costs, low demand and competition from Chinese firms take a heavy toll on company profits. With elections in a few days' time, we ask, what do Germany's politicians need to do to put the industry on the road to recovery? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Theo Leggett (Picture: View of the production plant of the Volkswagen headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 19, 2025
How 'cosplay' became big business
Cosplay is the ultimate form of fancy dress – with fans of graphic novels and video games doing everything they can to emulate their favourite fictional characters. And it's a big money-spinner globally. We find out why the hobby has grown so much over the past two decades – and meet those who’ve turned their passion for cosplay into a career. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Will Chalk (Picture: Cosplayers pose as Star Wars characters during New York Comic Con 2024, in New York City. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, February 18, 2025
India's $30bn festival
The festival of Kumbh Mela is estimated to attract 400 million Hindus and other visitors from around the world. The 45-day festival is a massive economic engine, injecting billions in the economy of the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, which is hosting the event. And this year, it is a Grand Mela, which only happens once every 144 years. From big businesses to street vendors and hotel owners, to major brands and digital entrepreneurs, all are looking to cash in on the influx of visitors. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Devina Gupta (Image: Shoppers next to a toy stall at Kumbh Mela in 2023. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 17, 2025
Are electric planes the future?
How to make a battery powered plane that can fly long distances, whilst carrying passengers, is a key challenge facing the aviation sector. As the world tries to reduce its consumption of fossil fuels, researchers are looking to make flight more sustainable to deal with ever growing demands. We hear about some pioneering projects in the Netherlands which are trying to do all of this, whilst still being commercially viable. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Produced and presented by Matthew Kenyon (Image: A render of Dutch start up Elysian's fully electric regional aircraft, which it says will have a range of 500 miles. Credit: Elysian)
Fri, February 14, 2025
Business Daily meets: Applied Nutrition's Tom Ryder
We speak to a boss whose business has bulked up on the global wellness trend. Tom Ryder got into fitness supplements as a side-hustle when he was a scaffolder for Liverpool City Council — now he runs Applied Nutrition, which is valued at more than £350million. He tells Sean Farrington how growing up with his grandparents in public housing shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Sean Farrington Producer: Josh Martin (Image: Tom Ryder)
Thu, February 13, 2025
What it takes to become a digital nomad
The digital nomad lifestyle sounds like a dream - working from a beach in Bali or a café in Barcelona. But how do you actually make it happen? In this episode, we meet the people who’ve taken the plunge and hear about the ups and downs of life on the move. Hear from employers managing a remote global workforce and investigate why the lifestyle isn’t always what you see on social media. Plus - we also look at the tax implications. (Picture: Woman sitting by a beach, looking at her laptop. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Sam Gruet
Wed, February 12, 2025
Reusable water bottles: the new fast fashion?
They’re everywhere – on your desk at work, at the gym, on a day out, doing a job in the fight against single-use plastic. But if we have multiple versions of refillable water bottles , are they just becoming fast fashion? The global, refillable water bottle industry is worth $10bn and it’s growing at a rate of about 5% a year. Several brands have become household names with international offices across continents. But these types of bottles are energy-intensive. Research suggests manufacturing a single reusable bottle can produce more emissions that producing a single-use plastic version, but that it works out better for the environment once it’s been used multiple times. We look at the enormous growth in refillable bottles, and how celebrities and influencers have driven sales. Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey (Image: A young woman drinks from a water bottle in Central Park, NYC. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, February 11, 2025
The fight for Guatemala's lakes
We’re in the Central American country to hear a tale of two lakes. One, Lake Amatitlan, is badly polluted and there's concerns that the other – Lake Atitlan - once nominated as one of the seven new wonders of the world and - is in danger of going that way too. We hear about the costs needed to clean up these important tourist attractions, and hear about the loss of income for local businesses. Produced and presented by Jane Chambers (Image: A worker picks up rubbish on the shore of Lake Amatilan, Guatemala, during a voluntary clean up day in August 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 10, 2025
The threat to sabotage undersea cables
Countries considered hostile to the West are threatening to cut under sea cables, which carry 95 percent of the world’s data. China, Iran and Russia are suspected of threatening to sabotage cables, carrying 95% of the world’s data, which makes the network vital to the global economy. Russell Padmore examines how the lines laid on ocean floors are the backbone of the internet, so they need to be protected, but international military cooperation is limited. Produced and presented by Russell Padmore (Image: An undersea cable between Helsinki and Rostock which was laid in 2015. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, February 07, 2025
Business Daily Meets: Makiko Ono
We speak to one of Japan's very few female CEOs. Makiko Ono leads Suntory Beverage and Food, part of the Suntory coagulometer that makes soft drinks including Orangina, Lucozade and Ribena. She shares her 40-plus years journey at the company; including how she led company's first acquisition to opening doors for the next generation of women in business. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Amber Mehmood (Image: Makiko Ono, chief executive officer of Suntory Beverage and Food Ltd, at the company's headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, on 23 March 2023. Credit Getty Images)
Thu, February 06, 2025
Rebuilding Africa’s largest second-hand clothes market
Ed Butler travels to Kantamanto market in Accra, Ghana. 15 million used garments arrive in Ghana every week from all over the world - most ends up at Kantamanto but a lot can't be sold because it's in poor condition. That ends up as landfill. Just weeks after Ed’s visit, a disastrous fire raised it to the ground, so he’s been back in touch with some of the vendors he spoke to as they try and get the market, and their livelihoods, up and running again. Produced and presented by Ed Butler
Wed, February 05, 2025
What now for Canada?
After Justin Trudeau resigned as prime minister last month, what does the in-tray look like for Canada’s next leader? The country is facing a major challenge from new US president Donald Trump who introduced 25% tariffs on Canadian exports - now postponed for 30 days - and is even questioning the country's identity. But Canada also has a list of problems to address from within, such as rising property costs and new rules on immigration. We find out how people are feeling – and what happens next. Produced by Megan Lawton Presented by Sam Gruet (Image: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing his resignation during a news conference in Ottowa, Canada on 6 January 2025. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, February 04, 2025
Why do Germans take so much time off sick?
The country’s sick leave policy is one of the most generous in the world. Employees get full pay for the first six weeks they’re off, after that their health insurance policy will pay them a large portion of their salary for a further 18 months. This means the culture around taking sick leave is different to other countries, and the average worker takes 20 days off sick each year. We find out why, and look at the impact on business and the German economy. Produced and presented by Hannah Mullane (Image: German commuters on bikes at a junction. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 03, 2025
California’s insurance crisis
Thousands of homes burned to the ground in the recent wildfires in Los Angeles which will likely become the most expensive natural disaster in US history. Many victims did not have insurance, because they couldn’t afford California’s increasingly expensive policies or because they were dropped by their insurer. Lexy O’Connor meets some of those affected and finds out what’s fuelling California’s insurance crisis. Presented and produced by Lexy O'Connor (Image: Two people survey the damage during the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California on 8 January 2025. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, January 31, 2025
Business Daily meets: GoFundMe's Tim Cadogan
Whether its for medical expenses, college funds, charity campaigns, chances are you've been asked to donate to a fundraiser online. GoFundMe is one of the biggest of the crowdfunding platforms, generating an estimated $30bn in funds since it launched in 2010. CEO Tim Cadogan tells us about joining as CEO in 2020, and the challenges of running a profit making company in a charity space. Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones (Image: Tim Cadogan. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, January 30, 2025
The gamification of fitness
Advances in technology mean more people have devices which offer incentives and rewards for achieving fitness goals. From hi tech gyms to interactive home works outs, we explore why some companies are embracing this approach. It’s boosting user engagement and transforming workouts, but are trackers and leader boards a positive step? And is this what the future holds for fitness? Produced and presented by Sean Allsop (Image: A fitness class. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, January 29, 2025
Cashing in on Ghana's cashews
Ed Butler travels to northern Ghana in search of one of the country’s growing exports. Cashew nuts have become a feature of crop production, but there are problems. How does Ghana best add value to cashews in a way that benefits the country and doesn’t just see it exploited overseas? And could solving the cashew issue help Ghana's economy in other ways? Produced and presented by Ed Butler (Image: A worker at a cashew processing company sorting nuts in Ghana)
Tue, January 28, 2025
Is X still good for brands?
In November 2024, FC St Pauli became the first major football club to stop posting on X (formerly Twitter). In a statement, the leftwing Bundesliga club cited concerns over racism and conspiracy theories on the platform. It has moved to alternative social media site Bluesky instead. So is this part of a wider trend? We hear from companies who are finding alternatives to X, or staying on but reducing advertising spend. Plus we hear from those who say with hundreds of millions users, X still has an important role to play particularly in areas like customer service. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney (Image: Fans of St.Pauli wave a skull and crossbones rainbow flag during the match between FC St. Pauli and 1. FC Magdeburg at Millerntor Stadium in Hamburg, Germany, 14 August 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 27, 2025
Spain's squatting problem
Squatting has a long history in Spain, often fuelled by high rates of homelessness. And the country’s ongoing housing crisis means that despite being low in numbers, squatting is now a highly politicised topic. We hear from private companies set up to evict people, from businesses making products to prevent squatters moving in, and from squatters themselves about their experiences. Produced and presented by Stefania Gozzer (Image: A worker takes a mattress off the balcony during the eviction of 62 families from four apartments in June 2023 in Madrid, Spain. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, January 24, 2025
Business Daily meets: Peter Moore
We hear how his British accent and 'scouse cockiness' led him from physical education teacher in the UK, to a sportswear executive in the US. And how a career change in his 40s led Peter Moore to a job offer he couldn't refuse, as CEO of the football club he'd supported since childhood, Liverpool FC. Produced and presented by Matt Lines (Image: Peter Moore and Virgil van Dijk with the FIFA Club World Cup in Doha, Qatar on 21 December 2019. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, January 23, 2025
Are social scientists good for boardrooms?
A 2020 Academy of Social Sciences report found that sociologists, economists and philosophers help companies improve productivity, enhance problem-solving and heighten social impact. So it makes sense that businesses would want social scientists involved in strategy and decision making. But how does it work in practice? Are there conflicts between hard commercial realities and ‘softer’ social issues, and how do companies resolve these? We speak to Dr Melissa Cefkin, an anthropologist and former chief scientist at the Nissan Research Centre in Silicon Valley, about how she combined social science and the corporate world. And we find out if the trend is a uniquely western, or even Californian, phenomenon. Producer: Izzy Greenfield Presenter: Gareth Mitchell (Image: A group of women in a boardroom. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, January 22, 2025
India's cola wars
For decades, two multi-national giants Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, have been competing for one of the world’s biggest consumer markets. And now they face a tough competition from Asia’s richest man. Mukesh Ambani’s company - Reliance Retail, has launched its own cola brand - Campa Cola. With its vast retail network and aggressive pricing strategy, we find out how this has intensified the so called 'cola wars' in the country. Produced and presented by Devina Gupta (Image: A group of young people drinking soft drinks at a bowling alley. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, January 21, 2025
Saudi Arabia's Hollywood dream
Today we’re in Jeddah, looking at how Saudi Arabia went from a Kingdom where cinemas were banned to a rising star in the film industry. We hear from Saudis revelling in new-found freedoms and foreign filmmakers lured in by cash incentives. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Emily Wither (Picture: US actor Johnny Depp poses for a picture with a fan on the red carpet of the awards ceremony of the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah, December 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 20, 2025
Guatemala's circular migration
We’re in the Central American country of Guatemala to hear how temporary work permits to the United States are changing some Guatemalan’s lives. We find out how this circular migration is benefiting both businesses in the US, and the economy back home in Guatemala. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Jane Chambers (Picture: Sandra Noemi Bucu Saz in her plot of land that she rents with her family in Guatemala. Credit: Jane Chambers/BBC)
Fri, January 17, 2025
Business Daily meets: Pascal Lamy
The French businessman was Director-General of the WTO from 2005–2013, and European commissioner for trade for five years from 1999 – 2004. Ed Butler speaks to Pascal Lamy about the trading relationships between the US and China, and the US and the EU, what a second Trump presidency might mean for world trade. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Producer: Amber Mehmood (Picture: Pascal Lamy, photo taken in Paris, November 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, January 16, 2025
What next for US-Africa relations under a second Trump administration?
We look at what a second Donald Trump presidency could mean for Africa, hearing from economists and business owners. We explore some of the existing trade pacts between the US and Africa, and consider the significance of remittances - the money sent back home by African migrants living overseas. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Michael Kaloki (Picture: Then President Donald Trump walks with the former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on the White House colonnade as they make their way to the Oval Office, on February 6, 2020 in Washington, DC. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, January 15, 2025
What could tariffs mean for Canada?
Donald Trump has said he will impose new tariffs on goods entering the US from Canada on his first day in office. Tariffs are a central part of the President-elect's economic vision - he sees them as a way of growing the US economy, protecting jobs and raising tax revenue. But some warn they could inflate consumer prices. We look at how Canada is preparing, hearing from those in key sectors like farming and car manufacturing, and explore how the resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau could affect things. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Sam Gruet Producer: Megan Lawton (Picture: Ben Loewith, a third-generation dairy farmer, who runs summit dairy in Hamilton, Ontario, pictured in the dairy. Credit: Sam Gruet/Megan Lawton/BBC)
Tue, January 14, 2025
What could Donald Trump's return mean for Latin America?
Even before taking office, President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose huge trade tariffs on Mexico, deport millions of undocumented Latino migrants out of the United States and crack down on the flow of drugs like fentanyl from Latin America into the US. And he's threatened to take control of the Panama Canal and re-name the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America”. He has criticised the BRICS group of developing nations – which includes Brazil – for floating the idea of a new currency to challenge the dominance of the US dollar in international trade. And he has praised Argentina’s maverick right-wing president Javier Milei for cutting state expenditure. So what will Trump’s second presidency mean for Latin America – a region that used to be known as “America’s back yard”? If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presented and produced by Gideon Long Additional reporting by Vianey Alderete in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico (Picture: The border wall on the US-Mexico border, as seen from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico October 23, 2024. Credit: Reuters)
Mon, January 13, 2025
How did global trade start?
As US president-elect Donald Trump prepares to re-enter the White House, global trade has become a contentious issue. Mr Trump has threatened to impose tariffs – that is taxes at the border – on all goods imported from a host of nations, including neighbours Canada and Mexico as well as economic rival China. That risks igniting another trade war, with companies and consumers around the world affected. Has global commerce always been so contentious? Rob Young looks at some of the key developments in international trade throughout history to work out how we got to the system and practices we have today. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk (Picture: Hands of woman showing seeds in a souk. Seeds are believed to be one of the earliest items to be traded in the world. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, January 10, 2025
Business Daily meets: Jimmy Choo
Sam Fenwick meets the renowned fashion designer and shoemaker, Jimmy Choo. From learning the craft under his father's guidance in Malaysia, we hear about his journey building a fashion empire in London, starting from the basement of a run-down hospital. Today, Jimmy Choo, who now designs for fashion house The Atelier, wants to share his knowledge with a new generation. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Amber Mehmood (Picture: Jimmy Choo at an event run by his fashion college, the London Fashion Academy. Credit: BBC)
Thu, January 09, 2025
Peru's new Chinese funded 'megaport'
In our second programme looking at the future of the world's ports, we head to the South American country at the centre of a global tug-of-war between China and the US. One key infrastructure project, in the small Peruvian fishing town of Chancay, is caught in the middle. We speak to businesses and locals about what's happening. Produced by Natalie Jiminez Presented by Ritika Gupta (Image: Aerial view of the Chancay "megaport" in the small town of Chancay, 78km north of the Peruvian capital Lima, in October 2024.Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, January 08, 2025
How does port automation work?
In October 2024, dockworkers in the US went on strike for three days. Members of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) walked out at 14 major ports along the east and Gulf coasts, halting container traffic from Maine to Texas. An tentative agreement was made over wages, and they've just returned to the bargaining table to negotiate "all other outstanding issues". This includes plans to introduce automation to the ports. In the first of two programmes looking at the future of ports, we head to the Rotterdam in the Netherlands, where the port has been using automation since the 1990s - and to Cape Town in South Africa which is looking for solutions to its efficiency issues. Presented and produced by Matthew Kenyon, with additional reporting from Mohammed Allie. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk (Picture: Shipping containers are transported by automated guided vehicles (AGV) beside gantry cranes on the dockside at the Delta Terminal at the Port of Rotterdam in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, January 07, 2025
The cost of Valencia’s floods
At the end of October 2024, deadly flash floods and torrential rain hit the Valencia region of Spain. More than 220 people were killed. As well as claiming lives, the disaster also devastated livelihoods. Valencia's chamber of commerce estimates that 48,000 companies have been affected. Ashish Sharma visited the region shortly after the flooding, to speak to businesses and workers affected. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Produced and presented by Ashish Sharma (Image: Residents clean up a mud-and-debris-covered street after flooding hit large parts of the country on October 31, 2024 in the Paiporta municipality of Valencia, Spain. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 06, 2025
What’s next for the global economy in 2025?
How will countries handle challenges like rising debt, inflation, and political tensions? And what new opportunities might arise as the world adapts? The BBC’s Economics Editor, Faisal Islam, and our Chief Economics Correspondent, Dharshini David, join Ed Butler to discuss the year ahead. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Producer: Izzy Greenfield (Picture: Numbers 2-0-2-5 printed on blocks of wood, each sitting on top of a stack of coins. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, December 20, 2024
Business Daily meets: Dean Forbes
We meet the CEO of Swedish software firm, Forterro. Dean Forbes twice became homeless as a teenager, then got dropped from a career as a professional footballer. He points to that failure as a key moment in his eventual success, because it made him more determined. Now the business executive has topped a list celebrating influential black Britons. (Picture: Dean Forbes. Credit: Getty Images) Presented by Theo Leggett Produced by Theo Leggett and Sam Clack
Thu, December 19, 2024
Putting a financial crash on stage
We explore the ongoing fascination of the Lehman Brothers story. A play - The Lehman Trilogy - is currently being shown in London to five-star reviews. It documents the rise and fall of the financial services firm, which filed for bankruptcy in 2008 - the largest insolvency in history, and considered a defining moment in the global financial crisis. The play has been seen by half a million theatregoers globally - and now Business Daily has been to watch it too. We speak to the cast, adapting playwright, and the audience about the story's appeal. Produced and presented by Elizabeth Hotson (Image: Howard W. Overshown performs the role of Emanuel Lehman during a media preview of The Lehman Trilogy at the Theatre Royal, Sydney, in February 2024)
Wed, December 18, 2024
Lapland: The world’s biggest Christmas economy?
How has Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, become a global hub for the Christmas economy? Known as the official home of Father Christmas, Lapland attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year - generating significant revenue. We head to the most popular Christmas spot, Rovaneimi, to hear how a resort there benefits from this tourism. And the head of the tourist board, Sanna Kärkkäinen, tells us how records are about to be broken. Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield Reporter: Erika Benke (Picture: Lapland at night, showing illuminated buildings. Credit: BBC/Erika Benke)
Tue, December 17, 2024
Why are kids asking for anti-ageing skincare?
Skincare used to appeal to an older demographic, often with the aim of slowing down visible signs of ageing. But as trends in skincare have evolved, with ever more products on the market, the audience has grown too. Children as young as eight are now saving up their pocket money to buy different creams, serums and moisturizers. But some of these products contain active ingredients, not designed for their young skin - and this can lead to problems. Dermatologists have told the BBC they're seeing children with dermatitis and other skin conditions who have used certain products. Today, we take a look at why young people are becoming obsessed with skincare, and what could be done to protect these young consumers from buying unsuitable products. (Picture: 11 year-old Tilly, from the UK, sitting at her vanity desk. Credit: BBC) Presented and produced by Hannah Mullane
Mon, December 16, 2024
Crisis at Northvolt
We’re in snowy Skellefteå in northern Sweden, where hundreds of people are looking for work after losing their jobs at Europe’s largest electric battery factory. Will the crisis at green tech company Northvolt impact future investments in the region — and damage Sweden’s reputation? Produced and presented by Maddy Savage (Image: Northvolt workers at the factory. Credit: Northvolt)
Fri, December 13, 2024
Business Daily meets: fintech founder Upasana Taku
Upasana Taku is the co-founder of an app that changed the way millions of Indians use digital technology to make payments. Mobikwik now has more than a 150 million registered users. When Upasana set up the business in 2009 with her co-founder Bipin Preet Singh, India was still a cash-dependant society - but having worked for big tech companies in the US, Upasana knew there was a gap in the market. Devina Gupta asks her about her decision to leave a high-powered job in the US to move back to India to start a fintech company, and how she convinced both investors and her family that it was a smart business move. (Picture: Upasana Taku. Credit: Mobikwik) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Thu, December 12, 2024
Has graphene lived up to the hype?
It was hailed as a wonder material that would transform industry – and all our lives. But 20 years on, companies are still racing to commercialise it. We speak to the people working with graphene and find out what sort of products their developing. Produced and presented by James Graham (Image: Graphene slurry, containing graphene and polymer binders, sits in a beaker inside a laboratory at the National Graphene Institute facility, part of the The University of Manchester. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, December 11, 2024
Keeping the lights on in South Africa
In July, South Africa unveiled a new coalition government, after the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party lost its majority in May's elections. The coalition was welcomed by the business community who said it would ensure economic stability. So what's happened since? And will any optimism last? We hear about a reduction in power cuts - also known as loadshedding - and positivity on the stock market, as well as young people who are looking forward to the future. Produced and presented by Rob Young (Image: A worker connects a diesel generator to supply power to a sports complex during loadshedding in Frankfort, South Africa, in June 2023)
Tue, December 10, 2024
Making money from internet outrage
How do online platforms profit from our anger? In this episode, we explore the business of 'rage-baiting' – content designed to provoke outrage and drive engagement. We hear from creators who thrive on stirring emotions, critics warning of its societal impact, and academics explaining why anger is such a powerful tool online. From its role in content algorithms, to the dangers it poses offline, we uncover the economics behind the clicks. (Picture: A man dramatically gestures towards his laptop, conveying surprise. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Megan Lawton Producer: Sam Gruet
Mon, December 09, 2024
Is Donald Trump's comeback bad news for green energy?
Donald Trump's return to the White House has raised big questions about what he'll do to the US' growing green energy sector. On the campaign trail he promised to undo Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, the biggest piece of climate legislation in US history. The IRA gives incentives and tax breaks for green industries and has created hundreds of thousands of jobs, many of those in Republican voting states. President-elect Trump also pledged to end offshore wind "on day one" and reverse emissions rules aimed at increasing the number of electric cars on America's roads. Will he keep those promises? And what of the influence of Elon Musk, the world's richest man, now in Donald Trump's inner circle? Is he worrying about what a Trump presidency might mean for his car company Tesla and will he be lobbying behind the scenes on behalf of electric vehicles? We hear what people in those sectors think will happen under Trump 2.0. Can the renewables industry survive or even grow over the next four years? Produced and presented by Lexy O'Connor (Image: President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk talk during a UFC event in New York. Credit Chris Unger / Getty Images)
Fri, December 06, 2024
Business Daily meets: Uniqlo's Tadashi Yanai
The Japanese billionaire is the founder and president of Fast Retailing, parent company of Uniqlo. He's the richest man in Japan, and despite being in his 70's, has big plans to grow the company even further. We speak to Tadashi Yanai about fast fashion, Chinese manufacturing, and global expansion. And we find out how Japan's richest man spends his leisure time. Produced and presented by Mariko Oi (Image: Tadashi Yanai in 2017. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, December 05, 2024
Could footballers go on strike?
Earlier this year, Manchester City midfielder Rodri issued a warning that players were "close" to taking strike action over their increased workload. Rodri played 63 competitive games for club and country last season. But a recent report found that a player welfare 'red line' was a maximum of between 50 and 60 matches per season, depending on a player's age. Some of the game's biggest names have joined Rodri in threatening to walk out, and the union that represents them is launching legal action against the sport's governing body, FIFA. But there's a lot of money invested in football, so what's the likelihood the sport might change to stop players feeling over-stretched? And is strike action likely or even possible? (Picture: Empty stadium with floodlights shining down on a football on the pitch. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Matt Lines
Wed, December 04, 2024
Sweden’s #softgirls trend
We find out why, in a country famous for championing gender equality, some women are choosing to become stay at home wives and girlfriends. The social media #softgirl trend is a small but growing minority, who say they don't want the stress of juggling family and work. They want a 'softer' life - with more balance and not having to focus on a career. And its triggered cultural and political debates across Sweden where feminism has been a part of mainstream politics since the 1950s. Produced and presented by Maddy Savage (Image: Vilma Larsson)
Tue, December 03, 2024
Ghana’s illegal gold mines
Ghana is a global gold mining powerhouse and Africa's biggest producer. The informal mining sector of gold – known locally as “galamsey” - is a big election issue here. There have been recent marches demanding tougher action against illegal miners in Accra. But illegal mining is also a major source of employment. More than a million Ghanaians make their living from galamsey. We hear from local galamsey miners and look at the negative impact this industry is having on both the workers in terms of health, the environment, and the wider community. (Picture: Man holding a bucket in an open-pit gold mine in Ghana.) Presented and produced by Ed Butler
Mon, December 02, 2024
Can Ghana’s economy recover?
In the first of a two part series ahead of Ghana’s presidential election, we are in Accra asking how much the economy is influencing how people vote. The country has faced one of Africa’s worst financial crises in recent years, and the recovery seems to be underway, but is this translating to how workers and business owners feel? There are 13 presidential candidates, and we hear from representatives of the two front runners. We find out about their plans for the economy. Produced and presented by Ed Butler
Fri, November 29, 2024
Business Daily meets: Giuseppe Lavazza
We speak to the great-grandson of the Italian coffee legend, about growing a family business into a global brand, balancing tradition with innovation, and even a light-hearted clash with Emily in Paris. (Picture: Giuseppe Lavazza at the company's coffee production and training facility in Turin, Italy. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Leanna Byrne
Thu, November 28, 2024
Luxury advent calendars unwrapped
Advent calendars have evolved from the simple cardboard doors or chocolate treats to a multimillion-dollar premium industry; with major companies using them as a powerful brand awareness tool. We find out why the design of an advent calendar is more important than ever, with many retailers investing in appearance and reusability; and we hear from environmental groups who are still concerned about the amount of waste. Plus - are the products in these more extravagant calendars actually worth the money? (Picture: An apartment window decorated with advent calendar and traditional electric Christmas candlestick. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Deborah Weitzmann
Wed, November 27, 2024
Can Trump solve rising prices?
In the run up to the US election, prices of food, gas and housing were never far from voter’s minds. We head to Pennsylvania where food prices have risen faster than anywhere in the US to find out what it’s like for people day-to-day. And we look at what President-elect Donald Trump has said he could do to help people. Will it work? Presented and produced by Monica Miller
Tue, November 26, 2024
The cost of smog
We’re in Delhi, looking at the impact of extreme pollution levels on workers and businesses in recent weeks. Non-essential trucks have been banned from going into the city, and offices have asked 50% of staff to work from home. Local markets, cafes and restaurants, as well as shopping malls, have seen a 20-30% decline in foot traffic. Meanwhile labourers, rickshaw pullers, delivery riders and other workers paid a daily wage, have no choice but to go outside to earn a living. In neighbouring Pakistan, air pollution has also far exceeded safe levels. We hear how people in Lahore are coping. Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Mon, November 25, 2024
Selling The Hundred
We look at England and Wales' new cricket format - which is now up for sale. The one hundred ball format was designed to attract news fans to the game. Each team is tied to a UK city or region and the first tournament was held in 2021. Now the organisers are selling a 49% stake in each of the teams, and they're hoping to attract Indian investment, liked to the IPL. So will it pay off? Produced and presented by Alex Capstick (Image: Jofra Archer bowling during The Hundred Men's Final at Lord's, London in August 2024. Credit: Steven Paston/PA Wire)
Fri, November 22, 2024
Business Daily meets: Michael Johnson
The legendary sprinter revolutionised athletics with his unique running style and record-breaking performances. Michael Johnson is a four-time Olympic gold medallist who earned millions of dollars through prize money and sponsorships. Now he's back with a plan to transform athletics with the Grand Slam Track league — a new competition featuring a $12.6 million prize fund. He's hoping it will elevate financial opportunities for today's athletes and ignite inspiration for future generations. Produced and presented by Sam Fenwick. (Image: Michael Johnson carries the American Flag after winning gold in the Men's 200m during the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. Credit: Mike Hewitt /Allsport/Getty Images)
Thu, November 21, 2024
The mysterious world of private members’ clubs
It’s a place where people meet to network and make connections - and most people have never set foot in one. These exclusive establishments, in cities around the world, are reportedly more popular than ever. So what goes on behind those hallowed doors? And how can people get in? We look at the history of these exclusive clubs, find out how to join, and ask whether they have a future. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk Produced and presented by Elizabeth Hotson (Image: Members of the Harvard Club use the lounge to read and socialise in 2022, in the midtown neighborhood of New York City. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, November 20, 2024
Can battery-swapping boost electric car sales?
We’re in Madrid to discover a new way to power urban electric vehicles. No longer charging but swapping your batteries, or charging at your desk. We meet the people trying it out, and speak to leading motor journalists to see if this really is a game changer in electric vehicle driving in cities. (Picture: Black Electric SUV swapping battery pack in battery swap station. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey
Tue, November 19, 2024
The plan to rescue the Commonwealth Games
A year ago, the Commonwealth Games looked dead and buried. The Australian state of Victoria had pulled out of hosting the 2026 edition due to spiralling costs, and in Canada, the province of Alberta had stepped back from bidding for the 2030 edition. But now Scotland’s biggest city, Glasgow, has ridden to the rescue, agreeing to host the 2026 Games. It says its scaled back, lower-budget model for doing so could encourage poorer countries to do the same in the future. How realistic is that? Is Glasgow 2026 the last hurrah for an anachronistic sporting event, inextricably tied to the British empire, or does it really represent a fresh start? (Picture: A Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026 delegation in Glasgow, UK. Credit: BBC) Presented and produced by Gideon Long
Sun, November 17, 2024
Egypt's economy under pressure
The Suez Canal was once one of the busiest global shipping routes – a third of the world's shipping containers normally pass through it. Since the Houthis began to attack passing ships last year, the volume of vessels going through has declined rapidly. The canal is run by the Egyptian government, and fewer ships means less foreign currency coming into the economy. And it’s not just revenue from ships that Egypt is losing, it’s also losing tourists, as many people cancel their trips and spend their dollars elsewhere. We speak to businesses in Cairo to see how they’re being impacted by these changes, and ask, as Egypt loses out, are other countries winning? Presented and produced by Hannah Mullane (Image: A ship transits the Suez Canal towards the Red Sea on November 3, 2024 in Egypt. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, November 14, 2024
Battling the world's most invasive aquatic plant
It was on a university trip that Kenyan entrepreneur Joseph Nguthiru first came across water hyacinth in Lake Naivasha. It is an incredibly harmful and invasive weed that is currently blocking waterways and devastating fish populations all over the world. Joseph, who was an engineering student at the time, tells us how he came up with a solution to use the plant as a material for making packaging - and how he's founded a successful business, HyaPak Ecotech, as a result. Produced and presented by Zawadi Mudibo (Image: Fishermen removing water hyacinth from the net in Lake Victoria in Kisumu, western Kenya in 2018)
Thu, November 14, 2024
How we fell for Fall
From spiced lattes to scented candles, autumn has become a staple in marketing calendars and on social media. We speak to businesses who thrive at this time of year; hear from content creators fuelling fall fever; and look at how the season is embraced in parts of the world without autumnal temperatures. (Picture: Friends Amina, Ayesha and Noor in front of some pumpkins at Downey’s Farm, near Toronto, Canada. Every year they go to recreate a photo in the pumpkin patch. Credit: Megan Lawton/BBC) Presenter: Megan Lawton Producer: Sam Gruet
Wed, November 13, 2024
What’s holding back France and Germany?
We look at the issues facing two of Europe’s major economies. Germany’s downturn has deepened with existential fears about its major export industries. And now, political turmoil means industry leaders are calling for a snap election as soon as possible. Meanwhile in France, there is weak growth as consumers feel poorer and politicians can’t agree on spending. (Picture: French and German flags waving next to each other. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Rob Young
Tue, November 12, 2024
The wine industry's biggest challenge
Climate change is changing the way winemakers plan, harvest and make their product. On the Greek island of Santorini we find out how new techniques of vine planting are helping to preserve water amid more frequent drought conditions. Investors in England have realised areas in the south of country have similar weather conditions to Champagne in France, 30 years ago. Plus we hear from experts in France and Australia to discover different methods the industry is using, and find out how new businesses are advising the global wine industry to ensure its survival in a changing world. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney (Image: A picker throws the collected grapes from the vine in a tank at the Gusbourne Estate, Appledore near Ashford, England on October 28, 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, November 11, 2024
Argentina: Libertarian paradise?
Attracted by Argentina’s right-wing libertarian president Javier Milei, and fearful of political breakdown and even the prospect of a widescale war in the northern hemisphere, some US citizens say they are planning to move to the South American nation to start afresh. We speak to a few of them, and to an Argentine tech entrepreneur who left his country years ago due to its political and economic instability, but who is now spending more time there – attracted by Milei’s promises to slash the state. What will these converts to Argentina find there, and will it match their expectations? (Picture: Argentina's president, Javier Milei, on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Natalio Cosoy
Fri, November 08, 2024
Business Daily meets: Astronaut Chris Hadfield
Colonel Chris Hadfield is a former fighter pilot who became an astronaut and served as a commander of the International Space Station (ISS). While in orbit he became a social media star, posting breath-taking pictures of earth, as well as videos demonstrating practical science and playing his guitar. These days, the Canadian invests in businesses and has written several best-selling fiction and non-fiction books. In this programme, Chris Hadfield tells Russell Padmore how he was influenced by Star Trek, and the Apollo missions to the moon, as a child. He outlines why he welcomes private investment in space and he explains how he has become known for being the musical star in orbit. (Picture: Chris Hadfield with a night sky in the background. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Russell Padmore
Thu, November 07, 2024
Building the superyachts
They’re the kind of mega vessels which only a handful of people on the planet can afford. We go to the Netherlands, where building and maintaining the most expensive yachts in the world is big business. We visit Dutch yacht builder Heesen to look at the intricate design of these vessels, their opulence, and the huge amounts of money involved in building and selling them. Plus we hear from those who actually help put the boats together. And we get an expert view on the importance of the Superyacht sector to the country's overall maritime industry, and hear how politics, public perceptions, regulation and international sanctions have impacted the industry in recent years. Presented and produced by Matthew Kenyon (Image: Vida superyacht 55m built by Heesen Yachts and owned by Brooks Smith moored in Malaga, Spain in April 2023 (Photo by John Keeble/Getty Images)
Tue, November 05, 2024
Rail Baltica - building a geopolitical railway
We explore the largest infrastructure project in the history of the Baltic states - a new high-speed line connecting Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania with their Western allies. The project is supposed to be an economic boost to the region, and yet getting it on track hasn't been straightforward. We speak to those in charge of the project, and to businesses in the cities en-route. Produced and presented by Lisa Louis. (Image: The partly-built Rail Baltica Riga central hub in Riga, Latvia, in June 2024. Credit: Andrey Rudakov/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Mon, November 04, 2024
Spotlight on the swing states
In this programme, we look at some of the key issues for voters in the crucial, so-called ‘swing states’ in the 2024 US Presidential Election. From Pennsylvania and the battle for blue-collar workers’ votes in Pittsburgh, to the cost of living in Nevada and the auto industry in Michigan. While for voters in Georgia, housing is proving to be a key issue. We hear from people in each of these states about what matters to them and what could bring in those crucial votes for each candidate. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Hannah Mullane (Picture: A 'Welcome to Nevada' road sign next to a Nevada State boundary sign. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, November 01, 2024
Business Daily meets: Hello Kitty
On the character's 50th birthday, we hear from the boss of the Japanese company which created her. Sanrio CEO Tomokuni Tsuji took over from his grandfather who founded the company in Japan. The company struggled to be profitable for years - we find out how under the leadership of Tomokuni Tsuji, the brand has grown to a trillion yen company, and speak about some of the challenges around counterfeits. Produced and presented by Mariko Oi (Image: A woman poses with Hello Kitty plushies at the exhibition CUTE in London, United Kingdom on January 24, 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, October 31, 2024
Investing in escape rooms
They’re the interactive games where players race against the clock to solve puzzles and break free. And now major brands are tapping into the trend. Companies are investing in escape rooms to enhance internal communications and team-building, and they’re now being seen as a powerful external communication tool too. And we learn how escape rooms are being used to engage customers and showcase their products, crafting unusual marketing experiences. Presented and produced by Deborah Weitzmann
Wed, October 30, 2024
Spilling the tea on matcha
Once difficult to find outside of Japan, the green tea has made it onto the menus of major coffee chains. The matcha tea industry is projected to reach US$5bn in revenue by 2031. We look at the role TikTok, celebrity and wellness endorsements have played, and ask whether the matcha we drink in the west is healthy. Plus we hear from producers who say the industry needs regulation. Presented and produced by Megan Lawton (Image: Matcha tea in a cup. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 29, 2024
The Murdoch succession saga
It has already inspired the hit HBO television series Succession, but now Rupert Murdoch’s family drama is playing out in real life in a courtroom in the US state of Nevada. The 93-year-old media mogul is trying to change the terms of a family trust he made years ago that states that after his death, his four eldest children should get equal voting rights in his empire. Murdoch wants to alter it to give his eldest son Lachlan greater control. We hear from outside the courtroom, look back at Murdoch’s extraordinary career, and talk to two people who know the Murdoch family story well. And we reflect on what the court case might mean for one of the world’s most powerful media empires. (Picture: Rupert Murdoch arriving at a courthouse in Reno, Nevada. Credit: Reuters) Presented and produced by Gideon Long
Mon, October 28, 2024
The battle for US Steel
We look at how some leaders in the battleground state of Pennsylvania are fighting for the approval of a deal for a Japanese company to purchase US Steel Corporation. That’s despite strong opposition from the unions and both presidential candidates. (Picture: Edgar Thompson Plant in Braddock, PA. Credit: Getty Images/Washington Post) Presented and produced by Monica Miller
Thu, October 24, 2024
Business Daily meets: Sandra Uwera
From growing up as a refugee to leading the most recognised sustainability label in the world, Sandra Uwera talks about the challenges she's faced, and her drive to improve the lives of around two million farmers and workers around the world, through Fairtrade International. (Picture: Sandra Uwera. Credit: Fairtrade International) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Wed, October 23, 2024
Fixing water
In today’s episode we look at some ingenious solutions to water related problems. We start our aquatic journey by going on a tour of one of Victorian England’s most important feats of engineering. We discover a cheap and easy way to test for water quality, and learn about one of the biggest and most ambitious flood defence and general infrastructure projects in the world. And we hear how a water and sanitation engineer in Nairobi, Kenya, is trying to prevent huge volumes of H2O being wasted in leaks. (Image: The Octagon at Crossness Pumping Station, London. Credit: P. Scrimshaw) Presented and produced by Elizabeth Hotson
Tue, October 22, 2024
US election: Cross-border trade
In the second of a two-part series, we travel to the US-Canada border to find out what people, businesses and industries are thinking ahead of the US election. From one of North America’s busiest border crossings, to Canada’s energy capital, we hear from those who might be impacted by November’s result. South of the border, in Mexico, we hear how tension with China is benefitting America’s closest neighbours. (Image: A road sign in Fort Erie, Ontario points in the direction of the Peace Bridge crossing to New York. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Sam Gruet Producer: Megan Lawton
Mon, October 21, 2024
US election: Meet the neighbours
The US presidential election on November 5th 2024 will have major consequences for its neighbours, Canada and Mexico. Trade, immigration, and diplomatic relations all hinge on the election's outcome. This episode explores how the two countries are preparing for either a Donald Trump or Kamala Harris presidency. From business owners and farmers to international trade specialists, we learn what’s at stake for North America’s economies. (Image: Canadian farmer Dave Braden who produces organic grass-fed beef from his 50-acre Ontario farm.) Presenter: Sam Gruet Production: Sam Gruet and Megan Lawton
Sun, October 20, 2024
What’s new in the auto industry?
Theo Leggett reports on the latest trends and concerns preoccupying the automobile industry at this year’s Paris Motor Show. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers have established that they can manufacture vehicles more cheaply than their European counterparts, and now they’re looking to move into that market. Theo hears from Chinese and French car manufacturers about what this will mean for consumers. China is not the only country selling EVs to European consumers, a big American name is reviving a classic brand with a new electric offering. And in a city where driving and parking is always a challenge, Theo checks out the latest solution – a tiny car produced by a toy manufacturer. Produced and presented by Theo Leggett. (Image: visitors browsing the manufacturer displays at the Paris Motor Show 2024. Credit: Nathan Laine/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Thu, October 17, 2024
Business Daily meets: F1's James Vowles
We meet the Team Principal at Williams Racing - who says he's determined to restore one of Formula 1’s most historic teams to its former glory. From facing rejection early in his career to working with Honda, Brawn GP and Mercedes, James Vowles recounts his journey in the sport. He is now focussed on transforming Williams, who have not claimed a championship since the late 1990’s. Presenter: Theo Leggett Producer: Amber Mehmood (Image: James Vowles at Williams Racing HQ in Oxfordshire)
Wed, October 16, 2024
The growth of grief tech
We look at a growing trend using artificial intelligence (AI) to 'connect' people to loved ones who have died. The grief tech sector, also called "death tech", is now valued at more than £100bn globally, according to tech news website TechRound. We hear from the people using technology, from the businesses building it, and we find out about the ethical challenges they face. Is it going too far? Produced and presented by Isabel Woodford (Image: Woman looking at her phone in the dark. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 15, 2024
US Election: Meet the retailers
We get the views of three American retailers - how do they see the economy and what do they want from the next US president? We hear from a department store owner in Indiana, a bookshop owner in Texas and a snack company based in New York City. Produced and presented by Ed Butler Additional production by Matt Lines (Image: A shop owner holding an open sign. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, October 14, 2024
Man City v Premier League
We look into the implications of what has been described as sport's 'trial of the century' If Manchester City are found guilty of breaching the English Premier League's financial rules - allegations Manchester City and the club strongly deny - the team could face relegation, while the Premier League risks serious reputational damage. Produced and presented by Alex Capstick (Manchester City celebrate winning the 2023/24 Premier League title. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, October 13, 2024
How can night shifts be made safer for women in India?
People have been participating in mass rallies in India seeking justice for a young medical trainee who was raped and murdered in a hospital. It’s put a spotlight once again on women’s safety at work - particularly for those women doing night shifts. There are laws to protect women from sexual harassment in the workplace, but campaigners say it can be slow to get justice. So what more can be done to improve women's safety and encourage female participation in the workforce? We talk to some night shift workers about their experiences. (Picture: Activists and medical professionals shout slogans during a protest march to condemn the rape and murder of a doctor. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Thu, October 10, 2024
Business Daily meets Nagi Maehashi, owner of RecipeTin Eats
Ruth Alexander talks to Nagi Maehashi, founder of the hit food site, RecipeTin Eats. Back in 2014, Nagi gave up a high-flying job in corporate finance to start her blog. The gamble paid off and her blog now gets half a billion hits a year. She is also the author of two cookery books. Nagi tells Ruth what those early days were like, how she built the business, and what mistakes she made along the way. Plus - we hear about the crucial role of the blog's co-star Dozer, Nagi's much-loved Golden Retriever. (Picture: Nagi Maehashi with her dog Dozer, surrounded by print-outs of her recipes. Credit: Rob Palmer) Presenter: Ruth Alexander Producer: Lexy O'Connor
Wed, October 09, 2024
What’s the future of F1 in Spain?
We look at the impact of a new 10 year deal with Madrid - does it mean one of the longest-serving venues - Barcelona - will lose out? We speak to businesses and hotels in Barcelona who are looking to the future. Is it really sustainable for one country to host two F1 events each year? Produced and presented by Ashish Sharma. (Image: Max Verstappen drives by the crowd during the 2024 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit De Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain. Image: Getty Images)
Tue, October 08, 2024
How IKEA built its brand
The minimalist, flat-packed furniture company has revolutionised living spaces globally. Originating from a small Swedish farm in the 1940s, it quickly grew and gained household recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Today, Ikea stands as the world's largest furniture retailer. We speak to CEO Jesper Brodin to explore Ikea's brand evolution and its ability to adapt to consumer trends over the span of eight decades. And how realistic are its sustainability targets? Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer Amber Mehmood (Image: Jesper Brodin. Credit: Getty Images/ Archive Credit: British Pathé, Homes Limited 1945)
Mon, October 07, 2024
Ferry frustration
Islands around the world rely on ships as their lifeline service - for everything from their domestic supplies, to making hospital visits, as well as supporting vital industries like tourism. When the services go down, for weather or technical reasons, these remote communities are cut off from the mainland, with no back-up option. We hear from opposite sides of the world - Scotland and New Zealand - where unreliable car ferries disrupt the daily lives of residents and visitors. And we hear from a company running one island ferry service that's working to improve its reliability. (Picture: Caledonian MacBrayne ferry coming into Brodick harbour, Scotland.) Presented and produced by Neil Morrow
Sun, October 06, 2024
The cities selling homes for one dollar
Is selling off abandoned homes for a dollar or a pound the answer to invigorating a city? We meet some of the people in the port cities of Baltimore in the US and Liverpool in the UK who have taken part in similar housing revival schemes. Is it an easy win, or is solving a city's problems more complicated? (Picture: Maxine Sharples, who bought a house in Liverpool for a £1, holding a photo showing her undertaking renovation work in her home.) Presented and produced by Rowan Bridge
Thu, October 03, 2024
Shipwrecks: Business Daily meets a treasure hunter
Carl Allen is a multi-millionaire former businessman who ran a trash bag company in the US. He's now the owner of an island in the Bahamas, a philanthropist and deep-sea treasure hunter, scouring the seabed for sunken Spanish galleons, slave ships and long-lost treasure. He tells us about his relentless search for one Spanish galleon that’s fired his imagination for the past 40 years. We discuss the ethics of treasure hunting and his belief that the best way to bring up relics from the bottom of the ocean is through PPPs - public-private partnerships. Produced and presented by Gideon Long (Image: Carl Allen on a boat with some treasure. Image credit: Brendan Chavez at Allen Exploration)
Wed, October 02, 2024
Shipwrecks: Who owns the sunken treasure?
There are more than three million vessels on the world's sea beds, and plenty of explorers looking for them. But if they find something valuable, do they get to keep it? We talk to an arbitration lawyer about the laws governing the sea, and hear from maritime archaeologists about the perils of rummaging around on the ocean floor, disturbing long-sunken wrecks that offer a priceless glimpse into history. Some say we should leave these ships be, especially when they’re graveyards. Others say we should bring them to the surface, put them in museums to educate people, make money from them and perhaps even sell off some of their treasure. Produced and presented by Gideon Long (Image: A diver looks at a shipwreck. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 01, 2024
Shipwrecks: The search for the San José
In the first of our three part series looking at the money behind shipwrecks, we start with what's been called the most valuable shipwreck in the world. The San José is a Spanish galleon sunk by the British off the Colombian coast more than 300 years ago. The treasure onboard is estimated to be worth $18bn, which means plenty of people are looking for it, and trying to lay claim to it. A salvage company, the Colombians, the Spanish and a Bolivian indigenous community all say the shipwreck and treasure is theirs. We hear their claims and find out more about this "hold grail of shipwrecks". Presented and produced by Gideon Long. (Image: Wagner's action of Cartagena (depicting the moment the San Jose exploded) by Samuel Scott. Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London)
Mon, September 30, 2024
Rebuilding Canada's tourism industry
It’s the second largest landmass in the world, famous for its lakes and spectacular forests, yet Canada’s travel industry has faced challenges since the Covid pandemic hit in 2020. International visitor numbers still haven't recovered, and extreme weather events like wildfires have destroyed some of its best-known resorts. Plus difficult diplomatic relations have meant a reduction in tourists from a key market - China. But Canada’s government says it has a plan for the sector which is worth $38bn CAD to Canada’s GDP. We’ll hear about it from the country’s tourism minister and from business owners and tourists too. Presented and produced by Megan Lawton (Image: Jack Rivers is an indigenous cultural guide on Manitoulin Island, he runs tours around the Wiikwemkoong Reserve. Before the pandemic, indigenous tourism was the fastest growing sector of Canadian tourism, with significant gains in job creation and contributions to Canada's GDP)
Sun, September 29, 2024
Is business ready for 6G?
As the world gradually adopts 5G, there’s already talk of the next generation. It’ll be around 2030 before 6G arrives, but network operators in Japan and South Korea are gearing up. Meanwhile, some predict that 6G will render smartphones obsolete within a decade. Devices like sensors, displays, drones and electronics in vehicles will spontaneously create their own networks, sending and receiving at super-fast data rates and low latency. So, why the early excitement over 6G? How should businesses be preparing and what difference will it make to our lives? Presenter: Gareth Mitchell Reporter: Michael Kaloki Producer: Izzy Greenfield (Image: A person holds a mobile phone next to a cell tower. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, September 26, 2024
Has capitalism lost its way?
Former fund manager Ruchir Sharma spent most of his career as a money manager on Wall Street. Lately though, he’s become a fierce critic of modern capitalism – arguing that the economic system is less fair and less efficient than it has ever been. What’s the fix? Produced and presented by Vivienne Nunis (Image: Ruchir Sharma)
Wed, September 25, 2024
The cost of preserving our heritage
We visit an archaeological dig and meet the heritage consultants who ‘rescue history’ before the developers move in. In wealthy countries, these consultants are paid in advance, and this has led to a growing industry. In lower income countries that’s not the case – so what’s happening there? Plus - we look at how the very definition of heritage is fundamentally shifting. (Picture: Archaeologist excavating part of human skeleton and skull from the ground. Credit: Getty Images.) Presented and produced by David Reid
Tue, September 24, 2024
Why we can't stop using corporate jargon
Ever been stuck in a meeting drowning in buzzwords? Terms like "synergies", "low-hanging fruit" or "deliverables"? They're just a few examples of corporate jargon. A lexicon of colourful metaphors, buzzwords and acronyms that you’d never use with friends or family but have become common parlance in the world of international business. Workplace lingo might serve as a useful industry short-hand, or a way to gel with colleagues, but it can also irritate, obscure meaning or even hide unpleasant truths. And it's more prevalent than ever. In this episode, we team up with our colleagues at BBC Learning English to explore the origins and purpose of corporate language and why we love to hate it; hearing from workplace culture and linguistics experts, professionals in the City of London, a plain-talking CEO, and some of you - the BBC World Service audience. (Picture: Business people looking at sticky notes on a glass board as part of an upskill workshop. Credit: Getty Images.) Presenters: Ed Butler and Pippa Smith Producer: Elisabeth Mahy
Mon, September 23, 2024
The new space race
Billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, as well companies like Boeing, believe a future where more satellites are put in orbit, alongside new space stations, as well as plans for bases on the moon, will prove very profitable. But it is not proving easy for Boeing in particular, following problems with its Starliner space craft on its maiden flight to the International Space Station. We hear from astrophysicists, companies that advise on space investment, and former astronaut Cady Coleman. Produced and presented by Russell Padmore (Image: Artist's concept of the Boeing Starliner craft travelling in Earth orbit. Credit: Boeing)
Sun, September 22, 2024
Does Vietnam's economic future still look bright?
Vietnam has enjoyed more than 6% annual growth every year for the last thirty years or more, a staggering growth path, transforming one of Asia’s poorest economies into a major global trading hub. It's now one of the world’s top twenty economies. But are there challenges ahead. A high-profile anti-corruption drive, extreme weather events, and the death of its long-term leader have raised questions about the country’s path to prosperity. (Picture: Aerial view of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, at night, showing high-rise buildings, the Landmark 81 supertall skyscraper, and transport networks. Credit: Getty Images.) Presented and produced by Ed Butler
Thu, September 19, 2024
Business Daily meets Booking.com CEO Glenn Fogel
From experiencing a stroke at the age of 17, to various corporate jobs that never quite fit, we hear about Glenn Fogel's journey to becoming CEO of Booking Holdings, the parent company of online travel site Booking.com. We learn why the EU-based company is in the sites of competition authorities having been dubbed a “gatekeeper” in the travel market, and we hear what Glenn thinks about the impacts of mass tourism. (Image: Glenn Fogel. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood
Wed, September 18, 2024
Tech titans and the race for the White House
Tech titan Elon Musk says he’s backing Donald Trump to win the US election this November. But is he representative of what the wider industry thinks? And what does Silicon Valley, traditionally a Democratic heartland, want from either a Kamala Harris or a Donald Trump presidency? We explore what the two presidential candidates are offering this important sector of the US economy. (Picture: A smartphone screen shows the live broadcast of the presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. A hand painted sign above it says ‘Trump or Harris?’ Credit: VCG/VCG via Getty Images.) Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Lexy O'Connor
Tue, September 17, 2024
WNBA: Is success leading to profit?
The 2024 women's basketball season has broken records from attendances at matches, to points scored by rookie Caitlin Clark. As it draws to a close, we look at whether success on the court is leading to profitability off it. Despite some major media deals, the WNBA is still struggling to turn a profit. So is it really a major player in the sports industry? Produced and presented by Izzy Greenfield (Photo: A'ja Wilson, on court for the Las Vegas Aces. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, September 16, 2024
Can 24-hour drinking zones transform a city?
From Paraguay to Portugal, Tokyo to Tel Aviv, more than 80 cities and countries around the world have introduced a ‘mayor for the night’. Several more are trying to introduce 24-hour zones to their nightlife – allowing alcohol to be served all day and night. But what are the benefits? We take you to the dancefloors of Montreal, Canada’s largest French-speaking city, where the local government is introducing a 24-hour zone. We travel to Berlin, the club capital of the world, where all-nighters have been the order of business since 1949. And we stop by Amsterdam to find out how electing a night mayor has boosted tourism and led to a drop in anti-social behaviour. (Image: Montreal at night. Credit: Catrine Daoust) Presented and produced by Sam Gruet
Sun, September 15, 2024
What is GPS jamming?
We use global positioning systems (GPS) for our sat navs and our mobile phones, and it's used extensively in aviation and shipping navigation. But what happens when it's disrupted? GPS jamming, when the signal isn't able to get through - and spoofing - which tricks the receiver into calculating a false position, is happening more and more. We look into the impact on the transportation sector - and on our everyday lives. Produced and presented by Gareth Mitchell (Image: An airline cockpit. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, September 12, 2024
Business Daily meets: DHL's CEO Tobias Meyer
One of the world's biggest logistics firms sits down with us to talk about freight costs, the German economy and his route to success. DHL employs more than half a million people globally. It was as US-based logistics firm when it started out, but by 2001 was owned by Deutsche Post. So how is the now German-based company navigating global economic challenges, including political tensions and conflicts? Produced and presented by Leanna Byrne (Image: Tobias Meyer. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, September 11, 2024
The pressure on prop makers
What links the lightsabre, Scream mask and Wilson the volleyball? They’re all film props - objects that help bring stories to life on screen. Behind the scenes, they support a whole industry of specialist expertise. We speak to prop masters about the pressures on budgets and safety, following the death of Halyna Hutchins, who was killed on set by a prop gun. Produced and presented by Laura Heighton-Ginns (Image: Harry Potter's glasses on display in June 2021 at Prop Store in California, US. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, September 10, 2024
The Titanic: an enduring fascination
RMS Titanic sank on 15 April 1912 claiming the lives of more than 1500 people. Just over 700 survived the disaster. The events surrounding the sinking of the luxury ocean liner, the identities of those on board, plus the stories of heroism and heartbreak on the night have generated global fascination in the vessel, which continues to this day. And that interest in Titanic has generated huge commercial appeal and revenue - for writers, film and documentary makers, museums and auction houses. We examine how some mysteries surrounding the doomed ship continue to spawn so many, varied business ventures around the world - and the ethical questions that arise from the continued fascination in the Titanic story. (Picture: Woman looking down at some binoculars inside a glass case at a Titanic exhibition in Paris, France. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Russell Padmore
Mon, September 09, 2024
Is the ticket industry broken?
2023 was a record year of live music, with an all-time high in worldwide ticket sales. Beyoncé and Taylor Swift’s world tours broke records, however fans trying to get tickets faced big problems. We hear from musicians, fans and global ticket selling giant Live Nation (of which Ticketmaster is a part) to find out what’s happening, and if it is broken, what is being done to fix it? Produced and presented by Sam Gruet (Image: Beyoncé performs onstage during the Renaissance World Tour in October 2023, Kansas City, Missouri. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, September 08, 2024
US Election: Spending on TV advertising
The campaign teams supporting Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in the race to the White House are expected to spend a total of more than $10 billion. A journalist with the CBS network, Larry Magid, explains why most of the money will be spent on political advertising on television. Professor Natasha Lindstaedt, from the University of Essex explains analyses why spending on American political campaigns continues to escalate. The marketing expert, Allyson Stewart Allen, explains how the creative teams behind the political messages have learned lessons from advertising products like a new brand of drink. We also hear from Robin Porter, the Head of Political at Loop Me on how the company’s artificial intelligence is helping to target voters, notably in swing states. Produced and presented by Russell Padmore (Image: Voters in Santa Monica. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, September 05, 2024
Business Daily meets: Whoop founder Will Ahmed
They’re the 300 dollar subscription fitness bands being worn by a host of celebrity-backers in 2024. But who is the business leader behind the billion-dollar Whoop brand? The son of an Egyptian migrant to the US, Will Ahmed was always interested in sports. During his college years he started to notice the dangers of doing too much sports training. He describes this as a ‘rabbit hole’ as he began researching sleep and recovery patterns in professional athletes. This led him to create a fitness tracker company that is a 3.4 billion dollar venture today, attracting famous athlete-investors like Michael Phelps and Cristiano Ronaldo and taking on established names in fitness tech like Apple, Google, Garmin and Fitbit. We hear how he did it, and what challenges he’s faced along the way. (Picture: Will Ahmed in his office, wearing a Whoop device) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Wed, September 04, 2024
What's next for Bangladesh's economy?
After protests and political turmoil, we look at the challenges facing the new interim government. We'll hear from the biggest suppliers to global fast fashion brands and talk to students about their hopes and anxieties. Plus we have an exclusive interview with the country’s new central bank governor. Presenter: Nikhil Inamdar Producer: Jaltson Akkanath Chummar (Image: A garment worker at a sewing machine in Bangladesh)
Tue, September 03, 2024
How manifesting became big business
Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande and even Donald Trump have signed up to the manifesting philosophy - the trend in believing that dreams can come true if you envision a positive outcome. But does it hold the secret to financial and professional success or is it a pseudoscientific fad? And what's behind the meteoric rise of this new-age practice? From books and podcasts to thousands of creators and videos on social media, Megan Lawton traces the history, investigates the methods and explores the latest wave of this 'positive mindset phenomenon'. Presented and produced by Megan Lawton (Picture: Alicia Tghlian runs manifesting platform, Growth for Girlies, from her condo in Toronto, Canada.)
Mon, September 02, 2024
Europe's fastest-growing tourist destination
As many countries and cities around the world rally against over tourism, we're in Albania which is investing huge sums in growing its infrastructure to welcome visitors in. The UN ranks Albania 4th globally for tourism growth and it places top spot in the European list of countries. Around 14 million visitors are expected in 2024 but with a tourism boom comes huge investment, construction and a changing economy, but at what cost to the environment? We hear about plans to build a luxury resort - funded by Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner - and travel to a construction site for a new airport serving the coastal resorts. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney (Image: Aerial view of a crowded sand beach with umbrellas and lots of people at sunset in Ksamil, southern Albania. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, September 01, 2024
US Election: The view from the fields
We hear from farmers in Montana, Iowa and Georgia. What do they want to hear from the presidential candidates ahead of the US election? Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: David Cann (Image: A farmer using a combine in the US. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, August 29, 2024
Business Daily meets: football agent Kees Vos
It's transfer deadline day for football's most competitive league - the Premier League - when clubs can add players to their squad who were previously under contract with another club. In the cut and thrust of football's transfer market are the agents. Among them, Kees Vos - who's been described as one of the most influential figures in world football. As agent to Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, he's said to control the ins and outs of the club. Matt Lines talks to him about the stories behind the headline transfer sagas and how the industry has changed during his 20 years in the business. (Image: Kees Vos) Presented and produced by Matt Lines
Wed, August 28, 2024
Is it getting too hot to work?
As temperatures rise, productivity falls. Extreme global temperatures are draining tens of billions of dollars in economic productivity every year from some of the world’s biggest cities. It’s not just outdoor jobs that are impacted, but office work too. In this episode, we ask work leaders, economists and employees what can be done to work around hot weather. From changing working hours to introducing heatwave insurance. (Picture: Labourer drinking from a water bottle, in the sunshine. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Megan Lawton
Tue, August 27, 2024
The short-term rental clamp down
Cities and countries across the world are bringing in measures to restrict the type of lets popularised by companies like Airbnb and Vrbo. The regulations are to address concerns that homes in tourist areas are being used by visitors rather than being available for local people to rent on a long-term basis. We hear from Barcelona where its hoped thousands of flats will now be available for local people, and we're also in Halifax in Canada, where restrictions been in place for nearly a year. Produced and presented by Rick Kelsey (Image: A couple pressing a doorbell on a street in Spain. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, August 26, 2024
Have Swiss scientists made a chocolate breakthrough?
Chocolate is very important to Switzerland’s economy: with more than 200,000 metric tonnes produced each year, sales are worth almost $2 billion. But there are challenges – not just over sustainability, but over exploitation. And the volatile price of cacao. We meet the researchers who are coming up with solutions – including new, and potentially healthier, types of a favourite indulgence. And ask: Is this enough to secure the future of chocolate? Produced and presented by Imogen Foulkes (Image: A scientist developing a new chocolate product)
Thu, August 22, 2024
Business Daily meets: Brent Wisner
The US-based lawyer and managing partner at litigation firm Wisner Baum, in Los Angeles, has made his name taking on large pharmaceutical companies in high-stakes legal battles. He is the youngest attorney in US history to win a multi-billion dollar jury verdict. We hear how Brent transitioned from child actor, to successful lawyer, and how one ground-breaking case has now caught the attention of film-makers. (Picture: Brent Wisner delivers opening remarks in the Monsanto trial in San Francisco, California on July, 09, 2018. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: Amber Mehmood
Wed, August 21, 2024
Remittances: sending money back home
Each year millions of Indians go abroad to study and work. A lot of them end up sending money back home, a transfer known as remittances. The money is a crucial source of household income in low and middle-income countries, according to the World Bank. India is the only country to have received more than 100 billion dollars through this route - but it comes at a loss of its human capital. In this episode, we speak to Indian expats and economists to explore the effect of remittances on the Indian economy. (Picture: Closeup view of a man counting Indian currency. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Tue, August 20, 2024
Why is Chinese EV giant BYD moving into Turkey?
We’re in Manisa on Turkey’s west coast. It’s one of the country’s manufacturing centres for home appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators. But soon, thanks to a $1bn investment deal, it will also be a local factory hub for China’s BYD - the world’s second biggest maker of electric vehicles. The Turkish government is desperate for international investment to turn around its economy, and the region would benefit from 5,000 jobs. China is keen to get another foothold into the European market. So is it win-win? Produced and presented by: Victoria Craig (Image: BYD vehicles in Istanbul as the Chinese automotive giant announced a huge factory investment. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, August 19, 2024
Reconstructing Chile’s botanical gardens
In February 2024, huge forest fires destroyed 90% of the land and plant species. Workers were killed and homes destroyed. We travel to the seaside town of Vina del Mar to find out how the country’s oldest and most important botanical garden is recovering. The garden’s described as the green lung of the region, and used to be home to hundreds of different plant species, many of them native to Chile. We’ve follow the gardens as they try to reopen and get visitors and tourists back through the gates. Produced and presented by Jane Chambers (Image: Park rangers clean roads after the fires in February 2024. Image: Getty Images)
Sun, August 18, 2024
The cost of the Red Sea crisis
We catch up on the ongoing disruption to the shipping industry after Houthi attacks on commercial vessels. The Iran-backed group said it was targeting ships linked to Israel, the US and the UK in support of Hamas. We look at the cost of diverting cargo away from the Red Sea, and hear about the impact of months of disruption. Plus a new remote shipping route is getting more traffic, as ships travel over the top of the world via the Arctic. Produced and presented by Rick Kelsey (Image: A Houthi military helicopter flies over a ship in the Red Sea. Credit: Reuters)
Thu, August 15, 2024
Business Daily meets: Ginny Gilder
Ginny Gilder won silver as a US Olympic rower in 1984. Today, she's a multimillionaire owner of a women's professional basketball team. How did success in the water inspire Ginny's breakthrough to the board room? We look at a life given to sport and business - and what drives her. (Image: Ginny Gilder. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood
Wed, August 14, 2024
Brand Jude Bellingham
As Spain's La Liga gets underway, we explore the global advertising appeal and earning potential of one of its newest football stars. Jude Bellingham is a 21-year-old midfielder from England who plays for Real Madrid, and he's hitting the peak of his career. The face of several brands, with major endorsement deals and more courting his attention, we explore his global advertising appeal, and how he might manage these partnerships while still focusing on his game. Presented and produced by Matt Lines (Image: Jude Bellingham holding the UEFA Champion's League trophy on 1 June 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, August 13, 2024
Pets: The business of dog-walking
We explore professional dog-walking around the world. We hear from walkers from the United States, Argentina and Europe about how they operate, the growing market, and the challenges of making a career from taking other people's pets on daily walks - sometimes several at a time. And we join a dog walker in Paris, Caroline, to find out why the relationship between walker and dog is the most important when securing clients. Expect plenty of barks. (Image: Caroline, a professional dog-walker in Paris, with three dogs) Presented and produced by Sean Allsop
Mon, August 12, 2024
Pets: What’s a ‘pet-fluencer’?
From Instagram-famous dogs to viral kittens, pet influencers are revolutionising brand marketing with viral content and endorsements. It's a lucrative market in which companies are leveraging these furry celebrities to drive engagement and sales. We'll uncover why this trend is proving to be so profitable. (Image: Tika, an Italian greyhound, modelling canine fashion. Credit: Thomas Shapiro) Presented and produced by Deborah Weitzmann
Sun, August 11, 2024
Pets: The growth of pet tech
With animal adoptions skyrocketing during the pandemic, pet care has evolved dramatically. From self-cleaning cat litter trays to smart feeding bowls, interactive toys, and pet cameras, we'll hear from some of the brands reshaping the way we care for our furry friends. But are we missing out on the meaningful connections our pets need as automation becomes more prevalent? (Picture: Rupert the British Shorthair cat, inside his litter robot. Credit: Deborah Weitzmann/BBC) Presented and produced by Deborah Weitzmann
Wed, August 07, 2024
US Election: The American housing dream
As prices for homes and rents continue to rise in many towns and cities, it's one of the key issues for voters. In 2023 the average price of a home in the United States was $495,100, six per cent higher than a year earlier, though the signs are prices may now be starting to fall. That’s partly because mortgage rates have spiralled as high as 7% for many new buyers – making repayments prohibitive. We ask business owners working in housing to tell us why, and what’s the fix? Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: David Cann (Image: A "Now Leasing" sign outside the Willows at Valley Run, an affordable housing development, in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, August 06, 2024
When should you retire?
Have you decided when you'd like to retire? Will it be your choice, or is there a set age in your country or profession? More than a million people took part in protests in France last year when the government proposed an increase to the retirement age without a vote. Age has also played a big factor in the replacement of Joe Biden as the Democratic presidential candidate. So is a fixed retirement age a good idea – or workplace outdated? Should it be more fluid – a matter of personal choice? Presenter: David Harper Producer: Victoria Hastings (Image: Two women holding up placards that read, '64years it's no' march during a nation wide strike called for by French trade unions, in Rennes, northwest France on January 19, 2023. Credit: Damien Meyer/AFP via Getty Images)
Mon, August 05, 2024
When will we see a female billionaire athlete?
Four sportsmen have reached 10 figures according to financial magazine Forbes. However the wealthiest sportswoman, tennis star Serena Williams, could triple her wealth and not get there. We speak to agent Stuart Duguid, who looks after four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka, who tells us how elite sportswomen are investing their money and what barriers there are to growing their fortunes. We ask if, and when it might happen, and what that would mean for women’s sport. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Matt Lines (Serena Williams playing in the 2022 US Open. Credit: Al Bello/Getty Images)
Sun, August 04, 2024
Panama's troubled copper mine
The sudden closure of the huge open pit copper mine, Cobre Panamá, has created a dramatic economic fallout, with its loss of jobs and damage to the country’s reputation for investors. It was shut down by Panama's Supreme Court after months of protests against it. We look at the impact, and also ask what could happen next? Produced and presented by Jane Chambers Additional sound mixing by Grant Cassidy (Image: The Cobre Panama mine. Credit: Reuters)
Thu, August 01, 2024
Business Daily meets: Entrepreneur Tina McKenzie
The founder of one of Ireland's largest recruitment agencies, Staffline, shares how her upbringing during one of the most politically tumultuous periods in Northern Ireland's history, known as 'The Troubles', shaped her career path. From working in her parent's taxi firm, to the probation service to recruitment. And even a foray into politics. So what does Tina McKenzie MBE envision for the future of the country? Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Amber Mehmood (Image: Tina McKenzie. Credit: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
Wed, July 31, 2024
FFP: How do the football spending limits work?
Football clubs must work under a strict policy of Financial Fair Play - or FFP - but what does it mean? And how does it work? With the summer transfer window now open, clubs are in business, buying and selling players. But football’s governing bodies are keeping a close eye on how much they spend. We take a look at how top-flight clubs in the Spanish league, La Liga, are managing the financial constraints. (Image: Real Madrid unveils new signing, Kylian Mbappe, at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Spain, in July 2024. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Ashish Sharma.
Tue, July 30, 2024
Can Dua Lipa’s family change Kosovo’s image?
More than 25 years after the Kosovo war, a music festival in the capital Pristina is hoping to change the image of the country around the world by inviting international artists and fans to learn more about the country’s cultural scene. Sunny Hill Festival is organised by global pop star Dua Lipa and her dad Dugi, who’s from Pristina. They are using their industry contacts to bring acts like Bebe Rexha, Stormzy and Burna Boy to party with tens of thousands of people, as well as inviting top industry experts. But more than 15 years after Kosovo declared independence, could politicians be doing more to help boost the country’s music scene rather than relying on the Lipa family? Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney (Dua Lipa performs on stage with her father Dukagjin Lipa during her first concert held in her hometown Pristina in 2016)
Mon, July 29, 2024
What is 'Womenomics'?
We look at Japan's policy to boost its economy by getting more women into the workforce. It was announced back in 2013 by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and dubbed 'Womenomics'. Mr Abe gave a deadline of 2020 to significantly increase the number of women in leadership roles. But that date quietly came and went without the target even getting close. However could things could be starting to change? Japan Airlines new CEO Mitsuko Tottori is a woman, and that has restarted conversations. We hear from her, and from young women in the country about their hopes for the future. Produced and presented by Mariko Oi (Image: Mitsuko Tottori, chief executive officer of Japan Airlines Co. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, July 25, 2024
Business Daily meets: Swimming's power couple
We hear from 4-time Olympic gold medallist Libby Trickett and her entrepreneurial husband Liam. Libby Trickett (Lenton) competed for Australia at the highest level, winning gold in the pool in Beijing and London. At the height of her swimming career she married fellow swimmer Luke Trickett, who had left the sport and was using the skills he'd learnt as an athlete to enter the business world. We hear how the Global Financial Crisis inspired Luke’s entrepreneurial spirit. And through it all, how teamwork has been their ultimate key to success in transitioning to new careers after retiring from competitive sports. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood Editor: Lis Mahy (Photo: Libby and Luke Trickett. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, July 24, 2024
Paris 2024: Breaking new ground
Paris 2024 will see the debut of the competitive street dance, Breaking. From the streets of the Bronx in the 70s to sport's biggest stage, we hear from the pioneers and the athletes hoping to turn their passion into a lucrative career. Breaking isn’t currently on the list for the next games in LA in 2028, so could it be a one-hit wonder? (Image: Man doing a headstand outside with his crew cheering in the background. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Matt Lines
Tue, July 23, 2024
Paris 2024: The race for the perfect running shoe
The running shoe industry is worth around $50bn across the world, with more and more of us taking part in the sport. With more popularity comes more competition, so what are brands doing to keep consumers interested? We ask the chief marketing officer at Swiss sportswear company, ON, and find out how it helps sales when a top athlete wears their shoes. And as the debate around 'super shoes' rumbles on, are they really worth the expensive price tag? US marathon winner Kellyn Taylor tells us about the pros and cons of carbon plated shoes - which played a big role in marathon records being smashed in 2023. Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield. (This programme was first broadcast in January 2024. Picture: Runners on a race track. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, July 22, 2024
Paris 2024: The fashion Olympics
We’re used to fashion giants like adidas and Nike designing athlete uniforms for the Olympics and Paralympics. This year however, it’s likely we’ll see smaller labels on the podium. In this programme we hear from the diverse list of designers and learn why the fashion industry is so keen to work with sports stars. Presented and produced by Megan Lawton (Image: Portugal's Gabriel Ribeiro competes during the Skateboarding Men's Street Preliminaries of the Olympic Qualifier Series 2024.Image: Getty Images)
Sun, July 21, 2024
Paris 2024: The Grand Paris Express
People arriving at Paris’s Orly Airport for the 2024 Olympic games will be able to take an underground train straight to Saint-Denis where most of the Olympic action is taking place. It's thanks to a line extension that opened on June 24. And that is just the ‘hors d’oeuvre’. The Grand Paris Express is a metro expansion on a massive scale whose aim is to transform the city from a normal-sized European capital to a metropolis the size of London. What could it do for the Parisian, and French, economies? (Image: Saint-Denis–Pleyel station in Paris, France. Copyright: Société des grands projets / Kengo Kuma & Associates / Sylvain Cambon) Presented and produced by John Laurenson
Wed, July 17, 2024
Nigeria’s drive to sell more locally-made cars
For decades, Nigeria has struggled to grow its domestic automotive industry while vehicles made by manufacturers from Japan, Korea, Europe and the US have dominated. But critics say many of those cars are not suitable for Nigeria’s roads. Lately, there has been a surge of “made in Nigeria” brands, of vehicles manufactured and assembled locally, which have been designed with the country’s challenging road conditions in mind. But as Nigerians are gearing up to the idea of replacing their trusted foreign brands with local alternatives, China has introduced a range of vehicles tailored to the Nigerian market - but cheaper. (Image: A Nord Tank SUV. Credit: Tobi Ajayi) Presented and produced by Peter Macjob
Tue, July 16, 2024
The price of a F1 Grand Prix
We head to Montreal, host city of the Canadian F1 Grand Prix. It's the country's largest tourist event, with an estimated 345,000 fans attending in 2023. And the sport is growing in popularity, thanks in part to the Netflix series, Drive to Survive. So how valuable is a Grand Prix to a country's economy? And which other cities are trying to get in on the action? Produced and presented by Megan Lawton (Image: The start of the Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Quebec on 9 June 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, July 15, 2024
Are shoppers turning against self-checkouts?
Love them or loathe them, retailers across the world are installing more automated checkouts, as they aim to reduce staff costs. But the loss of personal service and the unreliable technology has prompted complaints from customers. And supermarkets are also facing a significant increase in theft from self-scan checkouts. We're in Ireland, where shops only installed the technology in recent years. Plus we hear from experts in Australia, China, the UK and United States. (Image: A man scans some bread through a self checkout. Credit: Getty Images) Produced and presented by Russell Padmore
Sun, July 14, 2024
Should public transport be free?
Some cities around the world have decided to make public transport free. Services can range from local bus routes to shopping malls to city-wide transit. We're in the rich nation of Luxembourg which became the first country to introduce free public transport nationally, as well as in Delhi where women can travel for free in an effort to boost the numbers of women in the workforce. We're also hearing from Kansas City where the funding model is running out for a scheme introduced four years ago. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney Image:A woman boards a bus in New Delhi in October 2019, following a Delhi goverment travel scheme distributing free bus tickets for women. (Photo by Sajjad HUSSAIN/AFP via Getty Images)
Thu, July 11, 2024
Business Daily meets: Bisleri CEO Angelo George
We go to India to find out what it takes to manage one of the country's most iconic brands – Bisleri. It is so popular that it has become synonymous with the product itself - bottled mineral water. We hear from CEO Angelo George about the ethics of paying for water, plastic pollution and the challenges of shrinking water resources. Produced and presented by Devina Gupta Sound mixing by Wayne Parkes (Image: Angelo George. Credit: Angelo George)
Thu, July 11, 2024
President Biden: What power do the donors have?
We hear from Democrat fundraisers who are divided over whether he should pull out of the campaign for re-election. In the past week, since Joe Biden's disastrous debate performance, a number of donors have publicly warned they will withhold funds unless Mr Biden is replaced as the Democratic party candidate. Pressure on Mr Biden, 81, to step aside has grown, including from Hollywood celebrities George Clooney and Michael Douglas. However he has vowed to stay on, taking on Donald Trump, 78, in the November presidential election. Produced and presented by Ed Butler (Image: President Joe Biden speaks during a 4th of July event on the South Lawn of the White House on July 4, 2024 in Washington, DC. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, July 10, 2024
Why is everyone wearing retro football shirts?
Two football mad continents, Europe and South America, are competing in international tournaments at the moment. Fans are all decked out in their teams shirts - but they’re not all wearing the latest versions. In fact, sales of retro or vintage shirts are booming. Be it the iconic Italian kits of the 90s, the classic sky blue of Argentina or Nigeria’s viral world cup kit - we look into this trend and speak to the fans who are buying, and the companies cashing in. Produced and presented by Imran Rahman-Jones. Image: A fan wears a retro Eric Cantona shirt before a Manchester United match in April 2024. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Tue, July 09, 2024
Louisiana’s billion-dollar coastal restoration project
It's the biggest operation of its kind in US history, as the state tries to save its coastline which is vanishing at an alarming rate. We travel to the Mississippi River and the city of New Orleans to see how billions of dollars are being spent to fix the rapid land loss. The project to revert the Mississippi to its land-making pathways could restore ecosystems destroyed by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and create buffers to protect against sea level rise and hurricanes. The Louisiana coastline is disappearing due to human-made and natural factors, such as leveeing the Mississippi for oil and gas infrastructure, erosion, and sea-level rises. And this is having an impact on local wetlands which are eroding, leaving communities vulnerable to storm surges and flooding. Produced and presented by Beth Timmins (Image: Oyster shells painted by members of the community as part of the shorelines project )
Mon, July 08, 2024
The rise of celebrity-backed drinks
The global alcohol industry is worth just over one and a half trillion US dollars, and celebrities want a part of it. Famous faces and their drinks brands are filling up the shelves, from model Kendall Jenner’s tequila to actor Ryan Reynolds’s gin. And it’s not just alcohol: the energy drink market is in the sights of celebrities, too. How much more are customers willing to pay for these products? In today’s episode of Business Daily, we'll ask those who stock the drinks, and those who serve them, how much difference - if any - a famous name makes, and we'll hear why celebrities and brands benefit from mutual association. (Picture: David Beckham and Kendall Jenner. Credit: Getty Images/BBC) Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield
Sun, July 07, 2024
Could Africa’s anti-LGBT laws have financial implications?
Ghana’s parliament has recently passed a tough new anti-LGBT bill. President Nana Akufo-Addo hasn't yet signed it in to law, after warnings that it could threaten Ghana’s much needed donor funding from places like the World Bank and IMF. Ghana is suffering a major economic crisis and last year had a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Other African countries have also brought in similar laws. But is it fair for international financial institutions to get involved in politics in this way? Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Immie Rhodes (Image credit: AFP)
Wed, July 03, 2024
How is AI being used in the travel industry?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being applied in multiple industries all around the world, and in travel, the technology has made big strides. We travel to Spain to find out how the airline Iberia and the hotel chain Iberostar are using AI to change the way they operate. At Iberostar, AI applications can analyse and predict the amount of food that restaurants will need, and hopefully reduce food waste as a result. Meanwhile, Iberia is using the tool as a personal assistant to help high-end travellers plan their trips. And we hear about some of the limitations of the technology if it's not applied properly. (Picture: Business woman with an open suitcase, preparing for a trip, while looking at her phone. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Ashish Sharma
Tue, July 02, 2024
What could France's election mean for its economy?
In the midst of a snap general election, we take the opportunity to look at the state of the country’s economy. France has a huge debt burden and some business leaders are worried that the economy could worsen if Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally party get into power. The French stock market has been falling since the parliamentary election was announced - although it has recovered slightly after Sunday's result. Meanwhile the parties on the left have formed a new alliance, The New Popular Front, with radical policies like increasing tax on high earners and reducing the pension age. Although we are fixated on the rise of the far right, the parties of the left formed a united block to fight RN and they have made gains in the first round of voting. We hear from a solar panel manufacturer in Paris, plus a former UK Ambassador to Paris who knows President Emmanuel Macron. And economic experts in Brussels and Frankfurt discuss the EU perspective. Presented and produced by Russell Padmore (Image: Supporters of the far-right National Rally wave French flags at the party headquarters following voting during the first round of legislative elections on 30 June 2024)
Mon, July 01, 2024
The Tour de France: a global money spinner
It’s the biggest sporting event on the planet based on the millions of spectators who line roads for a fleeting view, but this year a shake up will mean the loss of the iconic Champs Elysees finish. We look at how a cycling race became a global money spinner - particularly for its owners, the Amaurys, one of the richest families in sport. We also visit the Maurienne valley, a regular stop off for the Tour, to find out what’s in it for sponsors and hosts. And with a new final stage ending in Nice to steer clear of the Paris Olympics, and a date clash with the French election, could 2024 see a change in fortunes for the Tour de France? Produced and presented by Laura Heighton-Ginns (Image: Spectators crowd the roadside as Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard tackle the final ascent of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains on July 16, 2023. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, June 30, 2024
Fixing El Salvador's economy
After tackling its security problem, can the smallest country in Central America get its finances under control too? We hear from street sellers, economists and locals about the issues they're still facing, and visit a surf town where tourism is having a big economic impact. Produced and presented by Jane Chambers (Image: A street market in San Salvador, El Salvador, on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, June 27, 2024
Business Daily meets: Cinema boss Tim Richards
The CEO of Vue International started out as a high school drop out as he wanted to concentrate on a snowsports career. We hear how, when that didn't work out, Tim Richards ended up entering the film industry and eventually starting his own cinema chain in his garage. Vue is now Europe's largest privately owned cinema chain but it hasn't been an easy ride - Tim tells us how the company has weathered both the Covid pandemic and the Hollywood writer's strikes. Presenter: Leanna Byrne Producer: Amber Mehmood (Image: Tim Richards. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, June 26, 2024
Seaweed: the super weed?
It's a familiar feature of our oceans and beaches and yet its environmental impact has largely been overlooked. Now supporters say seaweed can help us address climate change by reducing our reliance on fertilisers, and by reducing the methane emissions produced by cows. On top of that, proponents say a new material produced from the sugars in seaweed could provide a biodegradable alternative to the millions of tonnes of single-use plastic we throw away each year. No wonder the World Bank is predicting a global seaweed boom worth $12bn this decade. We hear from scientists and entrepreneurs from Australia to Zanzibar who say we are only just beginning to understand the exciting possibilities posed by this ubiquitous underwater species. The Irish folk tune Dúlamán, about the island’s traditional seaweed gatherers, is used with the permission of musician Seoirse Ó Dochartaigh. Produced and presented by Vivienne Nunis. (Picture: Seaweed farm. Sumbawa. Indonesia. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, June 25, 2024
UK Election 2024: How are young people feeling?
With just over a week to go until the UK General Election, we head to the seaside town of Southport in the north west of England. We speak to students and young entrepreneurs who live in the area to find out how they are feeling. We ask about the impact of inflation and a rising cost of living, and see which issues they'd like to hear the politicians talking about. It's far from a British problem - Southport could really be a microcosm of the changes and challenges facing young people in a community near you. Presenter: Will Bain Producers: Izzy Greenfield and Lexy O'Connor (Image: Business owner Leanne and manager Alex behind the till at the their shop Cake Corner)
Mon, June 24, 2024
Self-storage and the Gen Z boom
Ever needed to put your stuff in a storage unit? Recent research predicts the global self-storage market will be worth around $70bn by 2031 and the UK’s self-storage industry made more than £1bn last year for the first time ever. But what’s behind this rapid growth? What are people putting into these units? And what does it have to do with Gen Z and internet shoppers? We also hear from critics on what the growing industry says about housing around the world. Presented and produced by Sam Gruet (Image: A young woman loads storage boxes into a unit. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, June 23, 2024
Ghost ships
A shadow fleet of old and poorly maintained ships is cruising the high seas, often hiding their true identities through a series of shell companies. Their numbers have grown massively since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Lloyd’s List estimates as many as 12% of tankers are part of the dark fleet. There’s increasing concern about the danger to the environment, and to ship’s crews. But how effective at tackling the problem is the regulator, the International Maritime Organisation? Presenter: Lesley Curwen Producer: Clare Williamson (Image: Sea and ship at sunset. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, June 20, 2024
Business Daily meets: Edouard Mendy
Senegalese international and former Chelsea goalkeeper Édouard Mendy is considered a legend of football. Becoming the first African to be awarded both the UEFA and FIFA goalkeeper of the year in 2021, followed by a big money transfer deal to Saudi Arabia, Mendy has reached the very heights of the game. But football careers don't last forever, so he is diversifying, and can now add a new line on his CV - as an investor in Francophone Africa. We hear about his work on the pitch to date, what’s motivated a move into fintech, and why he thinks footballers need to plan for their future after they give up the professional game. (Image: Edouard Mendy looks on in the paddock during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia, 2024. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Peter MacJob
Wed, June 19, 2024
Social shopping: The battle for Gen Z
The social shopping industry is estimated to reach around $8.5 trillion in global sales by 2030. So what are the big tech giants doing to win over a generation of teenagers hooked onto shopping on social media? We find out what makes shopping social and find out what happens when a country bans social shopping on the world’s fastest growing platform. We speak to Gen Z shoppers, social media experts and an Indonesian business owner who almost had to let his staff go after the government changed the law around selling on social media. Presented and produced by Sam Gruet (Image:Livestream seller Evo Syah. Image credit: Evo Syah)
Tue, June 18, 2024
What's behind golf's gender pay gap?
As prize money gaps between men and women begin to close in many sports, in golf, the pay disparity is still very large. Nelly Korda, winner of five consecutive tournaments, earned less than Scottie Scheffler, who won four. And although current and former players like Korda and Mel Reid have made strides in the game, there's a significant difference in the prize money they receive. A lot of the disparity has been linked to the level of investment in the game. The men’s game has seen major cash injections, such as the $2 billion from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund into LIV Golf. Sam Fenwick explores what could boost investment in the women’s game and asks current player Mel Reid and former player, Nancy Lopez, how the game can attract more funding and TV time. (Picture: A montage of Nelly Korda and Scottie Scheffler, swinging their golf clubs, against a background of a green. Credit: PA/USA Today Sports/BBC) Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick
Mon, June 17, 2024
Rhodes: A ‘beacon’ for sustainable tourism?
Summer tourism in the Mediterranean is not only already in full swing but set for another bumper season. In Rhodes, "the more the merrier” is the mantra on this famed Greek isle, which is economically reliant on tourism. But the growing influx of arrivals each year alongside increasing frequency and ferocity of the annual wildfire season is posing some hard questions for locals about the need for more environmentally-friendly forms of tourism. Now, an ambitious five-year programme is underway, aimed at transforming the fourth-largest Greek island into “a beacon for sustainable tourism.” We head to Rhodes to take a look at how it is progressing, how businesses are adapting, and the way tourists are responding. Presenter/producer: Victoria Craig (Photo: Anda Karayanni of the Irene Palace Hotel, Rhodes, tending to some plants. Credit: Victoria Craig/BBC)
Mon, June 17, 2024
Is there too much tourism?
When is tourism good tourism, and when is it just too much? Current projections suggest global travel is going to carry on rising for the foreseeable future, as low-cost air travel and budget rentals make package holidays ever more affordable for ever more people. But from Tenerife to Venice, more and more tourist destinations are feeling the pressure of these rising visitor numbers. In holiday hotspots, local people are complaining of congested streets, rising housing costs, and environmental degradation. And some have even taken to the streets to protest about the issue. So what’s to be done? (Image: Thousands of people demonstrate against tourism policies on the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain in 2024) Presented and produced by Ed Butler
Thu, June 13, 2024
Business Daily meets: Jane Poynter
23 years ago, the US multi-millionaire Dennis Tito became the world’s first-ever space tourist, funding his own trip into orbit. There was clearly money to be made, and now the lure of making space tourism more accessible to the masses is even greater - with several private companies jockeying for position. Jane Poynter’s firm is among them. It’s an industry experiencing dramatic growth – but the price of any of these trips is out of reach of most of us. We explore whether this firm could achieve its aim of launching more of us into stratospheric heights. And we hear how Jane went on her own journey: from ecologist working in the famous Biosphere 2 experiment in the early 1990s, to looking skywards and the possibilities of a career in space tourism. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood
Wed, June 12, 2024
Why does everyone work late in Spain?
The European country is known for its late night eating culture, the average time for an evening meal is past 9PM. One of the reasons for that is the working day across Spain which has a history of going on way into the evening. But recently the second deputy minister of Spain called this ‘madness’, saying eating so late and working late isn’t good for work-life balance. We speak to a restaurant owner and the CEO of digital agency that offers flexible working to talk about working culture and discuss how likely it is that Spain will change its habits. (Picture: Mikel López de Viñaspre, the co-founder and chief executive of the Sagardi Group of Basque restaurants. Credit: Sagardi Group) Presented and produced by Hannah Mullane
Tue, June 11, 2024
Is there a penalty for being single?
Why does being on your own seem so expensive? The number of unmarried, divorced, widowed or unattached people is growing worldwide. But figures suggest it is more financial costly to be single, while couples and families benefit from paying less per person. Whether it is the packaging supermarkets use, streaming service tariffs, hotel rooms - you often get a much better deal being coupled-up than not. Governments are in on the act too: offering tax breaks to couples. In this programme, we take apart the personal finances of singles; hearing from World Service listeners and financial analysts. Is it just economies of scale or are we really living in a world that penalises people on their own? And are there any financial advantages to being solo? (Picture: Senior woman looking concerned, paying bills at home on her laptop. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by David Reid
Mon, June 10, 2024
Economic life in Palau
We look at how soaring food and fuel prices are affecting the tiny island nation in the western Pacific Ocean. Like much of the world, the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have led to supply chain issues, and rising costs. And with limited opportunities, young people are facing the question, should they stay or leave and chase careers elsewhere? Produced and presented by Frey Lindsay (Image: People gathered under the Japan-Palau Friendship bridge in Koror, Palau. Credit: Frey Lindsay/BBC)
Sun, June 09, 2024
The fight over Palau's oceans
We travel to the tiny pacific nation which wants to shrink its marine sanctuary, and open it up once more to commercial fishing. The President says it’s costing too much in lost revenue, when Palauans are already struggling. But opponents say this goes against Palau's conservationist ethos. So today we're asking - can conservation and commerce, co-exist? Produced and presented by Frey Lindsay (Image: The National Geographic Society research vessel the Argo, in the Pacific Ocean East of Palau. Credit: Frey Lindsay)
Thu, June 06, 2024
The weight-loss drug revolution
Diabetes and obesity drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have become famous for helping users shed big amounts of weight. It's a market that could soon be worth more than $100 billion. Two companies dominate this space, Novo Nordisk which makes Ozempic and Eli Lilly, maker of Mounjaro. But with competitors desperate for a piece of the action, how long can these two giants stay in front? Leanna Byrne hears from some of the companies involved, including those at the centre of the action and those developing the next wave of treatments. Presented by Leanna Byrne and produced by Lexy O'Connor (Image: A box of the anti-obesity drug Wegovy, including injection pens. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, June 05, 2024
Denmark and the Novo Nordisk effect
In the first of a two-part series, in a collaboration with The Food Chain, we look at the impact of the success of weight-loss drug manufacturer Novo Nordisk on the small country of Denmark. The Scandinavian nation is where the company is based, and with a population of less than six million people, Novo is having an outsized impact on the economy there. Denmark is now publishing separate economic statistics, minus the pharmaceutical industry. One town in particular, Kalundborg, has seen huge change since the company set up its manufacturing facility there. We look at the impact on local business; hearing from the town's residents, who now have quite different economic prospects. (Picture: The headquarters of Novo Nordisk in Denmark, viewed from above. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Adrienne Murray
Tue, June 04, 2024
What’s really going on in the US jobs market?
President Biden has claimed the US economy is the ‘envy of the world’ and that his administration has added record job numbers, with around one million people hired since the turn of this year. With inflation falling and the possibility of the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates, we find out if the rosy economic picture is being felt by those who are hiring or trying to get hired. (Image: A sign on a wall recruiting for staff at a hotel in California in 2024 as a man walks by. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Matt Lines
Tue, June 04, 2024
Why are so many young Indians struggling to get jobs?
India has just finished its marathon elections and as the new government takes charge we take a look at one of its biggest challenges - rising youth unemployment. With an average age of 29 years, India’s population is one of the youngest globally, but job creation for them hasn’t been easy in this fast growing economy. The BBC’s Devina Gupta travels to Delhi to talks to students and first time job seekers about this growing job crisis and what can be done to solve it. Presenter and producer: Devina Gupta (Image: young men in Delhi waiting for the labour chow. Credit: Devina Gupta)
Mon, June 03, 2024
A special interview with World Bank boss Ajay Banga
Exactly one year into his new job, we meet Ajay Banga, the President of the World Bank. He previously ran Mastercard, but following President Biden's nomination, Ajay Banga took on one of the most important roles in finance in June 2023. He tells us what steps he's putting in place to reform the organisation, how western governments are struggling to fund it to the same levels that it used to, and he warns inflation might not come down much further. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Olie D'Albertanson (Image: Ajay Banga. Credit: Gretty)
Thu, May 30, 2024
Business Daily meets: Paul Carrick Brunson
We found out why the dating guru swapped a career in investment banking to become a matchmaker. Now famous for his role in the hit TV show ‘Married at First Sight’, Paul Carrick Brunson explains how his current career path wasn’t always written in the stars. But a combination of business acumen, the backing of his partner and a touch of luck led to a lucrative trade in matchmaking. He explains his core business principles and gives his top tips for discussing money in a relationship. (Image: Paul Carrick Brunson. Credit: Chris Bethell) Presenter: Devina Gupta Producer: Sam Clack
Wed, May 29, 2024
The Baltimore bridge collapse – what happens next?
It's been two months since the collapse of the key bridge in Baltimore, and the deadline to unblock the port's shipping channel is imminent. The US government has given a loose promise to make it happen by the end of May - but there are doubts that deadline will be met, causing more disruption to the local and global economy. How will businesses on sea and land find a way through more uncertainty? Izzy Greenfield speaks to small businesses who are feeling the impact; from fewer customers to disruption to supply chains. Baltimore used to rank first among US ports for autos and light trucks, handling a record 850,000 vehicles last year. Importantly, the port is where vehicles are processed and labelled to be sold domestically. We hear how the industry is seeing an immediate impact. And we learn about the struggles that transportation workers continue to face. (Image: Baltimore bridge after it collapsed in March 2024. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield
Wed, May 29, 2024
Why is olive oil so expensive?
Most of us have noticed the prices of our weekly food shopping going up over the last few years, but some items have risen by astronomical amounts. Extra virgin olive oil - a premium, unprocessed oil from the olive, has seen many customers' prices rise by 50% in the past year alone. We explain why, as we hear from oil sommeliers and the people who buy and sell the product. (Image: Olive oil being poured into a bowl. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey
Mon, May 27, 2024
Do women-only co-working spaces have a future?
Female-only co-working spaces started to grow during the #metoo movement. But some have struggled. We speak to entrepreneurs who are running these spaces - and the women working in them. Are they a viable alternative to going to the office? (Picture: Oi Leng Lui, who founded the co-working space, The Hearth, in north London.) Presented and produced by Dougal Shaw
Thu, May 23, 2024
Business Daily meets: Laura Chinchilla
Laura Chinchilla was the first woman to serve as president of Costa Rica and one of the first in Latin America. We talk to her about what that journey to the top job in her country was like, and the challenges facing Latin America - from corruption to crime, the drugs trade, migration, the brain drain, poor governance and low economic productivity. And we consider some of the potential solutions to those problems - solutions that could help Latin America bring prosperity to its people. (Picture: Laura Chinchilla Miranda, former President of Costa Rica, speaking at a conference. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Gideon Long
Wed, May 22, 2024
Latin America’s success stories
Across the region, there are examples of economic success stories: countries, companies and people that are getting things right, transforming their local economies and bringing prosperity to the region. We go to Peru, where fruit producers are enjoying a blueberry boom. We hear from Uruguay, which generates almost all its electricity from renewable energy, and we visit a factory Mexico that’s benefiting from “nearshoring” and the country’s proximity to the United States. We talk to two female entrepreneurs – one from Chile and one from Colombia – on how the ecosystem for start-ups has evolved in their countries and the exciting possibilities the region has to offer. Produced and presented by Gideon Long (Image: Close-up on a worker loading baskets of blueberries on a truck at a plantation. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, May 21, 2024
Brazil’s agricultural boom
From soybean production to coffee exports to sugar cane, grains and tropical fruit - agriculture is powering the Brazilian economy. We travel to a farm outside the capital Brasilia, and look at how the country could play a major role in providing the world with food security in the years ahead. And we consider a major threat to agriculture – climate change, which is forcing Brazilian farmers to adapt to survive. We talk to the Brazilian head of the International Coffee Organisation – on what her home country can do to deal with extreme weather events. And away from agriculture, we consider Brazil’s heavy industry, and ask why it hasn’t made more of its rich musical heritage. Produced and presented by Gideon Long. (Image: Cultivation of sugarcane in the interior of the State of São Paulo. Huge areas are cultivated and after harvesting will come sugar, alcohol, drink and ethanol. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, May 20, 2024
Latin America and the Asian tiger economies
Go back 50 years and Latin America was generally wealthier than East Asia. But that’s been reversed. While the economies of East and Southeast Asia have taken off, enjoying a so-called "economic miracle", Latin America’s have experienced only tepid growth, despite the region’s enormous potential. Gideon Long asks why. We go to Singapore, one of the most open and business friendly nations on earth, to visit a factory making credit cards using the latest computer chips. And we ask economists what Latin America can learn from the 'Asian Tigers'. (Picture: A photograph of a tourist boat in Singapore next to a drone view shot showing buildings in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Credit: Reuters/EPA images) Presented and produced by Gideon Long Reporter: Monica Miller
Sun, May 19, 2024
What’s holding Latin America back?
It's a region blessed with incredible natural resources, from copper to lithium to rich agricultural lands. It’s home to vibrant cultures, amazing music and creative and talented people. And yet it has never fulfilled its enormous economic potential. All too often it’s lurched from boom to bust, from hyperinflation to debt crises. We ask why that is. We consider corruption, crime, inequality, excessive bureaucracy and weak governance. We look at Argentina’s long decline and Venezuela’s economic implosion, and ask what Latin America can do to bring greater prosperity to its people. Produced and presented by Gideon Long (Image: A man waves an Argentine flag during the demonstration. Members of the Argentine Workers' General Confederation and social organizations protested against new Argentine President Javier Milei's economic reforms, outside the Justice Palace in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, May 16, 2024
Business Daily meets: Robot inventor Sandy Enoch
We head to the robot workshop home of Marty the robotical. Sandy Enoch founded the Scottish tech firm Robotical which creates educational robots. Produced and presented by Dougal Shaw. (Image: Marty the robot)
Thu, May 16, 2024
Crypto and football: Uneasy team mates
Where next for the sometimes tricky relationship between football and crypto companies? We look at how some of the biggest clubs, and players, have embraced crypto products, and what that means for supporters. From fan engagement tokens to NFTs, advertised by the world’s biggest stars, to deals with Premier League clubs which turned out to be fraudulent. Is it putting fans in a potentially difficult financial position? Or just giving them another way to support the team they love? Produced and presented by Imran Rahman-Jones (Referee Arda Kardeşler performs the pregame toss with a coin bearing the Bitcoin logo for a match between Beşiktaş and Fenerbahçe on May 8, 2022 in Istanbul, Turkey. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, May 14, 2024
Does the guitar have an image problem?
Picture a rock 'n' roll icon like Jimmy Page, or Jimmy Hendrix, and they've probably got an electric guitar in their hands. But, as classic rock - and classic rockers - continue to age, is the guitar industry struggling to attract younger customers? In six years, electric guitar company Gibson has gone from filing for bankruptcy to opening its first flagship store outside the US. We hear from Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page, Grammy nominated singer James Bay, and one of the world's foremost female luthiers to find out whether the guitar's association with rock 'n' roll has become bad for business. Produced and presented by Will Chalk. (Image: Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin performing on stage at Earl's Court, London, May 1975. Jimmy Page is playing a Gibson EDS-1275 double necked guitar. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, May 13, 2024
Is the US bet on sports gambling paying off?
Sports betting is a relatively new industry in the US. Until 2018 you could only legally bet on sports in the state on Nevada, the home to Las Vegas. New Jersey was the first state to legalise sports betting six years ago and since then, a total of 38 states across America have done the same. Hannah Mullane looks at how the industry has grown so rapidly and discusses the consequences of the industry which has been allowed to evolve with very little regulation. (Produced and presented by Hannah Mullane) (Image: Detroit Lions fans pose prior to a game against the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game at Levi's Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. Image credit: Getty)
Sun, May 12, 2024
Uganda's refugee women turned entrepreneurs
Stella, Dawa and Salome arrived at the Bidibidi refugee camp in north-western Uganda with little more than the clothes they were wearing. Now, all three are entrepreneurs and businesswomen, running thriving businesses and earning enough money to clothe, feed and send their children to school. Can their stories help development agencies and governments deliver support to those most in need? (Picture: Salome, picking crops in a field in Uganda. Copyright: Village Enterprise) Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick
Thu, May 09, 2024
Business Daily meets: Property tycoon Sanmi Adegoke
The Nigerian-born businessman tells us about his journey from working in a fast food restaurant and facing racism from some customers, to being inspired to start his own business in London. He also talks about the influence of his Christian faith on his business decisions - and how it opened up a network of business connections which allowed his property portfolio to grow. Sanmi Adegoke's Rehoboth group has now undertaken more than 20 major renovation projects and has £35m worth of property assets under its management. Produced and presented by Dougal Shaw. (Image: Sanmi Adegoke. Credit: A&O Studios)
Wed, May 08, 2024
Eurovision: Making money out of something I love
The Eurovision Song Contest has transformed itself from a TV show experiment to the world's largest live music event. 160 million people are expected to watch this year's competition in Sweden, as 37 countries take part. The acts participating will be hoping to become global superstars following the likes of ABBA, Celine Dion and Måneskin. And outside of the competition many fans around have turned their love of Eurovision into a business: from side-hustles to songwriters. We hear their stories and learn about the economics of having a winning song, and discover the plans for the first ever Eurovision world tour. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney (Image: Malta entry Sarah Bonnici rehearsing Loop at this year's Eurovison. Credit: Connie Cumming/EBU)
Tue, May 07, 2024
Resurrecting ‘ghost’ whisky distilleries
In Scotland in the 1980s, a slump in the whisky market brought about the closure of some of the country's most iconic distilleries. These sites become known as 'ghost' distilleries - where spirit production has stopped, but where some stock is still available. In this programme, Elizabeth Hotson will be discovering why some of these distilleries are now being brought back to life. She visits the legendary Port Ellen on the Isle of Islay for its much-anticipated re-opening and hears from the master blender there, and she takes a tour of London’s fabled Vintage House. A whisky writer explains what makes a truly great dram and we learn why investors need to be careful if they’re planning to jump on the whisky bandwagon. (Picture: A bottle of Port Ellen whisky bottled in 1980. Credit: Elizabeth Hotson/BBC) Presented and produced by Elizabeth Hotson
Mon, May 06, 2024
The trouble with live music
Elton John, Beyonce, Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran - all artists who've had sell-out world tours in recent years. And new markets, such as India, are being added to the global tour map. But the same can’t be said for smaller venues. In the UK and Australia, the lights are off, and thousands are closing their doors. We hear from musicians, promoters and the people who run venues; asking why there’s such a contrast between sell out stadium tours and struggling grassroots venues. And we see what the future could hold for India's live music scene. Produced and presented by Megan Lawton (Image: Ed Sheeran performing in Mumbai, India in 2017. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, May 05, 2024
What hope for Kosovo's economy?
Ed Butler travels to Kosovo to find out what the prospects are for this young, ethnically divided population. After Ukraine, it's Europe's poorest region, where a brutal past still casts a shadow. But it's also a territory full of economic promise – with precious minerals buried underground, and vast vineyards. If only the politics would stop getting in the way. (Image: A wine maker in Kosovo, Milan Lakicevic, standing in front of stainless steel tanks, while holding a bottle of his wine.) Presented and produced by Ed Butler
Wed, May 01, 2024
Meet the trailblazers: the female bike mechanics
Why are so few women making a living from fixing bicycles? Meet Sharvari, Belinda and Brenna, three female bike mechanics from different corners of the world. From setting up a female run workshop in India, teaching skills to other women, or working within elite sport: these three are all making a living in the male dominated world of bike mechanics. Hear their stories and find out what happened when we got them all talking to each other. Presented and produced by Lexy O'Connor (Image: Bicycle mechanic Belinda Everett, Credit: Ryan Goff, #rygoff)
Tue, April 30, 2024
Can the Tour de France Femmes deliver?
Over its long history women have been mostly excluded from the Tour de France. Until recently. In 2022, after a long campaign by some of female cycling's biggest names, the Tour de France Femmes was introduced. So how is it doing? And will it ever be on a level footing with the much older and long-established men's race? We hear from competitors, sponsors, broadcasters and race director Marion Rousse. Produced and presented by Lexy O'Connor (Team Jumbo Visma rider Marianne Vos wears the yellow jersey during 3rd stage of the first Tour de France Femmes in 2022: Getty Images)
Mon, April 29, 2024
Tourism cashing in on the ‘pink dollar’
The 'pink pound' or 'pink dollar' is believed to be worth billions of dollars, and tourism is one sector looking to benefit. We find out how the industry is trying to attract LGBT travellers, with countries like Nepal taking steps to be a more appealing destination. And we head to the coastal town of Sitges in Spain, where gay people have been holidaying for more than 100 years. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney. (Image: The Nomadic Boys in New Zealand. Credit: The Nomadic Boys)
Sun, April 28, 2024
How can recycling be profitable?
Ireland has just launched a scheme to charge a deposit on bottles and cans which is refunded when consumers return them to recycling machines in supermarkets. The Irish have set up a non profit making company to manage the scheme, funded by the drinks making firms, which should avoid the financial problems that have dogged the industry in the United States. Many privately owned American recycling companies are in danger of going out of business because the fee they get from state governments, under the Bottle Bill, has not been increased for years, even though their costs have soared. Produced and presented by Russell Padmore (Picture: Reverse vending machines for Ireland’s new deposit return recycling scheme)
Thu, April 25, 2024
Business Daily meets: Picsart CEO Hovhannes Avoyan
We speak to the Armenian entrepreneur behind the popular photo editing app used by millions on Instagram, and by businesses too. Mr Avoyan tells us about his childhood, growing up in a country which only gained independence when he was in his 20s. He tells us how this liberation set free his entrepreneurial spirit, and why he relocated his company from Armenia to the US. Produced and presented by Dougal Shaw (Image: Hovhannes Avoyan)
Wed, April 24, 2024
Modest fashion: Inside a $300bn industry
As modest fashion week starts in Istanbul, we look at the growth of this area of the fashion industry. Long considered a faith-based choice, it is gaining in popularity, proven by the modest-friendly options that many leading brands now offer. We hear the thoughts of retailers and designers on why more women are choosing to dress modestly. And content creator Maha Gondal explains how she's bringing her take on modest fashion to her thousands of followers. Plus we look at what can go wrong when brands try to cash in on what they see as a lucrative market. Presented and produced by Megan Lawton (Image: Woman wearing a maxi dress with long sleeves, standing in front of a wall covered with foliage. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, April 23, 2024
When films disappear
What happens when your favourite movies and TV shows fall off streaming sites? We find out why, speaking to industry insiders, and those preserving our film and TV titles. Plus, we speak to a US-based writer whose programme has disappeared to find out what the impact is on creators when their work no longer exists online. (Image: Man watching TV next to a dog. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Matt Lines
Mon, April 22, 2024
Where is 'a woman's place' in Ireland today?
Earlier this year, on International Women's Day, the Irish electorate was asked to vote in two referendums on changing Ireland's constitution regarding family and care. One of those questions was whether they wished to remove a reference to the role of women in the home, which some view as being out-of-step with modern Irish society. A lot has changed since the constitution was written in 1937. Ireland is now among the highest-ranking countries in Europe for gender equality. However, in both referendums, voters rejected the bid for constitutional change. In this programme, Leanna Byrne travels back to her home city of Dublin to explore Ireland's story when it comes to women, the family and work; speaking to Irish women about their experiences over the decades to now. (Image: From left to right Niamh O'Reilly, Lorraine Lally and Rena Maycock, who spoke to the BBC World Service in Dublin in March 2024.) Presented and produced by Leanna Byrne
Sun, April 21, 2024
Should I put a wind turbine on my roof?
More of us are searching for cheaper and efficient ways to power and heat our homes. As energy prices remain high, what about taking matters into your own hands and putting solar panels on your roof, or putting a small wind turbine in your garden? Produced and presented by Rick Kelsey (Image: A wind turbine on a roof of a house in Amsterdam. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 17, 2024
Corruption at port
It’s estimated that 90% of traded goods travel over the oceans. But for the seafarers who make that happen, it’s not always an easy process. Thousands of incidents of corruption within the industry have been reported to the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network, who in this episode, tell Ruth Alexander what they’re doing to help the problem. Seafarers can often be put in an impossible position, and one former captain tells us how he was arrested at gunpoint after refusing to hand over a carton of cigarettes to officials. (Picture: A bird's eye view of a container ship at sea. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Ruth Alexander Producer: Izzy Greenfield
Tue, April 16, 2024
The rise of women voters in India
As India enters election season, we look at the crucial female vote. For decades, the number of women turning out to vote in India has been low, but that’s changed in the last decade. Now, political parties are deliberately targeting policies at women, to try and win over this key group. We hear from a group of women about their priorities in the 2024 general election - for the workplace, in business, and their day-to-day lives. (Picture: A group of women in India lining up to vote. Credit: AFP) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Sun, April 14, 2024
Can an online review lead to legal action?
We depend on online reviews for everything from hotel and restaurant bookings to what products to buy, and as we hear in this programme, medical and cosmetic procedures. But what happens when customers and companies start resorting to lawsuits as a result? We hear from patients who have had legal action taken against them for reviews they've written. (Image: A surgeon putting on surgical gloves. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Ed Butler
Thu, April 11, 2024
Business Daily meets: game designer Brenda Romero
Brenda Romero's breakthrough game Wizardry is legendary, and she’s made and contributed to more than 50 titles since. Now, with her own company in Ireland, what does she think is the key to a great game? And in a vulnerable time for the industry, what does she think its future holds? (Picture: Brenda Romero. Credit: John Press photos) Presenter: Steffan Powell Producer: Izzy Greenfield
Wed, April 10, 2024
Africa's video gaming boom
There are an estimated 200 million gamers on the African continent. The industry is growing fast, and generating millions of dollars for gaming companies. However, there's a problem - many gamers in Africa don't have access to the credit and debit cards needed for in app purchases. We meet the fintech companies who think they've got a solution. Produced and presented by Mo Allie (Image: A woman gaming on her phone. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, April 08, 2024
Video games in concert
The music composed for video games has come a long way. Once limited to simple tunes generated by early synthesizer chips, it now encompasses complex musical scores written for full orchestra. Video game music is now also considered a key access point to orchestral music among young people, and concert venues around the world are seeing new and diverse audiences attend live performances of gaming soundtracks. This could a development the classical music world will seek to build upon. A study by League of of American Orchestras suggests audiences for concerts have dropped by 26% since 2020, with young people being the minority of attendees. But the genre's not always been embraced by classical music lovers. In this episode, we'll hear about the origins of music written for video games; speaking to composers and orchestras who are embracing new audiences and exciting musical works. And we'll go backstage before opening night of a concert tour showcasing music from a major video game franchise. (Image: Gaming Prom – From 8-Bit to Infinity, The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Robert Ames, in the Royal Albert Hall, on 1 August 2022, as part of the BBC Proms.) Presented and produced by Sean Allsop
Sun, April 07, 2024
What’s happening to the gaming business?
Tens of thousands of people in the video game industry have lost their jobs in the past year. The industry itself is valued around 200 billion dollars - one of the biggest in the world. And last year saw some of the biggest releases so far. So with so much success, why are there so many struggles? We speak to two workers who recently lost their jobs in the industry, and hear about the effect it’s had on their lives. Tech expert Matthew Ball tells us why there’s a simultaneous battle between success and struggle, and whether it’ll get any worse. But it’s not all bad news. There’s a lot of opportunity out there for smaller gaming companies in some parts of the world. William Sampson of Roro Interactive tells us why he thinks the future is positive. (Picture: A rear-view shot of a young woman sitting at a desk playing a video game, she is using a mouse and keyboard and wearing a headset. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield
Thu, April 04, 2024
Business Daily meets: Maarten van der Weijden
The Dutch swimmer won gold in Beijing, having been diagnosed with cancer seven years earlier. We hear why he decided to stop competing, and instead turn his attention to charity fundraising - setting up his own foundation and raising millions for cancer research through long-distance swimming endurance events. And how he ensures that the money raised is correctly managed. Produced and presented by Matthew Kenyon. (Image: Maarten van der Weijden setting a new world record in 2021, by swimming continuously against a current for more than 31 hours and 7 minutes. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 03, 2024
Nigeria’s graduates vulnerable to kidnapping
Kidnapping is endemic in nearly all parts of Nigeria, as shown by the recent high profile mass abduction and release of nearly 300 schoolchildren. And for young Nigerians who are taking part in the national youth service programme - NYSC - they are particularly vulnerable as they travel to their postings along the country's long rural roads. Service is mandatory if you want to use your degree - but are the risks just too great now? And what impact does it have on young people’s futures? Produced and presented by Frey Lindsay (Image: National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Ogun State, in 2019. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, April 02, 2024
The business of scent
Smell is a powerful sense that can evoke memories and spark emotional connections. And it's increasingly big business. In this programme, we lift the lid on the multi-billion dollar fragrance industry; finding out how scent can influence customer behaviour, build teams, and even help to sell houses. We hear from a perfume-maker who crowdsources some of the world's most expensive fragrance ingredients, and visit a 15 million dollar house on the market in London, to find out how the right aroma in a property can entice a potential buyer. And we hear why a major drinks brand has created a fragrance for its company headquarters. (Picture: A woman smelling perfume. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Elizabeth Hotson
Mon, April 01, 2024
Capturing CO2 from the air
We're in Iceland, where, in attempt to fight climate change, huge machines are being used to pull carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. And then locking it away deep underground, turning it into stone. The business behind the technology believes this is a crucial step in reducing the amount of CO2 in the air. But how economical, and impactful, is this carbon capture? Presented and produced by Adrienne Murray (Image: A carbon injection site run by Carbfix in Hellisheidi, Iceland. Credit: Getty Images)
Sun, March 31, 2024
The growth of 'quiet luxury'
We explore the fashion trend that involves minimal labels and logos. Loved by celebrities and social media influencers, what is it about the quiet luxury trend that is so appealing – particularly in countries like China? And can you follow the 'stealth wealth' trend on a low budget? (Picture: Woman standing in luxury hotel suite looking at view with curtains blowing in wind. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Gabriele Shaw
Fri, March 29, 2024
Business Daily meets: ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo
Founded in 1901, the International Labour Organisation works with governments of over 180 countries, to help promote internationally recognised labour rights. In all of its 105 year-history, Gilbert F. Houngbo is the first African to be in charge of the UN agency. In this programme, the ILO leader talks to Rahul Tandon about what he's doing to try to tackle some of the biggest global challenges the world currently faces - from unemployment, to migration, to artificial intelligence. And we hear about Mr Houngbo's own journey; from a rural upbringing, to studying in Canada, and how he felt when he was asked to serve as Prime Minister of Togo. (Picture: Gilbert F. Houngbo. Credit: Violaine Martin/ILO) Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: Amber Mehmood and Olie D'Albertanson
Thu, March 28, 2024
Is tidal power a viable energy source?
The Pentland Firth is the strait that lies between the far north of mainland Scotland and the Orkney Islands. It's a wild area with some of the fastest tides in the world, where the power of the sea is being harnessed by tidal turbines sitting on the sea bed. But this type of green energy is still very expensive to generate - so what is the future of tidal and wave power? We explore some of the ground breaking projects being developed in the region and speak to companies who are trying to reduce costs to make the energy more viable. Produced and presented by Theo Leggett (Image: A MeyGen turbine being installed on the sea bed. Credit: MeyGen)
Wed, March 27, 2024
The billion-dollar rise of Padel
Padel is a fast-growing sport, attracting investment from celebrities and major brands. What is it about the game that makes it so attractive? We hear from professional players of the sport, and head to Sweden, where the Padel boom, and subsequent bust, might hold some lessons for other countries. (Image: Portuguese football player Cristiano Ronaldo plays Padel during an event in Singapore, 2023. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Daniel Rosney
Tue, March 26, 2024
How do you keep food cold?
Up to 40% of food in Africa and India is wasted because of a lack of what's called "the cold chain" - the infrastructure keeping food chilled and fresh, from farm to fork. Many small-scale farmers have no access to any kind of refrigeration, meaning they're losing income and wasting food that could otherwise be sold. Devina Gupta meets the entrepreneur who is building pay-as-you-go solar powered cold rooms in India, and hears from farmers, traders and experts on how we can keep food cold as the population grows and the planet warms up. (Picture: A farmer carries a crate of mangoes from an orchard on the outskirts of Bangalore. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Devina Gupta Producer: Lexy O'Connor
Mon, March 25, 2024
Will high interest rates be cut soon?
The past few years have been marked by two economic trends that have affected pretty much everyone on the planet. The first is the cost of living crisis that followed the Covid pandemic and was made worse by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. That saw prices in the shops soar - in many countries they rose by their fastest pace for four decades. The attempt to stamp out this inflation is the second of those big economic trends, as central banks aggressively increased the cost of borrowing. Millions of households and businesses saw the cost of home and company loans shoot up. But the action taken by central banks does seem to have worked in curbing inflation, and now financial markets predict that interest rates in the United States and Europe will be cut this year. But will they reduce them soon? (Picture: Federal Reserve Building in Washington, DC, United States. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Rob Young
Fri, March 22, 2024
Business Daily meets: Leigh Steinberg
Lawyer Leigh Steinberg had no big dream to become a sports agent. He was a huge sports fan, but the job was not something he was aspiring to – more something that he stumbled across. Today, he's built up a career representing more than 300 professional athletes across a range of disciplines: from big money-making sports like football and basketball, to Olympic gymnastics; building sporting careers worth billions of dollars. His influence in sport is so influential that he's often credited as the real-life inspiration for the sports agent in the film Jerry Maguire, starring Tom Cruise. We speak to Leigh Steinberg about how he started his career as an agent, how he builds a brand around a sports star, and how he's succeeded in such a competitive environment - overcoming some personal struggles along the way. And - how he responds when members of the public approach him with the famous phrase, "Show me the money". (Picture: Leigh Steinberg. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Roger Hearing Producers: Matt Lines and Hannah Mullane
Wed, March 20, 2024
Is Saudi Arabia softening its alcohol ban?
An alcohol shop for diplomats has opened in Saudi Arabia. It’s a significant move in a country that has banned alcohol for over 70 years. Some believe in order to transform the tourism economy it is a sign of things to come. In the meantime, Riyadh has become known for making some of the best non-alcohol cocktails in the world. Is this a small policy change, or does it signal a wider relaxation of the rules? We hear from young Saudis about the generational divide in a country trying to change its image. (Picture: A bartender prepares a non-alcoholic cocktail in a bar in Riyadh. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey
Tue, March 19, 2024
Why is Temu so cheap?
The Chinese-owned online store has exploded in popularity in the past year, shipping to customers in 49 countries around the world. And its advertising has taken centre stage at one of the world’s most watched events: the Super Bowl. So why is Temu so cheap? And how can it afford to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on advertising to take on its rivals? We hear from experts, politicians and shoppers in China, the US, and the UK about how the company operates, as it seeks to out-pace the competition. (Picture: The Temu logo displayed on the screen of a mobile device. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Sam Gruet
Mon, March 18, 2024
Would green hydrogen be a drain on Uruguay's water sources?
The government of Uruguay has launched ambitious plans to make hydrogen and green fuels. The country generates far more of its electricity from renewables than most countries - Uruguay produces more than 90% of its electricity from sustainable resources, like wind. And that, the government says, puts it in a good position to start producing green hydrogen. Proponents of green hydrogen production in Uruguay say it will be good for the planet and the country's economy, but could it use too much water? (Picture: Mauricio Caro, a farmer in Uruguay. He worries that if water is taken from the local aquifer to make green fuels, farmers will run short. Credit: Grace Livingstone/BBC) Presented and produced by Grace Livingstone
Fri, March 15, 2024
Business Daily meets: CEO of Proton Andy Yen
Andy Yen is founder and CEO of tech company Proton, best known for its encrypted email service Proton Mail. He was born in Taiwan, studied in California, then moved to Switzerland to work at CERN as a particle physicist. He then set up Proton from Geneva. Dougal Shaw talks to the entrepreneur about growing up in the shadow of China, personal privacy in an age when we live our lives online, and his company’s “cat and mouse” games with Russia over VPN software, which allows people to access the internet without state control. (Picture: Andy Yen) Presented and produced by Dougal Shaw
Thu, March 14, 2024
Stockholm: The capital of music tech?
Spotify and Soundcloud started out as small, music tech startups in Stockholm, and now, several other companies that blend music production and innovation are choosing to set up shop in the Swedish capital. In this edition of Business Daily, we meet some of these new businesses, to see why Stockholm holds such appeal. And we try to find out whether music tech is a profitable sector with a long-term future. (Image: Emelie Olsson, the co- founder of Corite, a music tech startup. Credit: Maddy Savage/BBC) Presented and produced by Maddy Savage
Wed, March 13, 2024
Nato: Who’s spending what?
Wary of the perceived threat from Russia, the countries that make up the Nato Western military alliance are upping their spending on the military. But not fast enough, according to former US president Donald Trump, who has made the issue part of his election campaign. So should governments in Europe be spending more on their collective defence? Do Europeans want them to, or would they rather that money go to things like education and healthcare instead? As Sweden joins the alliance, we look at who is spending what within Nato, who is pulling their weight, and who is not. We speak to people across Europe about what they want, and we talk to one former army chief, who says his country is woefully underprepared to defend itself. Presenter/producer: Gideon Long Additional reporting from Bethany Bell, BBC correspondent in Vienna And additional recording by Maddy Savage in Stockholm and Kostas Kallergis in Brussels (Photo: German Eurofighter Typhoon jets of TLG73 during Nato exercise. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 12, 2024
The sugar price surge
We trace the commodity’s journey from sugar cane farm, to mill, to candy shop, all in a quest to find out why the cost of sugar has gone up. The US is the world's fifth largest sugar producer, with sugarcane grown in the south and sugar beets in the north. Even though the cost of sugar is rising worldwide, Americans pay twice as much as the global average for sugar because of a government policy. Brought about to protect domestic producers, a protectionist policy taxing imports of sugar is actually creating higher prices, a report by the government accountability office found in October. We travel from a candy story in New York, to a sugarcane farm and mill in Louisiana, to find out what the impact will be. Presented and produced by Erin Delmore Additional sound mixing by Cameron Ward and Helen Thomas (Image: A worker climbs onto a front loader beside a pile of raw cane sugar inside a storehouse at a sugar mill in Louisiana. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 11, 2024
European farming’s existential crisis?
There's been a wave of farmers' protests across Europe in recent weeks. France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and Eastern European countries have all seen farmers airing their grievances by driving their tractors into towns and cities and blocking roads. There have also been similar demonstrations far beyond Europe, in India. Guy Hedgecoe has been looking at the protests and how some grievances are uniting farmers from different countries while others are dividing them. Because farming is so important for our day-to-day lives, the outcome could affect us all. (Picture: A farmer pours industrial honey during a protest in Madrid. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Guy Hedgecoe
Fri, March 08, 2024
Business Daily meets: Ben Ainslie
Sir Ben Ainslie is the most decorated Olympic sailor of all time, winning medals at five consecutive Olympic Games. Since then, he's been sailing in the America’s Cup and more recently in the new SailGP league. Now, he's stepping back from some of his sailing responsibilities to concentrate on being a CEO. For this episode of Business Daily, Sam Fenwick talks to Sir Ben about what it takes to run a sailing team, how to monetise the sport, and where he sees its future. (Picture: Sir Ben Ainsley. Credit: Emirates GBR) Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Hannah Mullane
Thu, March 07, 2024
The repercussions of the Hollywood strikes
Last summer marked the first time in six decades that Hollywood’s actors and writers went on strike simultaneously. They hit pause on production over pay and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the film industry. The strikes brought the industry to boiling point, but wider issues were simmering for some time. They caused a multi-billion economic toll on those who work in film and television - from crew members to caterers. Businesses burned through savings and piled up debt. This edition of Business Daily unpicks the plot of one of Hollywood's biggest dramas. (Picture: The Hollywood sign is viewed during a clearing storm, January 2024. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield
Wed, March 06, 2024
Disruption and drought in the Panama Canal
The important shipping route runs for 82 km through Central America, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. But a long period of dry weather means the water in the canal is very low, reducing the number of boats that can travel though. We travel to Panama to look at the impact this is having on shipping companies, manufacturers and consumers, and find out what the Panama Shipping Company is trying to do about it. Presenter: Michelle Fleury Producer: Nathalie Jimenez (Image: A ship going through the Panama Canal locks. Credit: Panama Canal Authority)
Tue, March 05, 2024
Tourism’s sustainability ambitions
We travel to FITUR - International Tourism Trade Fair. Taking place in Madrid, this year's event was the biggest ever. As the sector is still recovering from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, we speak to representatives from countries around the world who are aiming to attract visitors. Plus we focus on responsible tourism, and look at how much emphasis is being placed on sustainability by the travel industry. Produced and presented by Ashish Sharma (Image: Tourists at a beach club in Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia, in May 2022, just after the region opened more broadly to fully vaccinated visitors from overseas. Credit: Getty Images).
Mon, March 04, 2024
How are farmers adapting to climate change?
Up to 10% of areas for major crops and livestock could be rendered unsuitable by climate change by 2050, so what can farmers do to adapt to rising temperatures and extreme weather events? Stefania Gozzer meets a farmer in Spain to see how severe droughts ruined his cereal harvest, and she pays a visit to his neighbour, who has managed to grow tomatoes without watering his fields. Global warming poses huge challenges for agriculture around the world - and various ways of managing its effects are now being practised by farmers. Among them is planting trees next to crops. We hear how this technique changed the life of a Kenyan farmer. (Picture: Farmer in rubber boots walking on dry soil ground. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Stefania Gozzer
Sat, March 02, 2024
Bonus: Good Bad Billionaire
In this special episode, Ed Butler brings you a podcast from our friends at Good Bad Billionaire. In the series, presenters Simon Jack and Zing Tseng find out how the richest people on the planet made their billions, and then they judge them. Are they good, bad, or just another billionaire? This episode focuses on Warren Buffett - how did he became the richest investor in history? Listen to every episode of Good Bad Billionaire wherever you get your BBC podcasts.
Fri, March 01, 2024
Business Daily meets: Mariana Mazzucato
The world's major consulting firms make an estimated trillion dollars a year, directing governments and businesses on how best to govern. But the economist Mariana Mazzucato argues that outsourcing the brain power of governments to private firms is a dangerous trend. Ed Butler asks her why she thinks it isn't money well spent. (Picture: Mariana Mazzucato. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Ed Butler
Thu, February 29, 2024
Is it okay to be mediocre at work?
The idea of settling for ‘good enough’ and being mediocre at work is not new… but the case for prioritising other things apart from work has grown rapidly since the pandemic – and hashtags like #lazygirljob have been getting millions of views on TikTok. We find out what mediocrity means for staff and employers, and speak to workers who are embracing this new attitude. We hear from Jaime Ducharme, Time Magazine journalist who wrote an article about mediocrity in the workplace, Gabrielle Judge who started #lazygirljob on TikTok, and Dr Thomas Curran from the London School of Economics. Produced and presented by Clare Williamson (Image: A woman looking bored at work. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 28, 2024
Would you like to work 'near' home?
Work from home, or go into the office? For many businesses and workers it's an ongoing conversation at the moment. But could there be a third way - working 'near' home? New co-working spaces are providing a place for people to do their job close to where they live, but not at home which can be unsuitable and isolating. We also look at the WeWork model - the billion-dollar business filed for bankruptcy protection in the US last year - does that mean the concept isn't viable long term? Produced and presented by Dougal Shaw. (Image: A Patch co-working space in southern England. Credit: Benoit Grogan-Avignon)
Tue, February 27, 2024
Chile's move to a 40 hour work week
We look at the implications as the Latin American country gradually reduces from 45 hours. In April 2023 politicians approved a law in congress saying that businesses need to move towards cutting their hours to help get a better work life balance for employees. This reduction is happening gradually, and the working week is getting shorter by at least one hour per year, over a maximum of five years. We speak to workers and businesses in Chile about the impact - good and bad - that this is having. Presenter: Jane Chambers Technical production: Matthew Dempsey (Image: A group of workers on lunchbreak in Santiago. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 26, 2024
How Sweden led the way on parental leave
It's been 50 years since Sweden introduced state-funded parental leave, designed for couples to share. We hear how the pioneering policy has impacted families and businesses - and ask whether Sweden really deserves its reputation for gender equality. And we meet one of the first dads to take paid parental leave, back in the 1970s. Produced and presented by Maddy Savage (Image: A man holding a small child. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, February 23, 2024
Business Daily meets: Ingrid Robeyns
Today, the richest 10 per cent of the world’s population own more than three quarters of its wealth, while the bottom half have 2%. To halt the growing wealth gap, one economic philosopher, Ingrid Robeyns, has come up with a striking proposal - to impose legally enforced limits on people’s personal wealth. No one individual, Professor Robeyns suggests, should be allowed to have more than 10 million dollars. It's a provocative idea. And would it work in practice? (Picture: Ingrid Robeyns. Credit: Keke Keukelaar/United Agents) Presented and produced by Ed Butler
Thu, February 22, 2024
Ukraine's economic rollercoaster
The Russian invasion sparked the worst recession in the country’s recent history. Yet 2023 saw growth which is projected to continue. So how are businesses actually faring? The economy is heavily reliant on foreign aid and there is uncertainty whether that will continue, notably from the US. We hear from businesses and workers who give us a mixed picture of Ukraine's economic health: Chef Zhenya Mykhailenko the CEO of FVSM which runs a group of Ramen restaurants in Kyiv and a military kitchen in the Zaporizhiya region; Kees Huizinga who farms in Uman, South of Kyiv and Erica, a secondary school teacher in the war torn southern city of Kherson. Plus economic analysis from Andrew Walker. Produced and presented by Clare Williamson (Image: Chef Zhenya. Credit: FVSM)
Wed, February 21, 2024
Peak profits
The Olympics in Tokyo, some jaw dropping films, and a hardwired desire to be in the great outdoors. These are just some of the reasons credited with boosting the popularity of climbing. Hundreds of indoor bouldering gyms have cropped up in the US since the 1990s, and the sport is spreading across the world. Although still concentrated in North America and Europe, more and more countries are joining the International Federation of Sport Climbing, and the millions of people taking part are attracting the attention of brands and financial backers. We hear from climbing business experts and the UK’s most successful competitive climber, Shauna Coxsey, to find out more. (Picture: Shauna Coxey. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Hannah Bewley
Tue, February 20, 2024
What happens when you run out of coins?
The Philippines is experiencing an artificial coin shortage. It’s artificial because there are plenty of coins - it’s just that people are using them less so they fall out of circulation and end up collecting in jars at home. Hannah Mullane investigates why this is happening and what impact it’s having on consumer behaviour. And reporter Camille Elemia speaks to businesses and shoppers in Quezon city to find out how Filipino’s are changing the way they spend. (Picture: A jeepney driver, counting some notes) Presented and produced by Hannah Mullane Additional reporting: Camille Elemia
Mon, February 19, 2024
Global trade’s new normal?
Three months ago, Houthi fighters from Yemen hijacked a cargo ship in the Red Sea and took the crew captive. It was the group’s first attack on commercial shipping in response to Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. Around 30 similar assaults have followed and the US and UK have retaliated with air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The Houthi attacks have wreaked havoc with shipping in the Red Sea, forcing hundreds of ships to re-route and make the much longer journey around the bottom of Africa. Supply chains have been interrupted and insurance costs have risen for vessels still passing through the area. With no end to the tension in the region in sight, some companies are readjusting their timelines and accepting that the current situation might become the “new normal”. We ask whether the Houthi attacks have changed the way we move goods around the world for ever. (Picture: Ships crossing the Suez Canal towards the Red Sea. Credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock) Presented and produced by Gideon Long
Fri, February 16, 2024
Business Daily meets: Tony Fernandes
Tony Fernandes has worked in the music industry, owned a formula one team and co-owned a professional London football club, but these days he’s concentrating on his core business as the CEO of the parent company of AirAsia, a Malaysia-based budget airline he co-founded that has transformed travel in South East Asia. We speak to him about his varied career, the airline industry’s recovery from the Covid pandemic, and the recent safety issues at Boeing. (Picture: Tony Fernandes. Credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock) Presented and produced by Gideon Long
Thu, February 15, 2024
The making of a billionaire athlete
Only four sportspeople have turned success on the field to success in business, making it to the 10 figure club. Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Lebron James and Magic Johnson, the last to join in October 2023, according to the wealth-tracking business magazine, Forbes. Matt Lines finds out the secrets behind the fortunes of these four athletes and who could be joining the list in future. (Picture: L-R: Tiger Woods. Credit: Reinhold Matay/USA Today Sports. Magic Johnson. Credit: Allison Dinner/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock. Lebron James. Credit: Dale Zanine/USA Today Sports. Michael Jordan. Credit: Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images) Presenter/producer: Matt Lines
Tue, February 13, 2024
A scary business
Scaring people has become big business. There’s even a catch-all term for the trend: dark tourism, where thrill seekers visit the scenes or replicate the experiences of horrendous moments in history. Elizabeth Hotson goes to investigate. (Picture: Someone wearing a skeleton mask, pointing at the camera. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Elizabeth Hotson
Mon, February 12, 2024
The content moderators taking Big Tech to court
We hear from former moderator Daniel Motaung, who has taken Meta and their outsourcing partner, Sama, to an employment tribunal in Nairobi. US lawyer Cori Crider, from tech justice NGO Foxglove - which supports Daniel and others who have taken legal action - believes that content moderation is one of the most important tech jobs, particularly when there is a conflict in the region. The recent war in Ethiopia and some of the posts made on Facebook were the catalyst for another lawsuit challenging Facebook’s algorithms. And social researcher and activist Leah Kimathi believes that there is not enough investment in moderating in various African languages. She also campaigns for the Big Tech and African governments to end, what she calls, the “Wild West” approach and get together to create specific legislation governing how social media companies operate on the continent. Produced and presented by Ivana Davidovic (Image: Daniel Motaung. Credit: Foxglove)
Fri, February 09, 2024
Business Daily meets: Jagan Chapagain
The secretary general of the world’s biggest humanitarian network – the International Federation of the Red Cross - rose from humble beginnings in Nepal. We hear how Jagan Chapagain became involved in humanitarian work, and how he deals with all of the current global crises, whilst remaining politically neutral. (Picture: Jagan Chapagain. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Olie D'Albertanson
Thu, February 08, 2024
The global quest to boost productivity
From tackling the long commute to sleeping on the job - we head to Lagos, New York, Tokyo, Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore) and Dublin to look at the diverse ways businesses are attempting to boost productivity and therefore also boost profits. We hear from businesses installing sleep pods in the office and others using technology to boost production on their farms and in their factories but are these techniques really working? Producer: Hannah Mullane Presenter: Leanne Byrne (Image: Buildings working on a roof space. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 07, 2024
Is it worth being a B Corp?
It's an exclusive business club with over 8,000 companies, which put environmental and social values at the heart of their work. But the B Corp badge has come under some criticism for taking on some multinational companies - some smaller businesses say that has diluted its values. We hear from Anjli Raval, who reports on what goes on inside the world's biggest companies for the Financial Times. One of the biggest growth areas for B Corps is expected to be Africa. Tahira Nizari is the co-founder of new B Corp Kazi Yetu, selling traceable products like tea and spices from Tanzania. Max Landry at Peppy - a health tech company - who specialise in underserved areas of healthcare lets us know the hoops to join the B Corp club. Jonathan Trimble, the CEO and founder of creative agency And Rising, which helps new brands with their marketing plans tells us what he wants B Corp to change. Chris Turner, Executive Director at B - Lab UK, tells us how their standards will shift in the next year. Produced and presented by Rick Kelsey (Image credit: Kazi Yetu)
Tue, February 06, 2024
Denmark: Cashing in on Sweden's Eurovision
As Malmö receives the keys to this year's event, we look at how Copenhagen in Denmark could be the real economic winners - without having to pay for it. When the Swedish city last hosted the competition in 2013, officials estimated around a third of overnight stays were in the Danish capital. We speak to officials in both cities - just 30km apart and connected by the Øresund Bridge - to examine what fans can expect, and explore how other nations around the world get in on the action when a neighbouring country hosts a global event. Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney
Mon, February 05, 2024
Business Daily meets: Dizzee Rascal
From its emergence in London’s underground scene and pirate radios in the early 2000s, to becoming a major music genre, Grime has come a long way – contributing more than £2bn to the UK economy and creating opportunities to members of some of Britain’s most deprived communities. Dylan Kwabela Mills - professionally known as Dizzee Rascal - is someone who has been at the centre of this genre from its inception, and who many credit for Grime’s exposure to pop culture. Twenty years on, the electronic dance music, with rapid beats that critics described as the “soundtrack to knife crime”, is now critically acclaimed, and many of the pioneers who were teenagers at the time are now multi-millionaire business owners. (Picture: Dylan Kwabela Mills, known as Dizzee Rascal. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Peter Macjob
Mon, February 05, 2024
What's holding back Africa's fashion industry?
The continent's fashion industry holds all the cards to becoming one of the world’s fashion leaders. It has the natural resources, the workforce and a growing middle class who want to wear African brands. However, there are challenges including poor infrastructure, lack of investment and limited training opportunities in fashion - highlighted in a recent Unesco report. We hear from designers on the continent and overseas to get their opinion on what’s needed to help the industry grow and learn why Afrobeats is helping to put African fashion on the map. Produced and presented by Megan Lawton. (Image: Atmosphere at the Labrum London show during London Fashion Week February 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, February 02, 2024
Business Daily meets: Mahen Kumar Seeruttun
The island of Mauritius is well established as a luxury holiday destination with five star hotels, beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. But in the last couple of years it has also become Africa’s financial hub, attracting billions of dollars of investment by leveraging on decades of political and economic stability, a strategic location on the Indian Oean plus a multiple taxation system that incentivise investors. Critics say it’s a tax haven - an allegation the island is keen to put at bay. Can Mauritius sustain its status as a high income country and attract the skilled labour it seeks to expand the economy? Presenter/producer: Peter MacJob (Port Louis is Mauritius main settlement. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, February 01, 2024
How to shut down a nuclear power station
We’re going behind the scenes at two former nuclear power stations – one that’s recently closed, and another that’s been out of action for 25 years. Both are at Hinkley Point in Somerset, in the south of England. What happens when the generators stop? We look into the unique challenges of cleaning up radioactive sites safely. Produced and presented by Theo Leggett (Image: Steam escapes from Hinkley Point B in 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, January 31, 2024
Should dynamic pricing be regulated?
In the second part of the series, in the second part of the series, we look at supermarkets and restaurants. Dynamic pricing it could help cut down on food waste, but would it favour people who can choose when they shop? And we ask why restaurant-goers have yet to develop a taste for it. We also find out how artists like Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift have experimented with dynamic pricing to set the prices for their concerts. Finally, we ask if dynamic pricing needs to be regulated more strictly. Is it fair? Does it allow companies to get away with price-gouging? We speak to the head of a consumer rights group who says that more transparency is needed to protect shoppers. Produced and presented by Gideon Long (Image: A food market in the US. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, January 30, 2024
The rise of dynamic pricing
The retail strategy allows companies to constantly tweak their prices in response to changes in the market. In the first of two programmes, we look at how dynamic pricing works in the airline industry, at ride-hailing companies like Uber and on India’s sprawling rail network. And we speak to a director of e-commerce at US electronics firm Harman International, who tells us how dynamic pricing has enhanced its business, increasing revenue, margins and making the company more efficient. Archive of India: Our trains, electric, used courtesy of Made In Manchester. Presented and produced by: Gideon Long (Image: The Mumbai to Solapur Vande Bharat Express at Pune India. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 29, 2024
How can tourism become more accessible?
The tourism sector could be missing out on billions by not adapting to the disabled market. However, some businesses and individuals are trying to change that. Speaking to people in North America, Greece and Spain who are making a difference, we find out the challenges in accessible tourism and the potential revenue if things change. We also travel to Amsterdam to meet a woman helping businesses become more accessible. Presented and produced by Sean Allsop (Picture: Man using a wheelchair takes a photograph with his camera. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, January 26, 2024
Business Daily meets: Masaba Gupta
Not many fashion designers can say they've starred in their own TV series alongside their mother. For this edition of Business Daily, Devina Gupta talks to Indian entrepreneur and social media influencer Masaba Gupta. The daughter of Indian actor Neena Gupta and West Indian cricketer Sir Viv Richards, Masaba discusses how her mixed heritage has inspired the vibrant prints she's become famous for. (Picture: Masaba Gupta) Presenter: Devina Gupta Producer: Lexy O'Connor
Thu, January 25, 2024
Can the Olympics change an area’s reputation?
We’re in the Paris suburb of Seine -Saint-Denis which will host most of the games this summer. It’s an area with some of the highest levels of poverty in the whole of France, and a bad reputation. In the minds of most French people, the area conjures up images of drugs, crime and riots. Locals say that reputation is unfair – and they’re hoping the investment of the games, and a place on the world stage, goes some way to changing that. But can it? Presented and produced by John Laurenson (Image: Inside the Aquatic Olympic Center (CAO). It will host artistic swimming, diving and water-polo. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, January 24, 2024
Why are we ageist?
We look at how many employers still base decisions on a persons age, despite the strong pressures in higher income countries to retain and encourage older staff. What are the underlying reasons for this prejudice? And Ed meets a cosmetic doctor at a central London clinic to discuss the increase in demand for anti-ageing procedures, for people who want to look younger at work. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood (Picture: A man and a woman sit at a table at work, with a woman standing up talking to them. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 22, 2024
Tackling ageism at work
One in two people are ageist, according to the World Health Organization. Ed Butler looks at the scale of the perceived problem, hearing from workers and experts. In the UK and US, for instance, more than a quarter of over-50s report experiences of ageism in the last 12 months. One recent global survey found that it’s the most socially accepted prejudice, more widespread than either racism or sexism. And how much is ageism a factor in this year’s US presidential race? (Picture: Timothy Tan working alongside a colleague at a computer) Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Amber Mehmood
Thu, January 18, 2024
The business of bed bugs
Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to deal with - and they're a nightmare for any town or city that relies on a thriving hospitality industry. In October 2023, French government officials had to act rapidly following news headlines claiming there'd been a rise in infestations in Paris, in the run-up to the 2024 Olympic Games. Infestations can damage reputations, and lead to financial losses due to compensation claims and costly pest control treatments. But scientists are developing solutions to deal with the problem. In this edition of Business Daily, we speak to hotel owners, entrepreneurs, and travellers who’ve been bitten - plus the companies creating technology to help hospitality bosses tackle the problem. (Picture: A hand in a blue glove, holding a magnifying glass over some bed bugs. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Dougal Shaw
Wed, January 17, 2024
Goodbye blue tick?
Once a much desired badge of authority and quality, on some social media platforms the blue tick (or check) is now available to anyone who chooses to buy one. But has this been a popular move? And has the monetising of verification meant that the blue tick has lost its credibility? We hear from industry experts who can shed some light on verification, which has dramatically changed since Elon Musk bought Twitter, now X, in October 2022. Presenter: David Harper Producer: Victoria Hastings (Image: Two workers look at a phone. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, January 16, 2024
Can cars and tourism boost Spain's economy?
We look at how the country can grow its economy in 2024. In November 2023, Socialist leader Pedro Sánchez won a second term as Spain's prime minister, and said his focus would be reducing public debt and helping key sectors such as tourism and the automotive industry. Plus the government wants to become a leader in renewables. Presenter: Ashish Sharma (Image: Woman takes a selfie in Madrid. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 15, 2024
The race for the perfect running shoe
The running shoe industry is worth around 50 billion dollars across the world, with more and more of us taking part in the sport. With more popularity comes more competition, so what are brands doing to keep consumers interested? We ask the chief marketing officer at Swiss sportswear company, ON, and find out how it helps sales when a top athlete wears their shoes. And as the debate around 'super shoes' rumbles on, are they really worth the expensive price tag? US marathon winner Kellyn Taylor tells us about the pros and cons of carbon plated shoes - which played a big role in marathon records being smashed in 2023. (Picture: A group of runners racing through a park. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Izzy Greenfield
Fri, January 12, 2024
Business Daily meets: Michele Arnese
It's widely recognised that we are bombarded with fast-paced imagery in the modern world, whether it's social media videos, or digital billboards in city spaces. But there has been a similar explosion in sound, says advertising entrepreneur Michele Arnese. He thinks brands can only compete with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Dougal Shaw speaks to the Italian tech entrepreneur who trained as a classical musician, but founded an advertising company that helps companies stand out with distinctive sounds. (Picture: Michele Arnese of Amp looking at AI-generated music with a colleague.) Presented and produced by Dougal Shaw
Thu, January 11, 2024
The race to secure semiconductor supply chains
Semiconductors hit the news during the Covid-19 pandemic, as issues with supply chains led to shortages of cars and soaring prices. Since then, geopolitical tensions have impacted the industry. 90% of the world's most advanced chips are made by TSMC in Taiwan. Now, countries all over the world are investing billions of dollars into the industry, so that manufacturing of these chips can happen in more places and alleviate some of the problems supply chains have faced in the last few years. In today’s episode, we visit a new semiconductor fabrication plant in the UK - the first to develop a low-cost, flexible semiconductor, as companies, and nations, race to diversity the industry. (Picture: Two workers in PPE inside the Pragmatic semiconductor plant in Durham, England. Credit: Pragmatic) Produced and presented by Hannah Mullane
Wed, January 10, 2024
Food security in Puerto Rico
The Caribbean island imports around 90% of its food and by law only US ships can be used to transport it – which pushes up the price. We speak to islanders who think that needs to change, and are pushing for Puerto Rico to become more self sufficient. Weather events like Hurricane Maria, which left many without power and water for months, have brought the issue to the forefront once again. We meet a new generation who are leading the way, using new technology to try and make it easier, and cheaper, for people to buy local and rely less on imports. Produced and presented by Jane Chambers (Image: Puerto Rican farmer Fernando Maldonado. Credit: Jane Chambers)
Tue, January 09, 2024
What is a digital twin city?
Almost 60% of the world’s population live in cities. And this trend is expected to continue - by 2050 nearly 7 of 10 people will live in urban environments. Although more than 80% of global GDP is generated in cities, there are challenges: increasing carbon emissions and environmental pollution, traffic congestion and urban vulnerability, exposed by natural disasters such as floods and storms. The creation of a digital twin - a digital representation of a real city, infrastructure or even a whole country - could help decision-makers simulate real situations, allowing them to make better decisions. Situations like floods and other extreme weather events. We look into the technology and find out what the benefits and limitations are... And the former foreign minister of Tuvalu, Simon Kofe, explains how climate change has forced his country to consider preserving their whole statehood and culture in the metaverse. Produced and presented by Ivana Davidovic (Image: A digital representation of Singapore. Credit: Singapore Land Authority)
Mon, January 08, 2024
How to fix the US budget
Twice in 2023, the American government faced the prospect of having to shut down because politicians in congress couldn’t agree on a budget to fund it. Each time, a shutdown was narrowly averted – by last minute, short-term deals. Now, a third deadline is looming in mid-January. It leaves politicians – with fierce disagreements over what services the government should pay for, and how – little time to reach an agreement. We look at the impact of this uncertainty on businesses, and ask, in an election year, what can be done to bring the chaos to an end? Presented and produced by Rob Young (Image: An employee walks past a sign at the entrance of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History during a 35-day partial government shutdown in Washington, DC, January 28, 2019. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, January 05, 2024
Business Daily meets: Kathryn Jacob
For 70 years, Pearl & Dean has been at the forefront of cinema advertising in the UK. Its CEO, Kathryn Jacob has been leading the company for 18 of them. But it's been a rocky few years for the movie industry, as it battles the economic effects of the Covid pandemic. In this edition of Business Daily meets, Kathryn discusses how cinemas are recovering, and how the advertising industry is slowly embracing diversity. (Picture: Kathryn Jacob) Presented and produced by Dougal Shaw
Thu, January 04, 2024
Being unbanked
How easy is it to open a bank account in your country? Around the world, 1.4 billion people can’t get a bank account, and two-thirds of them are in low and middle income countries. People from migrant communities also struggle to access formal banking services. We hear from 19 year-old Josue Calderon. Originally from El Salvador, he arrived in the United States when he was 16. He tells Sam Fenwick about the challenges of only being able to use cash when he first arrived in the US. Sam also speaks to BBC World Service listeners about their experiences of opening a bank account. (Picture: The hand of a woman about to take money out of her purse. Credit: Getty Images) Produced and presented by Sam Fenwick Additional production by Barbara George
Wed, January 03, 2024
Tricking the brain – are holograms the future?
The use of these endlessly flexible 3D images is increasing rapidly. Not just in entertainment, but in medicine, education, design, defence and more. Holograms trick the brain into seeing something in 3D when it’s really just a projection, allowing us to feel immersed in something – whether it’s an atom, or a cityscape. We talk to companies developing this fast advancing technology and ask – will we be living in a holographic future? Produced and presented by Matthew Kenyon (Image: A citizen watches a hologram of the artwork 'A Panorama of Rivers and Mountains' during a digital art exhibition at an art museum on March 11, 2023 in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province of China. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, January 02, 2024
Living off-grid: Scaling up
Alastair Leithead and his wife Ana moved to Portugal during the Covid pandemic. They live off-grid, meaning they have no access to mains electricity or water supplies. They also have to manage their own waste water and sewage. Now the former BBC correspondent is embarking on an ambitious project to build and run a hotel, meaning their solar powered utilities will not only have to work for them, but also paying guests. Produced and presented by Alastair Leithead. (Image: Alastair and Ana at their property. Credit: Alastair Leithead)
Mon, January 01, 2024
Living off-grid in Portugal
In the first of a two part series, we're in the Alentejo region where people are buying land and empty properties in an area without power or water supply. Former BBC correspondent Alastair Leithead is one of them - he has moved there with his wife, and is trying to build and run a hotel. He travels around the region and speaks to his neighbours about their experiences. Plus - what do local people think of this influx of foreigners coming to live off-grid? Presented and produced by Alastair Leithead. (Image: The sun setting over solar panels in Portugal. Alastair Leithead)
Fri, December 22, 2023
Business Daily Meets: Dr Yasmeen Lari
Pakistan's first female architect came out of retirement to help rebuild her country after the 2005 earthquake. Now she's helping communities devastated by the 2022 floods. Dr Lari talks about her experience starting out in a male-dominated field, the changing focus of her career, and her mission to build a million flood-resilient homes in Pakistan by 2024. Produced and presented by Emb Hashmi. (Image: Dr Yasmeen Lari. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, December 21, 2023
Turkey adjusts to ‘bitter medicine’ of high rates
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan heard Turkish voters back in May when they said they wanted change in the economy. So, he appointed a new finance minister and central bank governor to lead the charge. Despite the president’s strong opposition to using higher interest rates to cool rising prices, he’s allowed rates to rise in each of the last six months. While that’s helped bring about an economic turnaround, it’s put added pressure on households who have for years been reliant on low borrowing costs. Will the president’s patience with economic orthodoxy last, or are these early policy changes a sign of long-lasting change? Presenter Victoria Craig Produced by Victoria Craig and Ceren Iskit (Image: Eren and Ümit Karaduman and their children. Credit: Victoria Craig)
Wed, December 20, 2023
Battling snakes to gather Brazil nuts
Despite the name, Bolivia is actually the world's biggest exporter of Brazil nuts. We travel to the hot and humid north of the country to look at the production process which can be extremely dangerous. Plus we hear how the business of Brazil nuts is helping stop deforestation in the Amazon. Presenter: Jane Chambers Producers: Jane Chambers and Helen Thomas (Image: A worker unloading Brazil nuts from the Pando region at a nut processing plant in Riberalta, Bolivia. Credit: Bob Howard)
Tue, December 19, 2023
Was 2023 a bad year for IPOs?
When private companies around the world want to raise cash, they can do so by starting a process to list on a stock exchange. This is known as an IPO, or initial public offering. Analysts watch such public listings to gauge the health of an economy. In 2021, IPOs were booming, but in 2023 there's been a big drop in activity - with a record low number of companies choosing to offer their shares publicly on stock exchanges in the US, UK and Europe. What's going on, and why does it matter when IPOs don't do well? (Picture: The hand of a man holding a phone, monitoring trading data on his phone, tablet, and computer. Credit: Getty Images) Produced and presented by Frey Lindsay
Mon, December 18, 2023
Has shoplifting become a global problem?
Shoplifting has long been a concern for small and large retailers worldwide, but many believe the issue has recently increased - including incidents of retail violence. Sam Gruet speaks to some of these retailers in New Zealand, India, Pakistan and the UK, to explore the possible reasons behind the rise in retail crime and what measures they’re introducing to respond to the escalating issue. These include covert security, body cameras and stab-proof vests. He also asks if advances in technology can act as a powerful deterrent to potential shoplifters, and if it could be the solution to minimise retail loss. (Picture: Security camera. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Sam Gruet Producer: Amber Mehmood
Fri, December 15, 2023
Business Daily meets: Niccolo Ricci
Niccolo Ricci is the CEO of Stefano Ricci, a luxury clothing brand whose suits are worn by the rich and powerful. The firm was established more than 50 years ago by his parents, and now, Niccolo, and his brother Filippo, run the family business; supplying high-end luxury attire to clients all around the world. It's a brand that counts heads of state and business magnates among its patrons. In an era of casual fashion, this is a rarefied world where discretion is the name of the game. Presenter: Leanna Byrne (Photo: Niccolo Ricci. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, December 14, 2023
Putting the 'F' word into climate talks
The COP 28 climate talks in Dubai have closed with a deal to "transition away" from fossil fuels. So what does this mean for the future of oil, gas and coal companies? Sam Fenwick talks to two companies who sent representatives to COP 28; the Norwegian energy giant Equinor and the Middle East's oldest private energy company, Cresent Petroleum. Do they plan to ever abandon fossil fuels entirely? And she finds out what the leader of COP28’s Greenpeace delegation makes of the agreement. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Lexy O'Connor (Photo: Offshore drilling platform during sunrise with work vessel. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, December 13, 2023
Taiwan: Prepping for war
One month before pivotal elections in Taiwan, Ed Butler meets ordinary citizens getting ready just in case growing threats of a Chinese invasion do come to pass. First-aid and weapons training are top of the list. But why isn’t the government doing more to get people ready? Presented and produced by Ed Butler (Image: A first aid training exercise)
Tue, December 12, 2023
Taiwan: The political mood
The military threat from China, which claims Taiwan as its own, has dominated global headlines of late. But ahead of elections, most voters here say it’s low wages and property prices that are preying on their minds. Are politicians listening? We also explore Taiwan's low birth rate - is it a financial decision for young couples not to have children and get a pet instead? Produced and presented by Ed Butler. (Image: A young couple take a selfie on the city MRT train. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, December 11, 2023
Kinmen: The Taiwanese islands next to China
Sitting just a few kilometres away from mainland China, the tiny Kinmen islands are in an unusual situation. Beijing says they and Taiwan are a part of China, they're a breakaway province, and it wants them back, by force if necessary. As tensions rise, Ed Butler visits Kinmen to discover how this most exposed population feels about Beijing's claim - and hear about plans to build a bridge to connect the islands with the Chinese mainland. Produced and presented by Ed Butler. (Image: A beach on Kinmen Island, with sea defences)
Fri, December 08, 2023
Business Daily meets: Joyce and Raissa de Haas
Joyce and Raissa de Hass used to make tonic waters and mixers for their friends. That passion became a university project, which then turned into a successful start-up. In the early days, the twin co-founders from the Netherlands were releasing batches of products they weren't really keen on, but now they think they've found a winning formula for premium mixers. They've won awards for their drinks, and now stock several premium bars and supermarkets. In this edition of Business Daily, we hear how Joyce and Raissa turned a passion project into a business, why they believe they're shaking up the drinks industry, and what it's like to run a start-up with your identical twin. (Picture: Joyce and Raissa de Hass) Presented and produced by Dougal Shaw
Thu, December 07, 2023
Star Wars: The empire strikes cash
When Star Wars launched, it helped usher in the era of the blockbuster. In the wake of the film, came the figures. Forty years on from their launch, the original toys have now become highly sought after - some fetching a few hundred thousand dollars. We head to the largest toy fair in Europe dedicated to buying and selling Star Wars figures. We look at how much the toys are now worth and speak to some of the super fans now buying them - and explore how big the market for the vintage figures is. Presenter/producer: Rowan Bridge (Photo: Someone dressed in The Mandalorian costume at a Star Wars toy fair, with fans in the background)
Wed, December 06, 2023
Women, sport and business: Merchandise
In this episode of Business Daily, the latest in our series on women, sport and business, it's all about the merch. We'll explore how important replica tops and kits actually are for women’s sport in terms of fandom, participation and of course money. We ask what female sports fans and participants actually want to wear and whether they're being adequately catered for. Dr Katie Lebel is Professor at the University of Guelph in Canada and researches gender equity in sports branding and consumer behaviour. She tells us there is a distinct lack of data in this area and as a result sports wear firms are definitely missing out on revenue. Dana Brookman is founder of the Canadian girl's baseball league and tells us her biggest challenge has been sourcing suitable uniform for her teams, and Sam Fenwick visits sport wear manufacturer Kukri to see what they have available for women and how they're working to improve their offer. We’re going to explore what’s available and whether half the population is being properly catered for in terms of sports gear... Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Carmel O'Grady (Image: Canadian girls baseball; Credit: Dana Brookman)
Wed, December 06, 2023
The K-rice belt: Seeds for self-sufficiency?
Could Africa reduce its dependency on imported rice with the help of South Korea? The continent's appetite for rice is growing fast at over 6% per year. And even though rice is grown in about 40 out of 54 countries in Africa, the production only covers about 60% of the demand. This results in 14 to 15 million tonnes of rice being imported each year costing over $6bn. To remedy this, a new rice variety was developed in co-operation with South Korea: ISRIZ-7 and ISRIZ-8. These high yield rice varieties were bred from the very rice that is credited with bringing self-sufficiency in rice to South Korea in the '70s. Earlier this year 10 African nations launched the ‘Korean Rice Belt’ project to improve rice yields in participating countries. David Cann looks into the rice co-operation between South Korea and African countries, speaking to the South Korean agricultural minister and farmers in Senegal and The Gambia. Presenter/producer: David Cann (Photo: A handful of ISRIZ rice seeds. Credit: Rural Development Administration)
Tue, December 05, 2023
What’s holding women back from work in Sri Lanka?
After the catastrophic financial crisis, early signs of stability are returning to Sri Lanka. But there’s arguably a more entrenched economic dilemma in the country that had the world’s first female prime minister - the lack of women in work. With first-hand testimony of harassment and social exclusion, this programme examines the barriers holding women back. Presenter Laura Heighton-Ginns also visits a women-only employer, successful restaurant chain Hela Bojun, and speaks to presidential advisor Priyanee Wijesekera about the path to cultural change. Presented and produced by Laura Heighton-Ginns (Image: A woman working in a government back scheme. Credit: Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture)
Mon, December 04, 2023
How to solve fashion’s waste problem
More than a quarter of all clothes made are never actually sold - where do they go? We look into new legislation being finalised by the EU, to try and make fashion more sustainable. There will be a ban on the incineration of unsold goods and each product will need a digital passport so it can be tracked and its lifetime monitored. Hannah Mullane speaks to businesses across Europe about whether they think the industry is ready for these kind of changes. We also head to Ghana, to the Kantamanto market - the biggest second-hand market in the world, to understand the impact the fashion worlds unsold garments can have. Presented and produced by Hannah Mullane (Picture credit: A pair of shoes hang over power lines at the Kantamanto market in Accra, November 2022. REUTERS/Francis Kokoroko)
Fri, December 01, 2023
Business Daily meets: Konrad Bergstrom
Konrad Bergstrom comes from a family of seafarers. And as a business leader, he wants to make navigating the seas environmentally friendly. His business, X Shore, has been dubbed "the Tesla of the seas". Konrad is now considered one of Sweden's leading entrepreneurs, having also founded Zound industries - the tech company that produces electronics for Marshall Amplification and Adidas. But it's not all been plain sailing for the businessman. In this edition of Business Daily, Leanna Byrne finds out how a boy selling hot dogs in his home town went from windsurfer to entrepreneur; how he overcame business failure; and how a business disagreement led Konrad back to his home - the sea. (Picture: Konrad Bergstrom. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Leanna Byrne
Thu, November 30, 2023
Is the corporate world too close to COP?
Greenhouse gas levels have never been higher. If we're to limit global warming, businesses have a crucial role to play because they operate in sectors that need to radically change, like energy, transport and finance. Thousands of company bosses are touching down in Dubai for this year's COP28 climate change talks. But environmentalists claim many businesses are not acting fast enough. They're increasingly concerned about the growing number of fossil fuel companies attending these summits. Are they right to be worried? (Picture: COP28 venue ahead of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, in Expo City Dubai. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Lexy O'Connor
Wed, November 29, 2023
Can China stop its love affair with coal?
It’s the world’s largest user of coal fired energy, and the biggest polluter. However, China is also the world’s biggest producer of green energy. How can it reconcile the two and keep its next zero promises? Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: Lexy O'Connor (Image: Thermal power and solar power in Shanghai. Two power generation methods in one photo. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, November 28, 2023
Asia's air pollution problem
It’s the week of the Climate Change Conference or COP28, and as leaders from around the world meet in the UAE to talk about how to tackle global warming, we take a look at one urgent issue: air pollution. According to World Health Organisation data, nearly seven million lives are lost prematurely each year due to harmful air. In this edition. Devina Gupta explores the air problem affecting major cities in Asia - to the cities of Delhi, Lahore, Taipei and Jakarta - to find out how lives and livelihoods are being impacted, and what can be done. (Picture: The Swaminarayan Akshardham temple under a thick layer of smog in Delhi, India. Credit: Harish Tyagi/Shutterstock) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta.
Mon, November 27, 2023
Why is Spain betting on green hydrogen?
Spain is trying to position itself as the centre of renewable energy production in Europe, particularly in green hydrogen. The country already boasts one of the first centres worldwide where green hydrogen is produced. But while it rushes headlong with several projects in the pipeline, we examine the economic viability and the impact of producing green hydrogen. (Image: A green hydrogen manufacturing facility. Credit: Iberdrola) Presented and produced by Ashish Sharma
Fri, November 24, 2023
Who is Sultan Al-Jaber?
We find out why he's a controversial appointment for the COP28 presidency. Sultan Al Jaber’s appointment has been widely questioned because he’s also the boss of Abu Dhabi’s state oil company Adnoc. But supporters point to his work as founder of the green energy giant Masdar. Is he compromised or uniquely qualified? We speak to people who’ve interviewed him, worked with him, and can give us the inside track. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Lexy O'Connor (Image: Sultan Al-Jaber. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, November 23, 2023
The world's longest subsea power cable
They are the cables that run along the sea bed to move power where it’s needed for a cheaper price. Business Daily’s Rick Kelsey goes to the site of The Viking Link - the longest one ever built - just before it goes live between the UK and Demark. We’ll be hearing what these cables may do for our electricity costs and how safe they are from sabotage. Rebecca Sedler Managing Director for NG Interconnectors tells us how it will save people money, and engineer Oliver Kitching spent four weeks on the cable laying vessel at sea. We also here from the Danish engineers who often have too much power available, plus Dhara Vyas from Energy UK discusses concerns around sabotage. Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey. Image: The Viking power cable. Credit: National Grid)
Wed, November 22, 2023
Kimchi: Korean food goes global
Kimchi, the tangy fermented vegetable dish, is now being made and sold around the world. South Korea’s kimchi export value has risen dramatically in the past few years, going far beyond Asia. And it's consumed by not only overseas Koreans but by the locals too. While kimchi remains a distinctly Korean dish, in recent years, those with little to no connection to the country have been producing and selling kimchi. What is behind the rise? In this edition, David Cann looks into the growing popularity of the dish; speaking to kimchi experts, traders and producers. Presented and produced by David Cann. (Picture: Kimchi being made at a traditional market in Seoul, South Korea. Credit: Reuters/Kim Hong-Ji)
Tue, November 21, 2023
How to spot a diamond
When is a diamond really a diamond? When it’s been formed miles underground a billion years ago, or when has it been created in a laboratory, under temperatures close to the heat of the sun? The answer is – both are true. They look and behave exactly the same, but they are very different in price. The lab-grown diamonds are marketed as kinder to the environment, and they are far cheaper - and that’s led to concern about whether the two kinds have been mixed together, with man-made stones passed off as natural. So, what is the industry doing to give consumers confidence? (Picture: Close up of man putting engagement ring on girlfriend. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Lesley Curwen Producer: Barbara George
Mon, November 20, 2023
Disruption in the diamond sector
A few years ago you could have assumed all diamonds had been dug out of the ground – but now it’s true that some of them have been created, at unbelievably high temperatures, in just a matter of weeks. In the first of two Business Daily programmes about the evolving diamond market, Lesley Curwen heads to the glamorous jewellery district of Hatton Garden in London – to see how the jewellery world is being re-shaped by the mass production of laboratory-made stones. We hear from India how they’re created in temperatures as hot as the sun - and talk to one of the world’s biggest jewellery brands about why they are using only man-made diamonds. We also look at claims that man-made diamonds are the green and ethical choice. (Picture: Tweezers holding a diamond. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter: Lesley Curwen Producer: Barbara George
Fri, November 17, 2023
Business Daily meets: Cycling boss Doug Ryder
The South African former pro rider set up his cycling team in 2007. As MTN Qhubeka they became the first-ever African registered team to ride the Tour de France. He talks about the challenges of putting together a team from scratch - and the steep learning curve he faced moving from cycling to managing. After a successful stint on the world stage, a combination of financial and sponsorship problems lead to the team, which by then had gone through multiple name changes, being disbanded in 2021. Doug Ryder has now put a new team together – we catch up with him at the Q36.5 Pro Cycling HQ in the Netherlands. Produced and presented by Matthew Kenyon (Image: Doug Ryder. Credit: BBC)
Thu, November 16, 2023
Argentina goes to the polls
There are two candidates: one is the current economy minister who has a wealth of experience in power; the other is a maverick libertarian economist who wants to ditch the country’s currency, the peso, and strip the central bank of its ability to print money. We speak to his senior economic advisor, and also to a wine producer from the western province of Mendoza, who tells us about the challenges of doing business in a country with two exchange rates, severe restrictions on imports, a heavy tax burden and a shrinking economy. And we speak to voters in Buenos Aires about what they want from their next president in a nation which seems to lurch from one economic crisis to the next. Picture: Composite image of Javier Milei (Credit: Luis Robayo/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock) and Sergio Massa (Credit: Tomas Cuesta/Reuters) in front of an Argentinian flag (Credit: Carl Recine/Reuters) Presented and produced by Gideon Long
Wed, November 15, 2023
Biden and Xi to meet in San Francisco
We’re looking ahead to the meeting between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping in San Francisco – the first time the two leaders will have met in 12 months. Diplomatic ties between Washington and Beijing have deteriorated this year, with tensions rising over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Meanwhile, there’s been a tit-for-tat trade spat over semiconductors and raw materials. As the presidents meet on the side lines of the APEC summit, Vivienne Nunis takes stock of the relationship between the world’s two largest economies. Produced and presented by Vivienne Nunis. (Image: US President Joe Biden and China's President Xi Jinping meet at the G20 Summit in Bali on November 14, 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, November 14, 2023
The classic cars going electric
Some owners are converting their vehicles into EVs. The idea is to boost the performance of these cars and make them ready for a green future. The process is not cheap - it requires specialists who can retain the vintage value of these cars while fitting them with a modern electric engine. Critics feel that such a transition takes away the emotional and engineering legacy of these vehicles. So we travel across the UK to find out about the challenges and the future of this niche business that is helping classic cars go electric. Produced and presented by Devina Gupta. (Image: 'Isetta', owned by Aleks Hughes which has been converted to electric. Credit: Richard Heeley, Bite the Hand)
Mon, November 13, 2023
How has war changed the lives of Ukraine’s working women?
The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 saw millions of Ukrainian women and children flee to safety; causing massive upheaval and hitting the economy hard. For the women who have stayed, their lives have been transformed; many have taken on new roles, like Tetiana, who is now working underground in a coal mine, and Evgeniya, who is now a sniper on the frontline. Others, like Alina Kacharovska, have managed to grow their businesses; in this case, shoes and accessories, or are stepping into leadership positions, like Yulia Burmistenko, in the crisis group at energy company D-Tek. In this edition of Business Daily, we also hear from Iryna Drobovych from the Ukrainian Women’s Congress, and Yuliya Sporysh, founder & CEO of NGO Divchata, on how the war could change things for gender equality in Ukraine. (Image: Tetyana Ustimenko, manager of underground installations at DTEK. Credit: DTEK) Presented and produced by Clare Williamson
Fri, November 10, 2023
Business Daily meets: Silvina Moschini
The Argentinian-American tech entrepreneur moved to the US in 1997 and carved out a career in the corporate world before breaking free and setting out on her own. In late 2020, the remote working company TransparentBusiness, which she co-founded 12 years earlier, achieved a $1bn valuation. Now she continues to push for gender and racial equality in the workplace, is an investor on the TV show Unicorn Hunters, and has also established a new asset-backed cryptocurrency. She explains her journey, the setbacks she’s faced along the way and opens up about what keeps her motivated. Presenter/producer: Sam Clack (Image: Silvina Moschini. Credit: Dasha Horita)
Thu, November 09, 2023
Last orders for the Irish pub?
Fears are growing for the future of the country's bars - especially in rural areas. In less than 20 years almost a quarter of Irish pubs have closed, many of them businesses which have been run by the same family for generations. R Russell Padmore travels across the Emerald Isle to hear how the closure of pubs is a setback for rural communities, but also a worry for the country’s tourism industry. We hear from owners of pubs in County Donegal, a beer brewing company and a hospitality sector expert in Dublin, and a tourism marketing advisor. Presenter: Russell Padmore (Image: A closed pub sign. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, November 08, 2023
Caste bias in corporate America
There is a growing debate in the US about the caste system - an ancient social ranking system where the community you are born into determines what kind of job you do, who you marry, and much more. The caste system in India dates back over 3,000 years and divides Hindu society into different social strata. In many South Asian countries, it is outlawed. But members of the South Asian diaspora in the US say this type of caste bias persists, and there is often very little protection at workplaces against it. For the community, opinions are divided. Seattle in Washington was the first city to ban discrimination based on caste. But the fight continues for activists in California, where a bill that sought to ban discrimination was vetoed in October. Opponents called it a "divisive bill" that "implicitly singles out" South Asians. In this edition of Business Daily, Devina Gupta speaks to workers who have experienced such discrimination, and explores some of the challenges for lawmakers seeking to ban it. (Image: A group from Equality Labs at a rally in September 2023, pushing for a law to ban caste discrimination. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Devina Gupta
Tue, November 07, 2023
The Chinese migrants trying to get into the US
We travel to South America to meet the Chinese migrants who are making their way to the United States using an unexpected route - the established migrant trail through South and Central America to the southern border with Mexico. Citing economic challenges at home - and using inspiration from social media - a growing number are making this perilous trek. Reporter Shawn Yuan travels along the route speaking to migrants about their journey and their aspirations for the future. Presenter: Shawn Yuan Producer: Shawn Yuan, with additional production from James Graham (Image: Chinese migrants wait to get inside a bus to continue their route to the US. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, November 06, 2023
Saudi Arabia's multi-billion dollar football powerhouse bet
The Saudi Pro League has attracted some of the top players from around the world - with transfer fees and salaries amounting to millions of dollars. We travel to Saudi Arabia to look at the country's ambitious plan to become a global football powerhouse - is it an economic move or simply sportswashing? With Saudi Arabia now it's looking set to be confirmed as the host of the World Cup in 2034, we look at its relationship with football. Presenter: Sameer Hashmi (Image: Saudi football club Al Hilal welcomes Brazilian football star Neymar with an introductory ceremony at King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on August 19, 2023. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, November 02, 2023
Business Daily meets: Babbel CEO Arne Schepker
Have you tried learning a language online? We explore the growth of language learning platforms with Babbel CEO Arne Schepker, and how the Covid pandemic lead to an increase in learning digitally. Mr Schepker explains how more international working and personal relationships has led to an increase in demand. And how smartphones and the internet have changed that age-old aspiration of gaining fluency in another language. Presenter: Dougal Shaw (Image: Arne Schepker. Credit: BBC)
Thu, November 02, 2023
Why is the French wine industry struggling?
The region of Bordeaux in the south-west of France is perhaps the most famous wine-producing area in the world. But it’s struggling. While the prestigious, most expensive wines – Saint-Émilions, Pomerols and Margaux are selling well, others are not. For the producers of the 850 million bottles of the region's famous red wine, it’s a difficult time due to a major decline in consumption. We look at the reasons for this, the impact it’s having, and what winemakers are doing to help protect their livelihoods. Presenter: John Laurenson (Image: A glass of red wine. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, November 01, 2023
The Crypto King and the journalist
Sam Bankman-Fried, the American crypto entrepreneur who went from billionaire to bankrupt, is on trial in New York for fraud. The 31-year-old who founded the cryptocurrency exchange FTX is accused of lying to investors and lenders. He has denied those charges, and instead says he was acting in good faith but made mistakes. He says he never set out to defraud anyone. In the coming days, 12 jurors will decide his fate - he could face a life sentence in prison if convicted. Vivienne Nunis speaks to financial journalist Michael Lewis, who spent hundreds of hours with Sam Bankman-Fried for his new book Going Infinite. Presenter: Vivienne Nunis (Image: Sam Bankman-Fried leaving a court hearing in June 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 31, 2023
Spook-onomics: the global boost of Halloween
Trick or treat and other traditions are now at the centre of a global multi-billion business. The ancient Celtic and Pagan festival, which started thousands of years ago in Ireland, was taken by emigrants to North America, where it was turned into a major annual event. The National Retail Federation in the US tells Russell Padmore how spending by consumers is forecast to be a record of more than $12bn. Jadrain Wooten, an economist at Virginia Tech, says the sales promotions for Halloween are getting earlier every year and lasting at least month. We hear about the economic benefits of Europe’s biggest Halloween Festival in Derry City in Northern Ireland and visit a pumpkin farm in the region. An Irish cultural historian, Manchán Magan, tells us about the roots of the festival, which used to be called Samhain and we find out how retailers in Australia are cashing in by selling costumes, pumpkins and other items as consumers enjoy the traditions of Halloween. Presenter: Russell Padmore (Image: Children trick or treating in the North East of England. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, October 30, 2023
The electric car race
Countries around the world are racing to achieve targets on the ban of new petrol and diesel cars - but they are hitting stumbling blocks, meaning some are pulling back on their commitments. Although global sales of electric cars are rising, some countries are struggling to persuade drivers to make the switch. Reasons given include insufficient or unsuitable charging points, and the price tag: criticism is often put to governments that the shift to electric cars is hardest for the least well off. In this edition of Business Daily, Rick Kelsey looks at one country which is well ahead of the rest: Norway. The country's aim is that all new car sales in 2025 will be of electric vehicles - a plan being supported by financial incentives and policy changes. He also speaks to business leaders in the car industry, including a man known as "the Godfather of EV", to find out what's needed if countries are to phase out internal combustion engines. (Picture: An electric car being charged. Credit: PA/John Walton) Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey
Thu, October 26, 2023
Elon Musk's X: The Twitter takeover a year on
After many months of news headlines about whether Elon Musk was going to buy Twitter, he eventually completed the purchase on 27 October 2022. Since then, the company’s been through some big changes; laying off most of its 8000 employees, a rebrand to ‘X’, and reinstating some previously banned accounts on the platform. Mr Musk describes himself a free speech absolutist and says he bought Twitter – now called X - to create a space where “a wide range of beliefs can be debated in a healthy manner.” However, the company’s faced criticism over lax content moderation, leading to advertisers halting ads on the service. He hopes to boost revenue by making the site a paid-for platform, setting himself some ambitious financial targets. In this episode, Sam Fenwick speaks to former employees, business owners and journalists to get a picture of what has happened at X since Elon Musk took over. (Picture: Elon Musk next to a logo for X - formerly known as Twitter. Credit: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images) Produced by Amber Mehmood and Hannah Mullane
Wed, October 25, 2023
Business Daily meets: Akinwumi Adesina
In 2015, Akinwumi Adesina was elected President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), and since then he's become a symbol of optimism across the continent. How did he become known as Africa's "optimist-in-chief"? In this edition of Business Daily, Dr Adesina tells Peter MacJob what has shaped him as an economist, his outlook for the continent and how Africa could determine the future of renewable energy and green minerals. He says the international financial architecture should be more inclusive and favourable towards African economies, and the global north should compensate the continent for the adverse impacts of climate change on Africa. (Picture: Dr Akinwunmi Adesina. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Peter MacJob
Mon, October 23, 2023
Short Stories: The amateur trader
Short selling has gone mainstream. Inspired by the noisy success of activist short sellers, amateur investors are now trying this highly risky strategy themselves. They’re aided by a slew of new trading apps making it possible to short a stock or currency in seconds. Peter Roscoe is a YouTube investing vlogger who’s experienced the highs and lows of short selling. We also hear from the UK boss of trading app E-Toro – who says shorting has exploded on the platform. Producer: Ciaran Tracey Presenter: Leanna Byrne
Mon, October 23, 2023
Short Stories: The CEO
What’s it like to be on the wrong side of a big short? Former CEO Paul Pittman's company was shorted by an anonymous short seller who made false allegations in order to drive its share price down - way down. This is the story of how Paul and his firm overcame the short attack that cost them millions: and why it’s not just big companies that stand to lose money from rogue shorters on the markets. Producer: Ciaran Tracey Presenter: Leanna Byrne
Sun, October 22, 2023
Short Stories: The activist short seller
Short selling – the trade where you hope a stock’s value will fall rather than rise. If it does, the trader can win. Big. That’s led to the growth of what’s called the activist short seller. A trader who comes out to tell the world why a company’s stock should be lower than it is. They’re betting on its failure. Carson Block from the firm Muddy Waters is one of the most prominent new short sellers – vocal on the news and social media, he explains why the companies he shorts are usually the ones with something to hide. Producer: Ciaran Tracey Presenter: Leanna Byrne
Thu, October 19, 2023
Business Daily meets: Andre Schwammlein
Andre Schwammlein once wanted to be a pilot – but ended up behind the wheel of a bus and train company instead. The chief executive and co-founder of Flix – the driving force behind Flixbus and Flixtrain - says he was never much of a traveller, but now leads a company that has changed the way millions of people cross countries and continents. In just 10 years, Flixbus has gone from German startup to global brand - even taking a piece of American heritage: Greyhound. In this edition of Business Daily, Theo Leggett finds out how the transport entrepreneur got started, the reasons behind the company’s success, and his plans for growth. (Picture: André Schwämmlein. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Theo Leggett
Wed, October 18, 2023
What makes a stadium special?
The development of new sports stadiums and facilities can bring regeneration to deprived areas. They hold a special place in the hearts of sports and live music fans. But have some of the new ones lost their spark? In this edition of Business Daily, Sam Fenwick asks, what gives a stadium its atmosphere and can it be designed in? Sam speaks to Christopher Lee, whose architecture practice, Populous, has designed 3000 arenas all over the world. He shares his experience of designing iconic grounds like the Yankee Stadium, Wembley Stadium, and Olympic stadiums in Sydney, London and Sochi. And we hear from BBC World Service listeners, who tell us what makes their favourite sports grounds so special. (Picture: Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Brayan Bello (66) throws a pitch against the Kansas City Royals in the third inning at Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts. Credit: David Butler II/USA TODAY Sports) Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick
Tue, October 17, 2023
Why is the US building electric car battery factories?
We’re in Kentucky, where an area which had long ago been abandoned as an industrial site is once again coming to life. US manufacturer Ascend Elements has chosen the site to build a factory for electric car batteries made from recycled ones - an industry previously almost entirely based in China. We explore the government incentives that have drawn the company to build here with US Climate Envoy John Kerry. And we hear from the local mining community which is hoping the new green manufacturing facility may provide much needed jobs. Presenter: Faisal Islam Producer: Priya Patel (Image: A worker at the factory building site in Kentucky. Credit: BBC)
Tue, October 17, 2023
Bottles or balsa: What should wind turbine blades be made from?
For years, balsa wood has been a key component in the giant rotor blades on the top of wind turbines. Most of it comes from the rain forests of South America and, in particular, from Ecuador. As the world transitions to green energy, lots of countries – particularly China – have been looking for more balsa to make blades. That pushed up prices, raised questions over sustainability and prompted some companies to look for alternatives to balsa wood. One alternative is PET, a foam made from recycled plastic bottles. So what should we be using to make the wind turbine blades of the future – biodegradable balsa wood or plastic foam made from old bottles? We talk to people on both sides of the debate and visit a wind farm in rural England to see the blades in action. (Picture: Crook Hill wind farm in Rochdale, north of England.) Presented and produced by Gideon Long
Mon, October 16, 2023
The impact of India's rice export ban
In an effort to insulate domestic prices, India has banned exports of non basmati white rice - its largest rice category. We ask what the impact of this is on large importing countries. A rice mill owner in Northern Nigeria tells us how the country is expanding its domestic rice production as a result of India’s curb, and we hear from a retailer in the UAE about the purchasing restriction it placed on customers as soon as the announcement was made. We look at whether other countries can meet the shortfall of rice in global supply and what this could mean for global food security. Presenter: Devina Gupta Producer: Amber Mehmood
Fri, October 13, 2023
Business Daily meets: Durreen Shahnaz
From Bangladesh to Wall Street and back again, the founder and CEO of Impact Investment Exchange talks to Devina Gupta. Durreen Shahnaz explains how her childhood in socialist Bangladesh and then move to a job on Wall Street in the 1980s shaped the person and businesswoman she is today. From trading stamps with her friends and buying pickles with the profit, she moved on to bigger trades at the heart of capitalism. What she learnt there set her up for a life dedicated to trying to make the financial system work for those most in need. Presenter: Devina Gupta Producer: Hannah Bewley (Image: Durreen Shahnaz. Credit: Durreen Shahnaz)
Thu, October 12, 2023
Dumb Money: Unpicking the GameStop saga
Shares in GameStop, the video game store, experienced a dramatic rise in early in 2021. The stock had captured the imagination of many individual investors who heard about it on social media platforms such as TikTok and Reddit. Some investors made a lot of money, while some hedge funds, who had bet against the stock, lost billions. Eventually, though, GameStop shares crashed back to earth and many investors lost the lot. The story has been dramatised by Hollywood in ‘Dumb Money’, currently screening in cinemas. Vivienne Nunis sits down with the film’s director Craig Gillespie and financial journalist Matt Levine to investigate what the GameStop saga teaches us about the power of social media when it comes to influencing the movements of the stock market. (Picture: Paul Dano as Keith Gill in 'Dumb Money'. Credit: Sony Pictures) Presented and produced by Vivienne Nunis
Wed, October 11, 2023
The rising price of fuel in Nigeria
In May this year, Nigerian president Bola Tinubu took office – and announced an end to fuel subsidies. He said the move would free up money for investment in public services and infrastructure projects, but it caused a spike in prices and, in some cases, triggered street protests. We explore the impact of removing the subsidy on residents and businesses, and the knock on-effect for neighbouring countries like Cameroon. Presenter/producer: Bisi Adebayo (Image: Members of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) holds a placard during a march in Abuja on August 2, 2023. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 10, 2023
Fire-proofing California’s wine industry
In 2020, Napa Valley experienced its most destructive wildfire ever. Vineyards burned, leaving not only direct damage, but more long lasting impact with wine affected by smoke taint. We hear how the perennial presence of wildfires means local businesses face a harsh reality of living with the risk of fire. Sophie Long visits wine makers who are using inflammable materials to build new wineries, changing growing techniques and using technology to deal with tainted wine. And she meets local residents learning firefighting techniques - all to keep smoke out of your wine glass and the billion dollar industry thriving. Presenter: Sophie Long Producer: Samantha Granville (Image: Burned grapes hang on a damaged vine at a vineyard as the Glass fire continues to burn in Calistoga, California on October 1, 2020. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, October 09, 2023
The Commonwealth Games in crisis?
The event is facing its biggest financing challenge in its 93-year history. There is no host city for the next edition in 2026, and the Commonwealth Games Federation is struggling to persuade other cities to host after that. We speak to academics who say the model of structuring and paying for the Games is broken. Some observers go further – saying the Games and the Commonwealth itself are relics of the British Empire and should be wound up. We also hear from athletes who have competed at the Games and highlight their importance for their respective sports and countries. And we look at one city that has hosted with relative success – within budget and with long-lasting benefits to civic infrastructure. Producer/Presenter: Gideon Long (Image: The closing ceremony of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, October 06, 2023
Fashion: Becoming a designer
We speak to Greek designer Dimitra Petsa - founder of Di Petsa - a brand which has been worn by celebrities around the world. She graduated from fashion school five years ago and since then has launched her own fashion brand. Very few make it in the fashion world - Dimitra explains how she did it from mentors and getting exposure to creating business plans and coming up with business strategies. Producer/presenter: Hannah Mullane (Picture: Models wearing Di Petsa clothing. Credit Di Petsa)
Thu, October 05, 2023
Fashion: Paying less for the wedding dress?
In the UK, brides spend an average of £1,400 on a dress for the big day. But inflation and the rising cost of living means that's starting to change. We look at the trend of spending less on wedding dresses - buying them ready-to-wear from a boutique in London, or even from a supermarket. And we're in India where some brides are starting to spend less - not always easy when spending lavishly on weddings is often the expectation. Produced and presented by Deborah Weitzmann with additional presenting from Devina Gupta. (Image: Ruth in her second hand wedding gown. Image credit: Greg Milner)
Wed, October 04, 2023
Fashion: Doing business in Paris
Paris is the most visited city in the world and one of the things it’s known for, is fashion. But what is it about the City of Light that makes it a popular destination for businesses? In this programme, Hannah Mullane speaks to a personal shopper, who relies on fashion tourists for her business, as well as fashion start-ups choosing to base themselves in Paris. Hannah also meets a stylist and fashion agent, who moved from Italy to Paris, to make the most of the opportunities that the fashion industry has to offer. Producer/presenter: Hannah Mullane (Picture: Two women holding shopping bags. Credit: Fabulous You Paris)
Tue, October 03, 2023
Fashion: Dupe culture
Duplicate products, or dupes, are flooding social media. Dupes are clothes, beauty products, homeware that are cheaper than the recognisable brand, but still look similar. We hear from shoppers and fashion experts about this growing trend and its impact on the market. And we speak to athleisure wear company Lululemon, who are trying to work out how to respond to the number of dupes of their products that are now on the market. Producer/presenter: Deborah Weitzmann (Image: Leggings on mannequins. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, October 02, 2023
Fashion: The rise of sports brands
Twenty-five years ago Puma became the first big sports brand to collaborate with a fashion house. Since then all of the big players have been collaborating with celebrities, sports stars and high fashion brands. Hannah Mullane speaks to Heiko Desens, the creative director at Puma about how these big collaborations work behind the scenes and what they mean for business, and fashion designer Alejandro Gómez Palomo explains how collaborating with a sports brand has elevated his business. Presenter/Producer: Hannah Mullane (Picture: Rihanna at the Puma fashion show. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, September 29, 2023
Is green methanol the future of shipping?
The shipping industry is looking for solutions to it's emissions problem. Shipping giant Maersk has just unveiled the world’s first container ship to run on green methanol - is this the answer? We hear from Maersk’s CEO about why they’ think this is the best bet. And we find out more about some of the different options in development, such as hydrogen and green ammonia, all vying to become the future fuel for the world's ships. Presenter/producer: Adrienne Murray (Image: Maersk's first green methanol container ship. Credit: Maersk)
Thu, September 28, 2023
Where next for China’s Belt and Road?
Xi Jinping announced a massive building project along the ‘New Silk Road’ to very little fanfare in Kazakhstan 10 years ago this month. Infrastructure including railways, roads and ports have been built in 165 countries to date, as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Billions of dollars has been lent to countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. Some are now struggling to afford the payments and China is reducing the amount being loaned. We look at what this means for Beijing’s finances and for countries with huge projects underway, but with no means of meeting the repayments. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Hannah Bewley Additional reporting: Michael Kaloki (Picture: Xi Jinping waits for a photo call at the China-Central Asia Summit in Xian, China in May 2023: Credit: Florence Lo/Reuters)
Wed, September 27, 2023
The industry that saved an animal from extinction
You may not be familiar with the vicuna, but in Peru, where it's the national animal, the smallest relative of the llama is revered - particularly for its fine and insulating coat. In this programme, Stefania Gozzer travels to the Peruvian Andes, to meet the animals that produce one of the most expensive wools in the world. Demand for their coveted fleece once led them near extinction, but now it has become the best tool to preserve them. Stefania visits Pampa Galeras, to talk to the scientists that work in the largest natural reserve created to protect vicunas. She learns how farming communities engage in the conservation of this species while making a profit, and hears why the business model that once saved vicunas is now at risk. Presented and produced by Stefania Gozzer (Image: A vicuna. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, September 26, 2023
The growth of tattoo removal
What used to be a fairly niche industry is now on the increase, with companies setting up removal clinics around the world. And no surprise – as more people get tattoos, more people night change their minds and want them removing. We meet the regretful clients and the companies cashing in, and also explore the world of cosmetic and medical tattooing. Presenter and producer: Elizabeth Hotson (Image: A laser tattoo removal. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, September 25, 2023
Meet the 'Finfluencers'
Where do you go to get financial advice? More and more people are turning to Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for money matters. David Harper meets the ‘Finfluencers’ – financial influencers entertaining and educating young people around the world, and bringing in big numbers in the process. Caleb Hammer is a YouTuber with over 600,000 subscribers who conducts financial audits on the forensic financial details of individuals in the hope of helping them to budget better. He also speaks to Hannah Rimm and Alexandra Koster, who run the Money Diaries feature at online magazine Refinery 29. They are deluged with submissions every week. And we hear from Sharan Hegde, from Bangalore in India. He has over 4 million subscribers on Instagram and YouTube combined. Presenter: David Harper Producer: Victoria Hastings
Fri, September 22, 2023
Business Daily meets the Queen of Biscuits
How do you make an artisan product at scale? We head to the UK factory of Biscuiteers, where millions of biscuits are hand-iced every year, from treats shaped like designer bags to edible versions of favourite cartoon characters. Harriet Hastings is the co-founder of the company - in this episode, she shares her business advice, explains why marketing is key and talks about running a business with her husband. Producer / presenter: Sam Everett (Image: A ballerina biscuit being iced. Credit: BBC)
Thu, September 21, 2023
Is India ready for Tesla?
It’s been a long wait for tech billionaire Elon Musk to push into India’s EV market. High import duties have kept Tesla out of India so far. Mr Musk has repeatedly sought to lower those duties, but the government wants the company to manufacture cars locally before considering tax breaks. Now there seems to be an agreement on the horizon. But is India’s EV ecosystem ready for it? Presenter/producer: Devina Gupta
Wed, September 20, 2023
The cost of migration: Europe's response
In the third and final programme of this series on the economics of irregular migration across the Mediterranean, the BBC’s Frey Lindsay sits down with two spokespeople from the European Commission to discuss how irregular crossings across the Mediterranean affect European States, and how the bloc is using its resources to attempt to stop them. Presenter: Frey Lindsay (Image: Italian coast guard vessels patrol alongside the SOS Méditerranée rescue ship The Ocean Viking, near the Italian port of Ravenna. Image credit: BBC)
Tue, September 19, 2023
The cost of migration: The rescue boats
In the second of three programmes, we’ll hear about the increasing running costs facing charities involved in running search-and-rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea. Inflated fuel prices, cost of living crises and political interference are all driving the costs of the operation up. So can the boats continue to operate? Presenter: Frey Lindsay (Photo: Search and rescue crew onboard the SOS Méditerranée rescue ship The Ocean Viking)
Mon, September 18, 2023
The cost of migration: The journey
In the first of three programmes, the BBC’s Frey Lindsay accompanies the charity rescue vessel the Ocean Viking to explore the myriad costs involved in irregular migration across the Mediterranean. Each year hundreds of thousands of people attempt the extremely dangerous crossing from Libya to Italy, paying smugglers thousands of dollars. We meet some of those people and find out how and why they're making the journey. Presenter/producer: Frey Lindsay (Picture: Rescuees huddle onboard the SOS Méditerranée rescue ship The Ocean Viking. Credit: BBC)
Fri, September 15, 2023
Business Daily meets: Mohit Lad
From losing his job in the 2008 financial crash, to a billion dollar idea. We speak to Mohit Lad, who teamed up with his old college friend Ricardo to trawl through the trash cans of shuttered businesses in Silicon Valley to get the first server for their tech start-up, ThousandEyes. A combination of grit, determination and a shortage of ready cash saw them think outside the box for solutions to grow the business and get customers. Twelve years later, the company described as the 'Google Maps' of the internet is now part of Cisco and is still going strong today. Listen to the full story behind the business and learn about Mohit's vision for a connected world. Presented and produced by Sam Clack. (Image: Mohit Lad speaks during a keynote address on June 07, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, September 14, 2023
Syria's broken economy
We hear from people protesting in the government-controlled city of Sweida. Criticism of President Bashar al-Assad has been growing in Sweida since demonstrations began in mid-August over the removal of fuel subsidies. It's the latest measure that has put a strain on people suffering from an economic meltdown. A resident and activist tells us what life is like for him living in the city, plus we hear from a Syrian economist, and a form adviser to President al_Assad now based in the US. Presenter: Ed Butler (Image: People protest in the Syria's southern city of Sweida on September 1, 2023. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, September 13, 2023
K-Pop: Going green?
K-Pop, short for Korean Popular music, has become a global phenomenon with millions of fans worldwide. It’s a multi-billion dollar industry with 80 million units of physical albums sold in 2022. But a huge chunk of it goes straight to landfill. Why are the fans buying so many albums just to throw them away? We hear from fans, artists and tech companies who are trying to make the industry greener. Presenter: David Cann (Picture: Victon; Credit: IST Entertainment)
Tue, September 12, 2023
Business Daily meets: Desmond Shum
We meet the Chinese property tycoon and multi-millionaire who, along with his then-wife, once moved in the highest echelons of power in Beijing. But the couple fell foul of the Chinese government during Xi Jinping’s inexorable rise to power and in 2017 Desmond’s ex-wife was abducted – he says by the Chinese state. She vanished for two years and even now is restricted in her movements, although she’s never been charged with any crime. Mr Shum now lives in the UK, from where he gave us his extraordinary account of business life at the highest level in China. And he tells us why he thinks the current Chinese economy is rotten to the core. Presenter: Ed Butler (Image: Desmond Shum. Credit: Desmond Shum)
Sun, September 10, 2023
Guyana: The world’s fastest-growing economy
The former British colony in South America boasts the world’s fastest-growing economy at the moment – it expanded by 62 per cent last year, according to the International Monetary Fund. The reason is oil. Since 2015, US oil major Exxon and its partners have made a series of massive discoveries in Guyanese waters, catapulting the country into the world’s top 20 in terms of reserves. That’s bringing billions of dollars into the economy but also challenges: how can Guyana avoid the ‘resource curse’ - the mismanagement and corruption that have afflicted other commodity-rich nations? How can it exploit the oil bonanza with a population of less than a million people? And has the oil come too late anyway – just as the world move away from fossil fuels? We talk to the country’s president Irfaan Ali. Presenter and producer: Gideon Long (Image: President Irfaan Ali. Credit: Keon Blades/ Office of the President Guyana)
Fri, September 08, 2023
Business and Science: Communicating science
Science is all around us but a lot of it can be difficult to understand. Gareth Mitchell speaks to people building careers around helping make science understandable to the general public. We speak to a YouTuber making music about science, a science festival organiser and a science communication consultant who works with different businesses to make science more engaging and easy to access. Producer: Hannah Mullane Presenter: Gareth Mitchell (Image: Ellie Mackay at work. Credit: Ellie Mackay)
Thu, September 07, 2023
Business and science: Quantum computing around the world
It's a rapidly emerging technology that has the potential to solve problems at an incredible pace. At the moment its uses are limited but that hasn’t stopped investment rolling into the sector and businesses from making money as the technology develops around the world. Gareth Mitchell speaks to three different quantum businesses to discuss its viability and its risk. Presenter: Gareth Mitchell Producer: Hannah Mullane (Image: Quantum entanglement. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, September 06, 2023
Business and science: What is quantum computing?
We travel to a facility in the south of England to see one of the super-fast computers in action. We’ll find out what quantum computing has the potential to do, what its going to take to make that a reality and importantly whether quantum businesses are making any money... Presenter: Gareth Mitchell Producer: Hannah Mullane (Image: A quantum computer. Credit: Oxford Quantum Circuits)
Tue, September 05, 2023
Business and science: How risky is SynBio?
For all the exciting developments in the synthetic biology industry, there are also concerns. People can edit genes in their garages these days, so who’s regulating this space? Plus - we’ll hear about the exciting new business models with biology at their core, including one of the first synbio businesses to trade as a public stock - Ginkgo Bioworks. Presenter: Gareth Mitchell Producer: Izzy Greenfield (Image: A petri dish in a lab. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, September 04, 2023
Business and science: What you need to know about SynBio
In this week’s series focusing on business and science, we start things off by looking at the world of synthetic biology. The industry is estimated to be worth around $30bn in the next few years, but how is that money actually made? We speak to businesses across the world to find out how they’ve taken the building blocks of synthetic biology and engineered them into products that we use on a daily basis. Presenter: Gareth Mitchell Producer: Izzy Greenfield (Image: A scientist working with lab grown meat. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, September 01, 2023
Cutting waste in the beauty industry
Many of us have drawers and boxes full of beauty products that we never end up finishing. We meet the Nordic start-ups who are trying to cut some of that waste by changing the way we shop. We find out about tech which personalises products, and then makes it 'on demand' rather than in bulk. And will the use of AI actually end up encouraging people to buy more, rather than less? Presented and produced by Maddy Savage (Image: A scientist at Swedish tech start-up Ellure. Credit: BBC)
Thu, August 31, 2023
The row over Uruguay's pulp mills
Does the paper industry use too much water? As concern about plastic waste grows, many companies have switched from plastic packaging to paper, but how environmentally friendly is paper production? Uruguay, in South America, has been suffering from drought and its forestry and pulp milling industries are coming under increasing scrutiny for the amount of water used. We’ve been to an enormous new pulp mill in central Uruguay, capable of producing more than two million tonnes of pulp every year, to find out more. Producer / presenter: Grace Livingstone (Image: Water protests in Uruguay; Credit: BBC)
Wed, August 30, 2023
The importance of sleep
How does sleep relate to your job, your income, or your socio-economic status? We look at the impact of a good, and bad night’s rest. We discuss the factors affecting sleep, including access to health care, where and how you live, and how that might influence other aspects of your life. Plus we look at the growing market in devices to ‘cure’ sleep problems. Producer and presenter: Elizabeth Hotson (Image: A man in bed in a deep sleep. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, August 29, 2023
The UNESCO effect
Delegates will soon descend on Saudi Arabia for perhaps the most consequential meeting in UNESCO’s history. With an extended agenda after last year’s cancellation, it’s the first World Heritage Committee meeting to be held in-person for four years. In this episode we examine the so-called ‘UNESCO effect’ - and hear from entrepreneurs around Angkor Wat, in Cambodia, about the mixed consequences of its listing. We also hear from officials in Liverpool, in England, about UNESCO's decision to remove World Heritage status from the city's historic centre and docklands. Presenter / producer: Laura Heighton-Ginns Image: Angkor Wat; Credit: Getty Images
Mon, August 28, 2023
Ireland's data centre boom
These tech powerhouses bring in money and jobs but can be environmentally problematic and in Ireland data centres account for almost a fifth of the electricity consumption. We explore how Ireland can keep hold of this valuable industry and make sure it's energy supply isn't affected. Producer / presenter: Leanna Byrne (Image: Data centre; Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, August 25, 2023
Swiftonomics
Taylor Swift's Eras tour is predicted to make a record $1 billion - but how? As countries around the world grapple with high inflation, how has Taylor Swift been able to persuade fans to spend money? Olivia Wilson speaks to Brittany Hodak, author of Creating Superfans, to understand the role Swiftomania has played in her commercial and financial success. Tyler Morse is the CEO of MCR, the third largest hotel owner-operator in the United States. He explains how Taylor Swift’s concerts have had a significant impact on the local economies of the cities she has toured in – including some of his hotels in Phoenix, Arizona. Presented and produced by Olivia Wilson. (Image: Taylor Swift performing in Seattle. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, August 24, 2023
The end of the office?
Many of us started working from home in the coronavirus pandemic - and never went back. Now, office space in many cities around the world is standing empty. We visit Mumbai, New York and London, where an increase in home working means buildings in business districts standing empty. And Singapore, which seems to be bucking the trend, with demand as high as ever. We also hear from the CEO of US-based commercial real estate company Remax - are we witnessing the end of the traditional office? Produced and presented by Alex Bell.
Wed, August 23, 2023
The return of the wine cork
The humble wine cork, once the main way to stop a bottle of wine, had its market share decimated in the 1990’s when screw caps were favoured. However, the problem of 'corked' wine has been almost completely solved and cork is recognised as a more sustainable, if slightly less convenient material for wine makers to use. In this episode we visit the world’s largest cork producing region in Portugal to find out more about how the cork industry has hit the good times once again. We explore which wines taste better with cork and how supermarkets are cutting down on wine packaging. Presenter / producer: Rick Kelsey Additional reporting: Alastair Leithead Image: Cork production; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, August 22, 2023
What should I eat on a night shift?
Working irregular hours, including overnight, means meal times can be disrupted. So what impact does this have on the body and overall health? We hear from workers in Mumbai and Lagos about their experiences, plus get advice from a dietician about what and when you should be eating. Produced and presented by Marie Keyworth. (Image: Workers in a construction camp cutting metal at night. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, August 21, 2023
Is Bangladesh ready for digital only banks?
The government in Bangladesh is trying to modernise its economy and has announced a policy to create digital only banks. The idea is to move away from traditional bricks and mortar banks and provide more financial services to people in remote areas. For fintech companies that operate digital wallets – this is a gamechanger. However, many people in the country don’t have access to smartphones or the internet, so how will these banks work for them and for Bangladesh’s economy? Presenter / producer: Devina Gupta Image: Money exchange; Credit: Getty Images
Fri, August 18, 2023
Picture perfect cakes and cafes
Dive into a world of amazing cakes and cafes, where look and taste combine in the hope of tempting customers to part with their cash for sweet treats. Explore how our tastes and habits are changing when it comes to buying and eating cakes and puddings – and find out why social media is now crucial to the baking and dessert café industry. Presenter / producer: Emb Hashmi Image: Forever Rose cafe; Credit: Ebraheem Al Samadi
Thu, August 17, 2023
Giving cash directly - the future of aid?
What’s the best way to help people in need? In the past, humanitarian aid has focused on providing shelter and food, but there’s a growing move towards direct cash payments. We'll take you to Syria, Egypt and Kenya to find out how it works and why it's being embraced. We speak to Rory Stewart, president of the US charity Give Directly, which is based entirely on direct cash payments. And hear from two women who’ve used some of that money to develop their own small businesses in Kenya. Elias Abu Ata explains how the International Rescue Committee used cash in the wake of the earthquake in Syria earlier this year, and Rasha Batarseh, UNHCR cash programme officer for Egypt tells us how it’s being used to help refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan. Finally, is cash assistance more vulnerable to fraud? Oliver May, former head of counter fraud at Oxfam, gives his view. Producer/presenter James Graham Additional production support from Chrystal Onkeo (Image: Rory Stewart from Give Directly visiting a project in Malawi. Credit: Give Directly.)
Wed, August 16, 2023
Business daily meets: Ida Tin
Ida Tin coined the term Femtech after she founded the period tracking app, Clue, which has since been downloaded more than 100 million times. We hear how she managed to turn her idea into a business, how she went about funding it over her 10 year stint as CEO and how she sees it evolving as technology becomes more advanced. Producer/Presenter: Hannah Mullane Photo: Ida Tin Credit: Ida Tin
Tue, August 15, 2023
China's rising youth unemployment: Part 2
The country is not just facing record-high levels of youth unemployment - more than 20% of 16-24 year olds in urban areas at the latest count. It is also facing growing discontent among many young people about the type of work they can find, often involving long hours, no overtime pay, and insecure contracts. It is prompting some to opt out of the rat race altogether. And many experts think the current problems aren't just prompted by the global slowdown. They're structural. Even the government's economic advisors think it may be time for a new economic plan if China is to avoid years of stagnation. That change could slow and painful though. Will Xi Jinping and the country's other Communist Party leaders go for it? Produced and presented by Ed Butler. (Image: College students choose jobs at a job fair for 2023 graduates in Huai 'an City, East China's Jiangsu Province. 01/07/23. Photo credit: CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Image)
Mon, August 14, 2023
China's rising youth unemployment: Part 1
Is trouble brewing for the world’s second largest economy? China’s exports are down, the property market’s creaking, and millions of young people - more than one in five - are officially classed as unemployed. It's not just the lack of jobs, it's the quality of employment that's now on offer - much of it informal in sectors like hospitality or food delivery. In the first of two programmes assessing the economic challenges, Ed Butler asks, what's gone wrong? Produced and presented by Ed Butler. (Image: A job-seeker look for employment at a job fair for college graduates in Nanjing in east China's Jiangsu province in Feb 2023. Credit: ZHONG NAN / Feature China/Future Publishing via Getty Images)
Fri, August 11, 2023
Business Daily meets: The rum distillers
Paul and Jacine Rutasikwa tell us how they turned a side hustle into a full-time business. In 2017 they moved their family from London to Scotland to set up their distillery, creating an African-Scottish business. Presenter/producer Dougal Shaw. (Image: Paul and Jacine Rutasikwa. Credit: BBC)
Thu, August 10, 2023
Business Daily meets: Mattel's CEO
Ynon Kreiz explains how they transformed Barbie, the well-loved and sometimes controversial doll, into a movie. The boss of one of the world's biggest toy companies also talks about the need to bring more diversity into the Barbie brand, and expand products beyond the toy aisles. Presenter/producer: Dougal Shaw (Image: Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken in a still from the movie. Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)
Wed, August 09, 2023
Business Daily meets: Sir Robin Millar
We meet one of the UKs most successful record producers, who was behind hits such as Smooth Operator. He talks to Dougal Shaw about his career so far, his record label, and the future of music. Sir Robin Millar is blind - his sight had totally gone by his mid-thirties - and he talks about the impact that has had on him. And he talks about AI in music. Producer/presenter: Dougal Shaw
Tue, August 08, 2023
Business Daily meets: Kelly Hoppen
We meet one of the world's leading interior designers. Kelly Hoppen finds design solutions for celebrities including the Beckhams, but also works with luxury brands and businesses too. And she is enthusiastic about people achieving good design on a budget. She talks about growing up in South Africa, and explains how music inspires her work. Producer/presenter Dougal Shaw. (Image: Kelly Hoppen. Credit: BBC)
Mon, August 07, 2023
Business Daily meets: The founders of Seatfrog
Iain Griffin and Dirk Stewart formed their company after a mutual need for more leg room inspired a brainwave. They created the Seatfrog app for train travel, which is disrupting the industry. Dougal Shaw meets them (on a train), and finds out why their business changed from air travel to trains, and moved from Sydney to London. Presenter/producer: Dougal Shaw (Image: Iain Griffin and Dirk Stewart. Credit: BBC)
Fri, August 04, 2023
The price for Mexican heritage
We look into Mexico’s drive to get historical artefacts returned. Find out more about a famous quetzal feather crown believed to have been worn by the great Aztec emperor Moctezuma, it is currently in Austria and we hear from those who want to keep it there, and those campaigning for its return. Presenter / producer: Beth Timmins Image: Moctezuma's headdress; Getty Images
Thu, August 03, 2023
Rebuilding Turkey after the earthquake
On Sunday 6 August 2023 it will be six months since the devastating event which killed more than 50,000 people, injured tens of thousands more, and left hundreds of thousands of people homeless. For Business Daily, Victoria Craig travels to the worst affected region of Hatay. When President Erdoğan visited the disaster area back in February, he vowed to rebuild within a year, so can he keep that promise? Victoria speaks to residents who are still waiting to hear about permanent homes. And we ask whether new homes will be safe enough to survive another natural disaster? Presenter: Victoria Craig Producer: Gonca Tokyol (Image: Reconstruction in Hatay)
Wed, August 02, 2023
Is it possible to grow food on the Moon?
Space agencies and billionaire investors plan to have people living on the Moon or Mars. But those lunar and martian residents will have to grow their own food to survive. Find out how biologists from Florida, Norway and the Netherlands are experimenting to grow crops in regolith, the kind of soil found on the Moon and Mars. It could be very profitable enterprise. Presenter / producer: Russell Padmore Image: Moon and crops; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, August 01, 2023
Working at altitude
From Tibet to the Andes to the highlands of Ethiopia, around 150 million people around the world work at high altitude. Many were born there, but in a globalized world of mass migration, many weren’t, and are toiling in environments that their bodies maybe aren’t accustomed to. What does that mean for their health and for the companies that employ them? We go to a high altitude copper mine in the Chilean Andes and talk to doctors about the potential risks of working on top of the world. Producer / presenter: Gideon Long (Image: A mine high in the Andes. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, July 31, 2023
Is France leading the way on nuclear?
The country produces 70% of it's electricity this way - and is the global leader. It's aiming to prolong the lifespan of its 56 existing nuclear reactors – and construct additional ones. President Macron is calling it "the nuclear renaissance" of France. However some people still have concerns over the safety measures in place. So how much sense does France's nuclear strategy make, economically speaking? Produced and presented by Lisa Louis. Image:
Fri, July 28, 2023
European Para Championships: A new sporting event
What does it take to host a brand new multi-sport competition? We're in Rotterdam which is hosting the inaugural European Para Championships 2023. It's hoped that holding events at the same time will raise the profile of para sports - and be more cost effective. What does it take to get a fresh idea like this off the ground? Producer/Presenter: Matthew Kenyon (Image: Archer Roy Klaassen aiming his bow. Credit: European Para Championships / Rutger Pauw)
Thu, July 27, 2023
Business daily meets: Janelle Jones
Janelle Jones is currently the chief economist of one of the biggest union movements in America and before that she worked in White House. Janelle was the first black woman to serve as chief economist in the Labor department. She tells us about her time there, how she got into economics and what keeps her grounded. Presenter: Devina Gupta Production: Sam Clack and Carmel O'Grady Image:
Wed, July 26, 2023
The chocolate village
Peter MacJob visits Eti-Oni village in south-west Nigeria, home to the oldest cocoa plantation in the country. It's king, HRH Oba Dokun Thompson, is on a mission to transform the economy of the community by manufacturing chocolates and selling in some of the finest shops across Europe. Over 90% of Eti-Oni's inhabitants are cocoa farmers and although the cocoa industry is worth almost $130bn a year the money does not flow back to cocoa farmers. To try and change this King Thompson has partnered with Beech's fine chocolate in Preston in the north-west of England. Presenter / producer: Peter MacJob Image: HRH Oba Dokun Thompson; Credit: HRH Oba Dokun Thompson
Tue, July 25, 2023
The new Panama Canal?
The Bioceanic Highway, aims to link Chile's Pacific coast with Brazil's Atlantic coastline. We’re in landlocked Paraguay to find out how one of the world’s biggest infrastructure projects, could change how people there do business, especially the Mennonites, a powerful, religious farming community who live directly in the new highways' path. Presenter / producer: Jane Chambers Image: Bioceanic highway in Paraguay; Credit: Bob Howard
Mon, July 24, 2023
Is Georgia benefitting from Russian money?
Georgia has seen huge economic growth but is there a cost to doing business with Russia? Tens of thousands of Russians moved to the small South Caucasus nation since the war began and they brought along their money and their ideas. In this programme we hear from some of those who have made the move and set up homes and businesses in Georgia. We'll also hear what Georgians, who fought their own war with Russia in 2008, make of the huge growth in trade and economic relations between the two countries. Presenter / producer: Rayhan Demytrie Image: Anti-Russian protests in Georgia; Credit: BBC
Fri, July 21, 2023
Women's football: Life after retirement
Remember Brandi Chastain? She scored the winning goal in the 1999 Women's World Cup final. She celebrated the goal by whipping off her shirt and swinging it round her head. The image of Brandi in a sports bra was on the cover of newspapers around the world. Now she’s joined forces with former team mates Leslie Osborne, Aly Wagner and Danielle Slaton to create a team, Bay FC, which will play in the US National Women’s Soccer League in 2024. They’re part of a growing trend in women’s football of players who are willing to invest money earned while playing the game back to help the next generation of players. We also hear from former England player Karen Carney who is helping retired footballers find a career in business. Presenter / producer: Sam Fenwick (Image: Brandi Chastain, Aly Wagner, Leslie Osborne and Danielle Slaton launch Bay Area Football Club. Credit: Bay FC)
Thu, July 20, 2023
Women’s football boots: A bad fit?
Questions are being asked about the footwear that is currently on offer to women and girls. Men and women's feet are very different, so why have large sports companies only just started to do research into women’s football boots? And is this why more high-profile players are succumbing to injury? Olivia Wilson speaks to Laura Youngson, the co-Founder of Ida Sports, one of the only companies that designs and produces female-specific football boots. And Hyde United Women’s football club in the North West of England share what they’re looking for when it comes to buying football boots. Presenter/producer: Olivia Wilson (Photo: Woman about to kick ball. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, July 19, 2023
Women's football in South America
South America is football crazy, but its women’s teams have never enjoyed the same success as the men’s. Brazil have never won the Women’s World Cup. Argentina have never even won a match at the tournament. Why is that? A lack of investment, TV revenue and sponsors, or deep-seated cultural issues and prejudices? We look at the poor state of finances in the South American women’s game, and hear from women who are trying to change attitudes. They say that if broadcasters and potential sponsors don’t take women’s football seriously, they’re not only ignoring half the people on the continent – they’re missing out on a great business opportunity. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Gideon Long Image: Brazil goalkeeper Barbara after being knocked out of the 2019 Women's World Cup (Credit: Zhizhao Wu/Getty Images)
Tue, July 18, 2023
Australia and New Zealand: The perfect sporting hosts?
As the countries prepare to host the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup for the first time, we find out why they were chosen, and what the legacy of the games will be for them. We take a look at the hospitality sector, including a café owner in New Zealand, who are hoping for a big boost from overseas visitors. How will they make the most of the opportunity, and cope with the influx of people coming into the town. And we hear from an architect about the new training ground that the Australian women's football team, The Matilda's, will call home. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Barbara George (Photo: Sydney Olympic Stadium. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, July 17, 2023
Is women’s football a good investment?
Ahead of the 2023 Women's World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, we look at the business case for growing the sport. Investment in women's football is increasing, in line with greater confidence in its popularity, and higher expectations from players and fans. We ask where the commercial opportunities lie, how much money is coming into the game, and what does the future hold at such a pivotal moment? Presenter and producer: Sam Fenwick (Image: The USA team celebrating winning the 2019 Women's World Cup. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, July 14, 2023
Business Daily Meets: Gary Neville
The eight-time Premier League winner on his successes and failures in business. Gary Neville tells us why building companies in his home city of Manchester matters to him and explains what level of investment he'd like to see at his former club Manchester United. Presenter: Sean Farrington Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image: Gary Neville; Credit: BBC
Thu, July 13, 2023
Spanish election: How will young people vote?
Youth unemployment in Spain is still very high, with 29.3% of working people under 25 out of work. Ahead of the snap General Election which will take place on Sunday 23 July, we speak to new voters and voters in their twenties who are just starting out in their careers. What policies appeal to them, how do they feel about an increasing right-wing presence, and what do they think of politicians using social media and podcasts to try and win their support? We’ll also hear from a young entrepreneur who is looking to see what advantages they can get from a potential change of government. Produced and presented by: Ashish Sharma Image:
Wed, July 12, 2023
The celebrities investing in alcohol brands
We're in Hollywood, where a rising number of stars are putting their names on wine and liquor products. Is it a sensible investment? Or is the market reaching saturation point? Reporter KJ Matthews speaks to Bethenny Frankel, businesswoman, philanthropist and star of The Real Housewives of New York. She launched a pre-packaged margarita line, named Skinnygirl Margarita, in 2009. Plus we explore the potential of the growing non-alcoholic market for celebrities. Presenter: KJ Matthews Producers: KJ Matthews and Helen Thomas (Image: Bethenny Frankel giving a demonstration 2014. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, July 11, 2023
Turkey: Fixing a broken economy
A month on from the election in Turkey President Erdogan has promised to fix the economy. In this programme we find out more about Mehmet Simsek, the new finance minister, who says he'll return Turkey to rational economics and reduce inflation. We also hear from those running businesses in Turkey about what they need to stay afloat. Presenter / producer: Victoria Craig Image: Lira in a cash register; Credit: BBC
Mon, July 10, 2023
AI: Looking to the future
It’s been claimed artificial intelligence will be as revolutionary as mobile phones or the internet, but there are fears that developments in AI could come at the cost of jobs. We assess the pros and cons of this rapidly-evolving technology, with insight from Marc Raibert, Executive Director of the Boston Dynamics AI Institute. We also consider the impact of generative AI on the arts, with Matt Bellamy from British rock band Muse teasing a potential future collaboration with a humanoid robot. Presented and produced by Sam Clack. Image: Ameca robot at the International Conference on Robotics and Automation, London. Credit: Sam Clack / BBC
Fri, July 07, 2023
Investing in Africa: Who benefits?
How are loans and grants distributed? And how high are the returns? According to the IMF, Africa’s growth prospect will be amongst the highest in the world and sectors such as fintech and telecoms are the drivers of the current economic growth, offering huge investment opportunities for foreign businesses. Peter MacJob speaks to Faith Adesemowo, CEO of Social Lender, a company which helps individuals build credit ratings through their social status. Presenter: Peter MacJob Productions: Peter MacJob and Barbara George Image: Social Lender / Credit: Social Lender
Thu, July 06, 2023
Investing in Africa: US and AGOA
The African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, gives duty-free access for exports to the American market, and has done for 23 years. South Africa is one of the countries that has benefitted – but now its inclusion in doubt due to allegations from the US that it has violated its neutrality and supplied weapons to Russia - something South Africa denies. So what would being pushed out of AGOA mean for the country? Plus we hear from Ethiopia – it has been suspended from AGOA due to the the war in Tigray - we hear from an economist in Addis Ababa who disputes the benefits of these trade agreements to Africa. Presented by Ahmed Adan with reporting by Russell Padmore. (Image: An Ivory Coast stand at the 2019 AGOA forum, showcasing products on the market. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, July 05, 2023
Investing in Africa: Media
We look into the growth of foreign investment in Africa’s media space. Africa is generating a huge amount of localized content as international streaming platforms and global media organisations battle to gain a foothold in the market. We find out what’s driving the interest and whether it’s working. Producer / presenter: Bisi Adebayo Image: Reporters in Nairobi; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, July 04, 2023
Investing in Africa: Russia and the CAR
For almost a decade, the Central African Republic has seen growing investment and influence from the Russian mercenary group Wagner. It stretches from education and religion to business and military. The recent mutiny has led to speculation about what the future of Russia's status in the CAR will be. We explore Russia’s role in the CAR, and ask what it means for that country, the continent of Africa and the wider world? Produced and presented by Peter MacJob, additional production from Zigoto Tchaya Tchameni. (Image: A demonstrator holds a Russian flag during a march in support of Russia and China's presence in the Central African Republic. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, July 03, 2023
Investing in Africa: What needs to change?
Large parts of sub-Saharan Africa are facing dire economic circumstances. The World Bank says more than one in three countries are either in severe financial distress, or are close to default. What’s gone wrong? In the first of a week of programmes, Ed Butler taking the pulse of investment in Africa and looking at ways the situation needs to change. Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Mine in Guinea; Credit: BBC
Fri, June 30, 2023
Uorfi Javed: India's most controversial influencer
Uorfi Javed is one of the most searched for social media stars in Asia, but despite huge fame and popularity she says she struggles to get work as big brands refuse to sign her. Uorfi Javed started out as a TV actress and became famous after wearing a dress made out of bin bags while in the Big Brother house. In this interview she tells us why she continues to dress however she likes despite criticism, how she works with paparazzi photographers to boost her profile and how much money she makes from her huge social media accounts. Presenter / producer: Devina Gupta Image: Uorfi Javed; Credit: Leh Studios
Thu, June 29, 2023
Do you like a noisy or quiet workplace?
Many companies are urging staff to return to the office instead of working remotely, but noise levels are rising in workplaces, which can cause stress and undermine productivity. This means offices are now being built or redesigned to control noise, Russell Padmore visits one in Ireland. Producer / presenter: Russell Padmore Image: Office space; Credit: Getty images
Wed, June 28, 2023
Why big projects go wrong
From the Sydney Opera House to a basic kitchen renovation there are thousands of examples of construction projects large and small which go horribly over budget. Professor Bent Flyvbjerg has compiled a database of 16,000 projects, and by his reckoning only 8.5% them meet their initial estimates of cost and time. He talks to Sam Fenwick about his new book, “How Big Things Get Done”. Presenter / producer: Sam Fenwick Image: Sydney opera house; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, June 27, 2023
La Palma: Rebuilding after a volcano
In September 2021, a volcano erupted on the Spanish Canary Island. It lasted nearly three months. Red hot lava spilled out and destroyed homes, businesses and everything in its path before reaching the sea 10 days later. It split the island in half. Eighteen months on, we travel back to La Palma to see how the islanders are rebuilding their livelihoods and infrastructure. Presented and produced by Ashish Sharma. (Image:Karin Bansberg watering plants outside her temporary wooden home. Credit: BBC)
Mon, June 26, 2023
Deep sea mining
The rush to extract battery metals from the bottom of the ocean and what that could cost financially and environmentally. Michelle Fleury sees a specialist mining robot in action and hears the arguments for and against deep sea mining. Presenter / producer: Michelle Fleury Image
Fri, June 23, 2023
Paris Air Show: The future of aviation
We’re at the Paris Air Show - a huge gathering of the biggest names in the global aerospace industry. We will hear about the latest innovations in hypersonic passenger planes and how the sector can address environmental concerns. Plus we speak to the defence sector about the latest developments in AI. Presenter: Theo Leggett Producer: Hannah Mullane (Image: People queuing to see an aircraft at the Paris Air Show. Credit: Reuters)
Thu, June 22, 2023
Business Daily meets: Iñaki Ereño
The CEO of the international private healthcare firm Bupa started the role in January 2021, right in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic. He speaks to Dougal Shaw about the challenges the company faced, and about lessons learnt for the future. Plus we find out how routine helps to keep Mr Ereño grounded. Produced and presented by Dougal Shaw., Image: Iñaki Ereño. Credit: BBC)
Wed, June 21, 2023
Tackling India's heatwaves
Every year, India faces blistering heatwaves. In many parts of the country the temperatures are soaring, making it difficult for people to go about their daily lives. It’s the poor who are the most affected. They live in congested slums and have to step out in the heat to earn money. We explore what is being done, and what more could be done, to help them. Presenter / producer: Davina Gupta Image: Woman in Chennai; Credit: EPA/Idrees Mohammed
Tue, June 20, 2023
Portugal’s digital nomads
Portugal has welcomed thousands of high value, short stay workers with an attractive new visa. They’re the so called Digital Nomads, who can live and work where they please - but the locals say they’re skewing the economy, we find out why. Producer / presenter: Ciaran Tracey Image: Flexible working: Credit: PA
Mon, June 19, 2023
The rising popularity of surrogacy in Georgia
The small Caucasian country, which borders Russia, has experienced increased demand for surrogates after the war in Ukraine meant that Russia and Ukraine were no longer options for couples wanting a baby. Those countries used to be international hubs for surrogacy - when a woman carries a pregnancy for another couple or individual. In Georgia, commercial surrogacy is legal, and regulations are extremely liberal. Affordable prices make Georgia an even more attractive alternative. We hear from clinics who say they are struggling to keep up with demand, plus from a surrogate mother who says it has been life-changing for her financially. Producer and presenter: Khatia Shamanauri (Image: A pregnant woman looking at her phone. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, June 16, 2023
Tourism: Emily in Paris
How TV series, films and social media can impact the travel industry. We are in Paris to explore how the Netflix show Emily in Paris has changed tourism in the city. We also hear from a tour guide in New Zealand who changed his business when the Lord of the Rings film series became more popular. Presenter / producer: Nina Pasquini Image: Paris; Credit: BBC
Thu, June 15, 2023
Tourism: Speciality cruises
How special interest cruises for fans of music, yoga and sci-fi are revamping the industry. Deborah Weitzmann goes on a blues cruise to find out how the speciality cruise industry works and why it's growing in popularity. She also heads off the ship to find out what happens to on-shore businesses when all the entertainment is on the ship. Presenter / producer: Deborah Weitzmann Image: Legendary Rhythm and blues cruise; Credit: BBC
Wed, June 14, 2023
Tourism: The economics of the all inclusive
The number of all inclusive resorts is growing but do they help local businesses? All-inclusive holidays now make up more than half of all package holiday sales in the UK for the first time, and across Europe and North America the amount of resorts available is growing. Rick Kelsey explores whether these resorts are good for local economies and communities. Presenter / producer: Rick Kelsey Images: Sun loungers; Credit: BBC
Tue, June 13, 2023
Tourism: Africa bouncing back
Why African tourists are key to helping the travel sector recover post-pandemic. We hear from businesses in Gambia, Tanzania and Zambia to explore how well these countries recovered after Covid-19 lockdowns. We also explore why promoting tourism within Africa could be key to keeping global visitor numbers going up. Presenter / producer: Bisi Adebayo Image: Gambia; Credit: Getty Images
Mon, June 12, 2023
Tourism: Halal holidays
Find out about the destinations that are top of the list for Muslims travellers wanting to go on holiday without compromising their religious beliefs and practices. Explore what resorts and tour operators have to put in place to be certified halal friendly and examine why this is such a growth area for the global travel industry. Presenter / producer: Emb Hashmi Image: Zahra Rose and friends on holiday; Credit: Zahra Rose
Fri, June 09, 2023
Business Daily Meets: Iyinoluwa Aboyeji
The Nigerian tech entrepreneur on how he built two billion dollar businesses. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji co-founded talent marketplace Andela and payments company Flutterwave, both of which have been valued at more than a billion dollars. He tells Rob Young he wants to use his wealth to help Africa achieve its economic potential. Presenter / producer: Rob Young Image: Iyinoluwa Aboyeji; Credit: Getty Images
Thu, June 08, 2023
The tech supporting women's health
Femtech, or businesses building technology to support women’s health are growing fast but how much of that growth is supporting women in the parts of the world where access to healthcare can sometimes be difficult? Hannah Mullane speaks to businesses who are providing technology to support women’s health in low income countries. We hear how apps are adapted to work in places where internet is intermittent and access to electricity can be limited and we discuss how a business operates when the consumer doesn’t always have the means to pay. Producer/Presenter: Hannah Mullane (Image: Two of the users of one of the apps. Credit: Grace Health)
Wed, June 07, 2023
Money and love: Your questions
When high inflation has hit all our budgets has the way we date changed? Are we approaching finding a potential partner differently? When is the right time to ask about money and their approach to their finances? Are you asking the right questions? Our experts answer your questions on money and love and offer their advice on how to marry the two. Presenter / producer: Devina Gupta Image: Heart and cash; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, June 06, 2023
Inside Europe's biggest LNG terminal
This is the story of liquefied natural gas (LNG), and how in the last year it has played an enormous role in keeping the lights on in Europe This special edition of Business Daily comes from inside the biggest LNG terminal in Europe. Rick Kelsey looks into the role the fuel is playing as sanctions mean gas pipelines from Russia into Europe are restricted. LNG terminals which were half empty are now full, but should the cutting usage of Russian gas automatically mean importing more gas from elsewhere in the world? Is there a greener option? Presenter / producer: Rick Kelsey (Image: Isle of Grain terminal, Kent; Credit: National Grid)
Mon, June 05, 2023
The US banking system on life support
In March 2023 Silicon Valley Bank collapsed. It was the second largest banking failure in US history. The regulator, the FDIC, fired the management team and brought in a new person to run the institution while a buyer was found. As the former CEO of Fannie Mae, Tim Mayopoulus has experience of steering a bank through financial turmoil. He speaks to Sam Fenwick about how he steadied the nerves of SVB employees, customers and the global banking sector. Producer/presenter: Sam Fenwick (Photo: Man walking past SVB branch. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, June 02, 2023
The 'right to repair' movement
With the cost of living crisis forcing many of us to try and limit what we spend, more and more people are looking to repair the things they own. It’s giving momentum to an international network of ‘repair cafes’ and a global campaign for manufacturers to make products fixable. In this episode, we hear from World Service listeners about their do-it-yourself repairs - some more successful than others. Laura Heighton-Ginns visits a bustling repair cafe, where all sorts of household and sentimental items are given new life, including Rosebud, a doll who was first played with 70 years ago. Laura also speaks to Ugo Vallauri, co-director of the international Restart Project, about the need for durability to be built back into product design. Presenter/producer: Laura Heighton-Ginns
Thu, June 01, 2023
The economics of cocaine
The cocaine trade generates billions of dollars for criminal gangs right around the world but most of the supply of the drug comes from Colombia. Some the money made in this illegal economy does filter into the legal one and by some estimates the cocaine business now accounts for 4% of Colombian gross domestic product. How does the cocaine business generate so much money and for who? We also ask what would happen in places like Colombia if the world legalised the cocaine trade, if it could be taxed and revenue earned by Governments much in the same way as products like tobacco and alcohol. We hear from a former Colombian president and Nobel Prize winner who says it should. Presenter/producer: Gideon Long (Image: Coca plants. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, May 31, 2023
Business Daily Meets: Tony Elumelu
Nigeria's most well-known economist Tony Elumelu tells us why Africa needs to rethink it's relationship with business. He explains "Africapitalism", the idea that the private sector can transform Africa's economy and society for the better. He also discusses a number problems slowing economic growth in Africa, including young, well-educated people leaving for better opportunities elsewhere and a lack of investment in the tech sector. Presenter / producer: Peter MacJob (Image: Tony Elumelu: Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, May 30, 2023
Microfinance in Sri Lanka: part 2
We hear about one Sri Lankan woman’s struggle with debt after taking out a small loan - what does her story tell us about how to lend to people unable to access finance through banks all over the world? In a special two-part Business Daily report, Ed Butler investigates what's gone wrong with microfinance. It was once seen as a progressive way to help people like Renuka Ratnayake improve their lives, but has it led to a new wave of predatory lending? If you are affected by any of the issues covered in this programme, you can find information at www.bbc.co.uk/actionline. Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Renuka Ratnayake; Credit: BBC
Mon, May 29, 2023
Microfinance in Sri Lanka part 1
Offering small unsecured loans to the world’s poorest was meant to transform the lives of millions but in Sri Lanka microfinance has left many women with debts they simply can't repay. In a special two-part Business Daily report, Ed Butler visits the villages in Sri Lanka where many of those otherwise excluded from organised finance have taken small loans only for their finances to spiral into debt. What's gone wrong with mircofinance? Has it led to a new wave of predatory lending? Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Women in Welioya; Credit: BBC
Fri, May 26, 2023
Music and business: Gigging
Musicians, promoters and comedians take us inside the grass roots gigging industry. David Reid speaks to guitar band Vernons Future about their experience gigging at small venues in the UK and getting their music out to international audiences via streaming platforms. We also hear from gig promotions company Bugbear about organising gigs and comedians trying their luck at an open mic night, hoping to make it onto the comedy circuit. Presenter / producer: David Reid Image: Vernons Future; Credit: BBC
Wed, May 24, 2023
Music and business: Gospel
Gospel: Is the spiritual message of the music getting lost in the world of commercialism? It's the two billion dollar music industry with faith at the forefront. We investigate whether mainstream music artists are diluting an industry that dedicates itself to the word of god. Hear from one of gospel's best selling artists, Marvin Sapp, and a gospel choir leader in Rwanda. Presenter / producer: Izzy Greenfield Image: Marvin Sapp; Credit: Marvin Sapp
Tue, May 23, 2023
Music and business: Breaking in
The music industry is worth billions of dollars and creates thousands of jobs across the world, but how do you become part of such a lucrative but exclusive industry? The global head of music operations at Tik Tok tells us how the app has become a game-changer in the industry. Kenyan DJ Coco Em talks about about the barriers African artists have to overcome and British rapper Aitch’s manager explains how he came to work with one of the biggest rap artists in Europe. Presenter / producer: Izzy Greenfield Image: Coco Em; Credit: Jente Vanbrabant
Mon, May 22, 2023
Jason Derulo: Music and business
All this week on Business Daily, we’re focusing on the music industry, which is worth $26 billion a year globally. Today, we’re joined by the hugely successful musician, content creator and businessman Jason Derulo. He tells us what it takes to build a brand as successful as his, and about the unlikely investment that's made him millions of dollars. Presenter/producer: Izzy Greenfield Image: Jason Derulo (Credit: Joe Scarnici/LIV Golf via Getty Images)
Fri, May 19, 2023
The game that shocked the world
Grand Theft Auto changed gaming forever. In this programme we find out how. Chris Warburton meets the creative team from Dundee in Scotland who came up with the concept for Grand Theft Auto 25 years ago. We look into how it was picked up, marketed and ultimately sold to millions and millions of us. Grand Theft Auto was revolutionary, but it was also controversial with its depictions of shocking, graphic violence. This is the story of how the game and its makers overcame moral panic, political opposition and naysayers to become one of the most successful entertainment brands of a generation. Presenter: Chris Warburton Producer: Ciaran Tracey Image: GTA: Credit: Getty Images
Thu, May 18, 2023
The world's fastest EV
Mate Rimac tells us how he designed and now produces the world's fastest electric car. He started out converting petrol racing cars to run on electricity and proving those vehicles could achieve top speeds. Mate Rimac then built a business to produce the car from scratch, with little money and no experience. His company is now valued at more than 2 billion dollars after securing investment last year from Porsche. He's also managed to build a new car manufacturing industry in Croatia. Presenter/producer: Theo Leggett (Photo: Mate Rimac leaning against a blue electric car in a showroom. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, May 17, 2023
Is a four-day working week the future?
Would you like to work fewer days, but get paid the same? The biggest global trial of the four day week has just come to an end in the UK. We hear from some of the companies who took part, including employees making the most of their extra day off, and employers looking closely at productivity figures. It’s an idea that other countries are looking at closely, so we’ll be looking at the global implications of moving away from the traditional five days on, two days off model. Presenter: Emma Simpson Producers: Helen Thomas and Esyllt Carr (Image: Bethany with her dog Otis. Credit: BBC)
Tue, May 16, 2023
Leaving Sri Lanka
In the past year, Sri Lanka has endured political pandemonium and the worst economic crisis in its modern history. The situation has led to the highest number of people leaving the country on record. The Sri Lankan government has secured an IMF bailout - but will that help stop the exodus? In this episode we’ll hear from entrepreneur Brindha Selvadurai Gnanam, who has stayed put – as well as from students Meshith Ariyawansa and Ravishan Nethsara, who feel they need to leave for a good standard of living. Presenter / producer: Laura Heighton-Ginns Image: Sandy's classroom; Credit: BBC
Mon, May 15, 2023
A new coal mine for the UK
A new coal mine in the north west of England could bring much-needed jobs and investment to the area. However there are concerns from environmentalists about the impact on the climate. The mine, in the Whitehaven area of Cumbria, is the first deep mine approved by the UK government for 30 years, and will provide fuel for steel-making. Rowan Bridge travels to Whitehaven, the town next to the site of the mine, to hear the arguments for and against. Presenter and producer: Rowan Bridge (Image: The former Woodhouse Colliery site where West Cumbria Mining have been granted government approval to extract coal in Whitehaven. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, May 12, 2023
Eurovision 2023 heads to Liverpool
As 150,000 extra visitors are poised to descend on Liverpool in the north-west of England for the Eurovision Song Contest, Olivia Wilson heads to the city to see how businesses are preparing. Plus, we speak to fans travelling from across the world about how much it costs them to go to the event. Producer/presenter: Hannah Mullane Reporter: Olivia Wilson (Image: Eurovision 2023 logo. Credit: Eurovision)
Thu, May 11, 2023
Turkey election: Young people and the economy
Turkey election: 5 million young people are expected to vote for the first time this weekend. We explore how the state of the economy will affect their decisions. Victoria Craig heads to Antalya a swing city with a young population to hear how they are managing to make a living in difficult economic circumstances and how they plan to use their vote. Presenter / Producer: Victoria Craig Image: Antalya; Credit: BBC
Wed, May 10, 2023
Northern Ireland and American investment
Joe Biden says American firms are ready to triple investment in Northern Ireland, we look into whether that's really likely to happen. Leanna Byrne is in Northern Ireland to take a look at the current levels of investment and speak to those businesses already benefitting from their relationship with the US. She also explores how Brexit and domestic politics could impact what happens next. Presenter / producer: Leanna Byrne Image: Joe Biden in Belfast; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, May 09, 2023
The dominance of the US dollar
For over 80 years the US dollar has been king when it comes to global trade, is that beginning to change? We look at how the US dollar came to dominate global trade, ask what happens when a country runs out of dollars and explore why countries like China, India and Russia are starting to increase trade in their local currencies. Presenter / producer: Devina Gupta Image: US dollars; Credit: Getty Images
Mon, May 08, 2023
Bridging the gap between creative and tech
Some see them as polar opposites, but more people than you might think are moving between the creative and technology industries; using the skills from one to further success in the other. But how easy is it to cross between art and engineering? David Harper meets Jan Harlan, who started his career in the embryonic IT industry of the 1960s. The precision and planning skills he developed would help him in a 30-year career as a producer for one of the world’s greatest film directors: Stanley Kubrick. David also speaks to Thomas Dolby, famous as a pop star in the 1980s synthpop scene, who later headed to Silicon Valley - using his enthusiasm for emerging technology to create new opportunities, including an infamous mobile phone ringtone. And we hear from Lyndsey Scott, an actress, former model and computer coder who develops iOS apps while simultaneously juggling an acting career. Despite her successes, she sometimes finds it difficult to be taken seriously in a male-dominated technology business. Presenter: David Harper Producers: David Harper and Victoria Hastings (Image: Lyndsey Scott. Credit: Paul Smith)
Fri, May 05, 2023
Business Daily meets: Sir John Hegarty
What's the future of the advertising industry? The industry veteran who was behind some of the most memorable ads of the 80s and 90s speaks to Dougal Shaw about the rise of digital platforms and social media. Hegarty is a revered figure in advertising because of the famous brands he helped to build. He was a founding partner of Saatchi & Saatchi and co-founder of Bartle Bogle Hegarty (BBH). These days he is creative director of The Garage Soho, which invests in start-ups and helps to build brands. And Sir John also uses his own experiences of previous recessions to explain how he thinks companies can survive, and in some cases benefit from, a recession. Presenter/producer: Dougal Shaw (Image: Sir John Hegarty. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, May 04, 2023
Making money and doing good
Social entrepreneurship is often borne out of the need to address social issues, but it is fast becoming a major contributor to economic growth – contributing billions of dollars to global economies and providing millions of jobs whilst maintaining its core altruistic values of making the world a better place. We meet Zimbabwean born Max Zimani – who runs an African/Middle-Eastern restaurant in Slovenia, created out of the need for inclusion of the migrant communities in an homogenous society like Slovenia. Skukhna offers a global cuisine and brings communities together through exotic dining. Simona Simulyte is a serial entrepreneur and CEO Tech4Good. She runs an ecosystem in Lithuania that brings together people with ideas for social businesses, provides mentorship and help source for funds which enables these start-ups become self-sufficient. And Moses Onitilo is the co-founder of a company known as Jamborow - a blockchain driven fintech platform focused on financial inclusion and grassroot empowerment, specifically targeting the unbanked and the lower income and rural communities within Africa. The Jamborow eco-system cuts across seven African countries including Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda Presenter/producer Peter MacJob (Image: These members of a small savings group in Kenya now have access to e-wallets via mobile phones. Photo Credit: Moses Onitilo)
Wed, May 03, 2023
Female electrical line workers
Electrical line workers work all kinds of hours in very challenging conditions to keep electricity flowing to our homes and businesses. It's traditionally been a very male occupation but that's changing as more women break into the industry. We speak to Colombia’s first ever intake of female apprentice line workers about their intensive training experience, and Rosa Vasquez – one of the first women to do the job in Texas in 1978. Over in Kansas, Amy Fischbach, the Field Editor for T&D World magazine, is raising awareness of the trade in a podcast about women in line work. We also head to Pakistan where there are currently no women in this line of work, and head to Kansas hear from Presenter / producer: Olivia Wilson Image: Apprentice line workers in Colombia; Credit: ISA
Tue, May 02, 2023
Recycling heat from kitchens to keep restaurants warm
The Swedish start-up that's worked out how to use hot fumes from kitchens to heat restaurants. Hear from the entrepreneurs who've developed this new technology. They tell us how it works and how it can help restaurants lower bills and carbon emissions. However this technology is expensive for restaurant owners, especially at a time when hiring workers and buying ingredients has got a lot more costly. One small business tells us about the benefits and challenges of investing in new equipment. Producer / presenter: Maddy Savage Image: Annika Lyndfors; Credit: BBC
Mon, May 01, 2023
The homes only locals can buy
We meet the Londoners moving into their first flats thanks to a ownership scheme which started in the US in the 1960s. Community land trust properties can only be bought by local people, and the price is set by average local income levels, not the open market. Dougal Shaw goes to a block of flats in Lewisham where buyers are just settling in. He speaks to a lawyer and community activist in the US – the idea started as part of the civil rights movement. And a property expert explains some of the potential long-term issues. Presenter/producer: Dougal Shaw (Image: Christian Codjoe is moving into a two-bed flat in Citizens House with his brother. Credit: BBC) (Image: Artists impression of the flats. Credit: French & Tie)
Fri, April 28, 2023
Business Daily meets: Tim O'Reilly
The Silicon Valley veteran created the first commercial website to support advertising in 1993. He is a publisher and author and now runs an online learning platform. He talks to Ed Butler about the recent dips in tech stocks, and the future of AI. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: Olivia Wilson (Image: Tim O'Reilly. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, April 27, 2023
GM mustard in India
Could growing genetically modified mustard be the answer to oil shortages in India? Each year India spends billions of dollars importing 70 percent of its cooking oil from other countries like Argentina, Malaysia and Brazil. We speak to a farmer struggling to make a profit growing un-modified mustard crops. We also explore the debate in India around genetically modified food crops and speak to one farmer already growing genetically modified cotton. Presenter / producer: Devina Gupta Image: Cotton farmer Ganesh Nanote; Credit: Ganesh Nanote
Wed, April 26, 2023
Peru’s blueberry boom
How Peru went from having virtually no blueberry plantations to being the world's top exporter in just ten years. In this episode Stefania Gozzer visits a plantation in the region of Ica and hears from experts, firms and farmers about the key developments that made blueberries growing such a success, despite Peru’s ongoing political crises. Presenter / producer: Stefania Gozzer Image: Blueberry farmer; Credit: BBC
Tue, April 25, 2023
Quiet quitting in France
Why are so many young French people feeling demotivated and quitting their jobs? Sabrina Teresi had a high-paying job as an engineer. She’d studied for years to qualify. She enjoyed the job at first but soon felt demotivated and after 3 years decided to quit. Polls show more and more young workers are struggling to find the energy to do their job, suffering from boredom and quitting their jobs. Is France facing an epidemic of laziness? Or are companies simply not adapting fast enough to new ways of working? Presenter / producer: Joshua Thorpe Image: Sabrina Teresi; Credit: Sabrina Teresi
Mon, April 24, 2023
Is Mexico benefiting from the US-China trade war?
Increasingly, US companies are 'nearshoring' - moving their operations closer to home. Cities in the north of Mexico, like Monterrey, are seeing a manufacturing boom. We speak to some of the companies who are cashing in, and ask, is this a renaissance that will last? Plus we look at other countries who are trying to get a share of the market. Presenter/producer: Samira Hussain (Image: Truck at the Mexico/US border. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, April 21, 2023
Business Daily meets: Athletic Brewing CEO Bill Shufelt
Non-alcoholic and low alcohol beer is a rapidly growing market, as consumers search for healthy alternatives. Bill Shufelt started Athletic Brewing with his partner, brewmaster John Walker in 2018. Speaking to Dougal Shaw, Bill Shufelt explains how he sees the alcohol free beer market, and describes his 'career change moment'. Presenter/producer Dougal Shaw. (Image: Bill Shufelt at his brewery. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, April 20, 2023
Counting the cost of Iftar
As the price of food increases, we speak to Muslims to find out how it has affected their Iftar - the fast-breaking evening meal during the holy month of Ramadan. It is often a lavish family meal, but price rises mean that people are having to make changes. We hear from women in Somalia, Canada, Pakistan and the UK who are all facing a slightly different Ramadan, and Eid, this year. Presented by Emb Hashmi with reporting from Ahmed Adan Editors: Carmel O'Grady and Helen Thomas (Photo: Fatuma and her family in Somalia. Credit: BBC)
Wed, April 19, 2023
Argentina: Still a nation of beef lovers?
The South American country is famous for its steaks, ribs, and milanesa. It is the second largest home market for beef in the world, and the fifth biggest exporter. But with soaring inflation, this much loved staple is becoming unaffordable for ordinary people. We look at the country’s love affair with beef and what measures the government is taking to protect it. Producer/presenter: Natalio Cosoy (Image: Porfirio Dávalos at his Friday barbecue. Credit: BBC)
Tue, April 18, 2023
Why are African flights so expensive?
Prices are around 45% more expensive than equivalent trips elsewhere, and it's often cheaper to fly out of the continent and back in. We look at the reasons Africans are paying higher fares for both internal and international flights, the impact this is having on business and tourism, plus the wider impact on the African economy. Producer/ presenter: Rebecca Kesby (Image: A plane on a runway in Nothern Africa. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, April 17, 2023
How Covid shifted US tipping
Has people using less cash and higher tip suggestions on pay terminals increased expectation on customers? Tipping has a long history in the United States, but there is evidence that the coronavirus pandemic has changed the culture and percentages involved. Presenter Rick Kelsey speaks to waiting staff in New York, travel experts and explores the legal rules around tipping. Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey (Image: Someone placing dollars into a tip jar. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, April 14, 2023
Bringing the Tasmanian Tiger back from extinction
It sounds like a movie script, like Jurassic Park, but Australian scientists are actually aiming to 'de-extinct' an animal. The Tasmanian Tiger, or Thylacine, became extinct in 1936, nearly 90 years ago. It's native to Australia, and thanks to millions of dollars of funding via a US-based biotech company, Colossal Biosciences, research is underway which could bring it back to life. Sam Clack finds out why the project has attracted funding from a host of celebrity backers and asks whether science fiction could become reality? Produced and presented by Sam Clack. (Image: Tasmanian Tigers. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, April 13, 2023
The Phantom of the Opera: Goodbye Broadway
How did the musical manage to run for a record breaking 35 years? And why is it closing? As the curtain comes down on the Phantom in New York's famous Broadway theatre district, we look at what this means for the theatre industry. The Phantom of the Opera has played to more than 140 million people around the world, it’s sold 20 million tickets, and been performed in 33 countries. But whilst the global tours will keep going, this weekend the show is closing in New York. Actor Jonathan Roxmouth played the Phantom on a world tour, and tells us about the shows impact across the globe. Matt Rousu is a professor of economics and runs the website ‘Broadway Economics’ - he talks through the fine margins that shows like Phantom operate within. And Kizzy Cox reports from Broadway where she meets fans, speaks to veteran theatre critic Ben Brantley, and talks to Jan Mullen, an orchestra musician who has been with The Phantom of the Opera since it opened in 1986. Presenter/ producer: Izzy Greenfield (Image: Jonathan Roxmouth plays 'The Phantom' and Meghan Picerno plays 'Christine Daae' in The Phantom Of The Opera, 2019 in Singapore. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 12, 2023
Inside the semiconductor factory
Almost everything electronic is powered by chips. But the global semiconductor industry has been beset by the Covid pandemic, conflict, and economic slowdown. Despite the challenges, it's set to become a trillion-dollar industry by 2030. Alex Bell takes an exclusive look inside one of Europe's biggest chip manufacturing factories - GlobalFoundries' plant in Dresden, Germany - to find out how chipmakers are preparing for the future. Presenter / producer: Alex Bell (Picture: The GlobalFoundries plant in Dresden, Germany. Credit: Getty Images.)
Fri, April 07, 2023
The Good Friday Agreement: 25 years on
How has stability in Northern Ireland helped businesses? We look at the impact of the peace deal from the perspective of people within Northern Ireland, and outside, and find out how it has helped the development of manufacturing, foreign investment, tourism, and farming. We also hear from the former Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, one of the architects of The Good Friday Agreement. Presented and produced by Russell Padmore. (Image: Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair (left) and then Taoiseach Bertie Ahern (right). Credit: PA)
Thu, April 06, 2023
Business Daily meets: World Chess CEO Ilya Merenzon
How do you make a game with a conservative image more marketable, and more profitable? Chess has been played for centuries, two people facing off over chessboard, but now it’s big business online too. Business Daily’s Dougal Shaw meets the head of World Chess, Ilya Merenzon, to talk about expanding the sport, the opportunities of the digital format, and the challenge of the recent cheating scandals. Produced and presented by Dougal Shaw. (Image: Magnus Carlsen at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament in January 2021. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 05, 2023
Coffee: Time for a new bean?
The Liberica bean is a species of coffee that growers are hoping will make their crops sustainable in the future as the climate changes. We speak to farmers struggling to grow the most popular coffee plants and taste test a Liberica brew. Presenter / producer: Laura Heighton-Ginns (Image: Martin Kinyua; Credit: Martin Kinyua)
Tue, April 04, 2023
Fair pay for rooibos tea
The Khoi and San people, who discovered rooibos tea, have only recently started receiving a share of the industry's multimillion-pound profits. They tell us about their fight to get the money they're owed and we hear from the rooibos farmers who are now having to pay out. We also find out what this deal could mean for other indigenous groups in a similar situation. Presenter: Mohammed Allie Producer: Jo Critcher Image: Princess Chantal Revell from the National Khoi and San Council, drinking rooibos tea; Credit: Princess Chantal Revell
Mon, April 03, 2023
Happy Birthday barcode
The barcode has become an essential part of the modern world. There are 10 billion barcode scans every day and they are used on products in every country. It started as a few lines drawn in the Florida sand and today it turns 50. It changed the way we shop and trade, without them global supply chains could not function. Presenter / producer: Sam Fenwick Image: Barcode; Credit: Getty Images
Fri, March 31, 2023
Population: Your questions answered
As India is poised to overtake China as the world's most populous country, we put questions from World Service listeners to the author of 8 Billion and Counting. Dr Jennifer Sciubba explains how the number of humans is growing in some countries, declining in others, how people are moving around the world and why that matters when it comes to money and work. She also discusses the issue of fertility and birth-rate, and it's close links to factors such as government support and childcare. Presenter: Devina Gupta Producers: Helen Thomas and Carmel O'Grady (Image: A mother and child. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, March 30, 2023
Japan's aging population
Japan is the world’s fastest ageing country, nearly 30% of Japan’s population is already over 65. Devina Gupta looks into what the ever decreasing workforce means for businesses in Japan. Many companies are pouring resources into developing advanced robots and artificial intelligence to do human work. Mikio Okumura- president of one of Japan’s largest insurance companies - Sompo Holdings, tells us his company has recently started using AI to analyse complex data to predict the health risks of individuals. Many small and medium businesses owners nearing retirement age are also struggling to find successors. Japan’s trade ministry has warned that by 2025 over half a million profitable businesses could close, costing the economy $165 billion. Tsuneo Watanabe, a director of Nihon M&A Center, a company that specializes in finding buyers for such enterprises tells us how they're trying to solve the problem. Producer / presenter: Devina Gupta Image: Senior citizens advertising in Tokyo; Credit: Getty Images
Wed, March 29, 2023
Nigeria's brain drain
Bisi Adebayo investigates why so many young, highly skilled people leave Nigeria, known in the country as Japa. Bisi hears from journalist Victoria Idowu who re-located to Canada with her family and a teacher in Lagos who is about to pack her bags and move to the UK. We also hear from an expert in employment data Babajide Ogunsanwo who tells us how much this costs Nigeria and Wale Smart an employer who explains how tricky it is to find and retain staff. Presenter / producer: Bisi Adebayo Image: Graduating students of the American University of Nigeria; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, March 28, 2023
Italy's low birth rate
Italy’s population has decreased by approximately one million residents in the space of one year and forecasts predict that this is likely to worsen. Hannah Mullane speaks to a mother in Rome about what it’s like to start a family in Italy and a business that’s implementing its own policies to support staff who choose to have children. We take a look at what the government is planning to do to encourage more people to have children and head to the north of Italy to the Bolzano region, the only part of the country where births are increasing to see what they’re doing differently. Presenter/producer: Hannah Mullane Image: Melissa and Cosmo; Credit: Melissa Panarello
Mon, March 27, 2023
India's growing population
Devina Gupta reports on India's growing population and what that means for people living, working and running businesses there. 66 year old Radha Gupta and her daughter Aashima Gupta live in India’s capital city, Delhi. They tell us how population dynamics have changed their lifestyle over the years, and business woman Vineeta Singh tells us how she has capitalised on a growing number of consumers in India and how this is attracting global finance. Presenter / producer: Devina Gupta Image: Kolkata market: Credit: Getty Images
Fri, March 24, 2023
The business of returning treasures
David Reid delves into the debate around the repatriation of problematic art and treasures. He visits one museum in the north-west of England attempting to decolonise its collection by returning thousands of items to the countries and communities they were taken from. In this episode we meet curators like Dr Njabulo Chipangura, from Manchester Museum, who says the best way to guarantee the future of collections is to give parts of them away. Also, Professor Kim A. Wagner from the University of London tells us the story of the skull of Alum Bheg, which he would dearly like to return to India. Is this ultimately the right way to treat problematic artefacts and treasures? Or could this movement end up destroying hard to acquire expertise and render Museums meaningless and economically unviable? Producer/presenter: David Reid (Photo: The skull of Alum Bheg: Credit: Kim Wagner)
Thu, March 23, 2023
Venezuela: 10 years on
Ten years ago this month, in March 2013, Venezuela’s charismatic socialist leader Hugo Chavez died and current president Nicolas Maduro took over. In the decade since, the South American nation suffered an extraordinary economic collapse – the economy shrunk by two thirds, inflation hit six digits, the government chopped 11 zeros off the bank notes, oil production slumped and millions of people fled abroad to escape economic hardship. We talk to Venezuelans who lived through that collapse, from a shopkeeper who went bankrupt to a university professor whose salary in the local currency, bolivars, is worth just 25 US dollars a month. We also ask if the worst is over and what the future holds for this once wealthy nation – a founding member of Opec that sits on some of the world’s largest oil reserves. Producer and presented by Gideon Long Additional reporting: Vanessa Silva in Caracas (Image: A Venezuelan man holding a Chavez/Maduro balloon. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, March 22, 2023
Chatbots and business
AI chatbots are everywhere at the moment - but how are they being used by business? Business Daily presenter Rick Kelsey heads to one of the world's financial hubs, Canary Wharf in London, to find out how this technology is changing jobs. Sarah Kunst, the managing director of Cleo Capital, which invests in tech companies in San Francisco, tells us how some start-ups are using AI bots to deep search the internet, but also about her concerns with misinformation. Chante Venter is from Wise Move, a removal firm in South Africa. She has recently started using the chatbot for communication with customers and says that it's helping her team enjoy their work more. Rochelle Garrad from Chards, a coin and bullion dealer in Blackpool in the north west of England, talks about how chatbots can create content like blogs and YouTube scripts very quickly, but sometimes less accurately. Producer / presenter: Rick Kelsey Image
Tue, March 21, 2023
Afrobeats: A multi-million dollar industry
Arguably the fastest growing music genre in the world, Afrobeats artists are playing to sold out crowds in the most coveted venues across the globe. What started as an umbrella term in London, UK, to encapsulate pop music of African extraction has become a major force in pop culture. But is Afrobeats able to emerge as a major economic force within the continent and can it leverage on its global appeal to boost other sectors including fashion and the arts? We hear from the pioneers like Abass Tijani, one of the very first DJs to play Afrobeats in UK clubs and Ayo Shonaiya who created the first TV show featuring musicians from Nigeria and Ghana. We also hear from Weird MC and Paul Play Dairo – two artists whose experimentation of sound in the mid-1990s contributed immensely to the growth and appeal of the genre. Produced and presented by Peter MacJob. (Image: Burna Boy performing at the NBA All Star game 2023. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 20, 2023
Antibiotics: How to fix a broken market
Antibiotics stopped providing big gains for pharmaceutical companies decades ago, but as bacteria become more resistant to drugs, the world needs new classes of antibiotics to be discovered if we want to prevent the next global health crisis. Dr Tina Joshi, Associate Professor of Molecular Microbiology at the University of Plymouth explains that it’s more likely antimicrobial resistance will kill large numbers of human beings before climate change does. Kasim Kutay, CEO of the investment fund Novo Holdings tells us that for big pharma companies, antibiotics are seen as a contribution to society rather than an investment that can provide a profit. How can firms be convinced to invest in an unprofitable product? We hear how Netflix might provide a good model and we explore research in Phages - a bacteria specialised in eating other bacteria. Phages are being championed by some as a potential substitute for antibiotics. One patient in Minnesota tells us Phages saved his life. Presenter / producer: Stefania Gozzer Image: Dr Tina Joshi; Credit: Lloyd Russell
Fri, March 17, 2023
Business Daily Meets: Sarah Willingham
The hospitality entrepreneur Sarah Willingham has worked extensively across the UK restaurant and bar industry. She also featured as a Dragon on the BBC TV show, Dragon's Den (the UK equivalent of Shark Tank). Sarah took a bet at the height of the coronavirus pandemic that cocktail bars would thrive again - and is now CEO of UK-based hospitality group Nightcap, a rapidly expanding drinks-led investment firm which she started with her husband in 2020. The company has acquired around 20 cocktail and party bars across the country, employing more than 1,000 staff. Sarah talks to Dougal Shaw about the difficulties of entrepreneurship in lockdown, some of the current challenges facing the hospitality industry and about the imposter syndrome she felt earlier in her career. Presenter and producer: Dougal Shaw (Image - Sarah Willingham. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, March 15, 2023
What is Rumble? The streaming platform building an alternative internet
If you don’t like the way online speech is regulated, can you build your own internet where you make the rules? This is the story of Rumble, the new king of alt-tech. Rumble started as a small video streaming platform, hoping to rival YouTube. Recently, it has become the site of choice for Americans frustrated with YouTube moderation, and moved its headquarters to Florida - hailed by some as the new Silicon Valley. Rumble had been eligible for an economic development incentive grant as part of the move, but the package was scrapped following protests from some locals and Rumble did not receive taxpayer money. Now, the company is seeking to build the infrastructure for an internet ecosystem that is “immune to cancel culture”. In this episode, we trace the company’s journey from Canadian start-up to Floridian big tech challenger, and ask what this means for the future of public debate online. Producer/presenter: Ellie House Additional reporting: Annie Phrommayon Sound mix: James Beard (Photo: Person using phone looking at Rumble app. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 14, 2023
Syria's child labour problem: Abdullah's story
Abdullah lives in northern Syria. He is 14, he lost his mother and brothers to the Syrian civil war. For years now Abdullah has been working to feed the rest of his family, and he's just survived one of the world’s most devastating earthquakes. In this episode of Business Daily Ed Butler hears Abdullah's story. Abdullah works at the Harakat Tarhin oil refinery outside Al Bab in north-west Syria. It's a makeshift oil refinery and they make fuel to feed the cars, trucks and heaters on which the region depends. Oil is usually refined in massive industrial buildings, run by multi-national firms, but where Abdullah works it’s cooked in the back yard. He tells us he knows how dangerous his job is but that he has no choice and must carry on working. Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Abdullah; Credit: BBC
Mon, March 13, 2023
Syria: Life after the earthquake
Last month’s devastating earthquake didn’t just claim thousands of Turkish lives, it ravaged northern Syria as well. International help for that region has struggled to get through. In this episode of Business Daily Ed Butler looks at how the region is battling to pick up the pieces, and whether local business-people are helping or simply profiting from the crisis. Amnat Soueif, a mother of two, tells Ed how she's providing for her children. Elizabeth Tsurkov, a senior fellow at the New Lines Institute, tells us about conversations she's having with families in the region about their trauma. Abu Amer runs a vegetable stall in the Idlib area - he tells us how commodity prices have been affected by the earthquake and Bassam Abu Muhammad, a blacksmith, tells us that since the earthquake he's moved into making and selling tents. Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: A displaced Syrian child; Credit: Getty images
Sat, March 11, 2023
How wearing glasses can improve the economy
Without being able to see clearly, people in low and middle income countries can find it difficult to secure a job or support their family. Globally around one billion people need to wear glasses but do not have access to them. We look at what’s being done to help. Producer / presenter: Sam Fenwick (Image: Ankit Sharma; Credit: Ankit Sharma)
Fri, March 10, 2023
Oscars: Celebrity gifting suites
Ahead of the Oscars, Business Daily goes behind the scenes of a celebrity gifting suite. Before the ceremony and the parties, celebrities are often invited to hotel suites, usually close to where the awards ceremony will happen. The rooms are filled with skincare products, makeup, jewellery, clothes, shoes, bags, you name it. Celebrities can take the gifts away for free - all companies want in return is a superstar endorsement. In this episode entertainment reporter KJ Matthews finds out how this business actually works with Nathalie Dubois who has been running these suites for almost 20 years. We also hear from Nthenya Mwendwa, a designer from Kenya who's bracelet bag was recently chose by a celebrity at a gifting suite and worn on the red carpet. Hear what that photos and the exposure has done for her small business. Presenter: KJ Matthews Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image: Sharon Stone at a gifting suite in Cannes: Credit: Nathalie Dubois
Fri, March 10, 2023
The modern pilgrimage boom
We follow in the footsteps of a Viking Saint who's legacy is bringing visitors and their cash to remote areas from Sweden and Norway. More and more people are choosing to go on modern day pilgrimages, we walk part of the world's most northern pilgrimage trail to find out how businesses on the route are benefitting. Producer / presenter: Robert Walker (Image: People walking on grassland. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, March 09, 2023
The unbanked
Oscar Bilayin Kudor runs a business in Ghana producing cassava flour. He wants to grow his business but traditional banks are reluctant to lend him the money to buy expensive machinery. 1.4 billion people around the world people can't get access to formal banking. Two thirds of them live in low and middle income countries. One of Ghana’s largest banks, Absa Bank thinks it has a solution. It’s giving small businesses grants to help them access formal banking facilities. Having a bank account makes it easier for households to budget and businesses are more likely to thrive. In this episode we also look at how digital banks are helping more people get bank accounts and why access to banking is key to empowering women. Producer/Presenter: Sam Fenwick Image: Oscar Bilayin Kudor; Credit: Oscar Bilayin Kudor
Thu, March 09, 2023
Health apps: Are we sharing too much?
The digital health market is growing rapidly - in 2021 the sector was valued at 195 billion US dollars. Companies offer apps and devices to monitor our vital statistics, our activity, our nutrition, our hormones. And those apps collect a lot of data about us. Presenter Marie Keyworth visits Web Summit, a large tech conference in Lisbon, to find out what is happening to this information. And asks how consumers can get the most out of health apps whilst feeling comfortable about data privacy... Plus Marie explores the aftermath of the Roe v Wade ruling which raised concerns that law enforcement officials could subpoena abortion-related data from data companies and women's health apps, to use in a prosecution. Eirini Rapti, the founder of the menstrual cycle tracking app Inne tells Marie how her company responded to Roe v Wade, and the impact it might have on international growth. Russell Glass, the CEO of Headspace Health which started as a mindfulness app, says they follow robust privacy and security rules, but a lot of the burden is falling on the consumer too because regulation can't always keep up. Presenter and producer: Marie Keyworth (Image: Woman using mobile phone. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, March 08, 2023
Do attractive people earn more?
How much better off are the better looking? A growing body of research seems to confirm that life is simply easier and more lucrative for attractive people. Labour economist Daniel Hamermesh has been studying this for years and says beautiful people do get paid more, have less difficulty securing bank loans and are typically offered more jobs, opportunities and perks. South African fashion model Marike tells us very candidly how her looks means she often gets things for free - meals, experiences, perks. She also talks about the role social media advertising plays in this. She says you can make millions of dollars through social media if you are pretty. We also hear from author Emily Lauren Dick about how unconscious bias around attractiveness and particularly weight can impact recruitment or promotion opportunities in the workplace. Producer/presenter: Deborah Weitzmann (Photo: South African fashion model Marike: Credit: Marike)
Tue, March 07, 2023
Opening up Uzbekistan: Part 2
BBC journalist Rayhan Demytrie is from Uzbekistan and was recently invited back to her country to explore how after almost 30 years the government is opening up the country and it's economy. In part two of this two part Business Daily special Rayhan hears how young entrepreneurs are pushing to grow their businesses and increase exports. Rayhan also finds out how digital only banking companies are transforming access to financial services for many Uzbek people. In the capital city of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Rayhan explores how the city has developed and changed in recent years and finds out more about the corruption that continues to cause problems for businesses. Presenter / producer: Rayhan Demytrie Image: Tashkent bazaar; Credit: Getty Images
Mon, March 06, 2023
Opening up Uzbekistan: Part 1
BBC journalist Rayhan Demytrie is from Uzbekistan and was recently invited back to her country to explore how after almost 30 years the government is opening up the country and it's economy. In part one of this two part Business Daily special Rayhan hears how tourists are encouraging business growth in the famous Silk Road city of Samarkand. In an interview with the Uzbek deputy finance minister, Odilbek Isakov, Rayhan asks about selling and privatising state owed assets like a Coca-Cola bottling plant and whether doing this is profitable for the country. We also hear how important ties with Russia are in Uzbekistan and how a very cold winter has put pressure on energy supplies and the economic revival of this former Soviet country. Presenter / producer: Rayhan Demytrie Image: Mosque in Samarkand: Credit: Getty Images
Fri, March 03, 2023
Trains in the USA: Your take
A few months ago we covered the story about the renovation of Penn Street railway station in New York. So many World Service listeners got in touch with us about their experiences of using the railway network in America we decided to make a programme based on their views. Omar Deen, who lives in Toledo, Ohio tells us he feels disadvantaged by the dominance of car travel in the United States and says he would like to have an alternative to driving or flying to get around. Another listener, Bill Potter in Alabama tells us there are no train tracks where he lives and to make rail an option for him, miles and miles of track would have to be laid. Under President Joe Biden, the US government has increased funding for trains, but the network is patchy – there are major cities and entire states with no passenger rail services. Kristen Lewis, co-director of Measure of America at the Social Science Research Council says it is possible for America to have a better rail transport network and that's a goal the country should be working towards. Presenter/producer: Laura Heighton-Ginns (Photo: Omar Deen stands on a railway platform. Credit: Omar Deen)
Thu, March 02, 2023
A story of modern slavery in the UK
Ayo is a victim of trafficking and modern slavery and tells us his story of being taken from Nigeria to the UK and forced to work. We also hear from Emily Kenway, a former policy adviser to the UK’s first anti-slavery commissioner and author of The Truth About Modern Slavery, who explains what modern slavery actually is. Sara Thornton, who was the UK’s independent anti-slavery commissioner until April 2022, explains some of the reasons behind an increase in the number of people being recognised as victims of modern slavery in the UK. We also explore some incoming changes to the UK’s world-leading anti-slavery legislation, changes that Kate Roberts, head of policy at the London-based anti-trafficking charity Focus on Labour Exploitation, tells us she is very concerned about. Producer/presenter: Frey Lindsay (Photo: Child behind wooden crate. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, March 01, 2023
How Portugal is cycling to success
The global bicycle market is set to grow by 5% every year over the next decade. Demand has been rising, particularly since the start of the coronavirus pandemic as people look for an alternative to crowded public transport. Concern for climate change and rising fuel prices have also helped to push people onto bikes. Portugal is the biggest bicycle manufacturer in Europe. According to Eurostat, it produced 2.9 million bicycles in 2021, with exports generating around 594 million euros - almost 610 million US dollars - and sales are up 49% this year. The Secretary General of the industry group Abimota, Gil Nadais, explains how Portugal has benefitted from EU import tariffs. Pedro Araújo, the CEO of Polisport Group tells us how the industry is working together to cope with rising energy prices and to overcome supply chain problems and staff shortages. Portugal's Secretary of State for Urban Transport, Jorge Delgado explains how the government is trying to encourage more people to cycle in Portugal, where there’s been a historical reluctance, by investing more in infrastructure and giving free bikes to school children. Presenter/producer: Lisa Louis (Photo: Ironman 70.3 Portugal Cascais. Credit; Getty Images)
Tue, February 28, 2023
Unionising the US workforce
There has been a surge in the number of workplaces in the United States voting to join a labour union. Amid this wave of unionisation, companies are pushing back hard. We find out what is happening in the US and how businesses and politicians are reacting. We hear from a worker at outdoor clothing co-operative REI where staff have voted to unionise, plus Michelle Miller, who runs Co-worker, an organisation that supports employees who want union representation. Michael Strain, an economist at the centre-right policy organisation, the American Enterprise Institute, explains that workers are actually doing quite well at the moment as unemployment is low. And have you heard of union-busting? Rebecca Givan is an associate professor of Labor Studies and Employment Relations at Rutgers University in New Jersey - she explains what is happening. Producer/presenter: Rob Young (Photo: Workers on strike from the New York Times. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 27, 2023
Syria: Starting a business in a warzone
How do you launch a successful start-up in a country where there’s been more than a decade of civil war? In this episode of Business Daily Maddy Savage hears how an entrepreneur from Syria was inspired by Scandinavia’s tech scene. Khaled Moustafa founded Syria’s first ride-sharing app, Yalla Go, in 2019. The platform now has hundreds of thousands of users who can book taxis on their smartphones to get around Syria's biggest cities. Khaled shares his story with Maddy and talks about some of the challenges, and benefits, of launching a business during a time of conflict. We also hear from a Yalla Go driver and get a glimpse into Syria’s emerging tech scene. Presenter/producer: Maddy Savage (Photo: Khaled Moustafa. Credit: Khaled Moustafa)
Fri, February 24, 2023
The importance of handmade products
The market for real handmade products is reported to have surged in recent years. Initiatives such as Australia's Seasons of New England Expo and Makers Markets in the UK have led to a revival in small artisanal businesses. Online platforms also give skilful craftspeople a vast market to sell to. Business Daily's David Reid hears from sellers in Manchester making things as diverse as balloon animals and mushroom growing kits. We also hear about the benefits of working with your hands. The philosopher and motor mechanic, Matthew Crawford, is the author of 'The Case for Working with your Hands' and 'The World Beyond Your Head' – he tells us why office work and current management practices have removed judgement and decision making from our day-to-day efforts and alienated us from the real results of the work we do. Produced and presented by David Reid. (Image: A potter making a pot using a wheel. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, February 23, 2023
Ukraine war: Preserving culture
In this epsiode of Business Daily Ashish Sharma looks at how the art world has tried to preserve Ukraine´s cultural and artistic heritage from the ongoing war. Hear the story of how valuable Ukrainian paintings were put on trucks and sneaked out of Ukraine as Russia began heavily bombing the country. Thanks to the idea of one art collector they are now on display in a museum in Madrid. Ashish also managed to link up with Kyiv to speak to the Director of the National Art Museum of Ukraine, Yulia Lytvynets and Nadia Tymchuk the CEO of the Museum´s Charitable Foundation about how they are trying to protect important artefacts and preserve Ukrainian culture. Presenter/producer: Ashish Sharma (Photo: Exhibition of Ukrainian art in Spain. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 22, 2023
Ukraine war: Refugees and resilience
It is estimated almost eight million people have left Ukraine in the past 12 months. They have all had to start again - finding housing, schools and a way to earn a living. In this episode we hear from Ukrainians who are staying resilient through huge changes to their lives. They tell us about making sure they can provide for their families, run businesses and help their employees. Konstantin Klyagin is an IT and software entrepreneur from Kyiv. When the war started he was on a flight and unable to land in Ukraine. He now lives in Lisbon, Portugal and tells us about helping his employees relocate with him. Vadim Rogovskiy runs an company developing AI software for use in online shopping. Vadim now lives between New York and Poland. He relocated his whole team to Warsaw, Poland on the day of the invasion. Presenter / producer: Alex Bell (Image: Konstantin Klyagin; Credit: Konstantin Klyagin)
Tue, February 21, 2023
Ukraine war: Refugees starting again
It is estimated almost eight million people have left Ukraine in the past 12 months. They have all had to start again, finding housing, schools and a way to earn a living. Some have managed to carry on running their businesses and others have set up new companies in the countries they now call home. Business Daily has been hearing some of their stories of remarkable resilience. Volodymyr and Regina Razumovskaya, now living in Perth, Western Australia, tell us about first leaving Donetsk in 2014 only to be forced to leave their new home and business in Kyiv eight years later. Polina Salabay describes the moment she realised she had to leave her home and dance school business behind in Lviv. She now lives in Canada and runs Polli’s Dance teaching Canadian and Ukrainian children. And Anastasia Kozmina and boyfriend Oleksiyy Danko, tell us how they turned their side hustle into a business when they moved to England. Presenter / producer: Alex Bell (Image: Polli's Dance: Credit: Polina Salabay)
Mon, February 20, 2023
Ukraine war: Economic fallout
Nearly a year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ed Butler examines the real state of the Russian economy. Ami Daniel, chief executive of Windward, a maritime data company, tells Ed about the Russian oil tankers transferring millions of tonnes of crude oil between ships to bypass sanctions. As the war continues, millions of euros worth of Russian assets remain frozen as a result of sanctions. Urmas Reinsalu, the Estonian foreign minister, tells us about an initiative Estonia is leading to actually seize and exploit some of Russian’s frozen billions for the benefit of Ukraine. Presenter / producer: Ed Butler (Image: A market in Kyiv; Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, February 16, 2023
Turkey earthquake: What is the future for young people?
As the rescue and recovery effort from the devastating earthquake continues, young people who survived are making tough decisions about the future. With Turkey already struggling economically even before the disaster, do they leave and start again in a new region, or a new country? Or stay and help rebuild? Victoria Craig travels to Ankara where she meets Berkay, a second year design student from Gaziantep, one of the most badly affected cities. He drove for 12 hours with his family to reach the Turkish capital. He says he's not sure what the future holds, and he is considering moving to another European country. Roger Kelly is the lead regional economist for Turkey at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. He explains how youth unemployment is a particular challenge for southern Turkey, and says it's difficult to say whether people who have been displaced will return when areas are rebuilt. And Professor Güneş Aşık from TOBB Economics and Technical University says students affected by the earthquake might not find it that easy - they might have to drop out of university to support their families. Produced and presented by Victoria Craig. Additional production by Anil Ergın. (Image: A rescue centre in Ankara. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 15, 2023
Sweden leads green steel race
Boden is a remote town in northern Sweden surrounded by pine forests, it's at the forefront of an initiative to try and clean up one of the world’s dirtiest industries - steel production. Business Daily presenter Maddy Savage visits the site of a new plant in Boden which aims to cut carbon emissions from the steel making process by 95 percent and bring more jobs and people to a shrinking community. Andy Turner is the head of construction for H2Green Steel, the start-up behind the plant in Boden, he tells us more about the site and the process of making greener steel and Katinka Lund Waagsaether, senior policy advisor with climate think tank e3g - third generation environmentalism - tells us how well is Sweden doing in the race to make steel production more sustainable. Producer / presenter: Maddy Savage Image: How the Boden plant is expected to look; Credit: H2Green Steel
Wed, February 15, 2023
Nigeria's election and the economy
Nigerians head to the polls very soon, in what's expected to be a very closely-contested election. In this episode of Business Daily Rob Young explores how the economy could impact the vote. Africa’s largest economy, is struggling with soaring prices, fuel shortages and insecurity. We hear from Maty Ukhuegbe Osaro who runs a restaurant in Lagos called The Fish Lady, she tells us how the pandemic and rising prices have affected her business and about her hopes for the outcome of this election. Economist and financial business boss, Bismarck Rewane, says us the uncertainty around the election has led some large businesses to hold off taking key decisions and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the director general of the World Trade Organisation, and former finance minister in Nigeria tells us she's optimistic about Nigeria's economic potential. Presenter / producer: Rob Young Image :Campaign rally for the Labour Party in Lagos; Credit: Getty Images
Tue, February 14, 2023
What does studying in the UK cost Africans?
Frey Lindsay investigates what some African students are required to do to get a place to study in the UK – and what that costs. We examine the cost and relevancy of English language tests and explore the visa pathways that exclude some Africans. Young African academics tell us about their frustrations and the enormous expense involved. Nigerian policy specialist Ebenezar Wikina tells us about his campaign trying increase inclusion for those Africans who speak English and education scholar Samia Chasi explains why academics and institutions in poorer countries deserve more of a place in global education. Presenter / Producer: Frey Lindsay Image: Student, Donatus outside Glasgow University; Credit: BBC
Mon, February 13, 2023
Big sporting event, very small town
Business Daily’s Matthew Kenyon visits the Dutch town of Hoogerheide as it hosts the 2023 World Cyclocross Championships. Tens of thousands of fans will flock into the town, and spend their money on hotels, food and drink. But where does that money go? And what about the costs and disruption of putting on a major sporting event in a small place? We hear from the head of the local organising committee, Jan Prop, on how he raises and spends his budget; from cycling’s world governing body, the UCI; and from locals and visitors about the spending and disruption that goes with any big sporting event. Producer / Presenter: Matthew Kenyon Image: Cyclocross 2023; Credit: BBC
Fri, February 10, 2023
Getting into business: Founding a billion dollar firm
Twenty-year-old Aadit Palicha is the man behind India's hottest start up. He was just 18 when he co-founded his quick commerce company Zepto. The firm delivers groceries to its customers in under 10 minutes and is currently valued at over a billion dollars. Aadit tells the BBC's Nikhil Inamdar where the idea for Zepto came from, how they achieve such fast delivery times and what it has been like building such enormous success so quickly. Presenter/producer: Nikhil Inamdar (Photo: Aadit Palicha)
Thu, February 09, 2023
Getting into business: Start-up capital in Africa
The amount of accessible funding for start-ups in Africa is growing fast, but lots of it goes to the more developed economies of South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt and Kenya. We speak to business owners in Nigeria and Uganda and compare their experiences of getting into business. Nnamdi Okoh is the co-founder of Terminal Africa, based in Lagos. He explains the process of getting onto an accelerator programme and how the advice and financial support has allowed him and his brother to turn the business from a side hustle to a full time job. AbdulMalik Fahd investigates why Lagos has become such a hub for new business on the continent and Tom Jackson the co-founder of Disrupt Africa, a hub for start-up news, explains why investment opportunity is growing so quickly and what this means for business. Kaivan Khalid Satter is the founder of Asaak, an asset financing company for motocyles based in Kampala, Uganda. He explains how tough it was to raise funding at the beginning and tells us how he’s now managed to raise more than 30 million dollars in funding. Producer/presenter: Hannah Mullane (Photo: Nnamdi Okoh. Credit: Nnamdi Okoh)
Wed, February 08, 2023
Getting into business: Starting out
Starting a business is never easy, but in the last few years there’s been more than usual to deal with. Many would assume it's not been a great time to start trading but we speak to three business owners who did just that. Tina Kayoma is the co-founder of Project of Japan in Kyoto. A business that sells products made by Japanese crafts people across the world. She opened her first shop last year. Maria Jose Hernadez is in Switzerland where she runs a confectionary business called El Caramelo and Lisa Nielson is in Ghana where she runs Tiny Reusers, a business that sells second hand baby items. They come together in this episode to explain what it's been like setting up a business where they live. They also discuss the good and bad moments they've had and give their tips for anyone else looking to start a business. Producer/presenter: Hannah Mullane (Image: Tina Kayoma, Maria Jose Hernadez and Lisa Nielson, with kind permission)
Tue, February 07, 2023
Getting into business: Selling on social media
Some businesses in South East Asia are growing at remarkable rates by using social media to sell. Live streaming on TikTok and live chatting on apps like Whatsapp, Line and Zalo are all being used to increase sales. We find out how. Nina Dizon-Cabrera is the CEO of make-up brand, Colourette Cosmetics in the Philippines. She explains how her business began on social media and how she can sell thousands of products in just a few hours by live streaming on TikTok. Joan Aurelia heads to Jakarta in Indonesia. The country has over 100,000 TikTok users, the second biggest market for the app after the United States. She speaks to business owners there about how social media has allowed them to transform their businesses. Simon Torring is the cofounder of Cube Asia, a market analyst. He explains how much this new way of selling is contributing to the economy and predicts where the next big trends will come. Presenter/producer: Hannah Mullane (Photo: Nina Dixon-Cabrera Credit: Colourette Cosmetics)
Mon, February 06, 2023
Getting into business: Mentoring
A mentor can take many different forms but ultimately they’re there to give you advice, put you in touch with contacts they have and support you, whether you’re setting up a new business or looking to make the next step in your career. We head to Sweden to speak to Caxton Njuki, a professional sports and health coach who is a mentor to Jessika Sillanpää. He supported her for a year as she set up her business Jessikastory. They give us an insight into their mentoring relationship and how the process allowed Jessika to work on her business full time. Abhishek Nagaraj, an expert in business mentoring at the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkley. He discusses the different forms of mentoring and the economic benefits if you have a really good mentor. Producer/presenter: Hannah Mullane (Image: Caxton Njuki and Jessika Sillanpää Credit: Caxton Njuki)
Fri, February 03, 2023
What is the cost of lower inflation?
With food and heating prices going up, and wages not rising at the same rate, there is pressure on central bankers across the world to tackle inflation. But is this the right approach? And can it be done without crashing the economy? Ed Butler hears from parents at a cheerleading class in Castleford in northern England, who are concerned about rising prices. They say it is the food shopping where they have noticed the price rises – with one parent shopping online to stop children asking for more items. Jason Furman, a Harvard professor and President Obama's chief economic adviser, explains how we have reached this position – largely as a result of the pandemic and resulting government responses, and the invasion of Ukraine. Former Federal Reserve economist Claudia Sahm explains how prices are rising for the core essentials - hitting poorer households disproportionately which is an issue for the whole economy. And why do we have a 2% inflation target? Mohamed El-Erian, veteran economist and president of Queen’s College, Cambridge, talks about the historical factors around this 'desirable' number. Presenter/producer: Ed Butler (Photo: Woman with shopping basket. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, February 02, 2023
ASML: Inside Europe’s most valuable tech company
Presenter Matthew Kenyon visits Dutch tech giant ASML, the company which makes the most advanced machines used in the manufacturing of microchips. It is Europe’s most valuable tech company and business is booming – ASML expanded its headcount by nearly a third in 2022 – but political pressure from the US to restrict exports to China threatens to disrupt the semiconductor landscape. We hear from ASML chief executive Peter Wennink, find out more about the process of creating ASML’s remarkable products and consider what the fallout from Washington’s intervention might be. Presenter/producer: Matthew Kenyon (Photo: ASML expo in Shanghai. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 01, 2023
My hijab, my way
On World Hijab Day, Business Daily's Emb Hashmi explores the enormous market in modest fashion and in particular the hijab. We meet four women who wear the hijab in their own way and also make a living out of modelling, making and selling hijabs. Dr Sana Askary, founder of Yumin Hijab tells Emb that when she decided to wear the hijab a few years ago she couldn’t find one she could wear comfortably so she designed her own and now runs a hijab business which she’s hoping to expand this year. Shazrina Azman aka Mizz Nina was an award winning Malaysian singer songwriter but a chance moment on Hajj pilgrimage made her realise she wanted to dress more modestly. Sharzina adapted her already very successful fashion business to more modest clothing designs and left her free hair look behind to wear the hijab. Lalla Mariah al-Idrissi is a model and filmmaker and tells us she’s considered a model with hijab she's considered a model with hijab because the hijab is such a significant part of her appearance and Eniya Rana a modest fashion influencer based in London and married mother of 5 describes how she creates very relatable online content for a growing global female audience. Presenter/producer: Emb Hashmi (Photo: Dr Sana Askary and friends; Credit: Yumin Hijabs)
Tue, January 31, 2023
The market for military memorabilia
Presenter David Reid explores the huge market in military memorabilia. Enthusiasts recreating historical battles has surged in recent years and driven a boom in the market for military uniforms and artefacts. We speak to dealers and buyers and explore the ethics of what some say is a blood soaked trade. David reports from a re-enactment event and speaks to John Ruffhead, the co-ordinator for the Royal Navy Beachhead Commando re-enactors, to find out more about those who take part. Charlotte Huxley-James, a World War Two living historian tells us about the military uniforms she has bought over the years and why authenticity really matters. We also hear from military memorabilia dealer Malcolm Fisher who tells us the market for what he sells is huge and defends the trade in Nazi artefacts. Producer/presenter: David Reid (Photo: US Army Sergeant in uniform decorated with medals. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 30, 2023
The boss of Africa's biggest bank
Ade Ayeyemi, the CEO of Ecobank - Africa’s biggest bank - speaks to presenter Peter MacJob about the economic woes facing much of Africa and explores the leadership and policy adjustments needed to turn the continents fortunes around. In a candid and wide ranging interview Mr Ayeyemi says that African governments need to stop introducing subsidies and start collecting more taxes in order to manage their economies better. Presenter/producer: Peter MacJob (Photo: Ade Ayeyemi, CEO Ecobank. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, January 27, 2023
Cost of living: Dresden, Germany
For the final episode of our cost of living series, the Business Daily team are in Dresden, a manufacturing powerhouse in the east of Germany. Leanna Byrne speaks to small business owners, students considering taking on extra paid work and a big manufacturing boss about how the rising cost of living is affecting them and their livelihoods. Detlef Neuhaus, the chief executive of one of Germany's biggest renewables companies - Solarwatt - tells us how the war in Ukraine has changed the mindset of some people when it comes to the value of renewable energy and how their manufacturing costs have gone up in recent months. Presenter: Leanna Byrne Production: Izzy Greenfield and Alex Bell Image: Dresden; Credit: Getty Images
Thu, January 26, 2023
Cost of living: Hospitality
We all know a coffee shop, a restaurant, a greasy spoon, a pub or a fine dining eatery that has closed in the last few months. But why, after two years of forced closures because of the coronavirus pandemic, are hospitality businesses closing now? Leanna Byrne speaks to hospitality business owners from three different countries to find out how they’re covering their overheads. Alessandro Borghese is a chef who owns restaurants in Milan and in Venice. He says he’s paying more for everything from food to oils and staff. And Mandla Mataure is the managing director for the Chimanimani Hotel in Manicaland in eastern Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe ended 2023 reporting a 244% inflation rate. How does Mandla deal with constant price rises when staff are looking for more money? Oliver Mansaray owns the restaurant, Kink, in Berlin. Oliver opened his first ever hospitality business right before the pandemic struck. Like Mandla, he’s taken on the cost of living challenge by cutting costs elsewhere and trying to be more efficient. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne )Image: Oliver Mansaray in Kink, Berlin/ Credit: Oliver Mansaray)
Wed, January 25, 2023
Cost of living: Housing
Whether renting or buying, housing costs are going up. Presenter Leanna Byrne takes you back home with her to Dublin, Ireland to discuss what all Dubliners love to moan about: the rising cost of renting. According to a report by Daft.ie, which lists places to rent or buy in Ireland, at the end of 2022 rent in Dublin had risen to an average $2,446 per month. And the rising price of renting has seeped into some of Ireland’s other cities, like Cork and Galway, where rents rose by 12% and 16%. Limerick and Waterford’s rental prices both soared by more than 17%. We hear from Rebecca, a 32-year-old working in the tech sector in Dublin, who has been renting for 10 years. She says that renting in Dublin is getting harder. Alex is 31 and works in banking. He got a job in Dublin in January 2022 and was worried about moving there because he heard about the housing horror stories. And finally, Norman Shapiro, senior mortgage broker with First Israel Mortgages, gives us the view from Israel, where house prices have hit a record 20% year-on-year increase. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne (Image: Houses/ Getty Images)
Tue, January 24, 2023
Cost of living: Childcare
Children aren’t cheap. The cost of living crisis is pushing parents to the edge of their finances, worrying about paying for essentials like food, clothing and, for many, childcare. We’ll take a look at Chile, which according to data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), is one of the lowest ranking when it comes to public spending on early childhood education. Natalia Aránguiz lives in Chile and has two children- she speaks to Leanna Byrne about her rising costs. Ann Hedgepeth, chief of policy and advocacy at non-profit organisation Child Care Aware of America, says the national average price of childcare was around $10,600 per year. She says one of the main factors is getting the right staff. Seven thousand miles away in Kampala in Uganda, one childcare business owner is facing the same issues. Manuela Mulondo is chief executive and founder of Cradle, a childcare, lactation and education centre. She says people never think about childcare companies when they are talking about price rises, but says it’s very expensive to look after children. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne (Image: Child and parent. Credit: PA)
Mon, January 23, 2023
Cost of living: Transport
In this first episode of our second series on the cost of living, Business Daily's Leanna Byrne looks into the areas of our lives that are costing us the most. Today we focus on our public transport systems. Figures from Statista, a market and consumer data platform, puts Auckland, New Zeland as the third most expensive city for public transport, we hear from Jon Reeves who is National Co-Ordinator and Co-Founder of the Public Transport Users Association there. When the cost of living rises, it rises for everyone. So those working in the transport sector want pay rises to reflect that. Anna Jane Hunter, partner at Winder Phillips Associates, tells Business Daily that there’s a lot of systemic issues in the UK’s transport sector that have only just bubbled to the surface again after two years of us staying at home and not using public transport. We speak to Gregor Kolbe, who works on transport and consumer politics for the Federation of German Consumer Organisations. Over the summer, Germany encouraged people to use public transport by actually reducing the cost of transport. But prices are back to normal levels now. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne Image: Passengers at Kings Cross Station in London/ Credit: EPA
Fri, January 20, 2023
The resurgence of vinyl records
In 2022, the sale of vinyl records in the UK made more money than CDs. You might think of it as an old fashioned way to listen to music, especially with the dominance of streaming services, but in the last 12 months, artists like Beyonce, Harry Styles and Taylor Swift have all put out major releases on vinyl. So how is the record industry coping with the increased demand? David Harper visits one of the biggest pressing plants in the world, GZ Media, which is based in the Czech Republic. Company CEO Michal Štěrba tells David that the business model is very different to when he started. He says demand started to grow in around 2003 when some other factories closed, but it hasn't stopped growing. David speaks to a Japanese record store about why younger people seem to be buying so much vinyl. And we hear from Kenyan film maker and musician Maia Lekow. She records on vinyl but can't find anywhere in Kenya to press the vinyl itself - she's ended up doing it in Australia. Some smaller independent labels tell us they're struggling to get records pressed. Andy Black owns the Popty Ping Recording company in Wales and says there's now a delay and they need to plan a lot more in advance, which can be hard when bands want to release new music. Presenter: David Harper Producers: David Harper and Victoria Hastings (Photo: GZ Media pressing plant. Credit: David Harper)
Thu, January 19, 2023
Long Covid and work
Over a million people in Spain are thought to have long Covid. In this episode of Business Daily Ashish Sharma finds out how the condition is affecting working lives and the wider economy. He also examines the long Covid research projects being undertaken in Spain and how they're funded. Long Covid patients Blanca Helga and Maria Angeles discuss their symptoms and the work they're lost since having the condition. Beatriz Fernandez, who herself has long Covid, tells Ashish about a long Covid platform and support group she runs and what she's learnt from it. Maria Jesus Arranz, a geneticist who runs the long Covid research programme at the University Hospital Mutua Terrassa tells us about her work and Carlos Esquivias, the head of Life & Pensions at the Spanish Association of Insurers, UNESPA, tells us how long Covid and Covid in general continues to impact the Spanish economy. Producer / presenter: Ashish Sharma Image: Blanca Helga; Credit: Blanca Helga
Wed, January 18, 2023
The nappy problem
Billions of disposable nappies, or diapers, are produced every year and sales are booming. Most go to landfill, some pollute rivers and oceans and a baby can get through 4,000-6,000 nappies by the time they are potty trained. New dad and Business Daily presenter Rick Kelsey looks into whether the available alternatives to disposable nappies are as cheap or convenient for parents. We hear from with nappy innovators Jason and Kim Graham-Nye in Indonesia, who’ve been in the market for 20 years, about how the alternative industry has changed. The City of Brussels in Belgium is planning to introduce washable, and therefore reusable, nappies in all 40 of its municipal daycare centres by 2026. Arnaud Pinxteren who is leading the scheme tells us how it works. Meanwhile Larissa Copello, who works on the nappy issue for the campaign group Zero Waste Europe, tells us how schemes like the one in Brussels could be scaled up. Presenter/producer: Rick Kelsey (Photo: Nappy change. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 16, 2023
Tackling the global food crisis in 2023
The new president of the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development, Alvaro Lario tells us why the pandemic, war in Ukraine and climate change have created a perfect storm for global food security and what can be done about that. The BBC’s Frey Lindsay hears from people around the world who are dealing with the food crisis. Alvaro Lario explains how food shortages often begin with smallholder farmers. The failure of their crops and livestock means farmers are often left struggling to feed themselves and this then affects entire communities. Lario also discusses his vision for how private finance and multilateral institutions can team up and to avert the worst in the coming 12 months. Producer/presenter: Frey Lindsay (Image: Farming fields. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 16, 2023
Why does India have so many female pilots?
At 12.4%, India has the highest percentage of female pilots in the world. In this episode, Olivia Wilson speaks to female pilots and industry experts to find out why India is leading the way and why other countries are so far behind. We hear about the achievements of Indian commercial airline pilots, Captain Hana Mohsin Khan and Captain Zoya Agarwal, who became the youngest female pilot to fly a Boeing 777 in 2013 and landed a record-breaking flight over the North Pole on the world's longest air route in 2021. Michele Halleran, a trained pilot and professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the US, explains the financial and cultural barriers that are in play. Kara Hatzai, the vice president at the International Society of Women Airline Pilots, who provide financial support for women training as pilots, tells us how a scholarship kickstarted her career in the male dominated industry. Presenter/producer: Olivia Wilson (Photo: Zoya Agarwal. Credit: Zoya Agarwal)
Fri, January 13, 2023
Why is Nashville a magnet for entrepreneurs?
Small businesses create nearly two-thirds of new jobs in the workforce and account for 44% of US economic activity. So what's the secret to their success? What challenges do they face and which are the best cities and regions for them to thrive? Samira Hussain visits the city of Nashville in Tennessee, which is a hotbed of new businesses and start ups - there are reportedly four out of every 1000 Nashville residents are CEOs. Samira meets James Davenport and Mike Hinds, co-founders of the Nashville Barrel company who launched their whiskey company in the city in February 2020. She goes to a business ‘mixer’ where CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, Jane Allen, gives an overview of Nashville’s appeal. Tennessee has very low taxes which can encourage new business to the area - Bradley Jackson, president and CEO of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry tells Samira how the approach works alongside other incentives. But what does this mean for the people living there? The state has one of the highest sales taxes in the country. That means everything you buy at the store costs more. Samira speaks to Dick Williams, board member of Tennesseans for Fair Taxation, who says this kind of tax scheme ends up hurting the most vulnerable people. Presented and produced by Samira Hussain Additional production: Rob Cave (Image: The lights on Broadway in Nashville. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, January 12, 2023
China's Covid nightmare: Can Beijing bounce back?
China has this week reopened its borders for the first time in nearly three years. There have been scenes of joy and relief for many Chinese citizens after years of isolation. Ed Butler asks whether this is a turning point, as some are describing. What are the longer term economic threats for the so-called engine of global growth? And how does that impact the rest of the world? Ed speaks to two young Chinese professionals - one in Beijing and one in Shanghai, who are feeling a mixture of relief and concern about the current situation. George Magnus is a research associate at Oxford University’s China Centre - he tells Ed that the current Covid infection wave could spread right across the country, to smaller cities and rural areas. It's difficult to get the true economic picture of what's happening in China, but Shehzad Qazi, managing director of the China Beige Book, the biggest private data collection network on China, says growth turned negative last year, with demand crashing and factories forced to close down. Presenter/producer: Ed Butler (Photo: A woman at an airport in China after restrictions were lifted. Credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
Wed, January 11, 2023
The return to burning wood
Wood sales for heating have been growing across Europe, but as demand increases people are facing rising prices and reports of firewood theft. Business Daily's Rick Kelsey looks at how people are buying wood burners to heat their homes, so that they don't need to use as much gas this winter. We speak with Nic Snell, managing director of UK based company Certainly Wood. It sells around 20,000 tonnes of wood every year and Nic tells us who is buying it. Erika Malkin, from the Stove Industry Alliance, tells us sales are now unprecedented and the price of wood has not risen anywhere near as much as other fuels. She estimates that heating the average home with wood is 13% cheaper than using gas. To prevent theft in Germany, some forestry departments are experimenting with hiding GPS devices in logs. Nicole Fiegler, a spokesperson from the forestry department from North Rhine-Westphalia tells us how it works. A recent study by the Health Effects Institute warned that the human cost of air pollution in Africa is among the highest on the planet. In sub-Saharan Africa the death rate from air pollution is 155 deaths per 100,000 people, nearly double the global average of 85. Household air pollution, which is linked to the use of solid fuels for cooking, is the largest risk factor for deaths. Dr. KP Asante is a senior researcher on the Ghana Health Service, he talks us through how burning wood could be made more efficient and clean. Producer/presenter: Rick Kelsey (Photo: Open log fire; Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, January 10, 2023
Who is Jack Ma?
Jack Ma is China's best-known entrepreneur, an English teacher who became a billionaire, after he founded the e-commerce giant Alibaba. However in June 2021, Chinese regulators halted the dual stock market debut of his digital payments company Ant Group - an affiliate of Alibaba - in Hong Kong and Shanghai, citing "major issues" over regulating the company. Mr Ma has been laying low ever since. In January 2023, it was announced that Mr Ma would give up control of the Chinese fintech giant. So who is Jack Ma? And what does the future hold now? In November 2022, Business Daily’s Rahul Tandon spoke to Brian Wong, a former Alibaba executive and special assistant to Jack Ma at Alibaba who has recently written a book about his time with the company. He talks about his relationship with Mr Ma, what he was like to work for, and what he thinks the future could hold. Producer/presenter: Rahul Tandon (Photo: Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba Group, speaks during opening ceremony of the 3rd All-China Young Entrepreneurs Summit 2020 in Fuzhou, China. Credit: Lyu Ming/China News Service/Getty Images)
Mon, January 09, 2023
Business and conscription in Russia
Victoriya Holland investigates how businesses in Russia are surviving, as tens of thousands of men of working age are called up by the government to fight in the illegal war against Ukraine. On the 21st September 2022, the Russian President, Vladimir Putin, announced a partial mobilisation of 300 thousand reservists to fight in Ukraine. After this announcement thousands of young men fled abroad. We hear from business owners that have stayed in Russia and now face real difficulties in terms of staffing, and from those who have chosen to relocate their operations entirely. Presenter / producer: Victoriya Holland Image: Conscripted citizens in Russia; Credit: Getty Images
Fri, January 06, 2023
Women, sport and business: Making NBA history
As part of our mini-series on women, sport and business we meet Cynt Marshall. She's the chief executive officer of the Dallas Mavericks and the first black female CEO in the history of the National Basketball Association, a professional basketball league in the United States. Cynt tells us about her background, where she found the drive to forge an enormously successful career and how she’s changed a toxic workplace culture when she arrived at the Mavericks. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Production: Helen Thomas and Carmel O’Grady (Image: Cynt Marshall; Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, January 05, 2023
Women, sport and business: Betting
Gambling has a long and complex relationship with sport. But betting is no longer a man's game. As women's sport grows, many companies are putting big money on its success. In the next programme in our series looking at women, sport and business, we find out how one football side came back from the brink via a deal with Sweden's main gambling operator, Svenska Spel. And we hear how England's victory in the Women's Euros could be a big win for the British betting sector. But as other sports look to sponsorship deals, some are calling for tighter controls on how - and to whom - bookmakers can advertise. Presenter/Producer: Alex Bell (Image: Kristianstads DFF face their rivals Djurgardens IF DFF in Stockholm, Sweden. Credit: Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images.)
Tue, January 03, 2023
Women, sport and business: Media deals
In the second programme of our series on women, sport and business, we’re looking at the media. With women’s sport accounting for only around 5% of total sports coverage globally, we find out how some clubs and organisations are moving away from traditional media, and looking at digital and streaming to reach fans instead. Reporter Sam Fenwick visits Burnley FC Women in the north of England. In 2021 they signed a ground breaking deal with TikTok to show every home game. And we hear from TikTok themselves – Rich Waterworth, General Manager for the UK and Europe explains what’s in it for them. Sue Anstiss is the author of Game On: The unstoppable rise of women’s sport. She tells us fans of all sports are consuming content differently now, and if women’s sport gets it right, there could be a big opportunity in the digital market. And Haley Rosen, founder and CEO of digital media company Just Women’s Sports explains her frustration at trying to set up a business in a growing marketplace which is lacking in investment and infrastructure. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Helen Thomas (Image: Burnley FC Women in December 2021. Credit: George Wood/Getty Images)
Mon, January 02, 2023
Women, sport and business: Haley Rosen
This year sees one of the biggest global events in women’s sport – the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. It follows a very successful 2022 for the sector with record crowds watching England win the Women’s European Championship on home soil, Australia claiming the Women’s Rugby League World Cup and in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, South Africa beat hosts Morrocco to take the title. In Business Daily’s series on women, sport and business, we speak to Haley Rosen, a former pro soccer player who now runs the digital sports media company Just Women’s Sports. When Haley stopped playing, she realised she couldn't access even basic information about women's sports, including fixtures, scores and all the other statistics available to those following male sports. Haley tells Sam Fenwick how she set up her digital media platform and secured more than $3.5 million in investment. They also discuss what needs to change to make sure female sporting stars are treated on a par with their male counterparts. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Helen Thomas (Image: Haley Rosen; Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, December 23, 2022
Review of 2022
Business Daily reviews one of the most important 12 months for the world of money and work on record. Big economic news has dominated in 2022. We saw war break out in Europe, record high energy, fuel and food prices, increasing interest rates and in parts of the world total financial meltdown. We look at how Business Daily reported 2022 and spoke to the people at the very sharp end of how the economy has changed lives over the past 12 months. We hear from businesses right across the world in sectors struggling with prices rises and increasing costs, from the people trying to escape or rebuild broken economies and from those who are harnessing new technology and an ever changing work environment to make money or push for change. We also saw many sectors bounce back post-Covid, the return of travel and tourism to many countries, sporting events were once again played to full capacity crowds and festivals, concerts and cinema bounced back as audiences came back and spent their cash. We also look to the year ahead and what might be in store in 2023. Presenters: Leanna Byrne and Rahul Tandon Producer: Izzy Greenfield Editors: Carmel O'Grady and Helen Thomas
Fri, December 16, 2022
Money jobs: Inside the auction house
It’s the last episode in our five-part Business Daily series all about high-value, high-transaction jobs you might read about, see on the TV or glamorised in films. In episode five, Leanna Byrne interviews some of the oldest and most well-known auction houses in the world. Bruno Vinciguerra, chief executive of Bonhams, tells us how auctioneers determine what’s worth auctioning off and what’s not. Jenny Lok, head of business development and operations at Poly Auction Hong Kong, tells us what the day in the life of an auctioneer is really like. And Kelly Crow, staff reporter for The Wall Street Journal, gives an insight into who’s buying all of this really expensive stuff. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne Image: Jenny Lok; Credit: Poly Auction Hong Kong
Thu, December 15, 2022
Money jobs: The reality for realtors
This is episode four of our Business Daily series all about high value, high transaction jobs you might read about, see on the TV or glamorised in films. And in this episode Leanna Byrne looks at the reality for those people who's job is to sell or rent some of the most expensive homes in the world. If you’re a fan of Selling Sunset or Million Dollar Listing, with the estate agents as slick as the homes they're selling, then you’re going to love this episode because it lifts the lid on what it’s really like to do these jobs. Leanna speaks to Hong Kong estate agent Letizia G Casalino, director of Real Estate of OKAY.com about the market there, and why realtors in Hong Kong are expected to do a lot more that just sell. Vivian Chong is a real estate agent in Singapore and tells us about some very exclusive properties and Anna Klenkar, is a real estate agent with Compass, and she's been making TikToks all about the realities of the New York property market. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne Image: Contract signing; Credit: Juan Manuel Brest
Wed, December 14, 2022
Money jobs: The truth about trading
We all love a good financial film, we might not all fully understand what’s going on the whole time, but they’re always really intense with a make or break ending, but is working as a markets trader really like that? This is the latest episode from our Business Daily’s series on high value, high transaction jobs you might read about, see on the TV or glamorised in films. In episode three Leanna Byrne looks at how some of the most famous financial films depict working as a commodities trader and compares that with what a real life commodities trader, Warren Goldstein, tells us about working in the industry. If, even as your read this, you’re thinking hang on what’s a commodity trader? Don’t worry, Katie McGarrigle, show host for Options Trading Concepts Live on the tastylive network, is our jargon buster for this episode. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne Image: Traders on the floor; Credit: Getty
Tue, December 13, 2022
Money jobs: Cashing or crashing with crypto
Crypto is a tricky business. Chances are, you know someone or know of someone who's made a bit of money with crypto, and that you’re not too far removed from someone who’s lost money too. This is episode two in the latest series from Business Daily, all about high value, high transaction jobs you might read about, see on the TV or glamorised in films. In this episode, Leanna Byrne asks author, speaker and content creator Layah Heilpern what it's really like investing in Bitcoin. Abhishek Sachdev, chief executive of Vedanta Hedging, a traditional trader tells us why he's ring-fenced some of his personal investment fund for crypto trading and Matt Brighton, a property investor, tells us he learned some hard lessons trading crypto. We also find out that trading isn’t the only way to get involved in the crypto market. Solicitor Charlotte Hill, works at the international law firm Pennington Manches Cooper has been taking on a ballooning caseload coming out of the crypto space. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne Image: Bitcoin logo; Credit: Getty
Mon, December 12, 2022
Money jobs: Making money on the tables
Ever thought about quitting your job and playing poker for a living? Well, today we find out what it’s really like making your living on the tables. This is the latest series from Business Daily, all about high value, high transaction jobs you might read about, see on the TV or glamorised in films. In episode one, Leanna Byrne interviews professional poker player Dara O’Kearney. Dara explains what a day in the life of a professional poker player is really like and warns, if you’re playing poker professionally, every player goes through what’s known as upswings and downswings. We also switch sides and find out what it’s like working as a croupier in a casino. Stefano Melani works for Centro Formazione Croupier, which trains croupiers for casinos across Italy, somewhere with one of the worlds largest gambling sectors. He lets us in on the glamorous and not-so-glamorous side of the casinos. David Schwartz, an academic and gambling historian based in Las Vegas, Nevada, gives us the macro perspective on the gambling industry, detailing the rise of gambling towns across the world. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne (Photo: Poker table; Credit: Getty images)
Fri, December 09, 2022
The rising stars of football and their money
The World Cup is a catwalk of footballing talent. Lesser known players are thrust into the spot light and launched onto the global soccer scene often with an enormous increase in wages. But how much do those young, impressionable players know about personal finance? We've all seen the stories of high profile players blowing their fortunes and ending up bankrupt, and players in the English Premier League can expect wages of around $10million a year. In this episode we hear from two former footballers who now help others manage their money. Swedish footballer, Philip Haglund tells Sam Fenwick how difficult it is not to spend on expensive items when the first pay cheque comes in, and former Manchester United and France International, Louis Saha, explains why players can be overwhelmed by how much they earn and what he’s doing to try and help current and former athletes manage their finances better. Presenter/producer: Sam Fenwick (Photo: Cody Gakpo of Netherlands vies with Tyler Adams of USA. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, December 08, 2022
Toy trends: Are people still spending?
Christmas and the holiday season is a crucial time for toy retailers, and hopes will be high for sales to return to pre-pandemic levels. But with the rising cost of living, we find out if families will be cutting back on toy spending this year - and look at the toys topping the popularity charts. We'll also find out how much does TV and film influence the types of toys in demand. Frederique Tutt from market research company NPD group explains the trends in toy sales, and how the type of toys that people are buying is changing. Elizabeth Hotson visits the DreamToys event in London, organised by the toy retailers association. She speaks to Paul Reader, the chair of the DreamToys selection committee about what’s making the top 10 toys list this year. Hedley Barnes, senior vice president for International from Spin Master, the company behind both the Paw Patrol TV series and toys, explains the valuable link between the show and the merchandise. Also on the list are Rainbow High Dolls – Sarah Taylor is managing director, UK and Ireland, for MGA entertainment, the company behind the dolls. She tells Elizabeth why diversity, which they champion, appeals to families. And Alan Simpson, chair of the toy retailers association, says he expects a lot of the ‘old favourites’ like Lego, Barbie, Monopoly and Play Dough to still be really popular. Presented and produced by Elizabeth Hotson (Image: A toy in a Christmas box. Credit: Getty)
Wed, December 07, 2022
What's happened to the titans of big tech?
Big tech is facing a big moment. With plummeting stock prices, and mass lay-offs, the likes of Google, Twitter and Meta are all - for different reasons - facing some tough questions over how they're being run. Some see this as primarily a result of post-pandemic blues, the rise in interest rates, and a general cost-of-living crisis affecting the business environment. However, Twitter and Meta especially have seen wholesale desertions by a number of major advertisers, worried about the regulation of hate speech, and therefore by association the safety of brands' reputations. Does this mark a deeper crisis for the ad-based business model of the major social media platforms? And what can they do about it? Presenter / Producer: Ed Butler Image: Phones; Credit: Getty
Tue, December 06, 2022
Nollywood: Nigeria's billion dollar film industry
Nigeria’s film industry, known as Nollywood is the second largest film industry in the world and has overtaken Hollywood in terms of the quantity of films produced – with an annual output of over 2,500 films. In the early 1990s, the industry was infamous for its low budget, low production films – all of which went straight to VHS cassettes and DVDs, with actors and filmmakers often running at a loss. However the past decade we've seen Nollywood grow exponentially and the industry now dominates streaming platforms across Africa and in the diaspora. Filmmaker and distributor Moses Babatope tells us local languages and mythical storylines are the secret of Nollywood’s new found success, coupled with improvement in expertise whilst veteran actress Kate Henshaw says the industry has come a long way since she first graced the screen. Adunni Ade a first time executive producer is of the opinion more can be done to incentivise the growth of the industry and Nigeria’s biggest film producer Kunle Afolayan advocates the need for improvement in production capacity. Presenter / producer: Peter MacJob Image: Actors on set; Credit: Adunni Ade
Mon, December 05, 2022
Regulating online gambling
Online gambling’s success has pushed global valuations of the industry to around half a trillion dollars for 2022 - but the accessibility of its digital platforms is forcing regulators around the world into a rethink. In this programme, Laura Heighton-Ginns visits Fanduel - the market leader in New York - and gets a tour of its vast Meadowlands Sportsbook complex, where punters blend betting with socialising. Laura also hears from Indian Poker champion Nikita Luther on the distinctions between playing games of skill for money and those of chance and Chrissy Boyce, who became bankrupt and homeless through using digital slot machines, tells Laura about the links between online gambling and addiction. Presenter / producer: Laura Heighton-Ginns Image: Fanduel Meadowlands; Credit: BBC
Fri, December 02, 2022
Beauty Costs: Girls, beauty and advertising
More than ever girls are bombarded by images that have been curated, filtered and touched up. How can we help girls decode those images and understand that ideals of beauty are constructed by society and change across time and place? Shelina Janmohamed is an author and advertising executive. Her latest book is designed to help girls aged eight and above build confidence in how they look and show them why what appears to be beautiful isn't as straight forward as it seems. Shelina tells presenter Rabiya Limbada why her career in advertising led her to write this book and why helping girls become more savvy consumers is good for business. Rabiya also speaks to six girls - Hanaa, Haleemah, Helen, Hana, Sophia and Amatullah - about what they think beautiful is, their experience of filtered images and how confident they feel about how they look. Presenter: Rabiya Limbada Producer: Carmel O'Grady (Image: Young girl at beauty counter / Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, December 01, 2022
Beauty Costs: Why is Korean skincare so popular?
In today’s episode of our Beauty Costs series, we’re looking at a part of the beauty world that’s worth over ten billion dollars. K-beauty is one of South Korea’s biggest exports, and in the last couple of years it’s overtaken the United States in becoming the world’s second biggest exporter of beauty products. So we head to Seoul, where reporter Nina Pasquini finds out why consumers there think it’s infiltrated the mainstream market. We speak to the founder of one of the biggest K-beauty disruptor brands, Alicia Yoon from Peach & Lily. Sharon Ahn, beauty analyst from global consumer trend forecaster WGSN, tells us why K-beauty is set to become worth twenty billion dollars in the next few years. South Korea has cultivated an era of cultural dominance, in music, acting and now in beauty. A lot of which has been accessible online, mainly through social media. Youtuber SSIN has over one a and a half million subscribers to her channel, she tells us what K-beauty means to her and her thoughts on its success. Producer and presenter: Izzy Greenfield (Image: Beige Chuu South Korean beauty influencer / Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, November 30, 2022
Beauty costs: Beauty disruptor brands
The beauty industry was once a world dominated by a handful of names, but quickly and quietly, hundreds of smaller brands have managed to make a name for themselves in an incredibly competitive sector. We speak to beauty business founders who have built their brands from scratch, and now sell to millions of people across the world; Chaymae Samir is the founder of MadeBySunday.com and Bianca Ingrosso is the founder of CAIA cosmetics. In a recent report on the cosmetics industry, Deloitte found that “small is the new big” and that “global brands are losing share as small brands and disruptors are gaining”. So why have we fallen out of love with the beauty behemoths, and what do smaller brands have that the bigger ones don’t? Producer and presenter: Izzy Greenfield (Image: Make-up products / Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, November 29, 2022
Beauty costs: A spotlight on skin lightening
Products that claim to lighten skin are often physically harmful, often containing toxic chemicals and dangerous ingredients. We look at why skin lightening products still exist, speak to people affected by their messaging, and find out why stopping sales is not as simple as it might seem. We hear from Professor Mire, associate professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Carleton in Ottawa, Canada. She suggests that terms like "glow" and "brightening," which are increasingly used by cosmetics firms as substitutes, are as steeped in colonial and racial narratives as the words they are replacing. She believes the branding of these products continues to exploit historic and racialised associations between skin tone and status. Chandana from Mumbai tells us what it was like to live in a society where she was pressured to have lighter skin, and Professor Adbi from the Singapore Business Schools explains why he believes that companies are promoting beauty ideals linked to lighter skin, and fuelling demand that could indirectly put people’s health at risk. Producer and presenter: Izzy Greenfield (Image: Skin lightening products. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, November 28, 2022
Beauty costs: How do you create a beauty empire? With Marcia Kilgore
Perhaps you have heard of Marcia Kilgore, or maybe not, but if you’re a woman, a beauty junkie, or just love shoes, you are likely to have heard of one of the five multi-million dollar companies that she has launched over the last two decades. Marcia is the brains behind the beauty brand BlissSpa, the spa brand Soap&Glory, shoe phenomenon FitFlop, bath and body range Soaper Duper and most recently, Beauty Pie - an affordable luxury make-up and skincare range. She tells us why she became a serial entrepreneur, and how her career started in a one bedroom-apartment in New York City. Producer and presenter: Izzy Greenfield (Image: Marcia Kilgore. Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, November 25, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Krept
UK-based rapper Krept grew up in a culture of gang violence, but has carved out a career for himself as a successful musician and entrepreneur. As one half of rap duo Krept & Konan, his songs, like Waste My Time, G-Love and Freak of the Week, have been streamed millions of times. Recently Krept – real name Casyo Johnson - has opened a restaurant in south London where he grew up, and the new father has even developed a skincare range for babies. He tells Dougal Shaw how he juggles the worlds of music and business. Producer and presenter: Dougal Shaw (Image: Krept. Credit: BBC)
Thu, November 24, 2022
Growing opposition to mining in Panama
We look at growing opposition to mining in Latin America. The region is a leading producer of copper, silver, iron and lithium. But the environmental and social impact of mining have sparked protests in many countries and several governments have taken action. Costa Rica outlawed open pit mining in 2002 and in 2017 El Salvador became the first country in the world to ban all metal mining. Earlier this year, Honduras banned open pit mining and there are also calls for a mining moratorium in Panama and I start my report by visiting that country’s largest ever mine, which began operations three years ago. In this episode Grace Livingstone visits Cobre Panama, an enormous copper mine built in tropical forest on the Caribbean coast of Panama. We also hear from the people who farm the land close to Panama's mines and get the views of local politicians and experts on whether this kind of mining should continue. Presenter / producer: Grace Livingstone Image: Cobre Panama mine; Credit: BBC
Wed, November 23, 2022
Napping on the job
Deborah Weitzmann explores whether a quick nap break at work could make us all more productive. We head to Beijing where an employee tells us about her lunchtime ritual of napping beside her colleagues, and we’ll discover how the pandemic may have helped squash the stigma of sleeping in Western workplaces. Kate Mulligan, the boss of RestSpace, a company that designs innovative spaces to help people nod off at work, shows us their sleep pods. Also, Dr Guy Meadows, co-founder and clinical director at Sleep School, tells us practice makes perfect when it comes to napping. Presenter / producer: Deborah Weitzmann Image: RestSpace sleep pod; Credit: Kate Mulligan
Tue, November 22, 2022
Floriade: Was it worth it?
Floriade is one of the world's biggest gardening and horticulture expos - and it has cost taxpayers in the Dutch city of Almere nine times as much as originally budgeted. So why did organisers go ahead with the project, and was it still worth it – despite hugely disappointing visitor numbers? Matthew Kenyon talks to advocates and critics of an event which may be the last of its kind in the Netherlands. Presented and produced by Matthew Kenyon. (Image: Floriade. Image credit: BBC)
Mon, November 21, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Mathieu Flamini
International footballer Mathieu Flamini started a biotech company when he was still a professional player. Speaking to Sam Fenwick, Flamini reveals what he learnt from top football managers and how that knowledge has helped him perform in the boardroom. The former Arsenal, AC Milan and Olympique de Marseille player tells us he grew up by the sea and constantly seeing plastic washed up on the shore made him aware of sustainability and climate change. He says as a youngster he had two ambitions in life, to play professional football and become an environmentalist. In 2008, while still playing top flight football, Flamini co-founded, GFBiochemicals. It produces a chemical called levulinic acid which can be used to replace oil in a range of household products. The industry is worth billions of dollars. Producer / presenter: Sam Fenwick Image: Mathieu Flamini playing for Arsenal in 2016; Credit: Getty
Fri, November 18, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Patrice Evra
On the eve of the 2022 World Cup Final Sam Fenwick speaks to former professional footballer, Patrice Evra. He made more than 80 appearances for the French national side including captaining his team in the 2010 World Cup which took place in South Africa. Evra became a multimillionaire playing for teams like Monaco, Manchester United, Juventus and Marseille. He grew up in a poor part of Paris and talks about how this helped motivate him to succeed. He reflects on player salaries and tells us about what’s he’s doing to make a living since retiring from football in the summer of 2019. Presenter / producer: Sam Fenwick Image: Patrice Evra playing for Manchester United in 2014; Credit: Getty
Thu, November 17, 2022
Reinventing recycling in Louisiana
Franziska Trautmann and Max Steitz decided to start a recycling project in New Orleans after realising the city sent all its glass to landfill. Now their social enterprise Glass Half Full diverts hundreds of tonnes from landfill and is using the material to help shore up Louisiana’s eroding coastline. Franziska tells us how they are expanding the project and we hear from one of their first business customers. We also find out why gaps in the recycling system mean the city’s waste glass can’t easily be turned back into new bottles. Producer/presenter: James Graham (Photo: Franziska Trautman and Max Steitz at their base in New Orleans. Credit: Glass Half Full)
Wed, November 16, 2022
The cost of rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean
In this episode of Business Daily we get on board The Ocean Viking, a migrant rescue boat operated by the non-governmental organisations SOS Méditerranée and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. The boat has recently been at the centre of a diplomatic row having been denied permission to dock by the Italian authorities and instead having to travel to France so those onboard could disembark. The BBC's Frey Lindsay spoke to some of the migrants and crew on the boat over the last few weeks. We’ll also hear from the former mayor of Lampedusa, Giusi Nicolini, on why she thinks European states should cooperate much more to deal with this kind of migration. Sophie Beau and Xavier Lauth of SOS Méditerranée also explain why politics, diplomatic rows, higher prices and compassion fatigue are all increasing the financial pressures on their operations. Producer / presenter: Frey Lindsay Image: Crew on the Ocean Viking; Credit: Getty
Tue, November 15, 2022
Africa Super League – new dawn for football?
Confederation of African Football, CAF, with the backing of FIFA, has launched a new Super League aimed at injecting much-needed funds to clubs on the continent. CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe promised that the tournament, due to start in 2023, would financially transform African football with $100 million on offer in prize money alone. But, as Ivana Davidovic finds out, there are more questions than answers for many involved in the game on the continent. The owner of Cape Town City, John Comitis, says that they are in the dark about how the new competition would work in practice and that South African Premier Soccer League, where they were the runners-up last season, would be badly affected by the new Super League. Nigerian football journalist and the former member of the dissolved FIFA Task Force Against Racism, Osasu Obayiuwana is worried that there are no clear plans where the money would come from for the Super League nor how teams could travel regularly across the vast continent. He also warns that a big problem would be the lack of interest in pan-African club tournaments from broadcasters and sponsors, as it is difficult for many Africans to regularly follow on TV what is happening in football leagues across the continent. However, the legendary South African striker, UEFA Champions League winner and the current Manchester United first team coach Benni McCarthy believes that the Super League would boost standards across Africa, helping young players compete with the best from around the world. Produced and presented by Ivana Davidovic (Image: Mohamed el-Shenawy holds the winner's trophy after the CAF Super Cup Final between El Ahly and Raja Casablanca at Al Rayyan Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar on December 22, 2021. Photo credit: Mohammed Dabbous/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Mon, November 14, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Nico Rosberg
Theo Leggett meets Nico Rosberg, who found fame and fortune in the fossil-fuelled world of F1, but is now reinventing himself as a champion of green technology. As a driver he reached the pinnacle of world motorsport, taking the F1 title in the final race of 2016, and then retired just days afterwards. Nico tells Theo just what it takes to become a world champion in the white heat of motorsport and how those skills are now being used on a new mission, to protect the planet. Presenter/producer: Theo Leggett (Photo: Nico Rosberg of Germany and Mercedes GP celebrates after securing the F1 World Drivers Championship during the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix. Credit: Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Fri, November 11, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Boyan Slat
How do you clean the world's oceans of plastic? 10 years ago, when he was just 18, Dutchman Boyan Slat thought he knew how to do it, and set out his vision at TED talk. The journey from theory to reality has proved difficult, but he is now extracting plastic from the Pacific and a number of rivers around the world. We speak to Boyan about the scale of the task at hand. Is it even an achievable goal? How is he raising enough money? What does he make of the accusation he’s helping multi-nationals ‘greenwash’ their reputations by taking sponsorship cash? Presenter/producer: James Graham Image: Boyan Slat on a plastic-strewn beach in Honduras (Credit: The Ocean Cleanup)
Thu, November 10, 2022
Rebuilding lives after flooding in Pakistan
Many communities in Pakistan were completely destroyed when vast areas of the country were hit by catastrophic flooding this summer. 33 million people were affected and in this episode of Business Daily we hear from three of them. Bilawal, Sassi and Abdul Majeed all lost everything in the floods and are now trying to rebuild their lives. We also hear from the charities and business leaders attempting to help rebuild communities, including Jemima Goldsmith, former wife of the former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan and current UK ambassador for UNICEF. Presenter / producer: Emb Hashmi Image: Flood-hit families in Sindh province, Pakistan October 2022; Credit: Getty
Tue, November 08, 2022
The Morality of Machines
From search engines to chatbots to driverless taxis – artificial intelligence is increasingly a part of our daily lives. But is it always ethical? In this episode, Katie Barnfield explores some of the moral questions raised by new developments in smart technology. Leading researcher Dr Kate Crawford tells us about the powerful AI art software that reinforces gender stereotypes. We’ll hear from Bloomberg technology columnist Parmy Olson about the eyebrow raising conversation she had with Meta’s new chatbot. As driverless 'robotaxis' become more popular in China and the US, we’ll look at the difficult moral choices involved in their design. And how would you feel about AI that can read your emotions? We’ll hear why some companies have decided it’s a step too far. Presenter/ producer: Katie Barnfield (Image: Robot using AI. Credit: Getty)
Mon, November 07, 2022
Africa’s Middlemen: Rent-seekers or cultural brokers?
Middlemen are intermediaries who facilitate business interactions for a commission, but in Africa their role is more complex. Africa's middlemen divide opinion on whether they are predatory rent-seekers or invisible but ever present cultural brokers who are actually crucial to the economy. We hear from local businessman Bola Omololu - based in Abeokuta, southwest Nigeria, and Tony Alabi an architect also based in Nigeria, in the commercial capital of Lagos. They share their experiences of interacting with middlemen. Cocoa farmer Dimeji Green holds middlemen directly responsible for the dire conditions of farmers in the multi-billion pounds industry whilst Josephine Favre of the African association of vertical farming thinks middlemen are actually necessary for the economy to thrive. Presenter / producer: Peter MacJob Image: Bolarinwa Omololu; Credit: Bolarinwa Omololu
Fri, November 04, 2022
How much is it costing fans to go to Qatar?
About 1.5 million fans, a little more than half the population of Qatar, are expected to arrive in the tiny Gulf state for the 2022 World Cup. Two weeks before the start of tournament, Sam Fenwick speaks to fans about how much they are willing to spend to support their team and hopefully watch them lift the iconic trophy. There are concerns that fans have been priced out of attending this year’s tournament. The Ghanaian government is subsidising some ticket prices. It will be the first time many Welsh fans have had the opportunity to see their team in a World Cup, they last qualified in 1958. Around 3,000 are expected to travel for the group stages of the competition. Many have spent thousands of dollars on flights, accommodation and tickets. Argentina fans are also spending big to see Lionel Messi line up for his country in a World Cup, possibly for the very last time. Presenter / producer: Sam Fenwick Image: Welsh football fans; Credit: BBC
Thu, November 03, 2022
Women in business in Qatar
How easy is it for a woman to start and run a business in Qatar? In the past few years, there have been changes to the constitution and laws which have made it easier for women to work and run businesses. We ask whether that’s filtered down to 'street level' or whether cultural constraints still restrict women. We visit a project in Doha where Qatari women have set up a business in a cultural centre, and Sheikha Mayes bint Hamad bin Mohamed bin Jabr al-Thani explains the important role women can play in Qatar's economy. Rothna Begum, senior women's rights researcher at Human Rights Watch explains how things have changed for women in Qatar - and what barriers and challenges still remain. Presenter and producer: Sam Fenwick (Image: Women walking through Doha. Credit: Getty)
Wed, November 02, 2022
The footballers transforming their home towns
Sadio Mané and Mo Salah have had a huge impact on the small towns and villages in Senegal and Egypt where they grew up. We find out how local people have benefited from the money donated and hear about how this type of 'direct giving' is part of a wider trend making a big difference in the aid community. Presenter: Isaac Fanin Producer: Hannah Bewley (Image: Mane and Salah celebrating whilst playing for Liverpool. Credit: Getty)
Tue, November 01, 2022
Qatar’s World Cup tourism gamble
Will a boost in visitors for the Qatar World Cup lead to more visitors in the long run? Qatar has spent over $220bn on preparations for the football World Cup, and there are hopes the tournament will draw visitors for years to come. We take a tour of Doha, looking at the dow boats and some of the common tourist sites that fans will experience, and hear from Berthold Trenkel, COO of Visit Qatar. We also hear from economists who think the strategy of hosting a “mega-event” such as this can be a gamble. Plus Oman Air, which is going to be putting on dozens of extra flights so that fans can commute in for matches, tell us how that matches up with a ‘climate friendly’ World Cup. Producer/presenter: Hannah Bewley (Image: Dow boats in Doha. Credit: Getty)
Mon, October 31, 2022
Qatar: The migrant workers behind the World Cup
Workers from countries such as Nepal have done the bulk of the work to build the stadiums and infrastructure for the Qatar World Cup. But there are difficult questions still to be answered about the treatment of these people, and how compensation for those workers who have been badly treated, or even died in Qatar, is being paid. In this episode, Ed Butler speaks to a man from Nepal who worked on a bus depot project in Doha and an investigative journalist in Nepal who says he is speaking to workers who are being sent home from Qatar because the World Cup is happening. Human Rights Watch explain the issues with compensation payments that they are still hearing about, and James Dorsey, a specialist on the politics of Middle East football, gives his view on the gamble the Qataris are undertaking to host the event, in a hope that they gain ‘soft power’. Producer/Presenter: Ed Butler (Image: A Qatari stadium with workers climbing up. Credit: European Pressphoto Agency)
Fri, October 28, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Jason Bell
Samira Hussain visits the New York studio of one of the most in demand photographers in the world, Jason Bell. Jason has photographed some of the world’s most famous people - including Angelina Jolie, Leonardo DiCaprio and the British Royal Family. His work has been featured in Vanity Fair and Vogue and he’s shot campaigns for The Crown, Billy Elliot and The Revenant. Jason takes us behind the lens on some very famous photo shoots, explaining how his career progressed. Plus he gives his top tips for taking a truly memorable photograph. Presenter: Samira Hussain Producer: Carmel O’Grady (Photo: Photographer Jason Bell Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, October 27, 2022
Sri Lanka: Life after an economic crisis
In April 2022, Sri Lanka was gripped by a major economic crisis. Prices were rising sharply, protests started in the capital, Colombo,and spread across the country. Daily power cuts and shortages of basics such as fuel, food and medicines were commonplace. Inflation was running at more than 50%. In July, after months of unrest, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country. Three months on, Rahul Tandon asks whether Sri Lanka's economic situation has improved, and explores how the country could improve its fortunes - when everyone wants to leave. Rahul hears from people in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo, where there are queues for the passport office, a Colombo business owner, and a Sri Lankan academic now living in the UK who says she's not going back. Presented and produced by Rahul Tandon. (Image: Sri Lankan tea seller in the rain. Credit: Getty)
Wed, October 26, 2022
A special interview with the boss of the World Bank
In a wide ranging interview, David Malpass, president of the World Bank, speaks to presenter Sam Fenwick about the global economic situation. He talks about the consequences of rising global debt and high inflation, and how poorer countries are bearing the brunt of the economic crisis. Mr Malpass says the debt caused by the coronavirus pandemic will take decades to pay off, and says many of the subsidies were not targeted. He says a similar situation is being created again with the energy crisis. Presented and produced by Sam Fenwick. (Image: David Malpass. Credit: Getty)
Tue, October 25, 2022
The rise and fall of the hot tub
In mid-2021 hot tub companies were king. Unprecedented demand through covid pushed up sales as people stayed at home. Some of Europe's well known suppliers boasted up to a 400% increase in sales compared to 2019. Companies simply could not get a hold on enough stock. In China on/off lockdowns caused a part shortage. Waiting lists across Europe went as far as six months. Some of the world's biggest tub producers made record profits. Then in early 2022 an industry went from its heyday to doomsday in a matter of months. The reason: The cost of electricity. Across Europe, some owners are draining their pools as the cost of living crisis bites. One in five hot tub owners say they now never use them, while a further third said they hardly ever use them, according to a new major survey. Business Daily's Rick Kelsey speaks to Chris Hayes from BISHTA, the trade association for hot tub installers in the UK and Ireland, about the type of people who can now afford a tub. We travel to Valencia in Spain to hear how health spas are affording to heat their water. Sophie Clarke, who’s selling her tub on a European forum tells us how upset she is to see it go and we hear from international hot tub supplier Christina Mantoura Clarke on how her business survived when so many competitors went bust. Presented and Produced by Rick Kelsey (Image: A man and child in a hot tub. Credit: Getty)
Fri, October 21, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Dr Natalie Kenny
When you’re conducting a scientific experiment, you must prepare for it to fail. Lab researchers work by this motto. But for Dr Natalie Kenny, founder of international lab testing and medical training firm BioGrad, it’s proved true in every aspect of life. It’s been a whirlwind ride: from growing up in a working-class family in Liverpool, England, to battling tropical diseases in the Amazonian rainforest, and losing almost everything before going on to found a multi-million dollar business. In this episode of Business Daily, she sits down with Alex Bell to reflect on a remarkable life in science, discussing the pharmaceutical industry, gender equality in the laboratory, and being on the frontlines of the Covid pandemic. as well as the personal tests she’s had to overcome. (Picture: Dr Natalie Kenny at BioGrad’s headquarters in Liverpool, UK. Credit: BioGrad.)
Thu, October 20, 2022
How social media is changing farming in Kenya
We hear from some of the many small-scale farmers in Kenya who are using apps like What’sApp, Facebook and Instagram to share information about the best way to grow fruit and veg and sell direct to consumers. From the vibrant markets of Nairobi to the lush green slopes of Mount Kenya Sam Fenwick investigates how farming entrepreneurs are using smartphones to grow profits as well as peas. But running a business online can be challenging in Kenya where internet connections can be patchy and data bundles expensive. Safe access to the internet is seen as development goal. At the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly governments, the private sector, philanthropic funds and international organisations agreed that investment in digital infrastructure would help drive growth in emerging economies. US$295 million was committed to advance inclusive digital public infrastructure. Presenter / Producer: Sam Fenwick Image: Cathy Kamanu; Credit: Cathy Kamanu
Tue, October 18, 2022
How students' right to earn shook up US sport
University sport in the US has become huge business. For decades, students' share of those earnings only came in the form of scholarships. As television contracts got bigger, so did the calls for change - and last year students were granted the right to earn off their name, image and likeness. A year on, Will Bain explores how it’s shaken up college sports, providing opportunities and unforeseen challenges. Hear from former SMU college football player and professional artist Ra’Sun Kazadi, Texas A&M University Athletic Director Ross Bjork, CEO of MSP Recovery John H Ruiz and Courtney Altemus of Team Altemus, part of the advance group of NIL advisers. Presenter / producer: Will Bain Image: Quarterback Kellen Mond from Texas A&M; Credit: Getty
Mon, October 17, 2022
Why men don’t want to work any more
As many as 7 million Americans who could work, aren’t. These are people who have dropped out of the workforce - they have given up on finding a job or are simply not looking. And similar trends can be seen in other wealthy countries. So what is going on? Ed Butler speaks to Nicholas Eberstadt, a researcher at the American Enterprise Institute. He’s recently updated a book which examines the extraordinary increase in men – and it is mainly men in the US - who’ve decided they don’t just want to quit their jobs, they want to leave the workplace for good. And it’s something that’s been going on since the 1960s. Presented and produced by Ed Butler. (Image: Men on a building site. Credit: Getty)
Fri, October 14, 2022
Greensill: What went wrong?
Greensill Capital was a UK based finance firm and a darling of investors which made its money by lending to businesses. It went into administration in March 2021, leaving investors facing billions in losses. What went wrong with Greensill? Why did leading politicians like former British Prime Minister David Cameron get involved? And what does it teach us about the way modern entrepreneurs, like Australian-born Lex Greensill, try and promote themselves? Ed Butler speaks to Duncan Mavin, a financial journalist who followed the downfall of Greensill – he’s written a book about what happened. Presenter: Ed Butler Producer: James Graham (Image: Lex Greensill. Credit: Shutterstock)
Thu, October 13, 2022
Will a multibillion dollar project get Americans back on trains?
New York’s Penn Station is the busiest transport hub in the United States - as many as 650,000 people pass through it in a day. But this intercity hub is widely agreed to be outdated and unloved. Now there are plans to pour billions of dollars into a station facelift - in the hope it will attract Americans back to trains. In this episode, Laura Heighton-Ginns hears from key stakeholders Amtrak and the Regional Plan Association on why they believe a major overhaul is needed. Laura also takes a tour of the station and finds out about its much-admired predecessor - the Pennsylvania Station of the early 20th Century. And she explores the site of the planned demolition work, which controversially includes historical buildings and a busy community church. Presented and produced by Laura Heighton-Ginns. (Image: Penn Station scaffolding. Credit: BBC)
Wed, October 12, 2022
Mahira Khan on Pakistan's mental health emergency
In this episode we explore mental health provision in Pakistan. Pakistan has a population of more than 200 million people but only around 500 working psychiatrists. This means around ninety percent of those with common mental health issues go untreated. We hear from Mahira Kahn, a multi award winning Pakistani actress, in April this year Mahira was appointed as an Ambassador for the British Asian Trust. Mahira works with the trust to promote and support it’s current Peace of Mind campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and needs in Pakistan. Mahria tells us about her work with the trust and how her job has affected her own mental health. We also speak to Sanaa Ahmad who is the British Asian Trust's Mental Health programme manager, and Dr Iffa who works with communities in Pakistan providing mental health treatment. Presenter / production: Emb Hashmi Producer: Carmel O'Grady Photo: Mahira Khan; Credit: Getty
Tue, October 11, 2022
Can a giant seaweed farm help curb climate change?
A British businessman has come up with a bold plan to turn the floating seaweed sargassum into cash, and tackle global warming at the same time. In this episode, Justin Rowlatt meets John Auckland. He is the man behind Seafields, which aims to create a floating farm 'the size of Croatia' far out in the South Atlantic ocean. The plan is to harvest the seaweed, sink it to the seabed and earn cash from carbon credits. Justin also speaks to Professor Victor Smetacek, an expert in marine biology - the project is based on his ideas. And Dr Nem Vaughan, associate professor in climate change at the University of East Anglia talks Justin through some of her questions around how or whether the project will work. Presenter: Justin Rowlatt Producer: David Reid (Image: Sargassum being harvested. Credit: BBC)
Mon, October 10, 2022
Rent-a-Robot
The use of robots in North American workplaces has increased by 40% since the start of the pandemic and the small to medium sized businesses, which never automated before, are getting in on the act. The robotics industry has responded to the global increased demand by creating more and more customisable robots, which can be leased or hired. Ivana Davidovic explores what effect this has had - and could have in the future - on the labour markets, innovation, but also on social inequality. Ivana hears from a small restaurant owner from California who wouldn't be without her server robot Rosie any more, after months of being unable to fill vacancies. Joe Campbell from the Danish company Universal Robots and Tim Warrington from the British company Bots explain how they are taking advantage of the post-pandemic "great resignation" and which industries are next in line for a robotics boom. Karen Eggleston from Stanford University explains her research into the consequences of the use of robots in over 800 nursing homes in Japan and Daron Acemoglu from MIT discusses whether robots in workplaces will liberate their human colleagues or simply entrench inequality. Presented and produced by Ivana Davidovic (Photo: Robot waitress serving dessert and coffee on a tray in a cafe. Credit: Getty Images) *This episode was originally broadcast on 10 February 2022.
Fri, October 07, 2022
Space: The final food frontier
Is space the final frontier for meat grown from animal stem cells? Elizabeth Hotson asks whether growing steaks under micro gravity conditions could help in the quest for food security and whether, back on earth, consumers could be persuaded to stomach meat reared in labs. We hear from Didier Toubia, the CEO of Aleph Farms who defends his space meat mission from accusations of gimmickry. Seren Kel, the science and technology manager for the Europe region of the Good Food Institute, gives her view on the environmental impact of cell-gown meat and Dr Jason Michael Thomas, senior lecturer in psychology at Aston University explains how reluctant consumers might be persuaded to try new and strange-sounding foods. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Elizabeth Hotson (Photo description: The Solar system. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, October 06, 2022
How to quit
When women's tennis world number one Ash Barty suddenly announced in March 2022 that she was retiring from tennis, it was huge shock. Barty, a three time grand slam champion, was only 25. At the time she said she was leaving professional tennis to pursue other life goals. Quitting is often seen as a negative thing to do, but in this episode we explore the positive side. PwC’s Global Workforce Hopes and Fears survey of more than 52,000 people in 44 countries showed that one in five workers planned to quit their jobs in 2022. Marie Keyworth speaks to Moya Dodd, former vice-captain of Australia’s women’s football team - The Matildas. She now works as a lawyer in Sydney and says Barty's decision to 'quit at the top' could be a lesson to us all. Career coach Sarah Weiler has quit several roles herself, and has now made it her job to help others – how do you know when it’s time to move on? And Dina Denham Smith is an executive coach based in the San Francisco Bay area. She helps what she calls ‘high performing, high achieving’ people make decisions. She tells Marie how you can improve your situation if quitting isn’t an option. Presented and produced by Marie Keyworth. (Image: Ash Barty. Credit: Getty)
Wed, October 05, 2022
Getting backpackers to return to Australia
Now that borders have opened up post pandemic, backpackers have been slow to return to Australia. Despite a number of initiatives, the number of travellers is low. And that’s having an impact on businesses who need staff. David Reid explores the Australian working holiday visa scheme, which was set up fifty years ago to encourage young people to travel and work. It's not been without problems, and recently there have been allegations of exploitation and even abuse. So is the visa scheme the right solution for the Australian labour crunch? Or should government step in and rethink the whole set up? David speaks to Lee Thurston who runs Miss Moneypenny’s restaurant in Noosa, on the east coast of Queensland. Lee is from the UK but has settled in Australia. Lee said when they came to open up after the pandemic, all the backpackers had gone home. So he’s had to train up local teenagers instead. Hamish Hill runs Nomad’s hostel in Noosa. He tells David it’s noticeable how many vacancies there are and the impact that’s happening. He’d like fewer regulations on backpackers. Professor Stephen Howes, director of the development policy centre at the Australian National University, explains how the visa scheme works, and how it’s changed from its original intention. And David visits a small farm run by Joe Lyons, who has 50 hectares growing avocados and macadamias in Bundaburg near Queensland. He and other farmers are rethinking their reliance on backpackers. They’re currently staffed by 100% Australian labour. Presenter/producer: David Reid (Photo: Fruit picking. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 04, 2022
Why food could be the future of fashion
Fashion is one of the world’s most polluting industries – more than half of everything we wear is still made from plastic. In the search for more sustainable ingredients – designers are now turning to those you would normally find on your plate. Katie Barnfield travels to Sherwood Forest in England to meet Ashley Granter and Aurélie Fontan from Mykko – a company making leather from mycelium, the root system of mushrooms. Fancy a food based swimsuit? We talk to Dr Kate Riley from Textile Exchange about new developments in so-called bio synthetics. And in the race to adopt these new materials, could some brands be accused of greenwashing? Rachel Cernansky from Vogue Business takes us through the controversy. Produced and presented by Katie Barnfield. (Image: Mushrooms growing on a tree branch. Credit: Getty)
Mon, October 03, 2022
Are home solar panels the solution?
Home solar – putting panels on your roof or side of your house, used be something fairly unusual. However, rising energy costs means that people are increasingly looking for alternatives. Presenter Rick Kelsey explores why the trend for solar panels is happening across Europe – and asks whether the industry has the infrastructure to cope with increasing demand. Rick travels to south east England where panels are being put on the roof, and speaks to installer Scott Burrows. And he meets Linda who rents her home – her landlord has just had solar panels fitted. Linda says she has noticed the reduction in her bills, however her central heating is gas so there might not be as big a reduction over the winter. Just over 3,000 solar installations are being carried out every week according to the trade association Solar Energy UK. That’s up from 1,000 a week in July 2020. Michael Schmela and Naomi Chevillard are from Solar Power Europe. They say they are seeing an unprecedented demand in countries across Europe, especially those that rely on gas. We also hear from a solar project in the Morogoro region of Tanzania, where farmers are using solar to run a farm and a training centre. And David Shukman, the BBCs former climate editor, talks about the affordability of solar panels and how that’s changed over recent years. How much is the demand and payback time for home solar changing? Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey. (Image: Solar panels being fitted on a roof. Credit: Getty)
Fri, September 30, 2022
Business Daily meets: Will Butler-Adams
Brompton makes 100,000 foldable bikes in London every year and exports about 75% of them. Chief executive Will Butler-Adams tells us how he grew the business around the world. He also explains how he's navigating inflation, and the prospect of recession. Plus, why he believes his mission is not simply to sell more bikes, but to change how people live in cities around the globe. Producer/presenter: James Graham Photo: Will Butler-Adams on a Brompton bike at his London factory. Credit: Brompton.
Thu, September 29, 2022
Comic Con economics
Comics are a multi-billion dollar industry and comic conventions - or cons - attract thousands of fans, desperate to meet their heroes and splash some cash. Elizabeth Hotson visits the MCM event in London to find out what’s hot and what people are spending their hard-earned money on. We hear from Joëlle Jones, a comic book writer and illustrator, Jenny Martin, Event Director at MCM Comic Con and Michael Loizou from Brotherhood Games. Plus tattooist Matt Difa shows off his Star Wars inkings and Vincent Zurzolo, the Chief Operating Officer of Metropolis Collectibles in New York looks back on one of his most memorable comic book sales. Producer: Elizabeth Hotson Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Picture Description: Comics at Wellcome Trust Superhero exhibition, Picture Credit: Getty Images
Wed, September 28, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Margrethe Vestager
Margrethe Vestager is the European commissioner for competition. Ms Vestager has been spearheading the landmark Digital Markets and Digital Services Acts aimed at regulating the global technology industry. The new rules passed the European Parliament in July and will start to be implemented in the spring. Victoria Craig sits down with Ms Vestager to ask about the commission’s win against Google in one of Europe’s biggest courts (which resulted in a record fine). She also explains the importance of her hallmark legislative endeavours on global competition and fairness in the big tech space. And she talks about how the EC’s Important Projects of Common European Interest programme – which allows joint investments in riskier technologies – could help alleviate Europe’s energy crisis. Producer: Stephen Ryan Presenter: Victoria Craig (Image: Margrethe Vestager. Credit: Google)
Tue, September 27, 2022
Why Finland is building with wood again
Could building more homes and offices out of wood instead of concrete help tackle climate change? We travel to Finland, where growing numbers of homes and offices are being built using wood, and the industry is booming. We’ll hear how it can help improve sustainability in cities and take a look at the challenges and benefits of using more wood inside our offices and homes. And we'll also hear concerns about the impact on the country’s famous forests. Presenter Maddy Savage speaks to Miimu Airaksinen - vice president of development at Finnish building company SRV, about the construction process and the technology being used. Mai Suominen, a senior forest expert for the World Wildlife fund explains the benefits of using wood to make buildings, because they can store carbon that’s already been removed from the atmosphere by trees for decades. Ali Amiri from Aalto University has been exploring the costs and benefits of using wood for building - and the impact of the war in Ukraine which has increased interest in wood as a building material. And Maddy gets a tour from Linda Helen of an eight story wooden office block in Helsinki that’s home to one of Finland’s biggest gaming companies Supercell. Produced and presented by Maddy Savage. (Image - wooden building in Helskini. Credit: BBC)
Mon, September 26, 2022
The fight for domestic workers’ rights
Millions of people, mainly women, sign up for jobs as domestic workers overseas. Yet much of this work is informal, with households enforcing their own terms behind closed doors - leaving the workers vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. In this episode, Laura Heighton-Ginns meets domestic workers who escaped modern slavery. Jackie was forced to work extreme hours, sleep on a hard floor, and given only leftovers to eat for two years. Grace felt she had no choice but to take a domestic job overseas, but discovered many women who do this work are victimised. As well hearing their stories, Laura speaks to the newly appointed Philippines Secretary of State for Migrants and UN International Labor Organisation and asks why domestic workers still lack basic protections. Presented and produced by Laura Heighton-Ginns. (Image: Grace Nine. Credit: BBC)
Fri, September 23, 2022
Can festivals bounce back?
The global events industry was valued at more than $1.1 billion in 2019, before the start of the covid-19 pandemic. Live music and concert events alone lost $30 billion in 2020 and most outdoor festivals were cancelled. This year, in 2022, with more people vaccinated around the world, many festivals have managed to return but are having to cope with rising prices and staff shortages, as well as people with less cash to spend. Monica Newton, the CEO of the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, South Africa, tells us about the challenges she's faced in holding this year's event. The director of the Great British Food Festival in the UK, Daniel Maycock, says they've managed to avoid putting up ticket prices so far and are trying to support smaller businesses. Lisa Louis travels to the Rock en Seine festival, to the west of the French capital Paris to speak to the director, Matthieu Ducos, about how he's had to adapt. She speaks to food and drinks vendors about how they're coping with rising prices and festival goers about how they're dealing with having less money in their pockets. Presenter: Emb Hashmi Reporter: Lisa Louis Producer: Jo Critcher (Image: Matthieu Ducos, director of the Rock en Seine festival, Parc de Saint-Cloud; Credit: BBC)
Thu, September 22, 2022
Why everyone wants a ‘blue tick’ on social media
For online influencers getting verification - a blue tick next to their social media account name - is the ultimate prize. It brings credibility and elevates their status online. Presenter David Harper investigates how accounts can become 'verified', what it means, and if you make your money through online platform, how much is it actually worth? David speaks to Matt Navarra, a social media consultant and industry analyst. Matt has worked for Meta and Google amongst others and says he asked how to get a blue tick dozens of times each week. He explains why verification is useful to brands and users. Entrepreneur Jacques Bastien lives in New York, he works with different brands and companies, and explains why verification is so important for his clients, making them seem more trustworthy. He says the blue tick has a financial benefit which is hard to quantify, but is there. And the BBC’s China media analyst Kerry Allen explains the different approach by Sina Weibo, where accounts are checked and ‘verified’ to a certain degree when an account is created. She explains the different ‘V’ system that accounts have depending on who owns the account. Presented and produced by David Harper. (Image: Social media influencer. Credit: Getty)
Wed, September 21, 2022
Business Daily meets: Paul and Mike Rabil
The sport of lacrosse has a long history, being one of the oldest sports in North America. But, for a long time, many players couldn't earn a living in the same way athletes could who were playing in established leagues like Major League Soccer or the National Football League. After a time as one of the best lacrosse players in the world, Paul Rabil, along with his brother Mike, an established businessman and investor, decided to start their own league that could give players a livelihood. We speak to the brothers to find out the challenges of starting a league from the ground up, and how they had to convince players to join them, and from there, we also find out how it could be going global, and why the story has been turned into a major documentary that has aired on ESPN. Presenter: Rahul Tandon, Producer: Ed Butler (Image: Paul and Mike Rabil at an event; Credit: Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Premier Lacrosse League)
Tue, September 20, 2022
Who benefits most from remote working?
The coronavirus pandemic allowed many people worldwide to work in new and radical ways. It brought some of the biggest changes for computer-based office workers, many finding themselves working from home for the first time. Research from McKinsey Global Institute, the international management consultancy firm, suggests remote work in some form, is likely to remain for this group of employees. We discuss what the continued shift towards remote work means for both businesses and employees around the world. We hear from Roseleen Kagiri, a remote worker in Nairobi, Kenya, and Hailey Walker who works from home in Chicago in the US. Matt Wilson, co-founder and co-chief executive of Omnipresent, a tech start-up, reveals why his business employs all of its workers remotely. Nick Bloom, professor of economics at Stanford University in California tells us about studies he’s done on working from home and how remote work affects productivity, and Harriet Molyneaux, managing director at HSM Advisory, a global advisory group focussed on the future of work based in London, explains why employers are now looking more closely at remote hybrid work to attract and retain the best talent. Presenter/producer: Tara Holmes (Image: Woman sitting at desk with cup of coffee; Credit: Getty)
Fri, September 16, 2022
The condiments (and sauces) that never change
Tabasco sauce has been around since 1868, Lea and Perrins’ Worcestershire Sauce since 1837. So how have these brands managed to survive for so long? David Reid explores why some brands outlive their founders by more than a century. David speaks to Harold Osborn, CEO of McIlhenny Company which makes Tabasco. Patrick Barwise, emeritus professor of management and marketing at London Business School explains what happened when Coca Cola tried to 'tweak' their recipe. Samir Nanji, spokesperson at KraftHeinz who now own Lea and Perrins, explains the history of the sauce - and how an early batch didn't go too well. And Jake Burger, cocktail expert from Portabello Road Gin and The Ginstitute explains how Angostura Bitters outlasted prohibition to become a bar staple. (Image: Tabasco sauce bottle. Credit: Getty)
Thu, September 15, 2022
The women kicking off their high heels at work
For years women working in certain jobs, such as banking or retail, have had to wear high heels as part of the company’s dress code. But now women around the world are fighting for the right to choose their own shoes at work. Elizabeth Semmelhack, the director and senior curator of the Bata Shoe Museum in the Canadian city of Toronto tells us the history of the high heel and its journey from the battlefield to the boardroom. Ally Murphy, a former flight attendant, describes the pain caused to cabin crew who are made to wear high heels at work. Nicola Thorp, who led a campaign in the UK to make it illegal for companies to force workers to wear high heels, says many companies are now changing their shoe policies because they don’t want the bad publicity. Change is slower in Japan, however, where supporters of the #KuToo movement continue to campaign against mandatory high heels at work. The BBC’s Singapore correspondent, Mariko Oi, who is from Japan, tells us how corporate dress and expectations are still firmly embedded into Japanese culture. Then we travel to the Indian capital, Delhi, to find out if the pandemic has changed companies’ attitudes to workwear there. Presenter/producer: Jo Critcher Music courtesy of Dorian Electra: "The Dark History of High Heels" (Image: woman suffering from foot pain; Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, September 14, 2022
The real state of the Russian economy
As Ukraine seemingly makes dramatic advances on the battlefield, we look at what this may say about the situation inside Russia itself. Military analysts are describing what seems to be a depleted Russian military machine, lacking in morale, but also possibly lacking in the kinds of military equipment it needs to sustain its war effort. One estimate in August put the loss of hardware (not including missiles) at $16 billion. That's hard to replace, given the supply problems and falling growth brought about by wide-ranging western economic sanctions. We look inside the country at the way the economy is progressing, with the thoughts of one Russian business-owner, Dmitry Nechaev, and from western-based economists, Sergei Guriev at Sciences Po University in Paris, and Elina Ribakova, deputy chief economist at the International Institute of Finance. The US-based political scientist Stephen Crowley, of Oberlin College, then considers how much a weakened economy is likely to create the type of political pressure to make President Putin reassess his war strategy. Presenter/producer: Ed Butler (Image: Russian President Vladimir Putin at the desk in his office; Credit: BBC)
Tue, September 13, 2022
Nigeria's push to grow its own coconuts
Most of Nigeria has the perfect climate for growing coconuts and yet it imports 70% of the fruit, which is widely used to make snacks, drinks and to make everything from oil to cosmetics. With demand for coconuts increasing both domestically and around the world, plans are now afoot to make Nigeria self-sufficient in coconut production. Ijeoma Ndukwe travels to a farm two-hours from the Nigerian capital Abuja to see how Ray Davies and her husband, retired army Major General John Davies, have branched out into coconut farming. We also hear from Nma Okoroji, president of the National Coconut Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (Nacoppman) - they support farmers and are encouraging more people to go into coconut production. Farmers are struggling to access the best seeds for production - Abiodun Oyelekan, who runs a two-and-a-half-hectare farm in Badagry, explains the importance of 'hybrid' seeds. Lagos state government's Coconut Development Authority (Lascoda) general manager Dapo Olakulehin talks about the challenge of helping the coconut sector to boost productivity and to become more commercial. And Ebun Feludu - the founder of JAM The Coconut Food Company, which makes premium products from the fruit explains why she believes basic infrastructure must be improved. Presenter/producer: Ijeoma Ndukwe (Image: Ebun Feludu. Credit: BBC)
Mon, September 12, 2022
Should we be more open about salaries?
Salaries are often kept secret in most workplaces - but times are changing. The BBC’s Deborah Weitzmann discusses implications for pay transparency policies and the gender wage gap. Deborah visits Flash Pack, a travel firm in London where staff members are open about their salaries. She travels to New York City where employers are preparing for a new law requiring them to post clear salary bands in job listings later this year - following the US state of Colorado. She speaks to Scott Goldshine, general manager of Manhattan-based deli Zabars. Deborah also hears from salary expert David Turetsky about why some people find conversations around pay difficult, and Dr Grace Lordan from the London School of Economics explains how openness about pay might benefit women and address the gender pay gap. Presented and produced by Deborah Weitzmann. (Image: An office meeting. Credit: Getty)
Thu, September 08, 2022
Business Daily meets: Russ Glass
Can an app, founded by a former monk, become one of the biggest tech companies in the world? Russ Glass, the chief executive of Headspace Health, takes Leanna Byrne behind the scenes in one of the biggest mergers in mental health technology. We get an insight into Headspace Health’s global expansion plans both online and offline; how people turned to mental health technology with the uncertainty of Covid; and how employers could soon be using its staff’s mental health data to make company wide policies. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne (Image: woman listening to headphones whilst meditating. Credit: Getty)
Wed, September 07, 2022
Why Europe’s inland shipping network is drying up
As Europe’s historically dry summer continues, Matthew Kenyon takes a trip on the barge Mezzoforte, and talks to skipper Dirk Pols about the challenges of navigating as river depths fall. We hear from Cornelis van Dorsser of the Dutch Inland Shipping Association about how the industry is preparing for the continued impacts of climate change. Economist Saskia Meuchelböck tells us about the economic effects of the last major dry period, just four years ago, when a month of low water on the Rhine knocked 0.4% off Germany’s GDP, and hydrologist Saskia Werners explains how barge captains, industry, importers and the public have to expect more of the same. Presenter / producer: Matthew Kenyon Image: The Mezzoforte; Credit; Matthew Kenyon / BBC
Mon, September 05, 2022
Venice’s tourist problem: Are day trippers welcome?
Italy’s famous floating city has a problem - too many tourists are visiting Venice during the high season. The city authorities recently announced a plan to charge day-visitors a €10 tax during the busiest periods. But many are sceptical about the plan, saying it doesn’t go far enough to address over-tourism. The BBC’s Vivienne Nunis joins the crowds in St Mark’s Square to assess what can be done when a holiday destination becomes a victim of its own success. And she explores how other popular destinations such as Hawaii and the Isle of Skye in Scotland are addressing the problem. Producer: Vera Mantengoli (Image: A gondola in Venice. Credit: BBC)
Fri, September 02, 2022
Business Daily meets: Bruce Daisley
Do people who use social media need to be more resilient? Thats the question Sam Fenwick asks former Twitter executive, Bruce Daisley. For eight years he ran Twitter's business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He then became a writer and consultant on better working practices. In his latest book, Fortitude: Unlocking the Secrets of Inner Strength, he examines what makes people resilient. i Bruce Daisley was staying with relatives in Beirut the day of the chemical explosion in 2020. In the aftermath he heard much talk of the ‘resilience’ of the Lebanese people. But when he heard someone say, ‘We don’t want to be resilient. We just want to live!’, it got him thinking about what resilience really is and how individuals can achieve it. Presenter: Sam Fenwick (Photo: Bruce Daisley with kind permission)
Thu, September 01, 2022
Using less gas in our homes
The Netherlands has long been almost totally reliant on gas to heat people's homes. But as Europe tries to wean itself off domestic gas, something made more urgent by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and by soaring energy prices, the country is trying to lead the way in tackling the necessary energy transition. Matthew Kenyon hears from Michaela Holl of think-tank Agora Energiewende on the Netherlands’ political strategy and from Energiesprong’s Sanne de Wit about their innovative approach to renovation. The Hague City Council’s Astrid Kennis talks about what we can all do in our homes to improve insulation and pay for the work that’s necessary. And Ruben Buna Heslinga, of Dutch housing corporation Mitros, talks about a current renovation project in Utrecht. We also hear from Lesley, a tenant in one of the newly refashioned buildings, on what she expects of her energy bills now. Presenter / producer: Matthew Kenyon Image: an apartment block in Utrecht being renovated to meet new environmental standards; Credit: Matthew Kenyon
Wed, August 31, 2022
Getting ready for Paris 2024
Ashish Sharma reports from Paris as the city prepares to host the Olympic games in the summer of 2024. President of the Paris Organising Committee of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tony Estanguet, tells Ashish how they hope to make the games the most sustainable ever held. We also hear from Sodexo, the company charged with catering the games. Local business owners tell us how they feel about the Olympics coming to their city so soon after the pandemic and in the midst of an energy crisis. Presenter / producer: Ashish Sharma Image: Tony Estanguet; Credit: Getty
Tue, August 30, 2022
The unusual world of dark tourism
Instead of choosing a traditional sunny holiday, some tourists choose to visit places that many consider sites of tragedy, death or disaster. On Business Daily we explore the benefits, and controversies, around this unusual type of tourism. We speak to tour guides in two different areas to find out why tourists visit, and what benefits they bring. We hear from Dominik Orfanus and Lara Graldina from ChernobylX, which provides specialist tours, and also from Mee Tsuyama, from the Hiroshima Interpreters and Guides Association, on how the travel industry has helped the city recover from the devastation of the atomic bomb. Presenter/Producer: Rory Claydon (Picture: Radiation sign in Chernobyl Credit: BBC)
Mon, August 29, 2022
How to dispose of nuclear waste
One of the biggest challenges facing the nuclear industry today is how to deal with the lethal radioactive waste which has accumulated over decades. Governments across the world are trying to find a permanent solution to keep the waste safe and secure. Presenter Theo Leggett visits Sweden, where progress is being made with deep geological storage. Maria Fornander from Sweden’s nuclear operator SKB, explains how the waste is initially placed under water, and will then be buried in cast iron 500m underground. Theo visits the Äspö Hard Rock laboratory, where SKB project director Ylva Stenqvist is testing the techniques and equipment. Rolf Persson of the Oskarshamn Municipality, says other countries planning similar ventures could learn from Sweden’s approach. Neil Hiatt, the chief scientific adviser to the UK’s waste management group Nuclear Waste Services, speaks to Theo in Sweden - how might it work in practice? In the UK, similar proposals have faced local opposition, Marianne Birkby runs a pressure group, Radiation Free Lakeland, opposing a possible waste facility in the North of England. And Dr Paul Dorfman, from the University of Sussex, explains why he believes plans for geological disposal are at best premature – and potentially impossible to deliver safely. Producer and presenter: Theo Leggett (Image: Radioactive containers. Copyright: Getty)
Fri, August 26, 2022
The refugee entrepreneurs starting again
It's been six months since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. According to the UN Refugee Agency UNHCR, the war in Ukraine has pushed the number of refugees across the world to more than 100 million. In this programme we hear from refugees about starting a new life - and a new business. Yuliia is from Ukraine but is now living in England. On the day she fled her home country, she threw some belongings in a bag, took her two children and drove across Europe. She was a wedding dress designer in Ukraine and is now hoping to restart her business in the UK. Razia works for Silai Wali - a social enterprise led by Afghan-women refugees in New Delhi. It up-cycles waste fabric to create handcrafted decorations. Plus, Bish Wadeep Mortia who set up the company, tells us more about how it works. And Waseem is from Jumpstart Refugee Talent in Canada - it is a refugee-led non-profit organisation whose sole purpose is to help people find work or start new businesses. Presented and produced by Jess Quayle (Photograph courtesy of Yuliia)
Thu, August 25, 2022
War in Ukraine: Farmers and workers struggle on
Six months into the war in Ukraine, the impact continues to be felt around the world. Frey Lindsay explores how disruptive the war has been for agriculture across Europe. Researcher Roxana Barbalescu explains just how vital Ukrainian workers are to the farmers and producers of Western Europe, and the problems their absence is creating this season. We hear from farmers in Poland and the UK on the economic, and emotional, impact of their former colleagues taking up arms to defend their country. At the same time, the war has had a major impact on Ukraine’s own agricultural production and exports. Markiyan Dmytrasevych, Ukraine’s deputy agriculture minister, tells Frey what the government are doing to try and keep Ukrainian farmers afloat. And we hear from Lubomyr, a former seasonal worker who is back in Ukraine and has his own unique plan for helping to sustain agriculture in his country. Presenter & producer Frey Lindsay Additional production by Magdalena Jaroszewicz in Poland (Picture: A grain harvester in the Kyiv region of Ukraine. Picture credit: Getty images)
Wed, August 24, 2022
Fighting Ukraine fundraising fatigue
It's been six months since Russia invaded its neighbour Ukraine. In the early days, in late February, March and April, charities were overwhelmed by donations and offers from people who wanted to help. But they're now having to work much harder to get much needed donations. Ukrainian chef and author Olia Hercules is finding new ways to fundraise for families left behind in her home town. When war broke out Olia told the BBC's Victoria Craig about getting money and vital equipment to her brother on the front line. We catch up with Olia in her London home. Ronny Krieger, general manager of Patreon Europe, explains how people looking to raise money are using the fundraising platform. We also hear from Ukraine-based charity Aid Legion. Its co-founder Anna Goncharova tells us how she and her colleagues worked to come up with a campaign to rally people to the cause in an uplifting, impassioned way. Presenter: Victoria Craig Producer: Stephen Ryan Photo: Olia Hercules; Credit: Victoria Craig/BBC
Tue, August 23, 2022
Tunnelling under the Atlantic
With a population of just over 50,000 people the Faroe Islands are spending vast sums of money digging sub-sea tunnels to keep remote communities alive. Combined with a government subsidised helicopter service, it allows islands with a handful of permanent inhabitants to thrive and has helped reverse the trend for young Faroe Islanders to emigrate in search of a more modern lifestyle. Join Tim Ecott, author of The Land of Maybe: a Faroe Islands Year, as he flies over this remote North Atlantic archipelago and ventures deep beneath the ocean to investigate why big spending on infrastructure brings huge social benefits to the islands. Presenter / producer: Tim Ecott Image: Faroe Islands; Credit: Tim Ecott / BBC
Mon, August 22, 2022
Can Japan become Asia's Silicon Valley?
We look at Japan’s bid to compete with Silicon Valley. Japan is well known for innovations such as the walkman, bullet trains and Nintendo games, but the country hasn’t produced a killer product to really wow the world for decades. The government wants to change that by increasing the number of start-ups by ten-fold over the next five years. In this episode Mariko Oi travels across her home country to meet with the next generation of entrepreneurs hoping to make Japan Asia’s Silicon Valley. She hears from Chikahiro Terada, the boss of Tokyo-based start-up Sansan, which specialises in the digitalisation of business cards. Chikahiro is opening a special new school for tech-savvy young entrepreneurs in Tokushima on the southern island of Shikoku. Mariko also meets the founder of a mobile supermarket business and speaks to the country's former digital minister, Karen Makishima, who says there will be fewer rules for digital start up companies and that the government will be encouraging more diverse entrepreneurs to set up businesses in rural as well as urban areas. Presenter: Mariko Oi Producer: Jagdip Cheema Image: Mariko Oi in Tokushima; Credit: BBC
Fri, August 19, 2022
Business Daily meets: La June Montgomery Tabron
Vivienne Nunis sits down with La June Montgomery Tabron, President and CEO of one of the world's biggest charities, the Kellogg Foundation. Last year the foundation distributed nearly half a billion dollars in grants. La June is the first woman and the first African American to lead the foundation in it's 90 year history. In this episode she tells about growing up in a large family in Detroit and how she has transformed the Kellogg Foundation from a very male, very white organisation to one where half the staff are now people of colour. Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Production: Vivienne Nunis and Jo Critcher Image: La June Tabron; Credit: Kellogg Foundation
Thu, August 18, 2022
Rainbow washing
It might seem like a step forward when advertisers want to appeal to a historically marginalised community, but the use of the LGBT rainbow flag by companies and organisations has become a bone of contention. If an investment company changes its logo to a rainbow background is that a genuine attempt to support LGBT rights, or a cynical marketing ploy? In short, is it rainbow washing? Jamie Love, marketing director of Edinburgh Pride tells us how potential event sponsors are vetted, plus Leticia King James who’s the vice president of diversity inclusion and belonging at logistics giant GXO explains why her company is sponsoring small, regional Pride events. We also hear from Kathy Caton, founder of Brighton Gin who explains why a 365 day commitment to diversity is vital for companies marketing to the LGBT community. Julia Smith-Eppsteiner, a senior strategist at branding company Future Brand explains how accusations of rainbow washing can be avoided and Paul Thompson, co-owner of LGBT Capital explains just how lucrative the LGBT market is. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Elizabeth Hotson Picture Description: Pride in London 2022, Picture Credit: Getty Images
Wed, August 17, 2022
Tackling over-tourism in Greece
Victoria Craig whisks us off to the Greek island of Tinos to find out about a Greek government strategy to prevent over-tourism. On this virtual vacation, you'll meet an artisan cheesemaker, some travellers, and a restaurant owner to find out whether the government strategy to promote travel to less well known destinations is working, or even welcomed. There are concerns the strategy could erode traditional ways of life on the Greek islands and in the Greek villages tourists don't often reach. Presenter: Victoria Craig Production: Stephen Ryan and Dimitris Zivopoulos Image: Cheese making in Tinos; Credit: BBC
Tue, August 16, 2022
The electric transport revolution
New forms of electric transport are revolutionising the way we travel for both work and leisure. Soaring gas prices around the world are encouraging people to look for alternatives such as electric bikes, kick scooters and mopeds. Tara Holmes visits a new bike shop in the Peak District in England, and speaks to husband and wife team, Richard and Madeline Bowker, owners of Criterium Cycles, and gets the chance to try out one of their best-selling e-bikes. The global market for e-bikes today is worth $35billion. From there, Tara travels to Nottingham to try out an electric kick scooter for the first time on a public road. She also speaks to Kfir Ben Shooshan, founder of Inokim, an e-scooter company based in Tel Aviv in Israel. We also hear from people who believe the shift to electrification is happening too fast with safety concerns being ignored. Nikhil Inamdar reports from Delhi in India where two people from the same family died following a scooter battery explosion. Professor David Greenwood, an electrification expert at Warwick University in the UK, offers some tips on how to avoid buying unsafe vehicles. And, Augustin Friedel, an independent analyst and mobility expert from Germany reveals which countries are most encouraging new forms of electric transport and how this is being done safely. Presenter/producer: Tara Holmes (Image: A person riding an electric bike; Credit: Getty)
Mon, August 15, 2022
Subscribe and fly: the travel industry’s latest trend
Travel isn't easy anymore. Between the cancelled flights, lost baggage and just the cost of it all, it's almost enough to turn people off altogether. But we'll hear how travel companies are using subscription services to keep those travellers travelling. Leanna Byrne speaks to airline bosses Neil Thwaites, regional vice-president for California at Alaska Airlines and Kirby Gordon from FlySafair about how their subscription services are boosting business. We also hear from Iñaki Uriz, the chief executive of Caravelo, a subscription platform for the airline industry on travel trends. And finally, as some the biggest users of subscriptions services are millennials and gen Z, we speak to someone who calls themselves a "digital nomad". Presenter / producer: Leanna Byrne. Image: travellers at an airport in Thailand; Credit: Getty images
Fri, August 12, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Pernilla Nyresten
Pernilla Nyrensten made history when she became the first female founding CEO to float a company on the Stockholm stock exchange since the its inception 160 years ago. She started her retail business, RevolutionRace in 2013 just less than $30,000 today the firm was recently valued at around 1 billion dollars. Pernilla's journey has not been without challenges - she's been told, by men, that women should only run hobby businesses and that running a public company is too hard and stressful for women. Pernilla tells Sam Fenwick that the sexist comments motivated her to pursue her dream of running a successful retail business, and how she hopes to be a role model for other aspiring female entrepreneurs. Presenter / producer: Sam Fenwick Image: Pernilla and Niclas; Credit: Pernilla Nyrensten
Thu, August 11, 2022
Sweden’s light time economy
What’s it like to live in permanent daylight for part of the year? Elizabeth Hotson travels around Swedish Lapland to see how one of the most modern economies in the world takes advantage of the twenty four hour summer sun. Elizabeth finds out how a hotel made of ice is kept frozen with solar power, and why the midnight sun is vital to the ancient tradition of reindeer herding in northern Sweden. We also hear how Sweden’s mountain and nature tourism industry developed and why modern businesses like bars and restaurants can capitalise on the never-ending daylight. Plus, we hear from visitors experiencing the midnight sun for the first time. Producer: Elizabeth Hotson Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Picture Credit: the midnight sun in Sweden via Getty Images
Wed, August 10, 2022
The fight for digital privacy
A new breed of tech firms is aiming to revolutionise consumer rights online – making us invisible to advertisers unless they pay us for our data. Presenter Ed Butler visits London-based start up Gener8 and speaks to founder Sam Jones. Sam explains how digital marketing works – and what individuals can do to prevent information being collected – or make money from it. We also hear from Brendan Eich, co-founder and CEO of US firm Brave, it’s promoting a similar “earn while you browse” model. And it has 25 million active monthly users. And, Ed asks, if everyone increases their privacy, what will that do to the modern digital economy? Presenter/producer: Ed Butler Image: Women in Tokyo looking at phone. Credit: Getty
Tue, August 09, 2022
Managing our National Parks
Approximately 6% of the Earth’s land surface is covered in National Parks – but what does it take to look after these rare and special landscapes? We go beyond the tourist trails to hear about the challenges and opportunities facing the people managing the parks. Presenter Laura Heighton-Ginns meets the president of Gorongosa in Mozambique, a park that’s powering the local economy. Gorongosa has become the region’s largest employer and operates a number of side businesses to help with its funding. Laura also visits Dartmoor in the South West of England, which has seen government financial support cut by nearly half over the last 10 years. And she finds out about the oldest protected area in the world – and why its future is uncertain. Presenter/producer Laura Heighton-Ginns. Image: Gorongosa National Park. Credit: Gabriela Curtiz / Gorongosa National Park
Mon, August 08, 2022
War in Ukraine: Venezuela's oil opportunity?
Russian aggression in Ukraine and the world's quest to end the dependence on Russian oil and gas has created an opportunity for Venezuela to negotiate an easing of the US-imposed oil sanctions. But, as Ivana Davidovic discovers, there are also many pitfalls on that journey. Venezuela may have the world's largest oil reserves, but years of underinvestment have severely impacted output, as professor Terry Karl explains. Former chairwoman of the refiner Citgo, Luisa Palacios, outlines where Venezuela still manages to sell its oil and the role played by Iran in that trade. She also thinks that a sanctions deal could be made if the Maduro administration is willing to relinquish some control over production. But Venezuela expert David Smilde is worried that political, rather than practical, considerations - in the US and Venezuela - might muddy the waters. Caracas-based journalist Francis Pena goes on a lengthy journey to buy petrol in her home city, illustrating how economic mismanagement and sanctions are affecting day-to-day lives. Presenter/producer: Ivana Davidovic Image: A motorcycle passes in front of an oil-themed mural in Caracas, Venezuela. Credit: Javier Campos/NurPhoto via Getty Images.
Fri, August 05, 2022
The power of fungi
Tim Hayward takes a journey into the world of fungi. There’s a global wave of interest in the potential uses of fungi right now - and businesses are catching on and playing their part. Tim starts at the Fungarium in Kew Gardens, the world’s biggest collection of dried fungal specimens, guided by collections curator Lee Davies. He then heads to a forest in Finland, where chief executive Eric Puro and lab manager Joette Crosier walk him through the setup at Kääpä Biotech - one of a new breed of fungally-focussed companies with big ambitions rooted in a passion for mushrooms and mycelium. Then he talks with Albert Garcia-Romeu, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioural sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Albert is part of a research team looking at the fungally-derived compound psilocybin - about which there’s a huge amount of interest relating to its therapeutic potential. Presenter: Tim Hayward Producer : Richard Ward. Image: Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) mushrooms being cultivated at Kääpä Mushrooms, Karjalohja, Finland. Used with permission. Tim’s three-part series about fungi, ‘Fungi: The New Frontier’, is available now on BBC Sounds.
Thu, August 04, 2022
China's economic challenge
China, the so-called engine of global growth, seems to be stalling badly right now. The country is facing rising unemployment, falling factory output and a collapsing property market. Plus, a growing number of regular Chinese citizens are complaining that the country's tough anti-Covid strategy isn't working. China has faced choppy economic waters before. But with record high-levels of domestic debt, does it now have the resources to shore up the holes when firms, banks and even local governments start to run out of money? And what are the implications for the rest of us? Presenter/producer: Ed Butler Image: Children play basketball in front of a housing complex built by debt-laden Chinese property developer Evergrande in Beijing. Credit: Noel Celis/Getty Images.
Wed, August 03, 2022
Women, sport and business: Betting
Gambling has a long and complex relationship with sport. But betting is no longer a man's game. As women's sport grows, many companies are putting big money on its success. In the last edition of our series looking at women, sport and business, we find out how one football side came back from the brink via a deal with Sweden's main gambling operator, Svenska Spel. We hear how England's victory in the Women's Euros could be a big win for the British betting sector. But as other sports eye up sponsorship deals, some are calling for tighter controls on how - and to whom - bookmakers can advertise. Presenter/Producer: Alex Bell (Image: Kristianstads DFF face their rivals Djurgardens IF DFF in Stockholm, Sweden. Credit: Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images.)
Tue, August 02, 2022
The Hongkongers leaving for the UK
In 2020, after months of civil unrest, China introduced a new security law in Hong Kong. The UK authorities said it 'violated' the one country, two systems principle established after the former colony was handed back to China in 1997. In response the UK has expanded the British National Overseas visa scheme which now offers the right to live and work in the UK for five years, as well as a path to citizenship. In the first 15 months about 125,000 people applied. We catch up with those starting new lives in the UK and find out how they're establishing careers. We hear from a journalist who's now working as a traffic warden, and a politician who has found a new role working for a High Street bank. Others explain how they organise regular litter picks to show their gratitude to the UK. Former Chinese diplomat Victor Gao gives the view from Beijing. Producer/presenter: James Graham Additional production: Danny Vincent Image: A woman in Hong Kong at night. Credit: Getty Images
Mon, August 01, 2022
A crisis in US rural healthcare
America’s rural hospitals face an uncertain future. One in three are now at risk of closure as doctors and nurses quit, patients struggle to pay their medical bills and government covid subsidies stop. We hear from the front line of one rural hospital in Luray, Virginia. Travis Clark, the hospital's president, and Dr David Lee explain the everyday challenges facing patients and staff. Alan Morgan from the National Rural Health Association tells us why rural hospitals are struggling. Michael Cannon of the Cato Institute in Washington DC argues that rural hospitals should stop relying on subsidies and close their doors if they can’t become more efficient. Presenter and producer: Szu Ping Chan. Image: Dr David Lee in the emergency room of Page Memorial Hospital in Luray, Virginia; Credit: BBC
Fri, July 29, 2022
G'day and g'bye: it's the end for Neighbours
After 37 years, the longest-running drama in Australian TV history is coming to an end. We ask why the Neighbours funding model ultimately failed. We speak to Rob Mills, who played the notorious villain Finn Kelly, about his efforts for the show to be rescued. We also look at how the series launched so many careers both on and off the screen. And we go behind the scenes of the Neighbours set and speak to super-fans taking one last trip down their favourite fictional street. Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Producer: Izzy Greenfield (Photo: Ramsey St, the fictional street where the progarmme is set. Credit: Fairfax Media/Getty Images)
Thu, July 28, 2022
The women breaking into skateboarding in South Africa
Skateboarding is one of the fastest growing sports in the world; it was included for the first time in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games in Japan. It's becoming increasingly popular among women and girls, but it does come with a price tag. Hannah Mullane speaks to Boipelo Awuah, one of only two female African athletes to qualify to compete in skateboarding at the Tokyo Olympics. Wendy Gila, the head of the South African Roller Sports Association, gives us her insight into how much it costs to make a sport like skateboarding accessible to everyone. Mark Sedgwick meets Thato Moet, Founder of IslandGals, a girls only skate group in Johannesburg. She gives her perspective on what it’s like to be a female skater in South Africa. We’ll also hear from Pieter Retief, who helps to build skateparks all over the world and explains how they help to bring together communities. Presenter and producer: Hannah Mullane Reporter and producer: Mark Sedgwick Image: Girls skating in Soweto; Credit: BBC
Wed, July 27, 2022
Women, sport and business: Making NBA history
As part of our mini-series on women, sport and business we meet Cynt Marshall. She's the chief executive officer of the Dallas Mavericks and the first black female CEO in the history of the National Basketball Association, a professional basketball league in North America. Cynt tells us about her background, where she found the drive to forge an enormously successful career and how she’s changed the toxic and very male workplace culture she found when she arrived at the Mavericks. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Production: Helen Thomas and Carmel O’Grady Image: Cynt Marshall; Credit: Getty
Tue, July 26, 2022
Commonwealth Games 2022: the most sustainable ever?
The Commonwealth Games 2022 is coming to England's second biggest city, Birmingham, which is home to almost six million people and more than 450,000 businesses. It's expected to create 35,000 new jobs and skills opportunities and generate an extra £1.2bn ($1.4bn) for the city's economy. Organisers are promising that it will be the most sustainable Commonwealth Games ever and will leave a carbon neutral legacy. That means any CO2 released into the atmosphere from the event will be balanced by an equivalent amount being removed. Nisha Patel travels to Birmingham to speak to some of the people behind the games to get an insight into how they plan to achieve this and to find out how important the event is to the city. Produced and presented by Nisha Patel. Image: Alexander Stadium, Birmingham, Credit: Birmingham City Council
Mon, July 25, 2022
How Kenyan farmers are adapting to climate change
Climate change - which the United Nations defines as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns - is a growing global problem, particularly for farmers. A recent UN report found agricultural productivity growth in Africa has decreased by 34 percent since 1961. That's more than any other region in the world. Michael Kaloki takes a road trip around Kenya, speaking to farmers about their struggles to grow crops with the increasingly unpredictable weather. He asks Rachel Bezner Kerr, a professor at the Department of Global Development at Cornell University in the United States why climate change is happening and what the future holds. He visits the organisations that are trying to help farmers adapt to climate change. Dr Ivan Rwomushana, from the non-profit inter-governmental organisation CABI, and Oliver Furechi from the charity Practical Action tell him what strategies and solutions they're teaching farmers. Presenter: Michael Kaloki Producer: Jo Critcher Image: Nancy, a farmer in the county of Nakuru in Kenya; Credit: BBC
Fri, July 22, 2022
Business Daily meets: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw trained as a master brewer, but in late-1970s India she was rejected by the beer industry – it wasn’t seen as a job for a woman. Undeterred, she put her scientific mind and entrepreneurial prowess to setting up what would become one of India’s largest pharmaceutical companies, Biocon. She tells Rahul Tandon about her humble beginnings in business, overcoming challenges and inspiring other female entrepreneurs. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producers: Rahul Tandon, Sam Clack, Rory Claydon Image: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw; Credit: Biocon
Thu, July 21, 2022
Fertility problems and pesticides in Panama
Grace Livingstone investigates the ongoing case a group of men in Panama have brought against banana firms. We hear from two of the men who claim they were made sterile after handling a pesticide in their jobs on banana plantations. United States companies used a pesticide called DBCP on banana plantations in Latin America in the late 1970s, even though the United States restricted and then banned its use in mainland America because of the health risks. We ask why – even today - pesticides that are outlawed in one country can still be exported and used abroad. Presenter / producer: Grace Livingstone Image: Mr Coba at the banana plantation where he used to work; Credit: Grace Livingstone
Wed, July 20, 2022
Women, sport and business: Media deals
In this episode of Business Daily, the latest in our series on women, sport and business, we’re looking at the media. With women’s sport accounting for only around 5% of the total sports coverage globally, we’ll be finding out how some clubs and organisations are moving away from traditional media, and looking at digital and streaming to reach fans instead. Reporter Sam Fenwick visits Burnley FC Women in the north of England. Last year they signed a ground breaking deal with TikTok to show every home game. And we hear from TikTok themselves – Rich Waterworth, General Manager for the UK and Europe explains what’s in it for them. Sue Anstiss is the author of Game On: The unstoppable rise of women’s sport. She tells us fans of all sports are consuming content differently now, and if women’s sport gets it right, there could be a big opportunity in the digital market. And Haley Rosen, founder and CEO of digital media company Just Women’s Sports explains her frustration at trying to set up a business in a growing marketplace which is lacking in investment and infrastructure. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Helen Thomas Image: (Burnley FC Women in December 2021. Credit: George Wood/Getty Images)
Tue, July 19, 2022
How virtual reality is changing healthcare
By 2024, virtual reality is expected to reach a value of $1.2bn in the healthcare sector alone – and it’s already seeing adoption in major public healthcare bodies like the UK’s National Health Service. But many private businesses are the ones leading the change and working closely with hospitals, universities and pharmaceutical giants. We speak three businesses in three different parts of the world to find out what they’re doing to change healthcare. We hear from Matthew Wordley, CEO of the Wales-based company Rescape Innovation, Vini Gusmao, who leads the Brazillian company Medroom, and also speak to Kensuke Joji, CEO of Jolly Good VR, based in Japan. Producer / presenter: Rory Claydon Image: A woman wearing a VR headset and face mask; Credit: BBC
Mon, July 18, 2022
Military contracts in India
Lots of people want to work in the military in India – the jobs offered security, prospects and a gold-plated pension. But a new Government plan to change military employment contracts has drawn criticism and led to protests. The Government say the changes will tackle the increasing cost of military pensions and stubbornly high unemployment across India. Rahul Tandon and reporter Archana Shukla will explain why so many young people feel cheated by the plan to shorten military contracts and remove the right for many recruits to a pension. We hear from those attempting to get into the military, former officers, the Government and economists on the new contracts and ask what impact they could have on India's long standing youth unemployment problem. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Reporter: Archana Shukla Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image
Fri, July 15, 2022
Lollywood or Bollywood?
We take a look at the fortunes of Bollywood and Lollywood post pandemic. We’ll ask what the future holds for the film industries of India and Pakistan and explore whose creative ideas and business innovations in cinema are proving to be a hit with audiences. Emb Hashmi speaks to the stars of the new Lollywood film 'London Nahi Jaunga' and Nikhil Inamdar visits a Bollywood film set. We also hear from critics, directors and analysts who tell us what they think both film industries need to do to increase profits and box office numbers. Presenter: Emb Hashmi Reporting: Nikhil Inamdar Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image:Humayun Saeed and Kubra Khan; Credit: BBC
Thu, July 14, 2022
What's going on with weightlifting?
Ashish Sharma explores the problems facing one of the world’s oldest sports. A governance crisis has engulfed the sport of weightlifting and it faces an uncertain future, and as it stands weightlifting won´t feature in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. We explore the financial implications for this iconic Olympic sport if it loses the funding it gets for being on the Olympic agenda. We speak to young weightlifters about their future in the sport, attend a weightlifting contest in Mexico and report from the election for the new head of the International Weightlifting Federation. Producer / presenter: Ashish Sharma Image: Turkey's Daniyar Ismayilov competes at Rio 2016; Credit: Salih Zeki Fazlolu / Anadolu Agency / Getty Images
Wed, July 13, 2022
Women, sport and business: Merchandise
In this episode of Business Daily, the latest in our series on women, sport and business, it's all about the merch. We'll explore how important replica tops and kits actually are for women’s sport in terms of fandom, participation and of course money. We ask what female sports fans and participants actually want to wear and whether they're being adequately catered for. Dr Katie Lebel is Professor at the University of Guelph in Canada and researches gender equity in sports branding and consumer behaviour. She tells us there is a distinct lack of data in this area and as a result sports wear firms are definitely missing out on revenue. Dana Brookman is founder of the Canadian girl's baseball league and tells us her biggest challenge has been sourcing suitable uniform for her teams, and Sam Fenwick visits sport wear manufacturer Kukri to see what they have available for women and how they're working to improve their offer. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image: Canadian girls baseball; Credit: Dana Brookman We’re going to explore what’s available and whether half the population is being properly catered for in terms of sports gear...
Tue, July 12, 2022
Making money out of 'kid-fluencers'
Are you a proud sharent? That is a parent who loves to post about your child online. Some have even turned it into a lucrative business, with incomes boosted by advertising deals and merchandise sales. Deborah Weitzmann meets Gemma Alster and her daughter Gigi. They tell us about working with brands to make advertising content for social media. We also find out why brands around the world are cashing in on the kid-fluencer craze with global brand expert Eddie Hammerman. In many countries, a lack of financial and psychological protection for child influencers is a cause for concern. Policy makers tell us how child labour regulations should be brought up to date to reflect the growth in this space. Presenter/producer: Deborah Weitzmann Image: Gigi; Credit: Gemma Alster
Mon, July 11, 2022
Pension dipping in Peru and Chile
Millions of people in Peru and Chile have been allowed to empty their retirement pots to cope with Covid-19 and rising prices, putting the pension system and the economy at risk. Chilean Senator Alejandra Sepulveda explains why she supported early pension withdrawals as a one-time emergency measure to reactivate the economy while the OECD’s expert on pensions Pablo Antolin explains the relevance of restricting this kind of initiatives to only those in need. We also hear from pension-dippers Ana Alvarez, Antonio Aliaga, and Antonio Valladares on why they don’t trust the pension system in their countries and Peruvian business reporter Karina Montoya reflects on how free pension-dipping during the pandemic has completely changed the way people see retirement funds in her country. All this money leaving retirement funds at the same time is having consequences in the economy, as the former finance minister of Peru, David Tuesta, and the current finance minister of Chile, Mario Marcel, tell us. Presenter / producer: Stefania Gozzer Image: Pension jar; Credit: Getty
Fri, July 08, 2022
The business of streaming games
We explore the world of video game streaming - where players connect their screens to platforms such as Twitch or YouTube so that fans can watch them play. Elizabeth Hotson talks to Aoife Wilson, head of video at video game website Eurogamer who’s an enthusiastic streamer and industry watcher; she explains why watching people play games has turned into a multi-billion dollar industry. The BBC’s Faarea Masud gives a fan’s perspective, whilst Sam Matthews, CEO of e-sports brand, Fnatic gives us an insight into the money-making potential of competitive gaming. Thomas Slattery from gaming venue, Platform, in London, tells us why he thinks streaming is so important right now. Presenter / producer: Elizabeth Hotson Image: A gamer; Credit: Getty Images
Thu, July 07, 2022
Brazil's election and the economy
Brazilians will go to the polls to elect their next president in October. With Jair Bolsonaro trailing in polls behind former leader Lula da Silva, many voters say the economy is their main worry. We speak to small business owners in Vitoria, Espirito Santo, to get their thoughts on how financial concerns may influence voters’ choices. Mauricio Moura, founder of polling company IDEIA, tells us that the economy has never been as crucial going into a Brazilian election in modern history as it is this year. Former Central Bank governor Gustavo Franco says he’s concerned that some people have forgotten the country’s struggles with high levels of inflation in recent decades. Solange Srour, Chief Economist of Credit Suisse Brasil, says the reduction in government benefit payments introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic have dented the president’s popularity. And Wilson Ferrarezi from TS Lombard tells us that the most pressing structural challenge for whoever wins the vote in October is reforming Brazil’s tax system. With additional reporting by Sarita Reed in Vitoria, Espirito Santo. Presenter / producer: Tom Kavanagh Image: Homeless people in Sao Paulo; Credit: NELSON ALMEIDA/AFP via Getty Images
Wed, July 06, 2022
Women, sport and business: Haley Rosen
To coincide with the start of the Women's Euros and the Africa Women Cup of Nations, Business Daily launches a new series on women, sport and business. Haley Rosen is a former pro soccer player who now runs the digital sports media company Just Women’s Sports. When she stopped playing, Haley realised she couldn't access even basic information about women's sports, including fixtures, scores and all the other statistics available to those following male sports. Haley tells Sam Fenwick how she set up her digital media platform and secured more than $3.5 million in investment. They also discuss what needs to change to make sure female sporting stars are treated on a par with their male counterparts. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Helen Thomas Image: Haley Rosen; Credit: Getty
Tue, July 05, 2022
Are they listening?
Are they really listening to us via our mobile phones and other smart devices? Eavesdropping to find out more about our most personal tastes and habits? Ed Butler investigates whether regular firms are trying to mine our data for commercial advantage. We ask experts what is technically possible in this field and find out whether the data gathered would actually be worth the effort. Presenter / Producer: Ed Butler Image: Smart speaker; Credit Getty
Mon, July 04, 2022
Peat and the environment
Sam Fenwick explores why peat is such an important carbon store and whether it’s use in compost should be banned. Sam visits a peat bog in the UK and speaks to garden centres in Japan and India, where like many parts of the world gardening boomed during the pandemic. She also heads to Estonia, one of the biggest exporters of peat in the world. Producer / Presenter: Sam Fenwick Image: Little Woolden Moss peat bog; Credit: Sam Fenwick
Fri, July 01, 2022
Business Daily meets: iPod and iPhone co-creator Tony Fadell
Apple technology has revolutionised the world. The US company says there are now more than 1.5 billion Apple devices in active use globally - a billion of those are iPhones. It was 15 years ago this week that the co-founder of Apple, Steve Jobs, first unveiled the iPhone. So how do you come up with such a world-changing idea? We find out from Tony Fadell - the co-inventor of the iPod and iPhone. He tells Jo Critcher how it took years of set-backs to find success and how it's important to never give up. Having invented the Nest smart thermostat, Tony explains why he's now focused on green technology. He's tells us how he's investing in tech start-ups with his company, Future Shape, that are helping to find solutions to the climate change crisis. Presenter and producer: Jo Critcher (Image; Tony Fadell: Credit; BBC)
Thu, June 30, 2022
Cost of living: Mechanics
In this Business Daily mini series we're exploring how businesses we all use regularly are being affected by the cost of living crisis. Leanna Byrne and Olivia Wilson look at the impact of inflation on those who supply car parts and fix our cars. Kelly Bysouth chief supply chain officer of the International Automotive Components group tell us manufacturing disruption and supply chains are key problems for this industry. We also hear from mechanics in Lagos, Nigeria, who tell us how their businesses are coping. Presenters; Leanna Byrne and Olivia Wilson Production; Leanna Byrne and Olivia Wilson Image; Mechanics: Credit; Getty
Wed, June 29, 2022
Cost of living: Farmers and food producers
In this Business Daily mini series we're exploring how businesses we all use regularly are being affected by the cost of living crisis. Leanna Byrne goes from farm to fork, first speaking to farmers in Malawi and Canada about the rising costs of growing crops and rearing dairy cows, then getting the macro picture from Food Drink Europe, which represents food and drink giants like Nestle, Unilever and Danone. We also hear from Chris Hegadorn, Secretary of the UN’s Committee on World Food Security, who says that rising food prices in a developing country could be completely destablising. Presenter / Producer: Leanna Byrne Additional production: Olivia Wilson Image: Farming; Credit: Getty
Tue, June 28, 2022
Cost of living: Bakeries
In this Business Daily mini series we're exploring how businesses we all use regularly are being affected by the cost of living crisis. This episode looks at how bakers are coping as the price of grain, dairy and the power needed to heat their ovens, all continue to increase. Leanna Byrne speaks to bakers in Egypt, France and Uganda – one baker tells us that the price increases she's seeing for ingredients means she should really have doubled her prices. Our French baker tells us the price of butter is a huge issue there and in Egypt we investigate the expense of wheat imports and difficulty sourcing local wheat. Presenter / Producer: Leanna Byrne Additional production: Olivia Wilson Image: Baker; Credit: Getty
Sat, June 25, 2022
Cost of living: Hairdressers
In this Business Daily mini series we're exploring how businesses we all use regularly are being affected by the cost of living crisis. This episode looks at how hairdressers are coping as the price of power and hair products continues to increase. Leanna Byrne speaks to hairdressers in South Africa, the USA and Germany – all report difficulties with rising overheads and the need to start passing those costs on to customers. We also look at how one haircare brand, selling direct to consumers, is seeing increased sales but also increased manufacturing costs and longer turn-around times. Presenter / Producer: Leanna Byrne Additional production: Olivia Wilson Image: Hairdressing; Credit: Getty
Fri, June 24, 2022
Business Daily meets: Tech entrepreneur Frederic Kerrest
Tech entrepreneur Frederic Kerrest tells Sam Clack how he helped to build the multi-billion dollar tech company, Okta, from scratch. He goes through the life and business lessons he’s learned along the way – and explains the importance of listening to great advice at every stage of your career. In his new book ‘Zero to IPO’, Frederic shares valuable insights from top CEOs that he hopes will help to motivate the next generation of entrepreneurs. Presenter / Producer: Sam Clack Image: Frederic Kerrest; Credit: Okta
Thu, June 23, 2022
Love in virtual reality
We take a look at the companies moving the business of love to the metaverse. Hannah Mullane meets Aurora Townsend, co-founder of the world’s first virtual reality dating app, who tells us about what customers can expect and Hannah heads into the metaverse herself to meet Marc Charlton, founder of Dates VR, a virtual reality speed dating event. Hannah also hears from a couple who got married on a virtual reality platform called Decentraland. That company's creative producer also explains what it’s really like to plan a virtual wedding because just like in the real world, weddings are big business. Presenter / Producer: Hannah Mullane Image: Avatars; Credit: ‘Dates VR’
Wed, June 22, 2022
Race and DNA ancestry tests
Find out more about the DNA ancestry company aiming to increase its appeal across a wider range of ethnic groups. They're attempting to correct the racial bias in DNA databases, so customers get a fuller story of who they are. Genetic studies have primarily been done nearly exclusively in European populations to date and DNA databases are four to one skewed in favour of European DNA. But diversity drives are unearthing genetic treasure. Slavery scrubbed the family histories of generations. Genetics is helping African Americans, for one, piece together their stolen stories. In this episode David Reid hears the story of Jamila Zheng who found her ancestral home and relatives she didn't know existed after taking a DNA test. We also hear from Dr Steven Micheletti, Population Geneticist at 23andMe and Dr Anjali Shastri, Senior Research Programme Manager at 23andMe about the diversity drive at their company. Producer / Presenter: David Reid Image: Jamila Zheng; Credit: 23andMe
Tue, June 21, 2022
The club teaching women to say 'no' at work
Ever heard of the term non-promotable task? Well, if you’re a woman, the chances are you’ve been doing a lot of them at work. Leanna Byrne speaks to the authors of The No Club, a book tracking the problems that arise when women are tasked with doing mindless jobs. We are talking about the kind of jobs that make managers happy, but won’t help you get on in your career. Linda Babcock, Brenda Peyser, Lise Vesterlund, and Laurie Weingart—the original “No Club”— join us to talk through why women are disproportionately asked and expected to take on these tasks, why that leaves women overcommitted and underutilised and how companies are therefore forfeiting revenue, productivity, and top talent. Presenter/producer: Leanna Byrne (Photo: Stressed woman at work. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, June 20, 2022
Floriade: A green global exhibition
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 and the costs and benefits to the local area of hosting it. Plus a look at some of the displays and questions over whether there is a future for these big, set-piece events. Presenter / Producer: Matthew Kenyon Image: Ariel view of Floriade; Credit: Matthew Kenyon
Fri, June 17, 2022
The race to stop a Red Sea oil catastrophe
One of the many casualties of the war in Yemen is the FSO Safer, a floating storage facility which holds one million barrels of crude oil. No maintenance has been carried out on the vessel for years, and experts believe it’s in danger or exploding or leaking oil in to the Red Sea at any moment. The UN has previously unsuccessfully tried to resolve the issue, but David Gressly, the Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen, thinks the next few weeks could be vital, and is calling on the private sector and individuals to help fund an operation to transfer the oil to a safer vessel. We hear from Tim Lenderking, US Special Envoy for Yemen, Ghiwa Nakat of Greenpeace Middle East and North Africa and Yemen’s Minister for Water and the Environment Tawfeeq Al Sharjabi. Presenter: Hannah Bewley Producers: Hannah Bewley and Sumaya Bakhsh Image: The FSO Safer from above; Credit: Getty Images
Thu, June 16, 2022
El Salvador’s Bitcoin gamble
Joe Tidy travels to El Salvador where almost everything can be paid for using the cryptocurrency Bitcoin. After President Bukele invested heavily in Bitcoin some people are questioning the long-term impact of such a move. For some money has flowed in from mysterious investors, but others like local economist Tatiana Maraquin think the country’s economy cannot handle the fluctuations in the value of the cryptocurrency. Joe visits a veterinary surgery, which offers huge discounts on treatment if it is bought using the Chivo bitcoin wallet app. Presenter/producer: Joe Tidy (Photo: Bitcoin poster)
Wed, June 15, 2022
The adaptive fashion revolution
Adaptive fashion, or stylish clothes for people who have a disability have not always been widely available, especially for those who use a wheelchair. Recently though, a fashion revolution has begun. We hear from the women pushing the industry to change. British Somali Faduma Farah launched a fellowship for designers to come up with an inclusive collection that would be modelled at London Fashion Week. We speak to Faduma and the winning designer Harriet Eccleston, as well as stylist and influencer Heide Herkes who was one of the models featured on the runway during the show – the first ever to include wheelchair users. Plus, Maria O'Sullivan-Abeyratne, CEO and founder of Adaptista, tells us about the inclusive online shopping platform she’s building for the adaptive fashion market. Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Producer: Izzy Greenfield Image: Faduma Farah, founder of the Faduma Fellowship; Credit: BBC
Tue, June 14, 2022
Communities bringing down energy bills
Meet the community groups trying to make energy more accessible and affordable. Laura Heighton-Ginns visits a fuel poverty workshop in the UK and hears about the devastating effects of not being able to afford food and why it’s so important to have a secure energy supply. Laura hears from Soren Hermansen - the Director of the Energy Academy on the island of Samso in Denmark. Samso controls its own energy supply and advises other communities on how they can do the same. And we find out about a project in Tanzania run by Janet Maro. Janet's project powers a centre for training farmers using experimental technology to harness the energy from the sun and collect rain water. Presenter / Producer: Laura Heighton-Ginns Image: Janet Maro and her team; Credit: Janet Maro
Mon, June 13, 2022
Egg freezing: the ultimate workplace perk?
Singapore has become the latest country to allow egg freezing for non-medical reasons. That is a method of preserving a woman’s fertility so she can try and have children at a later date. With an increasing number of companies offering this and other fertility benefits as a workplace perk, Ivana Davidovic asks if this always good news for women? Carol Chen, a businesswoman based in Singapore, explains why she would have loved to have had a chance to freeze her eggs closer to home, rather than have to travel thousands of miles to the US to do the procedure there. She also hopes that other counties in Asia will soon make the process more streamlined Just under 40% of large companies in the US - so those over 500 employees - offer fertility benefits and the numbers are rising fast. Now even Europe, with its much more generous national health services, is starting to follow suit. Co-founder of a fertility benefit company based in Berlin, Jenny Saft, explains why. American entertainment lawyer Nyasha Foy tells her egg freezing story and the role that her employer played, while also considering specific issues faced by black women. Lecturer Lucy van de Wiel warns that employers having influence over their staff's fertility choices may not always mean good news for women. And Californian fertility doctor Aimee Eyvazzadeh, also known as the “egg whisperer”, talks about why she throws egg freezing parties and why we might need to accept that women will increasingly give birth in their 40s and 50s. Presented and produced by Ivana Davidovic Image: A woman injecting hormones in preparation for egg extraction. Credit: Getty Images
Fri, June 10, 2022
Million by 30: Elwinder Singh
As part of the Business Daily series Million by 30, Sam Fenwick meets Elwinder Singh and hears the story behind his private healthcare company Connect and Heal. The business coordinates healthcare appointments, tests, treatment and medication for six million paying customers. He explains where the idea came from and why he moved thousands of miles to set up, finance and grow his company. Find out how he manages such a big business and what his plans are to grow the enterprise further. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Rory Claydon/Carmel O’Grady Image: Elwinder Singh. Credit: Connect and Heal
Thu, June 09, 2022
The emerging market for energy storage
Oil and gas prices have risen sharply after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and as a result many countries have signalled a move towards more renewable energy. One of the challenges for the future will be how to store energy produced by wind and solar power so it can be used at the right times. Professor Seamus Garvey and a team at the University of Nottingham tell us about their prototype machine which uses compressed air and heated gravel to tackle this problem. We also hear from Professor Mara Prentiss of the University of Harvard on the science behind these new ideas, and Heymi Bahar of the International Energy Agency to give an overview of this sector at the moment. Presenter/Producer: Hannah Bewley Image: Wind turbines and solar panels; Credit: Getty Images
Wed, June 08, 2022
Is a rare carbon sink under threat in the DRC?
Dense tropical rainforest in central Africa's Congo Basin is humid and rainy for much of the year. Underfoot lies one of the world’s biggest carbon sinks – muddy soil built up from layers of partly decomposed plant matter. Remote and uncultivated, the peatlands have survived for thousands of years, stretching over an area the size of England. Incredibly, the area contains 30 billion tonnes of carbon trapped underground, but this rare carbon store is now under threat as local authorities turn their attention to oil. Presenter: Vivienne Nunis (Image: Aerial view of the peatland forest at Lokolama/Penzele around Mbandaka, Équateur province, DRC. Credit: Daniel Beltrá/Greenpeace Africa)
Tue, June 07, 2022
Working in India's heatwave
For the last couple of months India has been experiencing an absolutely blistering heatwave. The capital Delhi has seen temperatures hit record highs and it's estimated the heat is costing the Indian economy more than a hundred billion dollars a year. Rahul Tandon explores what can be done for the millions of people in India who have to work outside. The BBC's Nikhil Inamdar reports from Aurangabad, a city in Maharashtra state, where some crops are being harvested overnight to avoid the heat. We also speak to experts and business leaders about how the country is coping with planned power outages and what the future might hold for the Indian economy if temperatures continue to rise. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image: Indian workers in Delhi; Credit: EPA Harish Tyagi
Mon, June 06, 2022
Business Daily meets: Bank of England economists
As part of the Business Daily Meets strand we speak to Rupal Patel and Jack Meaning, senior economists at the Bank of England. They have written a book to help people of all ages get a better understanding of the economy. They answer questions like ‘Why am I richer than my great-great-grandma?’ and ‘What actually is money?’. Sam Fenwick talks to them about what The Simpsons can teach us about getting a pay rise, and why you might want to think twice when filling your bag with gobstoppers at the sweet shop. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Hannah Bewley Image: Rupal Patel and Jack Meaning; Credit: Penguin Random House
Fri, June 03, 2022
Million by 30: Amarachi Nwosu
As part of the Business Daily series Million by 30 we speak to Amarachi Nwosu, a filmmaker who wanted to look at race in Japan from a different angle. She spoke to black people in Toyko about their experiences in the country and uncovers a world of custom, curiosity and respect. Sam Fenwick hears more about what the film means to her, and what she hopes her next ‘million’ will be. Picture: Amarachi Nwosu; Credit: Serah Alabi Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producers: Helen Thomas and Hannah Bewley
Thu, June 02, 2022
Excluded from digital banking
With more and more of our financial lives moving online, we ask whether some people are getting left behind. Claire Williamson investigates whether some older people, who struggle with rapidly changing technology or fear losing their money through scams, are being forgotten about, as banks close branches and move online? Claire hears from people attending a digital skills training session organised by Age UK in East London and Carlos San Juan from Valencia in Spain tells her why he started a campaign for a more humane treatment of older people by Spanish banks. Producer / presenter; Claire Williamson Image: Euronet ATM machine; Credit: Getty
Wed, June 01, 2022
Business Daily meets: Kevin Rudd
Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd tells Rahul Tandon about running a two trillion dollar economy, and how he responded to the 2007-2008 financial crisis. Hear how his interest in China began, and why he thinks engagement with the economic superpower is the only way forward. He also gives us his opinion on new Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and the recent return of the Labor Party to power. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image: Kevin Rudd (Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, May 31, 2022
Online advertising fraud
The global online ad racket; Ed Butler investigates how criminals are ripping off advertising firms to the tune of billions every year. Andrew Lissimore the CEO of a Canadian company that sells high-end headphones tells us what happened when he hired an ad-tech firm to organise targeted advertising for his website. Ad fraud expert, Augustine Fou explains that the problems with digital advertising really began about a decade ago, when advertisers stopped selling their ads directly to publishing websites and used ad exchanges instead. We also hear from a former hacker who now advises companies on how to keep hackers and fraudsters at bay. Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Online business marketing; Credit: Getty
Mon, May 30, 2022
Inside Gazprom
In 2002, Lesley Curwen arrived in Siberia to see the inner workings of Gazprom. Hear how she found a business that felt more like an empire of its own, with 300 thousand workers and the largest gas reserves on the planet. Back then Gazprom was eager to be taken seriously abroad, and to sell more of its gas to Europe. Which it did. This year, war in Ukraine changed everything when Gazprom’s political master Vladimir Putin turned off the gas taps to Poland, Bulgaria and Finland. Lesley investigates how Gazprom has changed over the past 20 years, what its reputation is as a company, and what its future might look like. Presenter: Lesley Curwen Producer: Carmel O'Grady (Photo: Lesley Curwen in Siberia in 2002; Credit: Lesley Curwen/BBC)
Fri, May 27, 2022
Million by 30: Sharon Tseung
In latest episode of our series Million by 30 – Sam Fenwick is joined by Sharon Tsueng. Sharon is a former high school chess teacher, a marketing specialist, she was also a digital nomad and now invests in property. Sharon made a million dollars before her 30th birthday building passive income streams and then saving and investing that cash. Sharon tells Sam how she did it, what drives her and why a sensible attitude to money right from the start helped her build her nest egg and achieve financial freedom. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image: Sharon Tseung; Credit: Sharon Tseung
Thu, May 26, 2022
Insolvency and the pandemic
During the coronavirus pandemic governments around the world pumped billions into their economies. Propping up businesses and trying to make sure people stayed in work. Sam Fenwick looks into what actually happened to all that money and whether it really did help keep businesses afloat during repeated lockdowns and restrictions. Nick Hood is an business insolvency expert with a company called Opus Restructuring – he helped us interrogate data held by all the major world economies on insolvencies. Sam also speaks to a business owner who was forced to close and declare bankruptcy during the pandemic despite financial help and another who was able to restructure and expand thanks to a government scheme. Presenter / Producer: Sam Fenwick Image: Closed sign; Credit: Getty
Wed, May 25, 2022
Girls, beauty and advertising
More than ever girls are bombarded by images that have been curated, filtered and touched up. How can we help girls decode those images and understand that ideals of beauty are constructed by society and change across time and place? Shelina Janmohamed is an author and advertising executive. Her latest book is designed to help girls aged eight and above build confidence in how they look and show them why what appears to be beautiful isn't as straight forward as it seems. Shelina tells presenter Rabiya Limbada why her career in advertising led her to write this book and why helping girls become more savvy consumers is good for business. Rabiya also speaks to six girls - Hanaa, Haleemah, Helen, Hana, Sophia and Amatullah - about what they think beautiful is, their experience of filtered images and how confident they feel about how they look. Presenter: Rabiya Limbada Producer: Carmel O'Grady Image: Girl looking at make up; Credit: Getty
Tue, May 24, 2022
The women leading Africa’s FinTech boom
Finance has traditionally been dominated by men. But now that’s starting to change. We talk to the female entrepreneurs in Africa who are using financial technology to give more people access to money and services - through apps, payment platforms and chatbots. Odunayo Eweniyi is the co-founder of Piggyvest in Nigeria, the first ever online app for personal savings and investment in West Africa. She tells us how she came up with the idea and how she’s using FirstCheck Africa, an angel fund for women entrepreneurs, to help others. Jihan Abass, the founder and CEO of Griffin insurance, Kenya’s first digital-only car insurance company, tells us about her ambitious plans to expand. Ethel Cofie, the boss of Edel Technology Consulting, who’s been named as one of the top 5 women influencing technology in Africa, gives her advice to women starting out in tech. She’s set up a support network, Women in Tech Africa. We also visit a coding bootcamp for young women in Ghana, called Developers in Vogue. Its founder, Ivy Barley, tells us why she set it up and we hear from the students about the difference it’s made to their lives. Presenter and producer: Jo Critcher (Picture: Students at Developers in Vogue coding bootcamp in Ghana; Credit: Developers in Vogue)
Mon, May 23, 2022
La Liga's record deal
Spain's top division La Liga has signed a record investment deal with CVC Capital Partners. Ashish Sharma looks at the terms of the deal - which means CVC invests into a new company that will hold LaLiga’s commercial rights. CVC will hold an 8% stake in the business for the next 50 years. Ashish Sharma speaks some of the leading figures in the top tier of Spanish football´s La Liga, including Ramon Rubiales the CEO of Real Betis. With the money that his club will receive, Rubiales explains how he plans to rejuvenate the club´s stadium and invest in building restaurants, a hotel and other leisure facilities that will help the club raise more revenues. Presenter / Producer: Ashish Sharma Image: Benito Villamarin Stadium of Real Betis, Real Betis Sevilla v FC Barcelona, May 7, 2022; Credit: Getty Images
Fri, May 20, 2022
Million by 30: Ally Salama
Ally Salama’s company makes content that aims to improve mental health awareness in the Middle East – he’s experienced clinical depression himself. The podcast Ally presents – Empathy always wins - has had millions of downloads and EMPWR is valued at more than a million dollars. In this episode of Million by 30, Felicity Hannah asks Ally how his own experiences helped him develop his business model, how he operates as an employer and for his advice to anyone else looking to get into podcasting or start a media company. Presenter: Felicity Hannah Producer: Rory Claydon Image; Ally Salama: Credit; Ally Salama
Thu, May 19, 2022
Spending on defence
Rahul Tandon looks at changing attitudes to defence spending following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. There have been new funding commitments from countries like Germany, while Sweden and Finland now want to join NATO, but what's the true cost? We speak to Estonia's defence minister Kalle Laanet about his country's growing military budget, and German member of the European Parliament Viola Von Cramon Taubadel on her country's decision to spend more. Dr Diego Lopes Da Silva, a researcher with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, says global spending reached a record level of $2 trillion in 2021, before the invasion of Ukraine. Steven Zaloga, a military analyst at the Teal Group, explains the role of cutting edge drone technology, and Allison Pytlak from the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom discusses the human cost of conflict. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: James Graham Photo: Ammunition in a shopping trolley (Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, May 18, 2022
Generation Z and crypto trading
The lure of making a quick buck means young people have always invested in risky assets. For Generation Z, it is the volatility and the decentralised nature of digital assets such as cryptocurrency and NFTs which is so attractive. They are unregulated, meaning there is no investor protection. Some experts warn that trading them should be categorised as gambling. Mariko Oi hears from young people who have lost vast sums of money trading in digital assets, Resh Chandran who describes himself as a financial educator offering training in conventional stocks, cryptocurrency and NFT trading in Singapore, and Brian Jung. Brian is an investor, entrepreneur, and influencer. He is best known for his personal finance, credit card, and crypto YouTube channel which boasts one million followers, but compared to other influencers, he is known to talk more cautiously about risks and danger. Presenter: Mariko Oi Producer: AnneMarie Parnell (Photo: Brian Jung. Credit: Brian Jung
Tue, May 17, 2022
Rebuilding Puerto Rico's electricity supply
Samira Hussain takes you to Puerto Rico. Back to back hurricanes 5 years ago shattered the island's electricity grid, leading to the longest blackout in American history. Residents are still trying to claw their way out of the darkness. But one Puerto Rican town, in the island's mountainous region, may have found a solution. Arturo Massol Deya is the associate director of Casa Pueblo, he tells us how he's using solar panels to ensure a reliable supply of electricity to his local community. We also hear from Wayne Stensby, CEO of Luma Energy. Last year, the transmission and distribution of electricity in Puerto Rico was privatised and handed to Wayne and his team. He tells us the whole system needs a lot of regeneration and investment. Presenter / Producer: Samira Hussain Image: Arturo Massol Deya; Credit; Andrew Herbert BBC
Mon, May 16, 2022
Business Daily Meets: Estonia’s first billionaire
In the first episode of our new strand - Business Daily Meets - we hear from Estonia’s first billionaire, Kristo Käärmann. In this in-depth interview the TransferWise (now Wise) co-founder and CEO explains how a €500 loss led to the creation of a multi-billion dollar business. He tells us about creating something from nothing, keeping his ego in check, and insists saving customers $1 billion a year is only the start of the journey. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: Sam Clack Image: Kristo Käärmann; Credit: Jake Farra/Wise
Fri, May 13, 2022
Million by 30: Iseult Ward
In this series you will hear from six people from all over the world who’ve hit that million milestone before their 30th birthday. Our second guest is Iseult Ward from Ireland, who tells Sam Fenwick how she started building her social enterprise FoodCloud while still at university in Dublin. Iseult and her team make more than a million meals every month from food that would otherwise end up in the bin. Hear how she started out working with small market traders, scaled up to work with huge multi-nationals in multiple countries and how she deals with imposter syndrome. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Helen Thomas (Photo: Iseult Ward. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, May 12, 2022
Eurovision: The price of performing
In today’s episode of Business Daily we’ll see how Eurovision goes so much further than the stage. We head to this year’s host city, Turin in Italy, to see whether there’s a been boost in local business there. We hear from Ochman who's representing Poland, on how his career has changed since becoming an act, and from Emmelie De Forest who represented Denmark in 2013, who says the competition was both a "blessing, and a curse". Dr Filippos Filippidis, from Imperial College London, tells us about the positive effect that Eurovision can have on a country's mental health. And Dr Adrian Kavanagh from Maynooth University in Ireland, talks about the economic impact of hosting. We also speak to one of the competition’s most famous former presenters, Danish actor Pilou Asbaek. Presenter/producer: Izzy Greenfield Image: Getty (Description: Eurovision song contest logo 2022)
Wed, May 11, 2022
Cash in a conflict
How does day-to-day survival work in a war when cash and food are in short supply? Rahul Tandon speaks to a woman in Russian-occupied Kherson where the rouble has just been introduced as an official currency. He also hears from Zaporizhzhia entrepreneur Vitali Ivakhov about how he's keeping his businesses going, and paying wages. A survivor of Mariupol explains how day-to-day life continued during the siege, and Bosnian journalist Aida Cerkez talks about her personal experience of the siege of Sarajevo - the longest in modern times. Former Ukrainian finance minister Natalie Jaresko tells us about the crucial role digital payments have played, and how frozen Russian assets must be used to help pay for the rebuilding of Ukraine. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: James Graham Photo: Five hryvnia notes (Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, May 10, 2022
The Royal Family: How strong is its brand?
Samira Hussain investigates the brand of the British Royal Family. It's estimated to be one of the biggest brands in the world, steeped in history, tradition and of course scandal... In the Queen's Platinum Jubilee year we look at how recent events have changed things for the royal brand and what coming changes and challenges could mean going forward. Pauline McLaran, professor of marketing and consumer research at Royal Holloway University and co-author of Royal Fever: The British Monarchy in Consumer Culture explains how this multi-faceted brand actually functions and what she thinks are the biggest problems it faces. We'll also explore whether being associated with brand Royal is still good for business. Jason Bell is a photographer based in New York. He took the photographs of Prince George’s christening and tells us about the media interest in him being linked with that job and the global response to his pictures. Chef Darren McGrady, who cooked for the Queen and Princess Diana for many years, also joins us. Darren now runs a business in Dallas, Texas called Eating Royally. He says working for the royals definitely opened doors for him, but has questions about the future of the brand. Presenter: Samira Hussian Producer: Carmel O'Grady (Image: Queen Elizabeth II and members of the royal family; Credit: Victoria Jones / PA Wire)
Mon, May 09, 2022
Turning waste into money
How does plastic get from your bin to the recycling plant? According to The Pew Charitable Trust, 60% of plastic recycling globally comes from individual waste pickers, an informal economy of millions of people who go out picking up plastic every day. As the world starts to look at ways to reduce our plastic waste, how might this impact the livelihoods of the waste pickers who rely on it? We hear from Gladys Mwamba at Plastic for Change in Zambia, who spotted an opportunity to use her Chinese language skills by acting for local waste pickers selling to Chinese recycling firms. On a larger scale, a for profit social enterprise called The Plastic Bank in Canada is working with over 20,000 waste collectors in Brazil, Indonesia, The Philippines and Egypt. They offer above market prices for plastic, alongside subsidised education programmes and other necessities such as food and fuel. Rich Gower, a senior economist at Tearfund, a Christian international development charity, tells us why an international plastics treaty this year is a key moment for waste pickers. In many countries waste pickers are organising into unions or co-operatives. We speak to representatives from SWaCH, a co-operative of waste pickers in Pune, South India, that has been running since 1993. Presented and produced by Beatrice Pickup. Additional reporting by Mutuna Chanda. Image: Gladys Mwamba at Plastic for Change in Kitwe, Zambia; Credit: Mutuna Chanda
Fri, May 06, 2022
Million by 30: Hertzy Kabeya
Hertzy Kabeya – the first in our million by 30 series - tells us how he developed and launched what’s become an enormously successful education tech company. Hertzy overcame huge setbacks as founder and CEO of Student Hub. The company almost went bust but Hertzy's drive and leadership ensured the business survived and went on to secure multi million dollar investment. Find out how he did it, what he thinks his business superpower is and what he learned on the way to hitting that million benchmark by his 30th birthday. Presenter: Felicity Hannah Producer: Helen Thomas Image: Hertzy Kabeya, Credit: Hertzy Kabeya
Thu, May 05, 2022
How the war in Ukraine has affected global tourism
Exclusive flight data from ForwardKeys shows a huge reduction in the number of Russian tourists going to Turkey and other popular resorts. We hear from businesses in Antalya about the impact it has had so far, and about what might happen over the coming holiday season. Experts Olivier Ponti from ForwardKeys, which analyses tourism trends, and Ana Nichols from EIU, which produces economic insight, explain the economic causes and effects of this reduction in travellers and the knock-on effects of the war. A B&B owner in The Seychelles tells us about a boom in Russian tourists last year, which has now completely vanished due to the invasion of Ukraine. We also hear from a Russian man who had booked a holiday there, but has changed his plans to go somewhere slightly colder instead. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Hannah Bewley Photo: Getty Images
Wed, May 04, 2022
The DNA sequencing revolution
Fast and portable genome testing is unlocking the secrets to ourselves and the environment we live in. It's impact could lead us to fundamentally remake our approach to medicine, agriculture, the environment, conservation and our selves. In this episode we hear from Dr Lara Urban, a geneticist studying the kakapo in New Zealand, Dr Gordon Sanghera, CEO of Oxford Nanopore Technologies and Professor Anna Schuh, professor of molecular diagnostics at the Department of Oncology at Oxford University and visiting professor at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences in Tanzania. Presenter / Producer: David Reid Photo: Kakapo; Credit: Liu Yang
Tue, May 03, 2022
Female digital entrepreneurs in Africa
During the pandemic businesses shut down and traditional jobs were lost forcing people to rethink how they earn a living. Since then one of the biggest shifts in the economy has been the rise of digital platforms – online market places which sell everything from fruit and veg to TVs and kitchen appliances. In Africa women have found new careers using Facebook and WhatsApp as well as ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt. Sam Fenwick meets three women who have found financial independence by starting businesses on these platforms. Josephine Adzogble from Accra in Ghana has a business selling electrical appliances via social media. Ayobami Lawal drives taxis in Lagos, Nigeria. The single mum of four talks about the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated environment. And Sharon Tarit from Eldoret, Kenya sublets properties through AirBnB. She started her business after she was forced to permanently close her shop selling baby clothes during the pandemic. Sam Fenwick is also joined by lead researcher at Caribou Digital, Grace Natabaalo who explains why it’s important for women to have financial independence and the impact female workers can have on a country’s economy. Presenter / Producer : Sam Fenwick Photo : Josephine Adzogble, Ayobami Lawal, Sharon Tarit; Credit: BBC
Mon, May 02, 2022
Living face-to-face with climate change
What’s it like to live in a country on the sharp end of climate change? Today Tamasin Ford takes you to Sâo Tomé and Príncipe, the twin island nation in the gulf of Guinea. With the smallest economy in Africa, it has few means to fight what the UN calls the biggest threat modern humans have ever faced. We hear from coastal communities whose homes have been washed away because of rising sea levels. President Carlos Vila Nova, who spoke at the United Nation’s climate conference in Glasgow last year, lays out the challenges small island nations face. While Luisa Madruga from the charity, Flora and Fauna International, explains how a new initiative could save fish stocks from disappearing altogether. Presenter: Tamasin Ford Producer: Russell Newlove Photo: Principe, the community of Praia de Burras; Credit: BBC
Fri, April 29, 2022
Disney's Florida fallout
We look into the decision by Florida's governor Ron DeSantis to dissolve Disney's special status in the state. It follows Disney's criticism of a new law restricting discussion of LGBTQ issues in schools. What will the row mean for the company, and what questions does it raise for other companies navigating the so-called 'culture wars'? We hear from Disney historian Richard Foglesong, and a former vice president of operations at Disney World, Lee Cockerell. The New York Post columnist Karol Markowicz and Christina Huguet, an analyst at political risk consultancy Eurasia Group, give their perspectives on whether companies should take a stand on the issues of the day. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: James Graham Photo: A Disney employee protests against the company's initial silence on a controversial new law restricting discussion of LGBTQ issues in schools. (Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, April 28, 2022
The power of the brooch
We look into why sales of brooches have soared, and why they can be such a powerful accessory. Governor of the bank of Russia Elvia Nabiullina says the brooches she wears contain clues to understanding policy decisions, and the late Madeleine Albright, former USA Secretary of State, used to wear them as a diplomatic tool. Brooches are currently gaining popularity among consumers and fashion brands are taking note, as Dolce & Gabbana’s Carlos Palacios and British Vogue’s Carol Woolton tell us. Paul Paradis, an art historian from L’ECOLE School of Jewellery Arts in Paris, takes us through the history of brooches, and jewellery historian Vivienne Becker tells us what it was like to work with Madeleine Albright, and help pen her novel Read My Pins. And we speak to Cindy Chao, one of the world’s most famous brooch makers, who became the first Asian female to get her work inducted into the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Producer: Izzy Greenfield (Photo: Lady Gaga at the inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 27, 2022
False banana: A new superfood?
As the spectre of food insecurity grows and climate change threatens lives and livelihoods, could enset play a part in assuaging hunger? Elizabeth Hotson delves into the many and varied properties of a crop consumed mainly in parts of Ethiopia and she asks how it might be possible to widen the appeal of a plant which takes months to turn into an something edible. Dr Wendewek Abebe from Hawassa university in southern Ethiopia is a leading researcher of enset and he explains why it’s known as the ‘tree against hunger.’ Dr Abebe also takes us on a trip to meet a farmer who cultivates the crop and considers it a superfood. Back in the UK, Dr James Borrell, a research fellow at Kew Gardens in London explains why cultivating - and ultimately consuming enset - takes a lot of time, energy and local knowledge. And Berhanu Tesfaye, owner of Zeret Kitchen, an Ethiopian restaurant in London, shares a rare meal of kocho - bread made from enset. (Photo: Enset crop in Southern Ethiopia. Credit: Getty Images) Presenter/producer: Elizabeth Hotson
Tue, April 26, 2022
The cost of China’s zero-Covid policy
Millions of people have been locked down in China for weeks, as the country battles a surge in Omicron cases, with a zero-Covid policy. We follow one young woman’s journey across the country as she tries to reach her home in central China amid layers of bureaucracy and travel restrictions. We hear how the lockdown is causing some major disruptions to the Chinese economy from Julian Evans-Pritchard, a China Analyst at Capital Economics. Businessman Kent Kedl, who works at a Shanghai based risk consultancy firm, tells us what business – and life – has been like in lockdown. And US-based epidemiologist Eric Feigl-Ding explains the advantages and disadvantages of China's Covid policies. Presenter/Producer: Vivienne Nunis Picture: Reuters (person sits behind barrier)
Mon, April 25, 2022
Wealth from waste: can urban mining save the planet?
Ivana Davidovic investigates urban mining - the process of reclaiming raw materials from spent products, buildings and waste. She looks at what new technologies are helping us to recycle waste and the benefits that could bring. In Antwerp, Belgium, she visits Umicore, once a traditional smelting company, which now specialises in extracting precious metals from electronics - and then puts them into new products, like catalysts or car battery components. On the other side of the world - in Sydney, Australia - professor and inventor Veena Sahajwalla explains her innovative way to produce so-called "green steel." Jessika Richter, a researcher from Lundt University in Sweden, tells us why the booming electric vehicles industry will increasingly have to find raw materials for batteries outside of conventional mining. Heather Clancy, the editor of the US-based Green Biz magazine, says US carmakers are now investing in urban mining. Pascal Leroy, the director-general of the WEEE Forum, discusses how re-using waste can help the rest of the world become less dependent on rare earth materials which come from Russia, China and Ukraine. PHOTO: Aerial view waste management facility with cityscape background/Getty Images
Fri, April 22, 2022
Sporting Sanctions
How has the world of sport reacted to the invasion of Ukraine - and what does the exclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes or teams mean for them and for the finances of world sport? Ashish Sharma speaks to Michael Payne, who was for many years head of the marketing division of the International Olympic Committee. He also hears from Cheri Bradish, an expert in sports marketing and the Director of the Future of Sport Lab at Ryerson University in Toronto, and Rob Koehler, the Director General of Global Athlete and formerly the World Anti-Doping Agency Director of Education and Deputy Director General. Plus there's the Ukrainian tennis players Elina Svitolina and Alex Dolgopalov, the Ukrainian high jumper Yaroslava Mahuchikh, and Marius Vizer Jr, General Secretary of the international Teqball federation. Presenter: Ashish Sharma Producer: James Wickham (Image: Ukraine's Yaroslava Mahuchikh in action during the high jump at the 2022 World Athletics Indoor Championships. Credit: Reuters)
Thu, April 21, 2022
Fleeing danger
What do you do when your staff are stuck in a conflict zone or dangerous situation? How do you get them out? Who pays for it? How do you persuade them to go back later? Rahul Tandon speaks to Alex Nichiporchik whose gaming business tinyBuild has evacuated staff from Ukraine and Russia. He hears from Priscilla Dickey who was part of the US government evacuation from Wuhan in 2020. Dale Buckner from Global Guardian explains the business of evacuation while Ian Umney discusses the rescue of his family from Ukraine. Plus, Ema Boccagni from ECA International, which helps companies manage global workforces, reflects on the incentives required to attract workers back to some places. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producers: Helen Ledwick and James Graham Photo: An evacuation flight from Wuhan in February 2020. (Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, April 20, 2022
Will satellite internet technology connect the world?
After a volcanic eruption severed Tonga’s communication cable Elon Musk donated 50 Starlink terminals, allowing the government and residents to connect to the network of satellites orbiting above earth. The company have also sent the technology to Ukraine after Russia’s invasion, and we hear from Stepan Veselovskyi of Lviv IT Cluster using it to keep vital services online and Kyiv resident Oleg Kutkov, who bought a dish online before the war and now hopes to use it as a back-up in case conventional communication networks fail. It’s proved extremely useful, but is this the future for bringing internet to remote corners of the globe? We also hear from expert on space law Professor Melissa De Zwart about the race among SpaceX and other companies to put more of these satellites in low earth orbit, and how too many of them could impede dreams of further space exploration. Presenter: Sam Fenwick Producer: Hannah Bewley (Image: Oleg Kutkov with his Starlink dish; Credit: Oleg Kutkov)
Tue, April 19, 2022
Why whales matter
Baleen whales were almost hunted to extinction. Now they face a new threat – global shipping. But despite humans blighting their lives, can they now recover and help revive ocean life? Justin Rowlatt speaks to two researchers who observe these intelligent, sociable giants up close. Matt Savoca at Stanford University explains the scale of the slaughter inflicted by whalers in the twentieth century, while Ryan Reisinger of Southampton University describes how modern ships continue to harm whales. By virtue of their sheer enormity, these animals also underpinned entire ocean ecosystems that have since collapsed, as veteran oceanic researcher Victor Smetacek explains. So with their numbers finally recovering, what can we humans do to help? Justin asks Guy Platten, secretary general of the International Chamber of Shipping. Presenter: Justin Rowlatt Producer: Laurence Knight Picture: Aerial view of a whale getting up close to a boat in the Sea of Cortez in the Gulf of California; Credit: Mark Carwardine/Future Publishing/Getty Images
Mon, April 18, 2022
The future of job interviews
We’re looking at the future of the job interview in a world forever changed by the pandemic. Elizabeth Hotson asks whether video conferencing software will hasten the demise of the traditional face to face grilling. And we also find out how virtual reality and artificial intelligence can help level the playing field for candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds. Over a long and distinguished career in business, Heather McGregor, Executive Dean of Edinburgh Business School, has been on both sides of the desk - as interviewer and interviewee and she gives her take on how we’ll get jobs in the future. RADA alumna and confidence coach and trainer, Imogen Butler-Cole tells us how to put our best foot forward - over video conferencing. Christophe Mallet, founder and CEO of immersive soft skills simulator, Body Swaps, explains how technology can provide invaluable interview training to inexperienced candidates. Plus, Michael Platt, a marketing professor and neuroscientist at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania explains why the interview could soon be redundant in some industries. Presenter/producer: Elizabeth Hotson Image: A man sits at a table with lights pointing in his face; Credit: Getty Images
Fri, April 15, 2022
The chocolate islands
The mountainous archipelago of SãoTomé and Príncipe was once the world’s biggest exporter of cocoa. The twin island nation in the Gulf of Guinea was uninhabited until their discovery by Portuguese explorers in the fifteenth century. They brought slaves to work the land producing cash crops like sugar and coffee. In the 1890s these crops were replaced by cocoa and the islands became known as the biggest cocoa exporter in the world. The plantations were farmed first by slaves and then by forced, exploited islanders. When the horrific working conditions were exposed in the 1920s, chocolate manufacturers switched their source of beans to Ghana and Ivory Coast. SãoTomé’s ignominious reputation as the chocolate nation was over. Presenter Tamasin Ford went to visit the islands to take a look at the cocoa sector now. Produced by Russell Newlove Image: Chocolate making; Credit: Russell Newlove/BBC
Thu, April 14, 2022
Nike’s most controversial ad campaign
Remember the Colin Kaepernick advert for Nike? It’s one of the most controversial and successful advertising campaigns of the past decade. Former US President Donald Trump said the advert sent a terrible message but Nike saw a 30% boost in sales. In this episode of Business Daily former Nike Chief Marketing Officer, Greg Hoffman, the creative force behind the campaign, tells us how it came about and why diversity in advertising really matters. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: Carmel O’Grady Image: San Francisco 49ers players Eli Harold, Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid take a knee prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys; Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images
Wed, April 13, 2022
Sri Lanka's debt crisis
Why is Sri Lanka facing its biggest economic crisis for decades? It's left the population enduring months of power cuts, while essentials are in short supply. How has the country's debt spiralled out of control and what will a debt default mean for ordinary people? We hear from protestors on the street who are demanding a change of government, and how an IT entrepreneur is grappling with power cuts. Plus, Shanta Devarajan, a former chief economist at the World Bank who will be negotiating with the International Monetary Fund on behalf of Sri Lanka, tells us what the talks will involve. Presenter: Rahul Tandon Producer: James Graham Photo: Sri Lankan protestors in Colombo, April 2022. Credit: Getty Images
Tue, April 12, 2022
Russian and Ukrainian seafarers: working together during a war
Thousands of Russian and Ukrainian sailors crew cargo ships that carry goods around the world, so how are they coping living in such close quarters while their countries are at war? We hear from those anxiously watching events back home, and we get an update on the hundreds of ships stranded in the Black Sea, unable to sail in case they are caught in the crossfire. Vivienne Nunis speaks to Guy Platten of the International Chamber of Shipping and chaplains belonging to the seafarers' charity Stella Maris. Image: A Russian and a Ukrainian sailor. Credit: Marine Digital
Mon, April 11, 2022
Lebanon's wheat crisis
The price of bread is soaring in Lebanon. More than half of the country's wheat imports came from Ukraine - they've now stopped because of the conflict. Inflation also continues to rise to record levels. We speak to ordinary people who are struggling to buy food. Brant Stewart, the founder of Mavia Bakery in Beirut, explains how he's found a solution in growing and milling his own wheat - as well as helping local women. Rami Zurayk, the Director of the Food Security programme at the American University of Beirut, tells us he believes Lebanese people need to be less reliant on bread in their diet. Presenter: Anna Foster Producer: Jo Critcher (Picture: Women at work in Mavia Bakery; Credit: Maria Klenner, photographer)
Fri, April 08, 2022
Europe's gas crisis: How did we get here?
We're taking the long view on Europe's energy headache. For decades, Russia has been using its vast natural gas reserves as a powerful political tool. So what can the past teach us about the current crisis? Vivienne Nunis speaks to the author and journalist Oliver Bullough who's been following the gas trail from the USSR to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also in the programme, Ajit Niranjan reports from the German coastal resort of Lubmin, where the Nord Stream pipelines transporting Russian gas to Europe come to an end. What do people there make of a future without Russian gas? Producer: Carmel O'Grady. Image: Part of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Credit: Getty Images
Thu, April 07, 2022
Youth unemployment in France
The BBC’s International Business Correspondent Theo Leggett is in France ahead of the Presidential elections to explore an issue important to many voters – youth unemployment. In the northeast of the country a quarter of young people aren’t in work, education, or training. We explore what the issues are, the problems with inequality and recruitment. We hear from Sebastien Bento Soares, CEO of Darquer, a lace manufacturer based in Calais that is struggling to recruit younger workers, André Dupon, director of Vitamine T, a social enterprise that helps unemployed people reintegrate the world of work. Salomé and Soufiane, young people based in Boulogne-sur-Mer, tell Theo what’s going on in their lives and Florence Jany-Catrice, economist at the University of Lille talks about the political issues underpinning the youth unemployment problems. Presenter: Theo Leggett; Producer: Josh Thorpe (Photo: Lucas, a young unemployed person learning carpentry skills at Vitamine T, a social enterprise outside Lille; Credit: BBC)
Wed, April 06, 2022
How tech is being used to help Ukraine
Technology is being used in creative ways to help Ukrainian people stay safe. From offering refugees spare rooms to targeting humanitarian aid to specific shelters, tech entrepreneurs are developing software solutions to try and help in the war effort. Ukraine is an innovation hub. Before the Russian invasion it was home to hundreds of tech start-up firms. Now many of those young entrepreneurs have had to leave the cities where they worked. Eugene Gusarvo and Andrii Tagansky tell Sam Fenwick they felt like traitors leaving their home city, Kyiv on February 24th but they have found purpose creating a website which has helped more than 3,000 refugees find temporary shelter. Four million people have left Ukraine for neighbouring countries, according the United Nations. Those arriving in Georgia can find support from a service set up by 37 year old Stanislav Sabanov. Originally from Russia he says he wants to help because he disagrees with the war. But there are concerns this new tech might be exploited by criminal gangs. Human Rights organisations are warning that there are not enough online checks and sex and human traffickers might use them to target vulnerable people. So could this new technology do more harm than good? Presenter / Producer : Sam Fenwick (Image: tech entrepreneurs; Credit: Eugene Gusarvo and Andrii Tagansky)
Tue, April 05, 2022
Australia's tourism industry breathes a sigh of relief
We’re in Queensland, home to a tourism industry that – usually – contributes billions of dollars to the Australian economy. The coronavirus pandemic saw the country's borders close for the best part of two years, so how did business owners cope without their usual customer base? Vivienne Nunis speaks to the owner of a mini golf course, a scuba diving company and a restaurant on the Queensland coast. We also hear the tale of José Paronella, a Spanish migrant who built a pleasure garden and ballroom deep in the tropical rainforest. Image: a kangaroo on an Australian beach. Credit: Getty Images.
Mon, April 04, 2022
The aid trail to Ukraine
Millions of Ukrainians have fled the country since the Russian invasion began, some leaving with little more than the clothes on their backs. It's prompted an outpouring of support from around the world - with ordinary people loading lorries with donations and shipping them thousands of miles to help refugees. We follow the aid trail from a small business in north west England to the Ukrainian border and explore whether it's better to give goods or money. We'll hear from Bob Kitchen, the International Rescue Committee's head of emergencies about giving cash directly to refugees and from Joung-ah Ghedini-Williams, Head of Global Communications at UNHCR about sustaining the support going forwards. Presenter: Helen Ledwick Reporter/Producer: Jo Critcher (Image: Aid lorry; Credit: Jason Shinks, Recycling Lives)
Fri, April 01, 2022
The Russians leaving their country
Rahul Tandon reports on the thousands of young Russians who have decided to leave the country since it invaded Ukraine. Economist Konstantin Sonin tells us as many as 300,000 may have travelled to countries like Armenia, Georgia and Turkey. Sanctions have made it harder to do business and the weaker rouble has devalued assets. Two businessmen, now living in exile, tell their stories, and we also hear from those who’ve chosen to stay, like Moscow journalist Tatyana Felgenhauer. Plus, former Russian prime minister Mikhail Kasyanov explains the economic impact of losing skilled workers. Producer: James Graham Photo: Getty Images
Thu, March 31, 2022
What are Russia's mercenaries doing in Africa?
The secretive Wagner Group has a history of violence in Africa. In this episode, we ask why leaders are outsourcing security to an unaccountable army accused of murders, rapes and torture. We look into the crimes they're accused of committing, the governments they're keeping in power and the business deals making it all possible. Aanu Adeoye, an Africa expert at London's Royal Institute of International Affairs, tells us about the propaganda machine behind Wagner. Keir Giles, a Russia specialist at Chatham House, explains just how intertwined the group is with the Russian state, and Dr Sorcha MacLeod, chair of the UN Working Group on the use of mercenaries, explains why the presence of groups like Wagner in unstable countries often makes things worse. Presenter: David Reid Editor: Carmel O'Grady Audio for this episode was updated on 31 March 2022. (Photo: Protesters in Mali's capital, Bamako, waved Russian flags during an anti-France demonstration in May 2021. Credit: AFP/Getty Images)
Wed, March 30, 2022
Will a new gas pipeline be built in a 'pristine' Australian sea?
Aboriginal people from Australia's Tiwi Islands have joined forces with marine scientists and other environmentalists in the fight against a new gas field planned for the Timor Sea. Vivienne Nunis reports on the multi-billion dollar Barossa gas development, which has already been partially approved by Australian regulators. The oil and gas giant Santos plans to build a 300km gas pipeline from the gas field to Darwin, through a marine park that is home to turtles, sponges and other sea creatures. Experts describe the tropical waters as 'pristine'. So who will win out? The oil and gas industry or those fighting against the wells, rigs and drills? Image: an Olive Ridley sea turtle, the most common species nesting on the Tiwi Islands. Credit: Getty
Tue, March 29, 2022
How drones are helping to save lives
Drones, which were originally developed by the military, are now being used all over the world for humanitarian purposes. Shamim Nabuuma Kaliisa, the founder of CHIL-AI, tells Jo Critcher how she was inspired by her own experience of cancer to use drones to give more women in Uganda access to screening. In Sweden, the CEO of Everdrone, Mats Sällström, describes how drones are being used to quickly transport life-saving equipment to emergency situations. There are more challenges to using drones in smaller, more densely populated countries like the UK but Elliot Parnham, the CEO of the drone operator Skyfarer, says he believes they can be overcome. His company is starting a pilot scheme to help the NHS transport critical medical supplies. Presenter/Producer: Jo Critcher (Photo: PWOne drone; Credit: Skyfarer Ltd.)
Mon, March 28, 2022
Rise of the high-tech border industry
AI, data analytics and automated surveillance are ever more shaping refugees' futures around the world. From the external borders of the EU to the US-Mexico border, "smart border" solutions, developed by private companies for states, are being used to surveil and control people on the move. Lawyer and anthropologist Petra Molnar tells the BBC's Frey Lindsay how she's seen these technologies creep into borders and camps around the world, and Dr Emre Eren Korkmaz of Oxford University describes how this global "border industrial complex" has become hugely profitable for private companies. We'll also hear from a new high-tech refugee camp on the Greek island of Samos, where refugees feel oppressed and dehumanised by the litany of technology that surrounds them. Sae Bosco, of Samos Volunteers, explains that these technologies don't do much to protect people within the camp, despite the EU's claims. And Sarah Chander of European Digital Rights tells Frey that the EU appear aware of the harms algorithmic surveillance and control can bring to people, and so is moving to protect EU citizens, but not migrants. (Picture: the Samos CCAC refugee camp. Picture credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 28, 2022
The cost of growing food
Global fertiliser prices are reaching record highs, as supplies from Russia, one of the world’s largest exporters dry up. As the war in Ukraine intensifies there are warnings of food shortages as farmers struggle to get hold of fertilisers and starting to rationing its use. Soybean farmer Karl Milla tells Sam Fenwick he is rationing how much fertiliser he uses. He says he is worried what effect that will have on crop sizes later in the year. Laura Cross from the International Fertiliser Association explains why government sanctions on Belarus and countries like China, Turkey and Egypt restricting exports have contributed to soaring fertiliser prices. And German pig farmer, Dirk Andresen tells us he cannot afford to buy enough food to feed his pigs. Presenter/producer : Sam Fenwick (Photo: Karl Milla with kind permission)
Thu, March 24, 2022
Pacific Islanders working for their futures
Climate change and disasters continue to threaten peoples’ livelihoods and wellbeing in the Pacific Islands. Jon Naupa, a Kava farmer in Vanuatu, tells the BBC’s Frey Lindsay how difficult it’s getting to break even at the moment. In response to the challenges, young Pacific Islanders are taking advantage of regional labour mobility schemes to make money and help their families. Australia's Pacific labour mobility schemes have seen tens of thousands of Pacific Islanders filling job shortages in Australia, particularly in the agriculture sector. Telusa Tu'i'onetoa, a PhD candidate at Australian National University, explains how the schemes are supposed to work, and the impact the separation has on families. We’ll also hear from Fiona, a young mother of two working in South Australia. While the schemes offer the chance to earn money at a time when opportunities are limited at home, they are also areas with high risk of exploitation and abuse of vulnerable workers. Tukini Tavui, the CEO of the Pacific Islands Council of South Australia, tells Frey how they work to help protect workers, and what he’d like to see done to help workers break the cycle of wage dependency. (Picture: Samoans picking fruit in Australia; Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, March 23, 2022
Is sustainable finance just greenwash?
ESG funds - which claim to promote environmental, social and corporate governance best practice - are all the rage. But are investors being taken for an expensive ride? Ed Butler speaks to one man with his doubts - Tariq Fancy, who used to be in charge of sustainability investing at BlackRock, the gigantic fund management firm, whose boss Larry Fink is an advocate for the role that big finance can play in accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels. Today investors are faced with a confusing menagerie of products that purport to be climate-friendly, as described by Dylan Tanner of the lobbying research firm InfluenceMap. In reality, many of them charge high fees for some pretty questionable environmental benefits. But if investors feel misled, could they find legal recourse in the form of a class action lawsuit? Ed asks Fiona Huntriss of the UK law firm Pallas Partners. Producer: Victoria Broadbent (Photo: $100 bill covered in green paint; Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 22, 2022
The women fleeing Ukraine
Two young women recall how they fled the Russian invasion of their homeland, and discuss their hopes and dreams for the future. Alexandra from Kyiv tells Tamasin Ford how she had to say goodbye to her parents at the packed Polish border, and now suffers survivor's guilt, living in the safety of Berlin. Meanwhile Elena recalls the first explosions of the war, and describes how she now finds herself the sole breadwinner for her family, living in exile in Warsaw. Producers: Sarah Treanor and Tom Kavanagh (Picture: Refugees from Ukraine at the Medyka border crossing with Poland; Credit: Louisa Gouliamaki/AFP via Getty Images)
Mon, March 21, 2022
Brazil at work: Black and held back
Despite the quotas and positive discrimination, many black Brazilian professionals still struggle to feel accepted and get promoted. Ivana Davidovic hears from Luiza Trajano - Brazil’s richest woman and the owner of the country’s largest retailer, Magazine Luiza - who explains why she decided to launch a coveted management trainee scheme for black people only. Former model and director of the Identities of Brazil Institute NGO, Luana Genot, talks about her own experiences of being held back because of the colour of her skin and her work helping companies change their culture around black staff. Alabe Nujara recalls being the first in his family to go to university and feeling out of place as a black man, which inspired him to successfully campaign for the introduction of quotas for historically disadvantaged students at federal institutions. Plus Brazilian sociologist Graziella Moraes Silva discusses why Brazil has an image of a racially inclusive society, which many black people would not recognise as their reality. (Picture: Worried young businesswoman in office corridor in Brazil; Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, March 18, 2022
How European businesses are helping Ukrainian refugees
People across Europe are opening up their homes and businesses to Ukrainians as the refugee crisis tops 3 million. Ivanka, a Ukrainian social worker who has fled to Poland, tells us about the generosity of hotelier Dorota Baranska, who is now housing her and hundreds of other refugees in her hotels. And Eugen Comandent, COO of Purcari Wineries in Moldova, explains why his company has transformed its estate into a refugee centre. Matthew Saltmarsh from the UN’s refugee agency says this is Europe’s worst refugee crisis since World War Two and that generous countries on Ukraine’s border are starting to run out of resources. But some people based farther west are trying to create virtual ways to help. Ivan Kychatyi, a Ukrainian based in Berlin, has created the job portal UAtalents.com to that helps Ukrainians who are internally displaced or who have fled the country to find a job. And in Amsterdam, Guido Baratta has set up Designers United for Ukraine, specifically to help Ukrainians in the creative industries find work. This programme is presented by Tamasin Ford and produced by Sarah Hawkins and Tom Kavanagh (Photograph: Women distribute food and hot drinks at a Moldovan winery close to the Ukrainian border, Credit: Purcari Wineries)
Thu, March 17, 2022
Pacific Islanders building climate resilience
Climate change and disasters continue to imperil the livelihoods and well-being of people in the Pacific Islands. This is the most pressing issue facing the Pacific today, Ofa Ma'asi-Kaisamy, manager at the Pacific Climate Change Centre, tells the BBC’s Frey Lindsay. And Dr Salanieta Saketa, senior epidemiologist at the Pacific Community's Public Health Division, explains how such events seriously impact people’s health. We also hear how people are fighting to build resilience and forge new futures. Lusia Latu-Jones, director of Tonga Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship, tells Frey how young Pacific Islanders are creating their own opportunities. And Flora Vano of ActionAid Vanuatu explains how a women-led collective works to help each other prepare for and withstand the challenges they face. (Photo: High-tide flooding on Majuro Atoll in the Marshall Islands, December 2021; Credit: Giff Johnson/AFP/Getty Images)
Wed, March 16, 2022
Penalties for Chelsea?
What now for Chelsea FC? After the UK government imposed sanctions on Russian owner Roman Abramovich, the club has been denied access to the funds that enabled investment in some of the world's best players and helped it become one of the biggest clubs in European football. No income, either, from ticket or merchandise sales can be made by the club, throwing its short term future into doubt. It's unclear whether Chelsea can even pay its squad and staff next month, such is the punishing nature of the sanctions put upon Mr Abramovich over his ties to the Kremlin and Vladimir Putin in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. So how will this play out on and off the pitch? We speak to Kieran Maguire who lectures in football finance at the Liverpool University; Justine Walker, an anti-money-laundering compliance specialist based in the UK; Jai McIntosh, a sports writer and Chelsea fan and former Chelsea player Pat Nevin. The programme is presented by Ed Butler and is produced by Elizabeth Hotson and Russell Newlove. Picture: Chelsea FC's crest Credit:PA
Tue, March 15, 2022
War in the time of crypto
Financial sanctions are being used against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine so we’re exploring the role of cryptocurrency in the war. Is crypto being used to evade sanctions as assets are sezied and bank transactions blocked? Or is it simply a means of survival for millions of people in the region who can’t access any other forms of money? We find out by talking to Gaby Hui from Merkle Science, former US government advisor Ari Redbord head of legal and government affairs at TRM labs, Artem Afian a Ukrainian lawyer who has compiled a blacklist of crypto wallets connected to Russian politicians, Sir Julian Lee, former EU commissioner for the Security Union and Sandra Ro, CEO of the Global Blockchain Business Council - a non-profit organisation focused on developing the blockchain industry. Presented by Tamasin Ford and produced by Clare Williamson. (Image: Representation of Bitcoin and Russian flag, Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, March 14, 2022
Emotional and financial complications of fundraising during war
As Russia’s war in Ukraine continues, people across the country prepare for the possibility of a long, drawn out conflict.. Some, are determined to help their loved ones survive. But sending aid to a war zone isn't easy. Not just because access to cash locally is often hard to come by, but rules around fundraising are complicated. Olia Hercules, cookbook author and chef, explains how, over the past two weeks, she’s rushed to fundraise and send protective gear to her brother fighting on the front lines in Kyiv. Like so many others, she ran into problems getting money where it needed to go. James Maloney, a partner at London-based law firm Farrer & Co. tells of the legal parameters charities can operate and fundraise for relief efforts. And, we hear from Mike Noyes, director of humanitarian aid at Action Aid UK who is leading the effort to help women and children fleeing the war at Ukraine’s border with Poland. Photo: Victoria Craig/BBC Olia Hercules sits with her friends, showing them a video message from her brother after he received protective supplies she raised funds to procure and send him.
Fri, March 11, 2022
How much is the Ukraine war costing Russia?
Munitions, equipment losses, sanctions, isolation - Vladimir Putin's decision to invade has come with a rapidly increasing price tag. Just the cost of prosecuting the war is proving astronomical, as Edward Arnold of military think tank RUSI tells Ed Butler. Then there's the economic blowback - the freezing of the central bank's reserves, the exclusion from international finance, the boycotting by key international companies. Over the coming months, Russian industry could grind to a halt, while citizens could face food shortages, according to economist Maxim Mironov of IE Business School. Take the example of aviation - soon half the planes in Russia could be grounded for lack of spare parts, says consultant Rob Watts of ACC Aviation. But will this be enough to convince Putin and the political elite around him to pull out of Ukraine? The Ukrainian political scientist Olga Chyzh says don't hold your breath. Producer: Laurence Knight (Picture: Troop train carrying Russian tanks; Credit: Russian Defence Ministry\TASS via Getty Images)
Thu, March 10, 2022
Australian floods and the billion-dollar clean-up
Recent floods in eastern Australia have caused devastating losses of life and livelihoods. The BBC's Vivienne Nunis visits southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales where the damage bill from torrential rain is said to be in the billions of dollars. Climate change means natural disasters are becoming more frequent but that means insurance premiums are now too costly for many. So what can be done to prevent future disasters causing so much damage to businesses and homes? Picture: flood-damaged belongings piled up outside homes in Tumbulgum, NSW, Australia. Credit: BBC
Wed, March 09, 2022
Superyachts and sanctions
A race is on to spot and catch some of the world's biggest and most dazzling yachts owned by Russian oligarchs with ties to President Vladimir Putin in retaliation for the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine. Several of these multi-million dollar floating assets have been seized by US and European governments. But it's proving difficult to track the vessels, and then there is the issue of what to do with them, often with crew of up to 60 personnel on board. Ed Butler talks to sanctions lawyer Nigel Kushner of WLegal, Alex Finley, writer, former CIA officer and superyacht watcher, Graham Barrow a veteran money-laundering expert and journalist Jack Hogan of Superyacht News. (Image:Luxury yachts and motor cruisers moored in Port Vell, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain, Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 08, 2022
Women in the Ukraine war
Today to mark International Women’s Day we are hearing the story of one woman in Ukraine, as her professional and personal life is turned upside down by the Russian invasion. We hear how women are adapting their day-jobs to help with Ukraine’s war effort and as men are banned from leaving the country, we look at the choice facing the women: to leave and survive, or stay to live, fight, and possibly die, alongside the men. Marie Keyworth talks to Tetiana Gaiduk. Produced by Sarah Treanor. (Image: Woman volunteer preparing material for the defense of Ukraine in Odessa, credit: European Pressphoto Agency)
Mon, March 07, 2022
How the war in Ukraine is affecting food prices
Food price inflation was already a problem. Could the conflict make things even worse? Ukraine and Russia are both major food exporters. Tamasin Ford looks at how the war in Ukraine is affecting global prices. Food price inflation was already a major problem in many parts of the world, and there are fears that the conflict will make matters even worse. David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme, says millions of people in Ukraine will now be at risk of food insecurity as a result of the conflict, and fears knock-on effects for countries such as Lebanon, Syria and Tunisia, which are major importers of grains from Ukraine. Ivanna Dorichenko, managing director of consultancy firm TRADAIDE and an expert in international arbitration, says the situation in Ukraine is devastating, and that much of the country’s agricultural infrastructure has been destroyed by the Russian invasion. Andrey Sizov, head of research firm SovEcon, is an expert on agriculture in the Black Sea region. He says the war in Ukraine is already paralysing exports , with shipping companies refusing to send vessels into areas potentially disrupted by the conflict Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, says the conflict will have an impact on African countries which buy grains from Ukraine, many of which were already struggling with rising food prices. (Photo: A sign reading 'Danger Mines' in a wheat field in Nizhyn, Ukraine; Credit: Getty Images)
Sat, March 05, 2022
Business Weekly
On Business Weekly this week, as the fighting in parts of Ukraine intensified, a suite of sanctions has been levied on Russia, cutting off the country from the inter-bank messaging system Swift and restricting access to the foreign reserves Russia holds in the West’s central banks. Many large international companies are scaling down their businesses in Russia, including the oil giants BP and Shell. The global shipping giant Maersk is stopping its ships from docking at Russian ports. Chris Weafer, chief executive of Macro Advisory and a 24-year resident of Moscow tells us what life is like for ordinary Russians. Meanwhile, author and journalist Oliver Bullough tell us how badly the oligarchs will be hit by the sanctions. We also look at the impact of the conflict on Russian and Ukrainian grain exports, particularly for countries in Africa and Southeast Asia that already suffer from food insecurity. And we hear about the parallel cyberwar that’s taking place to the one on the ground. Hundreds of thousands of hackers are thought to have signed up to an online army to target Russian banks and institutions. Plus, we analyse Russia’s relationship with Africa. Steven Gruzd from the South African Institute of International Affairs in Johannesburg tells us about the extent of Russian military and economic influence in Africa, and how that influence goes some way to explain why so many countries in the region did not to lend their support to the UN draft resolution condemning Russia’s aggression Ukraine. Business Weekly is presented by Matthew Davies and produced by Philippa Goodrich.
Fri, March 04, 2022
Could Europe turn off Russian gas?
The Ukraine invasion is forcing the European Union to completely rethink its energy policy. Tamasin Ford asks how easily the continent could wean itself off Russian fossil fuels. After all, Europe's oil and gas purchases from Russia helped to fund this war in the first place, according to Kristine Berzina of the German Marshall Fund in Washington DC. The immediate task is to slash dependence on Russian gas before winter returns in nine months, and Simone Tagliapietra of Brussels-based think tank Bruegel says that is doable. However, it's a much tougher task to stop Russian oil exports, according to Jason Bordoff of Columbia University, given that oil - unlike gas - is an integrated global market with many buyers. Nonetheless, there is optimism that the invasion mark a turning point in the Western world's transition to carbon-free energy. Although Rosie Rogers of Greenpeace fears that in the short term, the scramble to turn off the gas pipelines could actually see European carbon emissions increase. Producer: Laurence Knight (Picture: Frozen gas pipeline valve; Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, March 03, 2022
War in Ukraine: the cyber frontier
How the conflict in Ukraine is playing out in cyberspace. With the conflict in Ukraine still raging following Russia’s invasion Ed Butler speaks to hackers from Ukraine including Vlad Styran of Berezha Security Group, one of the people tasked with fending off digital attacks on Ukraine. Dyma Budorin, CEO of cybersecurity firm Hacken.IO, tells Ed he left the country before the current conflict broke out, to carry out a programme of “offensive operations” against Russian targets. Chester Wisniewski of internet security firm Sophos says the Russian intelligence services occasionally work with existing groups of hackers to carry out targeted attacks. And Lennart Maschmeyer of the Center for Security Studies in Zurich explains why he thinks some people are overestimating the Russian state’s cyberwarfare capabilities. (Photo: How the conflict in Ukraine could play out in cyberspace; Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, March 02, 2022
Russian money in London
What will new legislation to crack down on “dirty money” in the UK be worth? Western governments have applied unprecedented sanctions on Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. But is it time they did more to address the corrupt money invested in their own countries? Ed Butler speaks to investigative journalist Tom Burgis, author of Kleptopia: How Dirty Money is Conquering the World. (Picture: Money laundromat: Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, March 01, 2022
Women and NFTs
Non-fungible tokens - or NFTs as they’re known - are already big business, whether you’ve heard about them or not. But when it comes to those creating them, there’s a huge gender disparity. We hear from two female artists - Michele Pred in Oakland and Yiying Lu from San Francisco - plus Liana Zavo who runs her own PR and marketing company. Women make up just 16% of all NFT artists - according to ArtTactic, a London-based company that focuses on research and data in the world of art. Anders Petterson from the group explains why. Plus Maliha Abidi, an artist, author and activist, and the creator of Women Rise NFT, says she’s determined to make a change. Presenter: Tamasin Ford Producer: Sarah Treanor (Picture: A woman looks at a NFT by Larva Labs titled "CryptoPunk 7523"; Credit: Timothy A Clary/AFP via Getty Images)
Mon, February 28, 2022
Sanctions against Russia take bite
How the latest penalties for invading Ukraine will hit Russia, and may also spill over into the world economy. Ed Butler explores what the democratic world hopes to achieve with their targeting of the Russian Central Bank's currency reserves, as well as the exclusion of major Russian banks from the global communications network Swift. Elina Ribakova, deputy chief economist at the Institute of International Finance, says it will put a huge strain on Russia's economy and finances, although the authorities may be able to fend off the worst effects for months yet. Meanwhile, historian Adam Tooze notes that Russia's biggest export - oil and gas exports - have been carved out of the latest round of sanctions, softening their impact. While lawyer Nigel Kushner explains how hard it may be for the Russian authorities and oligarchs to circumvent the new restrictions. (Picture: A demonstrator holds a poster reading "Ban Russia from SWIFT" during a protest against Russia's invasion of Ukraine; Credit: Hans Punz/APA/AFP via Getty Images)
Fri, February 25, 2022
Streaming wars: Survival of the smallest?
The multibillion dollar streaming industry is thriving, but too much choice makes it a fragmented landscape. In order to survive, the smallest companies might have the edge. Entertainment reporter Katie Ceck says the current model of streaming is unsustainable, and that the trend towards big companies gobbling up smaller ones is the future. Despite being a cluttered market, film lecturer in Vancouver, Michael Baser says there has never been a better time to make diverse programming that was formerly constricted by advertisers. But the new age of freedom is rife with peril, as investors begin to demand profits from an overly saturated market. Georg Szalai from the Hollywood Reporter tells us how the producers will pull it off. (Image: A minimalist, digital iteration of a battle. Credit: Seamartini/Getty Images)
Wed, February 23, 2022
How will sanctions impact Russia?
A series of governments on both sides of the Atlantic have announced punitive measures in response to Russia ordering troops into rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine. But how much of an impact will these sanctions actually have on Russia? In addition to restrictions on banks and access to capital markets, a number of individuals have had assets frozen. We speak to veteran anti-corruption campaigner Bill Browder, who has written a book "Freezing Order" about Russian money-laundering. Also Maria Shagina, a visiting senior fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, who isn't convinced that the sanctions targeting individuals will work, but says financial institutions may be vulnerable. Vladimir Putin's move has not triggered the full range of sanctions Western nations have prepared though. We hear from Hal Hodgson, technology reporter for The Economist, who says freezing out of the trade in western technology has had a devastating effect against the Chinese technology firm Huawei and could be deployed if tensions escalate. Plus we get the latest market reaction to the international response from Justin Urquhart Stewart of Regionally Investment. Picture: A group of people hold signs at the front of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Credit: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
Tue, February 22, 2022
The business of seed banks
Increasingly scientists are using genetic material from wild plants to make agricultural crops more resilient to climate change. To find out how, Rebecca Kesby heads to the Millennium Seed Bank for the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, in the south of England. There she meets Dr Chris Cockel, one of their project coordinators. We also hear from Asmund Asdal of the Global Seed Vault, which is located in a mountain on the archipelago of Svalbaard, between mainland Norway and the North Pole. We speak to Dr Shivali Sharma, who is developing climate resistant varieties of pigeon pea, a staple crop in many parts of rural India. And Mohamed Lassad Ben Saleh, farmer in Tunisia, tells us how breeding crops that combine properties of indigenous wild varieties has improved the quality and yield of his crops. This is a repeat of an episode first broadcast on 17 September 2021. Producers: Clare Williamson and Benjie Guy (Picture: a hand holding seeds. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 21, 2022
Fighting homelessness in Sacramento
California's state capital suffers from a serious shortage of housing, like much of the Golden State. Small informal encampments along riverbanks or the side of the road are a common sight. We hear from Laura Nussbaum, a woman living in one of these camps in Sacramento. She's trying to get back into permanent housing but doesn't think she'll get any help from the city. Meanwhile, the mayor of Sacramento thinks his city should pass a law which gives everyone the legal right to housing. Darrell Steinberg tells presenter Sarah Hawkins how it would work, and why a law is needed to cut through red tape. But not everyone is convinced; Faye Wilson Kennedy of the Sacramento Poor People's Campaign worries that the law could force people to choose from the city's very limited list of housing options without necessarily building new options. And local reporter Chris Nichols gives us the perspective of local builders, NIMBY groups, and even some YIMBY groups who positively want new developments to take shape. (Picture: Woman living in an encampment in Sacramento; Credit: Andrew Nixon)
Sat, February 19, 2022
Business Weekly
In Business Weekly, we look at the implications of the European Court of Justice clearing the way for the European Union to cut billions of euros in funding to Poland and Hungary. Judges dismissed a challenge by the two nations, with the court ruling that the EU can suspend funding to member states that violate the bloc’s democratic values. Sophie Pornschlegel at the Brussels-based European Policy Centre explains how the cut in funding will hit both countries’ economies. Also, we hear why India has banned more than fifty Chinese mobile apps, claiming they pose a threat to national security. Amit Bhandari, a senior fellow for energy investment and connectivity at Gateway House, tells us about the power dynamics between the Asian giants. After years of delays, the green light for what will be the largest heated oil pipeline in the world has been given. Running from Uganda to the cost of Tanzania, the pipeline is being heralded as an economic boon for both countries, but has been fiercely opposed by activists who question its environmental impact. The BBC’s Joshua Thorpe takes a closer look at whether the region will truly benefit. Plus, a new study has revealed that a quarter of the world's rivers contain potentially toxic levels of pharmaceutical drugs. We hear more on the findings with Dr John Wilkinson from the University of York who co-led the project. And did you know that one in seven of us – that’s one billion people - lives with a disability? However, they can be twice as likely to be unemployed than non-disabled people. The BBC’s Tamasin Ford has been speaking to those fighting to end the exclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace. Business Weekly is presented by Ijeoma Ndukwe and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, February 18, 2022
Debt relief: Who should foot the bill?
There’s a credit crunch facing dozens of the world's poorest countries: billions of dollars are now owed and some countries simply won't manage the repayments. So who should foot the bill? We speak with Sri Lankan businessman, Indika Merenchige, who imports vehicles in to Sri Lanka – but it’s not business as usual when your government has defaulted with one of the world’s most influential creditors: China. Meanwhile, the percentage some African countries are now paying just to service loan repayments has become alarmingly high. Jan Friederich is an African specialist at the Ratings Agency Fitch and speaks with us from Hong Kong. Plus, saying there’s no crisis on the horizon is Sonja Gibbs, the managing director and head of global policy initiatives at the Institute of International Finance, a trade group for the global financial industry. And it is when middle income countries like Turkey default on debt that really worries banks, says Harvard economist Ken Rogoff. Finally, Tim Jones represents the Jubilee Campaign, a non-profit organisation campaigning for global debt relief, thinks there might be a plan for widespread debt relief: (Photo: A man holds banknotes of the Turkish lira. Credit: Berkcan Zengi/Getty Images)
Thu, February 17, 2022
Japan’s closed borders
Two years on from the start of the pandemic and most visitors are still banned from Japan. We take a look at why the world’s third largest economy has one of the strictest border controls in the world. How is it affecting people? And how is it affecting the economy? Tamasin Ford goes on a virtual tour of Tokyo’s foodie hotspots with Yukari Sakamoto, writer, chef and the author of a book called Food Sake Tokyo. Yukari explains how a lack of tourists has impacted her business, and how travel bans have stopped her from seeing family and friends. We also hear from a student stuck in the UK, and from Seijiro Takeshita. Professor of Management and Information at the University of Shizuoka Japan about the concerns from some big business over continued isolation. (Image: Women cross a street at night, in Tokyo on November 3, 2021. Credit: Charly Triballeaue / AFP/ Getty Images)
Wed, February 16, 2022
Sickening in America
Have US pharmaceutical companies created a web of disinformation to boost their profits? That's the accusation of John Abramson, an academic at Harvard Medical School. In an extended interview with the BBC's Ed Butler, he discusses the thesis of his new book, Sickening: How Big Pharma Broke American Health Care and How We Can Repair It. According to Abramson, scandals such as the opioid addiction epidemic caused by drugs like Oxycontin, or the shockingly high cost of insulin in America, have a common cause - the ability of big pharma companies to gull American doctors into overprescribing their premium products. (Picture: Pills spilling out of a prescription bottle; Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, February 15, 2022
Romance scamming: A global industry
Many of us will have noticed 'friend' or 'follow' requests on our social media from strangers with profiles which don’t quite ring true. They mainly use cloned pictures, often taken from accounts of those in the US military. Zoe Kleinman investigates the global industry of romance scamming, which can have tragic consequences. Zoe hears from Lisa Forte, a cyber security expert from Red Goat Security, Professor Alan Woodward from Surrey University, and she goes into the tragic story of Renee Holland, as investigated by Jack Nicas of the New York Times. With thanks to the New York Times for their material. This is a repeat of a programme first broadcast on 26 August 2020 Producer: Sarah Treanor. (Photo: Mobile phone display. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 14, 2022
Ending disability exclusion
The UN describes people living with disabilities as the world’s largest minority group. A billion of us live with some sort of disability and are up to twice as likely to be unemployed than non-disabled people. For Caroline Casey, the founder and creator of the Valuable 500, this was a challenge. She calls herself a troublemaker and as such she has persuaded the CEO's of more than 500 of the world's biggest companies to personally sign a declaration to end disability exclusion in the workplace. Tamasin Ford meets Caroline and hears her story and what motivates her. We also hear from disabled Ugandan worker Naome Akwee, Sam Latif from London and executives from some of the Valuable 500 including Santen, a Japanese pharmaceutical company and Ernst and Young. Produced by Tom Kavanagh and Clare Williamson. (Image: Caroline Casey; Credit:The Valuable 500)
Sat, February 12, 2022
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we’re looking at BP’s latest results. The energy giant made a profit of $12.8bn last year - thanks mainly to surging oil and gas prices. This comes after a loss in 2020. We hear why some are calling for a ‘windfall tax’ - a one-off charge that would then be channelled to help struggling consumers battling price rises. We hear the response from BP, and comments from Connor Schwartz at Friends of the Earth and Tom Wilson from the Financial Times. Staying with rising bills, the BBC’s Tamasin Ford investigates the cost of living in different parts of the world. She hears how it is calculated and how increases in everyday essentials impact people in different ways. Also on the programme, we enter the world of fashion, and hear how some apps are trying to increase the sustainability of the industry by encouraging us to buy or rent second-hand. We get a tour of the technology from the BBC’s Justin Rowlatt and his daughter, Zola. Turkey is a country with soaring inflation. The currency has lost some 50% of its value in a year. Although this means day-to-day life in the country is hard, it does make it an attractive destination for tourists, who will find their money goes further. The BBC’s Victoria Craig talks to visitors in Istanbul about how they’re getting more value for money, and visits traders in the Grand Bazaar. Finally, Sasha Twining meets ‘Buddy’, a robot pet dog designed for those living with dementia. She speaks to the Chief Executive of Ageless Innovation, Ted Fischer, and hears how the interactive dogs and cats can respond to their human owners and could help those who feel lonely or isolated. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, February 11, 2022
Argentina’s latest IMF crisis
Argentina’s government and the International Monetary Fund have been renegotiating the terms of a 2018 loan issued to the country – the largest in IMF history. The Fund’s own internal analysis of that deal was scathing. The 2018 package had been vaunted for its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in society. Yet people in Argentina, and particularly those on the lowest incomes, are currently enduring a cost of living crisis, with inflation running at above 50% in 2021, and wages struggling to keep pace with increased housing, food and energy costs. Amy Booth is a journalist in Argentina, and says many people have lost hope in the midst of the country’s seemingly interminable economic crisis. Daniel Munevar, who works on debt justice at the European Network on Debt and Development, says the IMF broke its own rules in order to issue the 2018 loan. Carolina Millán is Bloomberg’s bureau chief in Buenos Aires, and tells us that the Fund’s decades-long association with austerity and misery in Argentina loom large over any potential new deal between the two parties. Former IMF executive director and Argentine diplomat Héctor Torres says he’s sceptical that a prospective 22nd loan from the lender to the country will end differently to previous failures. Argentina isn’t the only country struggling with debt, either. Former IMF chief economist Ken Rogoff says that more than half of the world’s poorest nations are currently in debt distress or default. Presented by Ed Butler, produced by Tom Kavanagh. (Photo: Left-wing protesters in Buenos Aires carry a banner reading, “break with the IMF, don’t pay the debt”; Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, February 10, 2022
Rent-a-Robot
The use of robots in North American workplaces has increased by 40% since the start of the pandemic and the small to medium sized businesses, which never automated before, are getting in on the act. The robotics industry has responded to the global increased demand by creating more and more customisable robots, which can be leased or hired. Ivana Davidovic explores what effect this has had - and could have in the future - on the labour markets, innovation, but also on social inequality. Ivana hears from a small restaurant owner from California who wouldn't be without her server robot Rosie any more, after months of being unable to fill vacancies. Joe Campbell from the Danish company Universal Robots and Tim Warrington from the British company Bots explain how they are taking advantage of the post-pandemic "great resignation" and which industries are next in line for a robotics boom. Karen Eggleston from Stanford University explains her research into the consequences of the use of robots in over 800 nursing homes in Japan and Daron Acemoglu from MIT discusses whether robots in workplaces will liberate their human colleagues or simply entrench inequality. Presented and produced by Ivana Davidovic (Photo: Robot waitress serving dessert and coffee on a tray in a cafe. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, February 09, 2022
Is greed good?
Greed is considered one of the seven deadly sins; but is the accumulation - and retention - of wealth always a bad thing? With economic inequality growing, Elizabeth Hotson asks John Paul Rollert, from the Chicago Booth school of management, why greed has historically invited criticism. We also hear from Paul Piff, Associate Professor of Psychological Science at the University of California, Irvine, who tells us about an experiment in acquisitiveness, played out during a game of Monopoly. Plus serial entrepreneur and self-made multi millionaire, Richard Skellett, tells us why he supports a wealth tax. Presented by Elizabeth Hotson Produced by Sarah Treanor (Picture of dollar bills, picture via Getty Images).
Tue, February 08, 2022
Making second-hand sexy
Can apps like Depop and By Rotation, which are giving new life to old clothes, help reduce the fashion industry's enormous environmental footprint? Justin Rowlatt heads to the London offices of both these online platforms. Depop's Justine Porterie explains how their clothing resale app helped Gen Z take back control of their wardrobes and fall in love with second-hand clothes. Meanwhile Eshita Kabra-Davies, founder of By Rotation, retells how she came up with the concept of a high fashion rental app after seeing all the discarded garments piling up in her hometown in Rajasthan. These apps have grown enormously during the last two years of lockdowns, attracting millions of users, particularly teenagers. But Sarah Kent, editor at the Business of Fashion website, questions whether they can really make a dent in the sheer volume of clothes produced and disposed of every year. Producer: Laurence Knight (Picture: Someone photographing a sweater for sale online; Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, February 07, 2022
Cost of living crisis
Prices around the world are rising at their fastest level for years. Rising energy prices and a surge in demand after the pandemic lockdown have pushed up the prices of many of the goods that we rely on and our wages are not keeping pace. Tamasin Ford looks at the factors behind the rises and hears why it is often the poorest in our society who are impacted the most. Tamasin talks to Davide Angeletti who owns Ovenbird Coffee in Glasgow; he's looking at how he can cut his costs whilst he struggles to pay his bills; Tehiya Ben Zur is a mother living in one of the world's most expensive cities, Tel Aviv and Claudia Keller, the CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank in Orange County in California. And to explain how inflation is measured and why price rises are felt differently across society, economist Xavier Jaravel of the London School of Economics breaks down the data. (Image: A shopper at a supermarket in London, Credit: European Pressphoto Agency)
Sat, February 05, 2022
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we’re looking at Spotify’s latest results, and hearing how it has had to react to controversy surrounding its star podcaster, Joe Rogan. We hear from music industry writer Eamonn Ford, who tells us how the service is expanding more into the spoken word, and how it will now have to editorially manage the content it acquires. The Winter Olympics has now officially started, and we hear how some people would like sponsors to be more politically active, when choosing where to place their money. The mining giant Rio Tinto has pledged to take on board all the recommendations from a damning report that said racism, sexual harassment and bullying were rife at its sites. We hear from ABC’s Peter Ryan how this could be the ‘Me Too’ moment for the mining industry. Also on the programme, we hear how Wordle’s creator has decided to sell his five-letter game to the New York Times, and if the puzzle’s fans will be happy to turn to the newspaper’s website instead. The BBC’s Mike Johnson delves into the world of up-and-coming African music and hears how major record labels are opening their wallets and taking notice of the genre. And a billion year old rock is up for sale at a London auction house. Known as the Enigma, the rare black diamond is thought to be the largest cut diamond on earth and could have extra terrestrial origins. We hear from Nikita Benani, a jewellery specialist at Sotheby’s. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, February 04, 2022
Why gin is still fizzing
From its early reputation as mothers’ ruin to its prime spot in upscale cocktail bars, we tell the story of the juniper-infused spirit. And as the gin craze in the US and the UK shows no sign of slowing, we ask where the next global hotspots will be. Dr Angela McShane of Warwick University tells Elizabeth Hotson how and why gin drinking became popular in the UK and Sandie Van Doorne, from Lucas Bols - which claims to be the oldest distillery brand in the world - explains how the Dutch spirit, genever, fits into the story. Sean Harrison of Plymouth Gin explains how the company is taking on the new contenders in the market and we hear from up-and-coming brands; Toby Whittaker from Whittakers Gin and Temi Shogelola of Black Crowned Gin. Plus, we hear from Emily Neill, Chief Operating Officer at the IWSR which provides data and analysis on the beverage alcohol market. And a programme about gin wouldn’t be complete without a cocktail; William Campbell-Rowntree, bar supervisor at Artesian in London’s Langham Hotel, gives his tips for the perfect tipple. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Sarah Treanor *This programme was originally broadcast on July 13, 2021 (Picture of a gin and tonic with garnish; Picture via Getty Images)
Thu, February 03, 2022
Can tourists help boost Turkey's economy?
Drawn by the favourable exchange rate, tourists are flocking to Turkey, but can they compensate for the country's wider economic woes? In 2020, Turkey was hit hard by the pandemic lockdown, soaring inflation, a weakening currency and a current account deficit. Last year, the number of visitors jumped 85.5%. Victoria Craig talks to tourists in Istanbul about how they're getting more value for money and visits traders in the Grand Bazaar. Tour guide Sebnem Altin at tour company Grand Circle Travel has mixed feelings about the future and economist Roger Kelly at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development puts the latest tourism figures in context. Produced by Stephen Ryan and Gulsah Karadag. (Image: Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, Credit: Victoria Craig)
Wed, February 02, 2022
The economic cost of conflict in Ukraine
Sanctions, energy supplies, cyber-attacks - how bad could the economic fallout be if the situation in Ukraine spirals out of control? How likely would Russia be to simply cut the gas supply off to Europe in the middle of winter for example? Ed Butler asks Jane Collin, editor of the UK-based publication, Energy Intelligence. Meanwhile Matthew Olney, director of threat intelligence at Cisco, discusses another possibility - the disabling of key energy and other infrastructure in America by Russian hackers. Meanwhile the West has plenty of threats it can make against Moscow, in the form of further economic and financial sanctions - including the option of kicking Russia off the SWIFT international financial payments messaging system. But Maria Shagina, a visiting fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, says the West will need to look beyond sanctions if it wishes to influence President Putin's thinking (Picture: Ukrainian soldier with rifle; Credit: Wolfgang Schwan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Tue, February 01, 2022
Pressure mounts on Olympic sponsors
Allegations of human rights' abuses have led to an official boycott by a number of Western governments of the Winter Olympics in Beijing this month. China has responded angrily, accusing them of politicising a sporting bonanza. The International Olympic Committee insists that sport should be above politics. So where does this leave the sponsors on whom the Olympics depend for funding? International marketing expert Allyson Stewart Allen tells us that sponsors are stuck between a rock and hard space, whilst former Olympic skiier Noah Hoffman calls on sponsors to do more to protect athletes, and British politician Rob Hayward is calling for a boycott of Coca Cola products for not taking a stand. Ed Butler presents and the programme producer is Clare Williamson. (This podcast is an edited version of the original broadcast programme for reasons of accuracy) (Image: Short Track Speed Skating official training session ahead of the Winter Olympics, Beijing, China, Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, January 31, 2022
African music goes global
This is a big moment for African music on the global stage. African artists are winning international awards and embarking on tours to the US and Europe. And major record companies want a piece of the action. They’ve been busy doing deals to sign African stars with Warner Music buying a controlling stake in a Johannesburg business which bills itself as “the home of African music”. So what’s going on, and what does it all mean for a new generation of African artists? Mike Johnson talks to singers Nomcebo Zikode from South Africa and Mildred Ashong, aka Eazzy, from Ghana, Phiona Okumu, head of African music at the streaming service Spotify, Yoel Kenan, chief executive of music distribution company Africori and Temi Adeniji, MD of Warner Music South Africa. (Image: Nomcebo Zikode at the Nomcebo Zikode Foundation Launch at the Houghton Hotel on June 09, 2021 in Johannesburg, South Africa, Credit:Getty)
Sat, January 29, 2022
Business Weekly
On Business Weekly this week, we look at the efforts being made to reduce the carbon footprints of mining companies. One of the largest iron ore producers, Fortescue Metals, is looking to reduce its carbon emissions and has snapped up the technology research arm of the Williams Formula One team to help them do it. Plus, we examine the continuing war on drugs and how the Mexican cartels have been taking advantage of the pandemic restrictions in the United States. Also, we ask if having one or two wealthy owners is the best route to a winning strategy for football clubs. We review the deal that the Australian government struck to buy the licence for the Aboriginal flag – now that the image is free to use, is that the end of the matter? And Bob Dylan is, once again, selling off his assets – this time, his back catalogue is going to Sony Music for an estimated $200m. Business Weekly is presented by Matthew Davies and produced by Philippa Goodrich.
Fri, January 28, 2022
The cooling conundrum
Global warming means the world will need a lot more air conditioning - but will the AC just make global warming even worse? The Middle East already experiences peak temperatures over 50C, as the Kuwaiti social media influencer Ascia Alshammiri testifies. And things are only set to get worse. Ed Butler speaks to climatologist George Zittis, who says urban temperatures could hit 60C later this century, which combined with rising humidity could render some places uninhabitable. In any case, it means a boom for the air conditioning industry. But AC itself is a major source of greenhouse gases, as Radhika Lalit of clean energy think tank RMI explains. So are there tech solutions available to break this vicious circle? We hear from two entrepreneurs - Kevin O'Toole of Exergyn, and Aaswath Raman of SkyCool Systems. (Picture: Congested air conditioning units on a building in Mumbai, India; Credit: Kuni Takahashi/Getty Images)
Thu, January 27, 2022
Funding public service broadcasting
The British Government says the BBC license fee, paid by millions of households, to finance its global broadcasting service, will be frozen for two years and wants a debate about future funding. So what are the options for the Corporation? Rob Young explores the way public service broadcasters are funded around the world and talks to Ismo Silvo, the Deputy Chief Executive of the Finnish public broadcaster YLE and Chris Turpin, NPR's Chief of Staff. We get some analysis of the advantages and limitations of each model and discuss the impact on other broadcasters with Steve Barnett, Professor of Communications at the University of Westminster and Gill Hind from Enders Analysis. (Image: BBC Studio, Credit: BBC)
Wed, January 26, 2022
Who should own a football club?
It’s no surprise to anyone that money talks in English football but lately it seems louder than ever. Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney recently bought a club in the English lower leagues, while the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund completed a controversial takeover of Newcastle United. Meanwhile, a founding club of the Premier League, Oldham Athletic, faces relegation into the non-league game after years of mismanagement. Vivienne Nunis asks, is private ownership the best way to run football clubs or is it time for a rethink? Wrexham fan Gareth Davies, Tom Hocking of When Saturday Comes magazine and Maggie Murphy, CEO of Lewes Football Club, join in the discussion. (Image: Wrexham FC owner, the actor Ryan Reynolds, attends a red carpet premiere in LA. Credit: Getty)
Tue, January 25, 2022
Who's winning the war on drugs?
Mexico's cartels are thriving, and finding innovative ways to smuggle drugs across the border into the US, despite law enforcement and the pandemic. Ed Butler speaks to Dr Irene Mia of the International Institute for Strategic Studies, who says the closing of borders due to Covid has provided the cartels with a surprising shot in the arm, as they have proved far more adept at keeping their product flowing than many other legitimate international export businesses. Speedboats, tunnels, even catapults have been deployed to get methamphetamine and fentanyl into the US. And that's not all. The cartels have diversified, into people smuggling, wildcat mining and crude oil theft among other things, according to the Mexico-based author and journalist Ioan Grillo. And they aren't the only ones. In Brazil, a narcotics gang called First Capital Command has become so powerful that they have effectively replaced the government in some parts of the country, according to Marcos Alan Ferreira of the Federal University of Paraiba. (Picture: Mexican Federal Police officers patrol Iguala, Guerrero state, Mexico; Credit: Yuri Cortez/AFP via Getty Images)
Mon, January 24, 2022
The beauty tweakments industry
Demand for beauty tweakments - small changes to your appearance – as opposed to full on face changing plastic surgery, is soaring. Hours spent on video conferencing has forced people to constantly scrutinise their appearance, so what exactly are people having done and how much does it all cost? Elizabeth Hotson speaks to tweakments fan, Eddie Wunderlich, a personal trainer and stylist at the Dop Dop salon in New York and we hear about the importance of appearance at work from Dr Stefanie K. Johnson, an associate professor at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Leeds School of Business. Dr Hazel Mycroft, a senior lecturer in social psychology at the University of Exeter talks through the thought processes of having tweakments done and Elizabeth visits skincare guru Sarah Chapman, in her Skinesis Clinic in London to see what exactly customers want.. (Photo: LED light treatment,. Credit: Elizabeth Hotson). Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Sarah Treanor
Sat, January 22, 2022
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we look at the gaming industry’s biggest deal so far, as Microsoft stumps up nearly $69bn to buy Activision Blizzard, the company behind mega-games including Call of Duty and World of Warcraft. We hear how Microsoft wants to increase its slice of the gaming sector. Mobile stock trading apps have been booming in popularity during the pandemic, opening the door to millions of new, often young, or first-time investors. For many in the finance sector it is great news, but there have been questions raised about whether people always know the amount of financial risk they are taking on. Also, we focus on China’s economy, and hear what impact the ‘zero Covid’ policy and approach has made. Plus, we stop and smell the roses of the global flower industry - and follow one supply line from Kenya to Amsterdam to find out how green the sector really is. And as the original Winnie the Pooh book falls out of US copyright, we hear what potential new adventures might be in store for the “bear of very little brain”. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, January 21, 2022
Why hair matters
To some it may sound absurd to consider hairstyles a workplace issue, but for millions of men and women with African and Afro-Caribbean hair, it is just that. For decades, some hairstyles have been discouraged at work. But things are finally starting to change. In 2021 the US Airforce changed its hair code to be more inclusive. We explore the historic racism behind hair-based discrimination and hear from the women who have united to change attitudes and laws. We speak to businesswomen, historians and those in the arts – from the UK, the US and East Africa – to find out what hair has to do with it all anyway. Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Producer: Sarah Treanor This is a repeat of a programme first broadcast on 19 Feb 2021 (Image credit: Getty)
Thu, January 20, 2022
The fight for pocket parity
How deep are your pockets? Are they big enough to carry all the things you need? Your money, keys and mobile phone? If you’re a woman, the answer is most likely a no. This little pouch has a lot to say about gender roles and a woman’s right to financial independence. We hear about the great divide in pocket designs that has existed for hundreds of years with Ariane Fennetaux, author of The Pocket: A Hidden History of Women's Lives, 1660–1900. We take a trip to London’s V&A Museum to see how pockets – or a lack of them – led to the billion-dollar handbag industry, and we hear from Indian fashion designer and founder of the Meri Pocket campaign group, Taarini Saraf on the fight for pocket justice. Presented by Vivienne Nunis. Produced by Sarah Treanor. Music used with the kind permission of: @HebontheWeb Image: A women's small jean pocket. Credit: Getty images.
Wed, January 19, 2022
Why are some Chinese embracing 'lying flat'?
“Lying flat” - or tang ping - is a trend among mainly young Chinese to opt out of the rat race and it represents the antithesis of a development model that has delivered extraordinary growth for the country over four decades. The sentiment has been widespread enough to warrant a public condemnation from the President. Xi Jinping. Ed Butler hears from "Jeff," a computer developer from Hangzhou, but working in Beijing, who explains why he decided to give up on the Chinese dream in pursuit of a better quality of life. The BBC's China specialist Kerry Allen describes how the trend has developed online and how it has been accelerated by the forced slowdown during the pandemic. And Dr Lauren Johnston, a scholar of Chinese economics with a focus on the demographic shifts, says that both the privileged and the poorer 20 and 30-somethings feel exhausted by the Chinese ultra-competitive world of work and family pressures. Producer: Ivana Davidovic (Photo: Illustration of the lying flat movement. Credit: Sina Weibo)
Tue, January 18, 2022
Has stock trading become 'gamified'?
Mobile trading apps have been booming in popularity, opening the door to millions of new, often young or first time investors. For many in the finance sector it is great news, but questions remain about whether people always know the amount of financial risk they are taking on. One criticism in particular is that some of these new platforms look, act and react more like a video game than an investment platform. Is that the essential appeal that attracts new users, or does it just obscure the risks? Rob Young speaks to the boss of one of the biggest platforms in this sector, Yoni Assia, the boss of eToro. He hears too from Vicky Bogan, professor at Cornell University’s business school, who studies the "gamification" of finance as well as Professor Erik Gordon, at the University of Michigan's Business School. And Sarah Pritchard from the UK's regulator the Financial Conduct Authority tells Rob about efforts to encourage young users to invest safely, and how protecting them is their priority.
Mon, January 17, 2022
The future of flying
The pandemic has been very hard on commercial aviation, but most experts believe the sector will soon be growing again – fast. The BBC's Theo Leggett takes a look at what new technologies are out there. Sandra Bour Schaeffer, Chief Executive of Airbus Upnext, tells him what the aviation giant is planning for the future. Neil Cloughley, from the much smaller Faradair Aerospace, makes the case for why their hybrid-electric technology is the way forward for flying. On the other hand, Blake Scholl of Boom Supersonic says that, two decades after the end of supersonic jet Concorde, it's time for airliners to break the sound barrier once again. But if we want to protect the environment, should we be flying at all? Matt Finch, UK policy director of the Brussels-based lobby group Transport and Environment, says yes - but not quite so often. (Image: the ZEROe blended wing body concept, Credit: Airbus)
Sat, January 15, 2022
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we’re looking at the US inflation rate. It has hit 7% year on year, the largest rise since 1982. Used car prices and food costs are shooting up. We hear from Wells Fargo Economist Sarah Watt House and Gerald Daniels, an Associate Professor of Economics at Howard University who specialises in the economics of inequality. The BBC’s Ed Butler looks at the recent protests in Kazakhstan and we have a look inside the UK trials into psychedelic drugs for patients suffering with depression. Plus, we browse the shelves of ultra rare whisky, and hear why, and how, some parts of the Scottish industry are booming. The BBC’s Elizabeth Hotson talks to both keen collectors, and dedicated producers. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Clare Williamson.
Fri, January 14, 2022
Brexit and my small business
It’s just over a year since the UK’s trading relationship with the EU fundamentally changed. So how are small businesses in Britain finding life outside the single market and customs union? The BBC's Vivienne Nunis speaks with chocolate-maker Jacques Cop of Coco Caravan and Kathleen May from the London-based independent publisher, Hurst, as well as Sally Jones, trade strategist at EY. Image: Hand drawing a red line between the UK and the rest of the European Union. Credit: Getty
Thu, January 13, 2022
Kenya's fries crisis
Why can't multinationals like KFC source their ingredients locally? A shortage of fries at KFC restaurants in Kenya has led many to call for a boycott of the chain after it transpired that the company imported all of its potatoes, despite them being abundantly grown in the country. Potatoes are Kenya's second-most consumed crop after maize, and are cultivated mostly by small-scale farmers. As Covid hits global supply chains and words like sustainability and climate gain greater importance, is it time for multinationals to start looking closer to home for their goods? Kathambi Kaaria is a climate change and sustainability advisor in Nairobi and comes from Meru, a potato growing region of Kenya. She told Tamasin Ford that when KFC arrived in the country eleven years ago she tried to supply them potatoes. Leonard Mudachi, the CEO of a Kenyan restaurant management company Branded Restaurants Africa Ltd, said he wasn’t surprised to learn that KFC imports its chips but does think that multinational companies should start scrutinizing how and where they get their produce from. John Quelch is the Dean of the Miami University Herbert Business School in the United States. He told Tamasin that the issue for a major international brand is the quality and consistency of locally sourced produce and that one mistake by one supplier can lead to a massive fallout for the companies. (A boy looks at potatoes for sale in a market in the Kibera slum in Nairobi, Kenya; Credit: Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
Wed, January 12, 2022
What's at stake in Kazakhstan?
How might the protests shake up the economy, trade and business in the Central Asian nation? Ed Butler speaks to Diana Kudaibergenova, a sociology professor at Cambridge University and herself Kazakh, about what motivated the protests, and whether the apparent ouster of former President Nursultan Nazarbayev plus a host of new economic reforms will be enough to appease the protesters. But what does all this mean for foreign business interests in the country? Kate Mallinson of Chatham House says many Western oil executives will be having sleepless nights, while Russia's President Vladimir Putin may require an economic dividend for his military help in stabilising the situation. And what of Kazakhstan's other giant neighbour, China? Raffaello Pantucci of the Royal United Services Institute says the upheaval has come at a time when many Kazakhs were questioning the seeming one-sidedness of their increasingly close economic ties. (Picture: Kazakh security officials stand guard in the aftermath of protests in Almaty; Credit: Pavel Pavlov/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Tue, January 11, 2022
White privilege
Does the global economy need to start dismantling 'global white privilege'? The Black Lives matter protest movement has focussed lots of attention on racial attitudes in rich western countries. How easy is it for instance, for people of black or Asian heritage to get on the ladder to business success in those countries? But is the economics of what's now called 'white privilege' a global problem too? Ed Butler speaks to Chandran Nair, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Global Institute for Tomorrow, an independent think-tank in Hong Kong and the author of ‘Dismantling Global White Privilege: Equity for a Post-Western World’. And also to Lucinda Platt, from the London School of Economics, who has recently written a report for the IFS on the degree of social and economic mobility being achieved among the UK's minority racial and ethnic groups.
Mon, January 10, 2022
Healing the mind
Psychedelic therapy could provide a major breakthrough in the treatment of mental health disorders like depression, and now it's caught the attention of start-ups and venture capitalists. Laurence Knight hears from one man whose life was transformed by a single dose of the drug psilocybin - the psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms - after he volunteered for a research project exploring whether it could cure depression. He also visits the research team at King's College London, who have just wrapped up the latest trials of the drug. The trials are being sponsored by the healthcare start-up Compass Pathways, and its founder and chief executive George Goldsmith explains why he hopes to use them to bring this therapy to the general public. Plus Amanda Eilian of venture capitalists Able Partners describes how quickly attitudes in the investor community are changing. (Picture credit: Getty Images)
Sat, January 08, 2022
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we’re looking at the tech giant Apple. Its value tipped over the $3 trillion mark on the New York stock Exchange at the start of the year. We hear from Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities on possible further avenues of growth for the company. We’ll take you to the United States to hear from different communities all hoping to benefit from President Biden’s $1.2 trillion infrastructure plan. We focus on projects designed to improve the quality of drinking water, and public transport. The BBC’s Will Bain covers examples from Alaska, Michigan and California. Plus, we remember the work of the world renowned Kenyan paleoanthropologist Richard Leakey, who died at the start of the year. We hear from Dr Paula Kahumbu who knew him from childhood, and now runs one of the organisations he founded. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Clare Williamson.
Fri, January 07, 2022
Starting a company to fight rare disease
Mapping the human genome led to big advances in diagnosing rare disease. But diagnosis is only the first step in dealing with an illness. So what do you do if your child is found to have a condition that has no treatment? We hear from Michelle Teng, a mother who co-founded a biotech firm called SynaptixBio, that is looking to find the world’s first treatment for a rare neurodegenerative disease. Also in the programme, the Chief Medical Officer at Genomics England, Dr Richard Scott, tells us his hopes for the future of genomics medicine. And Dr Segun Fatumo of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, explains why Africa is so important when it comes to genetic research. Presented by Vivienne Nunis and produced by Sarah Treanor. Image: Scientists look at a DNA model. Credit: Getty Images.
Thu, January 06, 2022
The death of the petrol station
The rise of electric vehicles could see traditional service stations closing across the planet over the next two decades, and replacing pumps with fast chargers is unlikely to save them. Justin Rowlatt speaks to one entrepreneur hoping to profit from the rollout of EV chargers in every home and parking space, Erik Fairbairn of Pod Point. Meanwhile Isabelle Haigh, head of national control at the UK's National Grid, explains why she is confident they can meet the electricity demand from all these new vehicles. Across the Atlantic, another entrepreneur - Sanjiv Patel of National Petroleum - says the writing is clearly on the wall for his chain of 25 gas stations in California - but maybe not for a while yet. But could he turn them into restaurants or use them to hold séances? That's the fate of one petrol station in Leeds that is now an arts centre. We hear from its owner, Jack Simpson. This is a repeat of an episode first broadcast on 2 June 2021. Producer: Laurence Knight (Picture: Abandoned gas station along old Route 66 in the California desert; Credit: Lynne Rostochil/Getty Images)
Wed, January 05, 2022
The many careers of Richard Leakey
Richard Leakey died at his home outside Nairobi, Kenya, earlier this week. World-famous for his fossil discoveries, the 77-year-old had many careers - paleoanthropologist, wildlife defender, politician and anti-corruption campaigner. Business Daily's Vivienne Nunis met Richard Leakey late last year and recorded this interview with him. He looks back on his life and shares his as yet unrealised plans for a 'cathedral of life with no God', a museum dedicated to evolution on the edge of Rift Valley. Image: Richard Leakey with a pile of elephant ivory, confiscated by the Kenyan government and due to be burnt in 1989. Credit: Getty Images.
Tue, January 04, 2022
Lessons from the forest for climate change
Jane Goodall, the famous primatologist, has set us a challenge: Is it possible to tackle climate change whilst also lifting people out of extreme poverty? Her question - posed to the BBC's Climate Editor Justin Rowlatt - is inspired by her own experience of tackling deforestation in Tanzania. As her colleague Emmanuel Mtiti explains, they convinced local villagers to stop felling trees, and to restore the natural habitat of chimpanzees, by offering them an alternative path to prosperity. So could an equivalent path be available that avoids increasing carbon emissions? If so then it would break with the pattern seen in Europe, America and China, where economic development was almost entirely fuelled by burning coal, oil and gas, according to Hannah Ritchie, head of research at Oxford University's Our World in Data team. But the micro-finance pioneer Muhamad Yunus says that solar power does now offer a carbon-free way forwards. The programme contains audio from the 1965 National Geographic documentary film Miss Goodall and the Wild Chimpanzees, as well as audio recorded at Gombe National Park and the surrounding area by Ruth Happel and Bernie Krause. Producer: Laurence Knight
Mon, January 03, 2022
How green is the global flower industry?
Most flowers sold in the florists and supermarkets of Europe are grown in East Africa, where the warm climate supports roses and other plants to grow year round. But is it sustainable? Vivienne Nunis follows the international supply chain from a Kenyan flower farm to the hub of the global flower trade near Amsterdam, where every morning stems are sold at auction before being transported in cold storage trucks to buyers across Europe. The Dutch have been trading flowers since medieval times, when speculators paid enormous prices for tulip bulbs. We pay a visit to Amsterdam's Tulip Museum to find out why. The worldwide flower market is worth $40bn a year, but as growing numbers of consumers start to question the true environmental cost of what they buy, some growers are advocating for a return to seasonal, local blooms. We visit English grower Tess Wardman of Iris and Wilf flowers. Producer: Sarah Treanor. Image: Bouquets of roses for sale. Credit: BBC
Sat, January 01, 2022
Business Weekly
On Business Weekly, we look at the problems faced by companies affected by the spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19. Are staff shortages just a blip or could they be more long term? Professor Joshua Hausman at the University of Michigan gives us his view. Plus, we look at efforts being made in the textile industry to move away from “fast fashion" using traditional, slow and more sustainable methods. Also, it’s 20 years since the schoolboy wizard Harry Potter first appeared on movie screens; which businesses are still feeling the marketing magic? And we shake and stir with some of the world’s top mixologists to find out about the trends in cocktails for 2022. Business Weekly is presented by Matthew Davies and produced by Clare Williamson.
Fri, December 31, 2021
Cocktail trends 2022
Our love for cocktails has surged during the pandemic. Nisha Patel speaks to mixologists and bar owners from all over the world to find out what's inspiring them and what concoctions we may see across global bar menus. Hanky Panky bar in Mexico says lockdown sent everyone back to their books and emerging are pairings inspired by cook books. Two Schmucks in Barcelona say the diversity of their staff has led to a range of cocktails you'd usually see in your main meal and cocktail aficionado Lynette Marrero shares how she's seen her cocktail masterclasses filled with customers who have a thirst for premium alcohol. Phil Tate from CGA strategy analyses cocktail trends worldwide and explains how the pandemic has influenced and changed the global cocktail trend, and how this will continue into 2022. This programme is produced and presented by Nisha Patel (PIC: Vodka with cranberry and grapefruit CREDIT: Getty)
Thu, December 30, 2021
Taking on fast fashion in rural China
In the remote mountain villages of Guizhou, China, indigenous people have been handmaking clothes for centuries. But with so many young people leaving rural areas for jobs in China's manufacturing centres, those ancient skills are disappearing. Angel Chang tells us how she quit her job in the designer fashion houses of New York to start her own clothing line, employing indigenous craftspeople to grow organic cotton, use natural dyes and sew her collection by hand. It’s part of a wider shift away from the highly-polluting fast fashion industry. We also hear from Nicole Rycroft, founder of the NGO Canopy, which is changing the way popular brands source the world's third most popular fabric: viscose, which is traditionally made from the wood-pulp of trees. Vivienne Nunis asks if this more environmental approach can be adopted by the wider fashion industry. Producer: Sarah Treanor. Image: A woman dressed in handmade clothing typical of the Dong indigenous community in Dimen, Guizhou, China, holds some handwoven cotton fabric that has been dyed with locally-grown indigo. Credit: Angel Chang/Boe Marion/2DM Management
Wed, December 29, 2021
Men and cosmetic surgery
More men have considered cosmetic treatments during the pandemic. Has spending more time at home staring at ourselves in video conferencing made us more worried about our appearance, and have the pressures of ageism in the workplace also had an impact. Ed Butler speaks to psychologist Helena Lewis Smith, and Past President of the American Association of Plastic Surgeons Dr Alan Matarasso about just what’s motivating men to make more changes. Plus, he tries a treatment for himself. (Picture of man having cosmetic surgery. Picture via Getty Images).
Tue, December 28, 2021
Moon missions and space junk
2021 was another year of firsts in the ever-expanding industry around space, as we moved towards space tourism as a reality. But what about NASA, and its plans to return to the moon? We hear all about it, and the space agency’s ambitious plans for not just the moon, but mars; from NASA’s Carlos Garcia-Galan. We also hear about the increasingly urgent issue of space junk, which is causing serious safety issues in orbit. University of Texas at Austin professor, and chief scientific officer at Privateer, Moriba Jah explains. Plus Katie Miller from Skyrora tells us about the company’s space tug; a nifty idea to clean up unwanted objects in space. Presenter Jane Wakefield Producer Sarah Treanor (Picture: Earth from space, Credit: Getty Images).
Mon, December 27, 2021
Harry Potter and the phenomenally profitable franchise
It's 20 years since the first Harry Potter film was released and the movies and books have spawned a world of wizard-related retail opportunities. Elizabeth Hotson asks Chris Columbus, director of the first two Harry Potter films, how he dealt with the pressure of bringing the boy wizard to life. And we travel to Edinburgh for The Potter Trail tour which starts with a spell and ends in a graveyard. We step inside the magical Museum Context shop, and hear form owner, Andrew McRae. Plus, Scott Mendelson, a film critic and box office pundit at Forbes, tells us why he thinks the franchise has been so successful. And we end with a look at the most hallowed of magic artefacts, the philosopher's stone itself. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producers: Elizabeth Hotson and Sarah Treanor (Picture of a boy dressed as Harry Potter, Picture by Stephen Chernin for Getty Images)
Sat, December 25, 2021
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we’re looking at the rising cost of energy across Europe, and hear from Emma Pinchbeck of Energy UK on how producers and consumers are coping, plus Tom Wilson from The Financial Times analyses the causes behind the price hike. We hear about how some countries are scaling back their road building projects in the face of climate change and ask how best to get people out of their cars? Plus, we go to Ghana, where consumers are unhappy with a new tax the government wants to add to electronic money transfers made using mobile phones. And the BBC’s Michelle Fluerry is in the US state of Kentucky to meet people who have decided to quit their job, and reevaluate their lives during the pandemic. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Clare Williamson. (Image: cooking gas ring with blue gas flame; Credit: BBC)
Fri, December 24, 2021
The ghost of Christmas yet to come
What will be left of human civilisation in the geological record 100 million years hence? Justin Rowlatt speaks to the geologist Jan Zalasiewicz of Leicester University in an extended interview, speculating on the durability of the human legacy. We may take pride in our cathedrals, technologies and feats of engineering. But what strange fragments will survive long enough for aliens visiting our planet in the distant future to discover? And will it be enough for those future geologists to figure out what caused the mass extinction we will leave behind in the fossil record? This is an extended version of an interview recorded for Justin's Geochemical History of Life on Earth, also available on the BBC World Service. Producer: Laurence Knight (Photo: Skull fossil artwork from the Modern Fossils collection by Christopher Locke. Credit: Christopher Locke/Heartless Machine)
Thu, December 23, 2021
China prepares to face down Omicron
The new variant poses a particular threat to China's hitherto successful zero-Covid strategy at a time when the country's economy is looking vulnerable. Ed Butler gets the latest on the fast-moving Omicron variant from Boston University epidemiologist Eleanor Murray. One new development is a recent study in Hong Kong that found that one of the two main Chinese vaccines offers very little resistance against it. Health security expert Nicholas Thomas of Hong Kong's City University says the Chinese government is now in a race to deliver booster vaccines to its population, while stopping Omicron from leaching across its porous land borders. It comes at a sensitive time, with the Beijing Winter Olympics to begin in February, and the government seeking to gently deflate a property market bubble ahead of a politically sensitive Communist Party Congress in October. But independent economist Andy Xie says that when push comes to shove, the government would rather lockdown the entire national economy rather than let Covid get out of control. Producer: Laurence Knight (Picture: A large crowd of commuters wearing face masks at a subway station in Hong Kong; Credit: Budrul Chukrut/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Wed, December 22, 2021
Lockdown, rebound, lockdown
2021 has seen some extraordinary economic changes. First a global economic rebound, then a global supply chain crisis, then inflation of a kind not seen in western countries for decades. And finally millions of people deciding they didn't even want to go back to work after lockdown. So what could 2022 have in store? Ed Butler discusses all this with Oxford economist Linda Yueh of Oxford University and author of the Great Economists, and Mohamed El-Erian, President of Queens College Cambridge. (Picture of interest rate graph. Picture credit: Getty Images).
Tue, December 21, 2021
Millions still not back at school
The World Bank says this could cost the global economy $17 trillion. Coronavirus brought education systems across the world to a halt. At its height more than ninety percent of the globally enrolled student body were not in school. That’s more than 1.6 billion learners. Nearly two years on from the start of the pandemic, hundreds of millions of children are still not back in the classroom. In Uganda, as the BBC’s Patience Atuhaire tells us, schools were closed in March 2020 before the country registered a single coronavirus case. They are yet to reopen. She interviews a father whose twelve children have missed nearly two years of school. Robert Jenkins, the Director of Education and Adolescent Development at UNICEF, says the global economic impact of this lost education amounts to $17 trillion. He says the need for governments around the world to reopen all schools is critical. (picture of Fred Ssegawa's children via BBC).
Mon, December 20, 2021
End of the roads
Roads? Where we’re going, do we need roads? Some countries think they've already got too many. In the face of a climate catastrophe, the Austrian and Welsh governments are reconsidering plans to expand their road networks, moving away from a car-first model to better include more environmentally modes of transport. In Wales, they’ve all but halted any new roads as Climate Minister Julie James tells us, and are instead looking at improving public transport and active travel measures. In Austria we speak to Leonore Gewessler, Minister for Climate Action in the national government, who says that to build more roads would only attract more traffic and therefore more pollution. Electric vehicles could go some way to lowering carbon emissions, but the take up isn’t fast enough, says transport researcher Giulio Mattioli and so reducing reliance on cars altogether has to be a priority. And that means reimagining how cities are built to accommodate convenience, but without the car – transport planner Susan Claris tells us how that can be done. Today’s programme is presented by Tamasin Ford and produced by Russell Newlove.
Sat, December 18, 2021
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we’re looking at rising inflation in Turkey, and hear how different communities are trying to live during a period of economic uncertainty. Victoria Craig tours Istanbul to hear from shop workers and families caught up in the currency crisis. Plus we focus on the Netherlands, and Meta’s proposals to build a giant, energy-hungry data-centre there. We hear how the community is divided on the plans from Facebook’s parent company. We’ll look at the diplomatic spat between Lithuania and China, that now has implications for trade between the two countries and the wider European Union, and we also delve into the world of premium pet food, to hear how today’s cats and dogs are getting the luxury treatment from their owners. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Clare Williamson. (Image: Tourist shop in Istanbul's spice market, credit: Getty Images)
Fri, December 17, 2021
High risk investing
Why has it become so popular for millions of young people? Has the failure of conventional nest-eggs, rising student debt and high property prices forced twenty-somethings into an ever riskier outlook - and what's the pandemic got to do with it? Nachiket Tikekar, a 23 year old student of business, tells Ed Butler why he decided to stick all his spare money into stocks and shares and why he's not scared of the markets crashing. This has all been made possible by the rise of low-cost online trading platforms like The Zerodha, which is India's biggest. Somnath Mukherjee runs its business and legal operations. Ed also speaks to Sarah Pritchard, the executive director of markets at the UK's Financial Conduct Authority who are trying target these risk adverse investors with warnings through new platforms such as TikTok. And Lesley-Ann Morgan has led a global study looking at investment trends, including for younger people, across more than 20 countries for Schroders Wealth management. She says thousands of young people have been saving as a result of forced lockdowns, and are feeling more inclined to ignore traditional investment strategies. (Picture of a young investor. Picture Credit: Getty Images).
Thu, December 16, 2021
The Turkish lira and red hot inflation
The official inflation rate in Turkey is above 21% and the value of the lira has plunged by nearly half this year. Victoria Craig hears from families, students and workers about what a currency crisis, fueling red-hot inflation, feels like to live through. (Picture Description: Turkish Flag, Picture Credit: Getty Images).
Wed, December 15, 2021
The Meta data centre dilemma
What is at stake when a big company like Meta comes knocking on your door? The small Dutch town of Zeewolde is grappling with this. Meta - the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp - wants to build a huge data centre in the area which could be the biggest in Europe. It is a proposal which has raised questions about land-use, water consumption, political power and energy. The municipality says it will bring significant benefits – but not everyone agrees. Opponents like local resident Sipke Veentra, say the centre will use five times the amount of energy that their local windmills provide. And local farmer Carla Dekker is concerned that prime agricultural land is being given over to development and is worried about the amount of water Meta will use. They both claim Meta is being given preferential treatment over local businesses. But those in favour, like Egge Jan de Jonge the local cabinet member who is steering the deal through, says Meta will have to provide new power supplies to feed the centre and that they have a proven record of having done this in the past. Stijn Grove, from the Dutch Data Centre Association says there is no Dutch national strategy and that more political leadership is needed from the top. And Sebastian Moss, who watches the data centre industry for the website DatacenterDynamics says companies face similar challenges to Meta when trying to site hyper-scale data centres all over the world. (Picture: Data centre; Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, December 14, 2021
The pet food gold mine
The pet food industry is a multi billion dollar business but are premium brands - with premium ingredients - worth spending more money on? And could insect protein be the key to a more sustainable way of feeding our animal companions? Elizabeth Hotson gets the facts and figures from Kate Vlietstra, a global food and drink analyst at Mintel. We also hear from Tom Neish, founder of insect-based cat and dog food company, Yora. Plus, Rachel Grant from premium pet food brand, Laughing Dog, tells us why she believes her product is worth splashing out on. A trio of dog owners tell us what's on their pets' menu and Sean Wensley, senior vet at the pet charity, PDSA explains how to make sure your animal companion eats a balanced diet. Plus, Natalia Santis, manager at the Java Whiskers cat cafe, describes the eating habits of their eleven fussy felines. (Picture of treat time at Java Whiskers cat cafe. Picture by Elizabeth Hotson).
Mon, December 13, 2021
The problem of parasites: who pays for neglected tropical diseases?
Leishmaniasis may not be a household name in much of the rich world, but the parasitic disease is found in over 90 countries, and can lead to agonising disfigurements, and death. It’s classified as a neglected tropical disease, which means treatment is underfunded and under-researched. We hear from British adventurer and writer Pip Stewart, who contracted Leishmaniasis on an expedition through the jungle of Guyana. She received treatment in the UK, but it was a harrowing experience. Pip explains how her Guyanese friends have to resort to excruciating home remedies to try and stem the parasite. She’s written a book about her ordeal: Life Lessons from The Amazon. We also get the view from Ethiopia, where Dr Helina Fikre explains the difficulties in treating the same parasitic illness. Dr Laurent Fraisse from the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative tells us about his organisation’s search for better treatments, while Dr Madhukar Pai calls for an overhaul of the way tropical diseases are funded. Image: The Leishmaniasis parasite under a magnification factor of 1000. Photo By BSIP/UIG Via Getty Images Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Producer: Sarah Treanor
Sat, December 11, 2021
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we look at Germany to see how the change in chancellor from Angela Merkel to Olaf Scholz may impact the direction of the country, both domestically and on the world stage. We also hear how Ukrainians are faring economically as relations with their neighbour Russia sour further, and how there’s further military tension on the border. Plus, we look at the business of private adoptions, and hear how much money can change hands when a child is welcomed into a new home. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, December 10, 2021
Blacklisted in China
Lithuania has provoked China's rage by going too far in recognising Taiwan. Beijing is now apparently blocking Lithuanian imports and is even threatening global firms who trade with Lithuania. The spat was started by Lithuania's decision to allow a Taiwanese Representative Office to open in Vilnius in November. China says Taiwan is part of its territory. This has all come days after Brussels proposed a new law allowing it to retaliate against economic sanctions like this. Ed Butler speaks to Finbarr Bermingham, the Brussels correspondent of the South China Morning Post, Shelley Rigger from Davidson College in the US and a leading expert on Taiwan's trade relations and Hosuk Lee-Makiyama, the director of the European Centre for International Political Economy who is advising EU member states on the new legislation. (Picture: Made in Lithuania logo; Credit: Picitup/Getty Images)
Thu, December 09, 2021
The arms race in cyberspace
Will the next war be waged online? Ed Butler talks to Nicole Perlroth, winner of the 2021 Financial Times Business Book of the Year for This Is How They Tell Me the World Ends - an investigation into the how governments, spies, criminals and corporations are dealing with - and exploiting - the risks associated with doing business in the digital era.
Wed, December 08, 2021
Healthcare workers are burnt out
What can be done to stem the tide of carers quitting the industry? Before the pandemic the healthcare sector struggled to recruit enough workers. Today they're leaving in droves. Citing physical and mental exhaustion, poor working conditions, a lack of appreciation and miserly pay, carers are leaving their jobs - a trend with all the makings of a future skills crisis. The BBC's Rebecca Kesby speaks to Ged Swinton, a member of the Royal College of Nursing who had to leave his job as a frontline nurse after losing patience with an unappreciative government - and abuse from the public. Will Hunter recently returned to his job as an accident and emergency junior doctor, but could only handle part time work after an intense year of pandemic conditions. In the USA we hear from Vicki Good, former president of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, who tells us people are leaving the care sector almost as soon as they join, despite spending years in training beforehand. We speak to Lori Peters of the National Association of Health Care Assistants, who says that without decent pay and conditions, the sector won't attract enough workers to fill a skills gap that will only get bigger. This episode is produced by Russell Newlove, Sarah Hawkins and Elizabeth Hotson.
Tue, December 07, 2021
Super-fast grocery delivery apps are booming
But are apps that deliver from the shop floor to your front door in minutes just a pandemic-era fad or are they here to stay? Have you ever been in a situation where you needed something delivered right away? A toothbrush you forgot on a trip? Or butter for a recipe you've already started preparing? There are many apps for that – a whole fleet of them – that are now competing for your dwindling time. They promise to get everyday items to you, sometimes in 10 minutes or less. But, is it just a pandemic-era trend, or does it have staying power? The BBC’s Victoria Craig speaks to the boss of eight-year old US-based super-fast delivery company, GoPuff. Yakir Gola started the business while at university and has grown it to become a dominant player in the American market. He talks about why the company has decided to expand in the UK, and how it plans to compete in a red-hot space. Plus, we hear from Adrian Maccelari, the director at London-based bakery Sally Clarke about whether partnering with super-fast delivery start-ups has been helpful to the business, and Elodie Perthuisot, the director of data and e-commerce at grocery chain Carrefour, explains how the model has been a game changer for the supermarket business. There has been blockbuster growth in the super-fast delivery category over the past two years, which leads Bain and Company’s Ruth Lewis to think consolidation is an inevitability. A number of start-ups have entered the space, and already, the industry has seen some high profile mergers and acquisitions.
Mon, December 06, 2021
Why private adoption is big business in the US
At any given time, about a million American families are looking to adopt and most prefer newborns. The industry is regulated on a state-by-state basis and many advocates argue that, not only the existing rules are not enforced properly, but that much greater federal regulation is needed to ensure that the whole process is ethical and safe. Ivana Davidovic hears from Shyanne Klupp, who says she felt pressured by an adoption agency to give her son up for adoption when she wanted to change her mind. She is now a reform campaigner and wants the private adoption industry, in its current form, abolished. Maureen Flatley, who has been working in the field of adoption legislation for two decades, is very concerned about the internet blurring the lines of legality and ethics and "trading of children" on social media without proper oversight. She hopes that 2022 will see some federal legislation governing this field finally implemented. And adoptive parents from Ohio explain why, after spending $70,000 on their first adoption through an agency, they have decided to take the matter into their own hands and advertise themselves online as prospective parents. PHOTO: Woman holding little boys hand walking down the street/Getty Images
Sat, December 04, 2021
Business Weekly
The world’s biggest clothing retailer, Inditex, has a new boss, the 37-year old daughter of the company’s founder. Will Marta Ortega manage brands like Zara, Pull & Bear and Massimo Dutti in the same way her father did or will she take a different path? And do consumers still want fast fashion? Plus, we hear why mining the metals and minerals used in green technologies can contribute to the world’s climate change problems and what is needed to ensure that they are mined in a way that doesn’t infringe on human rights or damage local communities. Also, one of the founders of Transparency International tells us the money stolen by corrupt leaders is being ploughed into western assets like property – with the help of an army of financial and legal professionals. Meanwhile, Covid has forced many workers to re-assess and re-evaluate their lives and as a result, they are quitting their jobs in record numbers. It's being called the Great Resignation. And the increasing appeal of the ukulele; how the small guitar-like instrument is making a big noise among the young. Business Weekly is presented by Matthew Davies and produced by Clare Williamson. (Image: Zara shopper with brown bag; Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, December 03, 2021
The Omicron variant and vaccine inequality
Could a more equitable global vaccine rollout have stopped the new variant? As the world waits for more information about just how contagious and dangerous the new Covid-19 variant is, we ask if the emergence of a variant like Omicron could have been avoided – or at least slowed - if people all around the world had been vaccinated at the same pace. Instead, richer countries race to give booster vaccines to their own populations as many poorer countries are still waiting to receive their first jabs. Tamasin Ford hears from Dr. Richard Mihigo, who coordinates the WHO’s immunisation and vaccine development progamme in Africa. He says it’s not just about shipping jabs to countries; the international community could also step up to help with planning and logistics for the distribution of vaccines. Dr. Atiya Mosam, a public health specialist in South Africa, was disappointed in the way the world reacted when news the new variant came out of her country. She argues that the travel bans that many countries quickly imposed are both discriminatory and ineffective. She also worries that many South African scientists feel they have been punished for being open and honest with the world about their discovery. Dr Meru Sheel, an epidemiologist at the Australian National University, says the issue of vaccine inequality should have been fixed many months ago. She says the vaccines should evenly distributed because it makes the most sense from a public health perspective, and also because it’s the ethical thing to do. (Image: Passengers at Cape Town airport in South Africa on 29 November 2021. Source: David Silverman/Getty Images)
Thu, December 02, 2021
The collapse of Enron: Did we learn the lessons?
The collapse of the US energy giant Enron remains one of the most dramatic scandals in modern capitalism, but 20 years on did we learn any of the lessons from the fall of a corporate giant? The BBC's Lesley Curwen covered the story every step of the way back in the 2000's right up to the company's collapse, and the jailing of some of its most senior executives. She takes Ed Butler back through Enron's tale of deceit, intimidation and collapse with archive and fresh interviews with some of the scandal's key figures. And Ed hears from Dr Howard Schilit, of Schilit Forensics accountancy firm, a witness at Enron's Senate hearing and a man with a serious warning for the corporate world, two decades on from the Enron scandal. Picture Credit: Getty Images
Wed, December 01, 2021
Wind of change in Germany
Can the ambitious renewable energy plans of the incoming government overcome domestic nimbyism and Russian gas politics? Ed Butler hears from one member of the new left-liberal-green coalition, Social Democrat MP Jens Zimmermann, about their plans to phase out coal entirely by 2030, and replace 80% of electricity generation with wind and solar. But building new wind turbines already faces substantial red tape and vociferous opposition from bird conservation groups, as industry man Steffen Lackmann explains. Meanwhile, how will the government tackle a more pressing matter - Russian President Vladimir Putin's alleged restriction of gas supplies to Europe this winter in order to force German approval for the new Nord Stream 2 pipeline. Ed speaks to Gustav Gressel, geopolitical analyst at the ECFR think tank, and to Melissa Eddy at the New York Times' Berlin bureau. Plus Yuri Vitrenko, head of Ukraine's gas pipeline company Naftogaz, explains why he fears approval of the pipeline could mean war in his country. (Picture: Leaders of the incoming German government, including Chancellor-elect Olaf Scholz (centre), inadvertently re-enact the opening scene from Reservoir Dogs; Credit: Odd Andersen/AFP via Getty Images)
Tue, November 30, 2021
The kleptocrats club
Authoritarian regimes are working closer than ever to keep each other afloat - with plenty of help from the West's financial system. Ed Butler speaks to Frank Vogl, who helped found the global anti-corruption organisation Transparency International. He claims that the world's kleptocrats are enabled by an army of bankers, lawyers and accountants who are helping them squirrel away their ill-gotten money in Western real estate and investments. And for regimes like those of Belarus, Venezuela or Syria, who find their power contested by their own people and their economies in tatters, there is plenty of support to be found these days from other authoritarians - chief among them Russia and China. That's according to the historian, journalist and author Anne Applebaum. The questions is whether the world's democracies will ever get their act together and do something about it? (Picture: Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro (left) embracing Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko; Credit: Sergei Gapon/AFP via Getty Images)
Mon, November 29, 2021
The plight of girls under the Taliban
In Afghanistan, high schools are currently closed to girls, and women have been banned from TV dramas. So how hard is life for the female half of the population, as the Taliban reassert control? Tamasin Ford hears from her colleague Yalda Hakim, who recently returned to the Afghan capital Kabul, the city of her birth, where she quizzed members of the new regime about their intentions for girls' education. Tamasin also speaks to Mahbouba Seraj of the Afghan Women Skills Development Center in Kabul about what life is now like in the city. Meanwhile Marianne O’Grady, who worked in Afghanistan for the charity CARE International until she was evacuated in August, says that with food now running desperately short in the country, there are even more pressing concerns than the treatment of women. (Picture: Afghan girls look out next to a building in Sharan, Afghanistan; Credit: Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images)
Sat, November 27, 2021
Business Weekly
On Business Weekly, we look at inflation in different countries, and in particular, how price rises are hitting the citizens of Turkey and the United States. We hear how two different presidents are trying two very different ways of getting it under control. We also hear how baristas in Starbucks are trying to unionise and how the coffee shop chain has reacted. Plus, we look at green hydrogen and hear from the producers in Denmark hoping the sustainable fuel will help meet climate change targets. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, November 26, 2021
The coming cleantech mining rush
Can the minerals needed to decarbonise the global economy be dug up fast enough? And can it be done without the human rights and environmental abuses of the past? Tamasin Ford speaks to KC Michaels of the International Energy Agency says there will need to be a staggering increase in the amount of nickel, lithium, cobalt and rare earths being mined, in order to build all the batteries, wind turbines and solar panels needed. But mining consultant Dr Patience Mpofu says that the mines required can take anything up to 15 years to commission. With many of these critical minerals concentrated in the developing world, the fear is that a rapid increase in global demand may outstrip the supply from the formal mining industry, with the gap filled by much less responsible mining operations. Emmanuel Umpula of the Congo-based NGO African Resources Watch fears a worsening of human rights abuses and pollution from such mines. But Mark Cutifani, chief executive of mining giant Anglo American, says the industry is working hard to ensure better standards of behaviour. (Picture: South African miner; Credit: David Turnley/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images)
Thu, November 25, 2021
Why is Turkey's currency collapsing?
Turkey's currency has been in free fall this week, reaching a record low against the US dollar. The Lira's collapse has been sparked, in part, by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan doubling down on his controversial economic policies, such as demanding that the central bank cut interest rates despite rapidly accelerating inflation. Ed Butler explores why President Erdogan is so attached to the policy, at the expense of three central bank governors in the last three years, and asks what impact the currency crisis is having on Turkey's economy. Ed speaks to Gulcin Ozkan, professor of finance at King's College London, economist and former fund manager Mohamed El-Erian, and to a forlorn wealth manager in Istanbul. Producer: Will Bain (Picture: Turkish Lira notes; Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, November 24, 2021
Baristas of the world unite!
Starbucks workers in Buffalo, New York, are this month balloting to join a union - part of a surprise post-pandemic trend in union activism across America, as retail and hospitality workers find that the tight post-pandemic labour market is giving them more bargaining power with their employers. Ed Butler speaks to Michelle and Jaz - two baristas in Buffalo, New York, who are encouraging their colleagues to organise - and to Richard Bensinger, who hopes to represent them as part of the Workers United union. He reckons this marks a turning point for unions in the US, which have for decades seen thin membership numbers. We also hear from Stephen Delie at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a Michigan-based think tank and advocacy group for "right-to-work" laws, which discourage union membership. Unions, he says, take workers' hard-earned money for little or no return. (Picture: Starbucks union supporters posing in a group photo with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez; Credit: Michael Sanabria)
Tue, November 23, 2021
How to live to 150
Would you want to live to 150? With leaps in technology, science and medicine, it's becoming an increasingly realistic possibility. Elizabeth Hotson talks to Sergey Young, founder of Longevity Vision Fund and author of The Science and Technology of Growing Young. Sergey tells us why he embarked on a mission to help us live longer. Plus, Dr Michael Hufford from biotechnology company, Lygenesis tells us about organ regeneration technology, which enables a patient's lymph nodes to be used as bioreactors to regrow functioning ectopic organs. We also go on a voyage of discovery into the world of cryonics with Dennis Kowalski, president of the Cryonics Institute in Michigan, where you can have your body frozen and stored until the technology exists to bring you back to life some time in the future. We also hear from Paul Hagen, who's planning to follow his father's footsteps by undergoing the cryonics procedure. (Picture of an energetic older couple via Getty Images)
Mon, November 22, 2021
Texas abortion laws
Texas has introduced the most stringent abortion law in America. Tamasin Ford assesses some of the reaction to this law by employers and employees who have traditionally been attracted to the Lone Star State because of its low taxes and lower house prices. Ashley Lopez, NPR journalist in Austin explains the complexities of the law and how it will disproportionately affect women of colour. Curtis Sparrer, co-founder of PR firm Bospar, explains how his company is offering to help relocate employees who want to move out of the state. And Vivek Bhaskaran, CEO of Austin-based QuestionPro, explains how his company will offer financial assistance to employees who need to get a termination. We also hear from Valerie Veteto, who moved to Texas, attracted by its job prospects and low house prices, but is now preparing for a move to New York. Producer: Nisha Patel (Picture: Protests outside the Supreme Court in the US Credit: Getty Images)
Sat, November 20, 2021
Business Weekly
On Business Weekly, we look at the new wave of Covid-19 that’s hitting several European countries. We hear how the different take-up rates of vaccinations and booster shots are making things difficult for governments and how some are now resorting to lockdowns just for the unvaccinated. We also hear about the growing incidences of mobile phone spyware, and how unwitting victims are having their every movement tracked by modern day stalkers. Plus, we look at period poverty and sanitary sustainability, as the market for menstruation products widens. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, November 19, 2021
Why toilets matter
Happy World Toilet Day! It is that day of the year when we all need to overcome our embarrassment and discuss what is normally a taboo topic. Hundreds of millions of people still have no access to a toilet, putting them at risk of disease, sexual assault and public humiliation. Tamasin Ford speaks to the inventor of World Toilet Day, Jack Sim, about how much has been achieved since he founded his World Toilet Organisation 20 years ago to promote discussion of this topic. We also hear from Catarina de Albuquerque, who served as the first United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to safe drinking water and sanitation, and made it one of the UN's sustainable development goals. Also, consultant Timeyin Uwejamomere talks about the challenge of introducing proper sanitation in the slums of his native Nigeria. Plus Chilufya Chileshe, policy director at the charity WaterAid, explains how the lack of a toilet leaves women and girls vulnerable to sexual harassment, and interferes with their education. (Photo: An eco-friendly mobile toilet in Johannesburg, South Africa. Credit: Deon Raath/Galo Images/Rapport)
Thu, November 18, 2021
Hunger crisis in Afghanistan
Is it time to stop the freeze of the country's financial assets and donor aid or will that just legitimise the Taliban? Ed Butler speaks to John Sifton, the Asia advocacy director for the campaign group Human Rights Watch, who says the west should ease up on its sanctions to help alleviate the situation. But Alex Zerden, who worked with the US Treasury department in Kabul from 2018 to 2019 and is now a senior fellow at the Centre for New American Security in Washington DC, defends the current US refusal to open the financial taps, says the Taliban itself is primarily responsible for the mess the country's in. Ed also speaks to health worker Karsten Noko from MSF (doctors without borders), who is desperately trying to keep its operations running without properly functioning bank services. And Masuda Sultan, a US-Afghan aid worker, who campaigns for the non-profit Unfreeze Afghanistan, tells him how bad the situation is there. (Picture: Afghan grandmother and her grandchildren, members of one of the Afghan families that put their children up for sale, pose for a photo at their rental home without water and electricity in Afghanistan; Credit: Stringer/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Wed, November 17, 2021
Period pants, poverty and the environment
Can this multi-million dollar industry help the climate and fight period poverty? Tamasin Ford speaks to Marisa Meltzer, a writer in New York who recently tried them out. Maria Molland is the CEO of period underwear company, Thinx, who says that sales of their underwear, ranging from $17 to $34 a pair, boomed during the pandemic. Rochelle Burn is the Executive Director of the Environmental charity, Greener Future in Toronto, who focus on litter clean-ups. She says one of the main things they find washing up on the beach is tampon applicators. And Helen Lynn from the Women’s Environmental Network, a charity working on issues that connect gender, health and the environment says that the unaffordability of sanitary products as well as the taboos surrounding periods are still a problem. (Picture: Period pants; Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, November 16, 2021
Stalkerware: Tech-enabled domestic abuse skyrocketing
With the number of devices infected with stalkerware rising by over 60% in a year, many are worried about the consequences. Ivana Davidovic speaks with Maria who, even after managing to leave her abusive husband of 25 years, was still not free from his clutches. Eva Galperin, who founded the global Coalition Against Stalkerware, explains how more training of law enforcement agencies is needed because many victims feel they are being gaslighted when they ask for help. She is also fighting for greater inclusion of stalkeware apps among anti-virus software manufacturers. In October this year, Google pulled several stalkerware adverts for apps that encouraged prospective users to spy on their partners’ phone. One of those apps, SpyFone, was banned by the US Federal Trade Commission in September for harvesting and sharing data about people’s movements and activities via a hidden device hack. Despite these positive moves, stalkerware apps and advice on how to use them are still easily accessible online. Xena Olsen tells how she became a cyber-security expert after being a victim of stalkerware by her then fiance - and she offers tips on what to do if you are worried for your own safety. And Rosanna Bellini, from the Clinic to End Tech Abuse, says how sometimes their clients are advised not to immediately remove cyber-stalking apps from their phones as that could increase the risk of physical violence. (Photo: A faceless hooded person looking at a laptop. Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, November 15, 2021
What did the climate talks achieve?
What was really at stake at the COP26 negotiations in Glasgow, and how much have the politicians done to avert a climate disaster? Justin Rowlatt speaks to two researchers on the frontline of the climate crisis. Carrie Lear, professor of earth sciences at Cardiff University, explains why she fears the Antarctic ice sheet could melt far quicker than people assume, inundating coastal cities around the globe. Meanwhile Professor Daniela Schmidt of Bristol University says the chemistry of the world's oceans is changing so fast that it could take marine ecosystems millions of years to recover. Given how high the stakes are, how significant was the progress made in the latest iteration of climate talks? Justin speaks to sustainability expert and veteran climate diplomat Rachel Kyte, dean of the Fletcher School of international affairs at Tufts University in America. (Picture: Globe balanced on the edge of a shelf; Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, November 12, 2021
Diversity at the top
Why is the black community still so poorly represented in leadership positions? We speak to the changemakers who are doing something about it. Kike Onawinde used to represent Great Britain in the javelin before setting up the Black Young Professionals Network, which is all about connecting ambitious future leaders. Jean-Marc Laouchez is the President of the Management Consultancy firm Korn Ferry Institute in Paris, who says the main reason why things are not changing is because of the established power structure. Abdul Karim Abdullah, is a clinical trial manager for a pharmaceutical company in New York. He founded the culture festival, Afrochella, to celebrate African culture, food, music, art and fashion. Najah Roberts is the founder and CEO of Crypto Blockchain Plug in Los Angeles. It’s one of the first African American owned over the counter cryptocurrency exchanges in the US. She says a big problem for African Americans is that they have been prevented us from acquiring wealth and that virtual money could change all of that.(Picture of boardroom meeting. Picture credit: Getty Images).
Fri, November 12, 2021
Business Weekly
In Business Weekly, we take a look at the splitting up of a 129-year old behemoth. General Electric announced that it will divide itself into three separate companies. Does this mean the end of conglomerates that span several sectors and make a multitude of diverse products? Also, the former finance minister of Afghanistan tells us that the Taliban takeover was due in no small part to massive corruption within the government. We take a look at the row over the increasing amount of raw sewage that's being allowed to flow into the UK's rivers. Also in the programme – the sale by Elon Musk of some of his shares in Tesla, after asking his Twitter followers whether or not it was a good move. And as the German media giant, Axel Springer, announces plans to force managers to tell HR departments if they start a sexual relationship with a subordinate, we take a look at the difference between American and European corporate cultures. Business Weekly is presented by Matthew Davies and produced by Philippa Goodrich.
Thu, November 11, 2021
Hong Kong, business and the national security law
Are Hong Kong's days as a major financial centre now numbered? The end of the pandemic has seen renewed economic growth. But some say tough anti-Covid rules and anti-protest laws are undermining what was once Asia's leading financial hub as thousands of people leave the territory. Ed Butler speaks to Edward Chin, a HK hedge fund manager who's now temporarily moved to Canada following the security crackdown. Tara Joseph, President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong tells him recruiting foreign workers into the territory is now proving much harder. Vera Yuen, a business lecturer at the University of Hong Kong, says wealth management services for the Chinese are providing big growth for territory. And Mike Bird, the Hong Kong correspondent of the Economist magazine says both the Covid restrictions and the national security law may start to really hurt Hong Kong in the longer term. ( Pic: Sunrise at Victoria Peak,Hong Kong Credit: Jun Chen / Getty)
Wed, November 10, 2021
Corruption in Afghanistan
The former finance minister from the collapsed Afghan government, Khalid Payenda, tells Ed Butler that it was brought down by rampant corruption at a very high level. He served for six months from the beginning of this year and says that by the time US forces left and the Taliban began advancing, most of Afghanistan's supposed 300 thousand troops and police didn’t exist. He says phantom personnel were added to official lists so that generals could pocket their wages. Many Afghans feel enraged by the failures of the US-backed government and they say it abandoned them in their hour of need. ( Pic: Man counting money at a market in Afghanistan Credit: Bloomberg Creative )
Tue, November 09, 2021
EU's green new deal and Africa
Will Africa’s economic development be held back for the world’s net zero climate targets? And could banning investment in their fossil fuels do more harm than good? Tamasin Ford speaks to NJ Ayuk, the executive chair of the energy industry lobby group, Africa Energy Chamber who says the decision is a disaster for countries in Africa and to W.Gyude Moore, a Senior Policy Fellow at the Centre for Global Development and Liberia's former Minister of Public Works who says Africa can’t catch up without fossil fuels. Dr Olumide Abimbola, is the Executive Director of the Africa Policy Research Institute, a Berlin based think tank that works on Africa policy issues. He’s in Glasgow for the climate talks and Tamasin asked him whether there’s a fear the EU Green deal could restrict goods from Africa. And Adenike Oladosu, one of Nigeria’s youth delegates in Glasgow says people in her country do want to go green but it’s just not affordable. Pic: Smoke emerging from chimneys Credit: Alexandros Margos/Getty
Mon, November 08, 2021
Can sewage spewing into UK waters be stopped?
Sewage entered British waters for around 3 million hours in 2020 in over 400,000 pollution incidents. Hugo Tagholm, chief executive of Surfers Against Sewage tells Tamasin Ford why this is happening. Public pressure for the government and water companies to do something about this is mounting, particularly since it's become known that privately owned water companies in England paid their shareholders almost $80 billion in dividends over the last 30 years. WaterUK represents all of the water and sewage providers across the UK. We hear from their director of policy, Stuart Colville. Is tougher legislation the answer? Sweden faced similar problems with their sewage system more than fifty years ago. Peter Sörngård, an environmental expert at the Swedish Water and Waste Water Association explains how they dealt with it. Producer: Benjie Guy (Picture: a sewage outflow pipe discharges sewage into a river. Credit: BBC.) sewage spewing into British waters went viral on social media. The country’s Victorian era sewage systems are struggling to cope. We find out what’s being done about it and look to Sweden where they seem to be getting things right.
Sat, November 06, 2021
Business Weekly
As global leaders jet out of Glasgow, leaving the hard bargaining to their delegates, Business Weekly looks at what the pledges made so far really mean. Will rich countries be able to support the financial demands made of developing nations to help them transition away from fossil fuels? And what did activists make of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s promise of reaching net-zero by 2070? Also on the programme, we hear why some people enjoy trophy hunting - and whether it can ever be a useful tool for conservation. And as an inquest names a haul of Anglo-Saxon coins one of the biggest ever found in England, we ask what happens to treasure after it’s discovered. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, November 05, 2021
Nigeria's eNaira: Africa's first digital currency
Central Banks around the world are introducing digital currencies and last month Nigeria became the first African country to launch one - the eNaira. But what is a digital currency and how are Nigerians reacting to theirs? We hear from people on the streets of Abuja. Tamasin Ford speaks to Rakiya Mohammed, director of information security at the Central Bank of Nigeria. Chinwe Egwim, chief economist at Coronation Merchant Bank in Lagos, explains why the eNaira has been introduced and the benefits it could have. Digital currency expert Josh Lipsky of the Atlantic Council puts the launch of the eNaira in the context of the others that are springing up all over the globe. Producer: Benjie Guy. (Picture: the eNaira mobile phone app. Credit: enaira.gov.ng)
Thu, November 04, 2021
Is inflation making a comeback?
Inflation has hardly been seen in the developed world economies for the last three decades. But now some economists are warning it could be returning with a vengeance, because of supply chain problems, post-Covid exuberance, and higher wage demands. What is going on, and should we all be worried? We hear opposing views from Claudia Sahm, former economic adviser to the Federal Reserve and the White House, Steve Hanke of Johns Hopkins University, and Andrew Sentance, senior adviser at Cambridge Econometrics and a former member of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee. Image: Full shopping cart in supermarket aisle (Credit: Getty Images).
Wed, November 03, 2021
Guy Hands on deal making and private equity
Guy Hands, the founder of Terra Firma, opens up on the highs and lows and risks involved in deal making and private equity. From being bullied at school to becoming a household name, buying and selling businesses from cinema chains and pubs to waste management, aircraft leasing and green energy companies. We hear his side of the deal that turned sour, the acquisition of multinational music company EMI in 2007, and how his addiction to doing deals has affected his personal life. Ed Butler is in conversation with Guy Hands about his new book, The Dealmaker. (Image: Guy Hands; image credit: John De Garis)
Tue, November 02, 2021
Buy now, pay later
The future of credit for the young, or just another way of getting into debt? Would you pay for a product now, when you could simply delay payment for free? Ever since the pandemic forced millions of us to stay at home, millions more of us have been buying goods online using a new form of credit. Buy now, pay later offers goods interest free and it's proving very tempting to many younger shoppers. But is it just a new form of debt trap? Ed Butler speaks to Nick Molnar co-founder of Afterpay and Sebastian Siemiatkowski, the cofounder and CEO of Klarna, the Swedish based firm that's now the world's biggest buy now pay later provider. He also hears from Alice Tapper of personal finance forum Go Fund Yourself who says regulation is desperately needed to protect younger consumers. Plus Amber Foucault from the consumer spending analytics company Cardify who says that until global regulation comes in, we should watch out for many younger customers getting into financial trouble using this system. (Picture: "Payment due!" written on a calendar with a bank card on top. Credit: Getty Images.)
Mon, November 01, 2021
Silicon Valley and the climate crisis
As the world focuses its attention on climate, we’re looking to the money that could create real change. Venture capital is the type of financing that can take new ideas to the mass market and it’s finally looking to fund clean, green tech. First, to understand how start-ups go about seeking VC funding, Vivienne Nunis hears from founder Diedre McGettrick. Gabriel Kra, of the venture capital firm Prelude Ventures, explains the shift he's seen in low-carbon investing. But Silicon Valley attracts the world’s sharpest minds, so why aren’t more tech leaders coming up with the bright ideas needed to fight climate change? We ask founder-turned-investor, Ben Parr. Producer: Sarah Treanor. Image: Smart farming technology. Credit: Getty Images Correction: Prelude Ventures invested approx. $125m in the past 12 months, in deals totalling $1.3bn. It didn’t invest $1.3bn on its own, as was stated in the programme.
Sat, October 30, 2021
Business Weekly
As world leaders gather in Glasgow in Scotland for the UN’s global climate conference, COP26, we ask if a new project partnering with the private sector will help save the Amazon rainforest, or whether it’s simply another way for the corporate sector to pay away its guilt. Plus, we hear from a youth delegate to the last big climate conference in Paris – what is she hoping for this time round? And, can electric freight vessels help global shipping to go green? We hear how a Norwegian company is working on one. We also look at the fight against plastic waste and how the world’s recycling systems simply aren’t working. And they’re big, glamorous and they involve hundreds of people. But are the days of the big Indian wedding over? Business Weekly is produced by Matthew Davies and presented by Tamasin Ford.
Fri, October 29, 2021
Trophy hunting: Money and morality
Trophy hunting – paying to kill large animals, often in African game reserves – promotes strong feelings. Many oppose it, but some conservationists argue it adds value to wildlife and their habitats. We discuss the arguments and hear from a psychologist about the motivations of people who want to kill animals in the wild. With Doctor Sue Snyman from the School of Wildlife Conservation; Dr Mark Jones who represents the charity Born Free; tourism expert Dr Muchazondida Mkono; and Geoff Beattie, the author of Trophy Hunting: A Psychological Perspective. Vivienne Nunis also gets the view from Richard Leakey, the famous paleoanthropologist and former head of the Kenyan Wildlife Service. Producer: Sarah Treanor. (Photo:: A rhinoceros. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, October 28, 2021
The $200,000 starting salary
How does a $200,000 starting salary sound? That’s now the industry standard for newly qualified lawyers at big corporate law firms in the US and the UK. But before you sign on the dotted line consider that in exchange for your princely wage packet, 100 hour working weeks and being on-call 24 hours a day could be part of that deal. So is it all worth it? Elizabeth Hotson speaks to "recovering lawyer" Taly Matiteyahu, whilst Christopher Clark, director of legal head hunting firm, Definitum Search, explains why salaries have got so high and Stephen Parkinson, a senior partner at law firm, Kingsley Napley sets out some alternatives to the status quo. Plus, a practising corporate lawyer in New York tells us about his work schedule and Anna Lovett, an Associate Solicitor at law firm Burnetts, tells us about changing attitudes to work. And Charlene Bourliout, an ex-lawyer and burnout consultant offers some strategies for coping with an overwhelming workload. Presented and produced by Elizabeth Hotson Picture description: dollar bills Picture credit: Getty Images
Wed, October 27, 2021
Net zero: Do corporate pledges make any difference?
Around one fifth of the world’s 2000 largest public firms have committed to net zero targets in the coming years. Most are pledging to something called climate neutrality by a given date. But do these pledges actually make any difference in the flight against climate change? We here both sides of the argument with climate futurist Alex Steffen based in California, and Simon Glynn, the co-lead on Climate and Sustainability, at the UK management consultants, Oliver Wyman. (Image: Cooling towers at a coal fueled power station. Credit: Getty Images).
Tue, October 26, 2021
Can global shipping go green?
Fergus Nicoll travels to the port of Workington in the north west of England, where he hears from port manager Sven Richards about how small regional ports can make global haulage more sustainable. Blue Line Logistics run a fleet of low emission barges in Belgium and the Netherlands and have plans to expand to the UK and the US. Fergus speaks to the company's founder, Antoon van Coillie. The BBC's Adrienne Murray has been looking into the research and development going into producing 'green fuel' in Copenhagen. Fergus also hears from Yon Sletten, who is developing the Yara Birkeland, a zero emission, autonomous, electric freighter, currently undergoing final sea tests off the coast of Norway. Also in the programme, the efforts of Green Marine, a group of ship owners, ports and shipyards in North America, that has come together to raise the bar for environmental standards in their industry, as their executive David Bolduc explains. Producer: Russell Newlove. (Picture: aerial view of a container ship surrounded by green sea. Credit: Getty Images.)
Mon, October 25, 2021
Saving the Amazon with economics
The Amazon is the world's largest rainforest but this crucial carbon sink is facing increased deforestation. Land clearing for mining or agriculture has increased under Brazil's president Jair Bolsanaro. But the world needs the Amazon jungle to keep absorbing carbon if more ambitious climate goals are to be met. Is there a place for the private sector to step in where governments have failed? Vivienne Nunis hears from economist Nat Keohane about a new not-for-profit called Emergent. It acts as a kind of middle man, connecting tropical forests with corporations searching for ways to cancel out their emissions. Can it work? Also on the programme, journalist Karla Mendes explains how many Brazilians feel about the Amazon's plight, while Robert Muggah from the Igarapé Institute tells us companies such as Google have stepped up to help with deforestation mapping, when government agencies had their budgets cut. Producer: Sarah Treanor. Image: A toucan in the Amazon rainforest. Credit: Getty Images
Sat, October 23, 2021
Business Weekly
As the Swiss bank Credit Suisse is fined $475m for participating in Mozambique’s tuna bonds fraud, on Business Weekly we find out how the southern African country was devastated by the scandal. Also, we hear how a decaying oil tanker marooned off the coast of Yemen could trigger a major environmental and humanitarian disaster. The SFO Safer is loaded with hundreds of tons of crude oil - so why is it just being left to rot? Plus, we report from a climate conference in Edinburgh where delegates are being encouraged to come up with new ways to cut carbon emissions, including a innovative and surprising diet for cattle. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and edited by Matthew Davies.
Fri, October 22, 2021
Big fat Indian weddings
Are the days of the big fat Indian wedding over? Since Covid Indian weddings have got a lot smaller. But will they go back to what they once were? Rahul Tandon speaks to bride to be Yashaswini Singhdeo, mother of the bride Meenal Singhdeo, Sandip Roy author and columnist, Ambika Gupta wedding planner and owner of the A cube project and Parul Bhandari a sociologist from the Indian centre of social sciences and humanities . (Photo: Indian couple hold hands during a wedding ceremony. Credit: Amir Mukhtar/Getty Images)
Thu, October 21, 2021
'Fixing' Facebook's algorithm
The social media giant's algorithm has been accused of amplifying divisive content and disinformation. Could regulating it make Facebook a kinder platform? Ed Butler speaks to the BBC's Silicon Valley correspondent James Clayton about the latest revelations from Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen, and renewed demands for a crackdown by US lawmakers. Former Facebook data scientist Roddy Lindsay explains how Facebook's alogrithm became the focus of criticism of the platform, and how a change to the law could solve it. Daphne Keller from Stanford's Cyber Policy Center explains the legal minefield when it comes to regulating what social media users can say, and what platforms can promote, online. (Photo: Frances Haugen testifies in Congress in October 2021, Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, October 20, 2021
Ticking timebomb in the Red Sea
Decaying oil tanker could trigger an environmental and humanitarian disaster. The FSO Safer is marooned off the coast of Yemen in the Red Sea, close to one of the world's biggest shipping lanes. A massive oil spill or explosion from it could disrupt global trade for months and lead to an environmental and humanitarian catastrophe. It's loaded with hundreds of tons of crude oil, its hull is rusting and it hasn't moved in years. So why isn't anybody doing anything about it? Nominally the Safer is the property of the Saudi-backed Yemeni government. Right now though, both it and its multi-million dollar cargo are controlled by the Houthi rebels in Yemen. UN officials say the Houthis have broken an agreement to allow an inspection of the vessel. The Saudis accuse them of holding the world to ransom over the potential disaster. The Houthis disagree. Ed Butler speaks to Ghiwa Naket, the executive director of Greenpeace for the Middle East and North Africa, to Ben Huynh a researcher at Stanford University, to Hussain Albukhaiti a Yemeni journalist with close links to the Houthi leadership and to Peter Salisbury, senior analyst for Yemen at the International Crisis Group. (Picture description: Maxar Satellite image of the FSO Safer tanker moored off Ras Issa port, in Yemen. Picture credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 19, 2021
Bug burger anyone?
Is the Western diet ready for farmed insects in food? Although insects are consumed by more than two billion people worldwide, acceptance of them in the Western diet is still low, but could that be changing? With climate change, a growing population and an increased demand for protein all putting pressure on our food system, insects offer an interesting and more planet friendly alternative to meat and fish. Malena Sigurgeirsdottir is the co-founder of Hey Planet which has just launched a meat substitute using buffalo beetle powder (that's the lesser mealworm or Alphitobius Diaperinus), in Denmark, Germany and Sweden. She tells us how great insects taste, especially when they're ground up. Professor Matan Shelomi, from National Taiwan University, Department of Entomology outlines how farming insects can have a much lower carbon foot-print than farming animals. Meanwhile in the UK, Kieran Olivares Whittaker has received millions of dollars in funding for his Entocycle project, researching the optimum way to farm black soldier fly larvae to feed fish and poultry instead of using soy and fishmeal which causes deforestation and overfishing. And we meet Aly Moore of Bugible who makes a living from eating and promoting bugs as a source of protein. Produced and presented by Clare Williamson. (Image credit: HeyPlanet burger; Credit: Hey-Planet.com)
Mon, October 18, 2021
Rethinking the future: cleaning up big emitters
We report from the Countdown summit in Edinburgh where fresh ideas to fight climate change are taking centre stage ahead of the UN climate talks, starting in Glasgow later this month. Vivienne Nunis hears from the business leaders and scientists coming up with new ways to cut carbon emissions in some of the world’s dirtiest industries. Mahendra Singhi is the boss of Dalmia Cement, one of India's biggest cement manufacturers. He tells us how his company plans to become carbon neutral by 2040. In the accessories market, Modern Meadow co-founder Andras Forgacs and CEO Anna Bakst explain how their plant-based leather alternative could shake up fashion supply chains. And what if cows everywhere could be made to emit lower levels of methane when they burp? Biologist Ermias Kebreab says adding seaweed to their diet could be key. Producer: Sarah Treanor Image: A cow chewing cud. Credit: Getty
Sat, October 16, 2021
Business Weekly
Millions of people in Afghanistan are living in extreme poverty as prices rise and salaries go unpaid. There are warnings that hunger will follow the devastating drought, just as the cold weather sets in. How will the world respond to calls for help? Business Weekly hears from development economist and former World Bank expert in Afghanistan Dr William Byrd. Plus, as the supply chain gets clogged across the world- we’ll ask how they can be made more resilient? We also hear from Berlin, where voters have said yes to a radical plan to help make housing more affordable. And as William Shatner blasts off into space, we ask if the 90-year-old actor can be called an influencer? Business Weekly is produced by Matthew Davies and presented by Lucy Burton.
Fri, October 15, 2021
Eyes on climate: new ideas to fight global warming
As the world turns its attention to addressing climate change, Business Daily is in Edinburgh. We bring you an inside glimpse of the conversations setting the agenda ahead of the UN climate conference COP 26, which starts in Glasgow in just over two weeks. Here in the Scottish capital, the ideas company TED - famous for Ted Talks - is holding its own climate summit, Countdown. It puts CEOs, government ministers, philanthropists and activists all in the same room. Vivienne Nunis hears from Pacific Islander Selina Leem, who explains how her home country, the Marshall Islands, is already dealing with rising sea levels. Jim Snabbe, the chairman of the world's biggest shipping firm, tells us how Maersk plans to move to a new green fuel, while Denmark's energy minister explains his country's plans to vastly scale-up wind power production. Producer: Sarah Treanor Image: Selina Leem. Credit: Skoll.org
Thu, October 14, 2021
The supply chain's weak link
How disruption in a single port, factory or freight centre can cause global chaos. Ed Butler speaks with Stavros Karamperidis, an expert in maritime economics at the University of Plymouth, and Kent Jones, professor of economics at Babson College in the US. Meanwhile, chief economist at Enodo Economics, Diana Choyleva, explains how China's energy crisis will impact exports and the price we pay for goods, and Professor Marc Busch from Georgetown University explains why he thinks governments should leave big businesses to solve supply issues themselves. (Photo: a container ship is unloaded at a dock in the US. Credit: Reuters)
Wed, October 13, 2021
China's gaming crackdown
Why the government doesn't like video games, and what's next for China's gaming culture. Ed Butler speaks to Josh Ye, who covers gaming for the South China Morning Post, and Professor Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute. German professional League of Legends player Maurice 'Amazing' Stückenschneider describes China's current dominance in the world of eSports, and the damage that restricting playing hours could do, and Chinese games investor Charlie Moseley describes how the increasing pressure from authorities is affecting games developers in the country today. (Photo: League of Legends players at a tournament in Shanghai, Credit: Riot Games Inc via Getty Images)
Tue, October 12, 2021
The economics of older mums
Why many women are delaying motherhood, how is technology helping, and what does the law say about all things fertility and the workplace. Zoe Kleinman speaks to lawyer Louisa Ghevaert, to Dame Cathy Warwick, chair of the British Pregnancy Advisory service, and others. (Picture credit: Getty Images)
Mon, October 11, 2021
The economics of donkeys
There are an estimated ten million donkeys in sub Saharan Africa, many providing crucial roles supporting the livelihoods of low income families. We explore why these beasts of burden are so important to the economics of the region, and how demand from China for the skins of donkeys is worrying many across Africa. We visit a donkey sanctuary in Lamu, Kenya, and speak to one campaigner trying to stop the slaughter of donkeys for the export of their skins. We also hear how donkeys support economic freedom for women, from Emmanuel Sarr, regional director for the charity Brooke, based in Senegal. Image: A donkey. Credit: BBC Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Producer: Sarah Treanor
Sat, October 09, 2021
Business Weekly
On this episode of Business Weekly, with the site down and a whistle-blower’s testimonial, was this Facebook’s worst-ever week? We hear what went wrong with their internal internet and find out why Frances Haughan’s evidence to Congress was important. Plus, we discover how a tech company is helping dispatch ambulances in Kenya where there is no centralised system. And if music be the food of love - swipe on. We hear from the app designer hoping to match-make with music. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, October 08, 2021
Working in your 80s: The Artist
Geraldine Robarts is a painter based in Kenya who has been exhibiting since 1958 and who still paints everyday, aged 82. Whether it’s a passion for what they do, the social connection, or the simple need to earn a living, a growing number of octogenarians remain in work. Over the coming weeks, Business Daily will hear from several workers putting in a shift, well into their ninth decade. As retirement ages around the world creep higher, we're asking what can these older professionals teach us about the nature of work? And when is the right age to down tools? Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Image: Geraldine Robarts. Credit: BBC
Thu, October 07, 2021
Life at Kenya's Dandora rubbish dump
We go to Dandora, one of Africa’s largest rubbish tips. A court in Nairobi has ordered the dumpsite to come up with a concrete plan to close by February next year. But what will that mean for the community relying on the waste to survive? We hear about life at Dandora through the eyes of Liz Oteng’o, who grew up relying on airline meals dumped at the site. Vivienne Nunis hears how she and her husband Remco Pronk, are fighting to change the lives of those growing up there today. Image credit:Getty Producers: Sarah Treanor, Lulu Luo
Wed, October 06, 2021
Big tech and carbon
Google pledges to be carbon free by 2030. Ahead of next month's UN Climate Summit, the company has come out with new targets to become greener than ever. But what does that mean? Is Google supporting the energy transition away from fossil fuels or just fuelling ever greater consumption? Ed Butler speaks to the company's Chief Sustainability Officer Kate Brandt, about how this is just the latest step in her company's aim to be a world leader in sustainability. Ian Bitterlin, a Consulting Engineer & Visiting Professor at the University of Leeds in the UK tries to quantify the amount of carbon pollution that could reasonably be attributed to data centers worldwide. And Sonya Bhonsle, the Global Head of Value Chains at CDP, the world's leading climate NGO that helps companies and cities disclose their environmental impact, tells Ed that Google scores very highly in their ratings and that the company is sending out good messages to others in the industry. (Photo: Google's logo adorns their office in New York, Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, October 05, 2021
Living in the metaverse
Are virtual online worlds the future of the internet? Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg thinks so. He is among the tech leaders who say we'll increasingly live, socialise, play and shop in the metaverse. Is he right, and what is the metaverse anyway? Ed Butler speaks to venture capitalist and metaverse big-thinker Matthew Ball, and to Manuel Bronstein from Roblox - the hugely successful gaming platform where gamers already live out virtual lives through their avatars. Janine Yorio tells us why her 'virtual real estate' company Republic Realm is buying up land and property in metaverse worlds, and why the metaverse will be the future of shopping. (Photo: Roblox avatars, Credit: Roblox)
Mon, October 04, 2021
Can technology transform emergency services?
Getting to hospital in a medical emergency, in countries without a centralised ambulance service, can be critically slow. In rapidly urbanising Kenya, Vivienne Nunis meets Caitlin Dolkart – cofounder of Flare; a company which created a technology platform to dispatch ambulances anywhere across the country. But how do you direct an ambulance without accurate maps? We hear from Humanitarian Open Street Map’s Ivan Gayton how open source data is improving heathcare outcomes. Image: Ambulance operator Paul Ochieng disinfects a stretcher at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, on April 17, 2020. Credit: Getty
Sat, October 02, 2021
Business Weekly
As China suffers its worst blackouts in over a decade, on Business Weekly we ask what’s causing the power shortages and what they mean for the rest of the world. We also hear from Germany, where political wrangling over who will be the next Chancellor continues. The Green Party will play kingmaker - and there are hopes from people in flood-hit areas that environmental policies will take centre stage. Plus, have you ever wondered how valuable influencers can be for a brand? We spend the day in a luxurious mansion full of social media personalities to find out if they represent value for money. And as James Bond takes to the silver screen once more, we ask whether the studios can afford to retire 007. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, October 01, 2021
Smart cities and broken dreams
Do smart cities live up to the hype? Urban centres from New York to South Korea’s Busan are rebranding themselves as ‘smart’. From real-time crime mapping to lower energy use, smart cities promise a shortcut to a better future. But what is a smart city? The BBC’s Technology desk editor Jane Wakefield explains. Meanwhile, brand new metropolises are being planned across Africa, often envisioned as shiny tech hubs. Will they ever get off the ground? And why are global consultancy firms often a key part of the story? We visit Kenya’s Konza Technopolis, still a construction site 13 years after it was first promised. Konza CEO John Tanui says the project is on track but Kenyan writer Carey Baraka isn’t convinced. Picture: An artist’s impression of the planned Akon City in Senegal. Credit: Akoncity.com Presenter: Vivienne Nunis Producer: Sarah Treanor Reporter: Michael Kaloki
Thu, September 30, 2021
Evergrande and China's property woes
China's second largest property developer, Evergrande, is at risk of financial collapse, saddled with billions of dollars of debt. It's already defaulted on some bond repayments and has been forced to sell off assets; both Chinese and international investors are worried and Beijing is weighing the risk of spreading contagion. The BBC's Stephen McDonnell tells us about the property boom in China while Sara Hsu, a Visiting Scholar at Fudan University, tells us that the sheer size of the company is a worry. China watcher George Magnus, Research associate at Oxford University's China Centre, and at SOAS appraises the wider ramifications of the Chinese property bubble being deflated for both China and the rest of the world. (Image: Evergrande's HQ; Image credit: Reuters)
Wed, September 29, 2021
Inside an influencer house
We’re off to an influencer house, a luxurious mansion where social media personalities are temporarily living together to create content on behalf of a plant-based food brand. It’s a new way of advertising with big budgets and big personalities, but is it money well spent? Elizabeth Hotson hangs out by the ridiculously photogenic lily pond with content creators Jessica Hickey and Ella Blake; Ashley Morton and Oli Paterson explain how and why social media content succeeds - or fails - on Tik Tok and Instagram, and Morgan M-James nearly burns down the kitchen with his innovative plant based creation. Plus, we hear how Tik Tok comedy duo Ylwsqr, aka Bec Horsley and Sam Bartrop, are already planning their next move into the media industry and James Brooks from social media marketing company, Team Brooks explains how the content created by the housemates will be used. And Simon Day, co-creator of the Squeaky Bean brand, explains why he's taking the plunge on the project. Produced and presented by Elizabeth Hotson Photo of Morgan M-James in the Squeaky House kitchen. Photo by Elizabeth Hotson
Tue, September 28, 2021
Decentralised Finance on the rise
Regulators are taking a close look at new crypto-trading environments, known collectively as Decentralised Finance, or DeFi. advocates say the technologies underlying DeFi offer an inclusive and democratic approach to finance, while critics say it is a potential hotbed for money laundering, terrorist financing and other criminal activity. The BBC's Ed Butler dives into the world of DeFi, speaking with Laura Shin, crypto journalist and host of the Unchained podcast, to hear about DeFi, and the kinds of entrepreneurs attracted to it. We also hear from Miller Whitehouse-Levine from the DeFi Education Fund, who argues the potential benefits of DeFi, and digital forensics expert Paul Sibenik of CipherBlade explains what tools are out there for tracking criminal activity across dentralised finance platforms. And veteran crypto investor Jamie Burke of Outlier Ventures explains why he has got so much of his own portfolio in DeFi. (Picture credit: Getty Images)
Mon, September 27, 2021
Climate weighs on German elections
The fight to succeed popular German chancellor Angela Merkel could not be tighter. In late July the country’s climate policies shot to the top of the political agenda in the wake of devastating, and deadly, floods across western Germany. The BBC’s Victoria Craig and Stephen Ryan travelled to one of the hardest-hit towns, Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, to see how the locals are trying to recover. Local shop-owner Martina Kleinow says she and many others are still waiting for financial support to rebuild, while Anne Gluck of the regional chamber of commerce, explains the myriad challenges businesses face. Elsewhere in the country, we’ll hear about projects to build better resilience against climate events. Ulrich Lemke leads a port revitalization project at Offenbach am Main, and explains how public works can better account for neighbouring waterways, while Gerhard Hauber of the engineering consultancy Ramboll, explains how coordination is the key to building true resilience. Producers: Stephen Ryan, Philippa Goodrich. (Photo: The bank of the river Ahr, in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Credit: Victoria Craig /BBC)
Sat, September 25, 2021
Business Weekly
In just over a month world leaders will meet for a decisive climate change summit - we’ll ask if politicians are willing to accept the end of exponential economic growth in order to protect the planets resources. We’ll hear why gas prices are spiralling and ask why small energy firms weren’t better prepared to withstand rising prices. As a new high speed train line is planned for Egypt we’ll take a close look at this new infrastructure project and ask if it will help deliver new prosperity to a country dogged by economic troubles. And, we’ll hear from the song writers campaigning for clear credits on streaming platforms. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Gareth Barlow.
Thu, September 23, 2021
Can Ethiopia be brought back from the brink?
The country is embroiled in an internal war which has taken a huge humanitarian toll with thousands killed and millions displaced. But that's not the only damage being done to Africa's second most populous nation. The war has incurred a huge economic cost too. As the US threatens further sanctions, Vivienne Nunis asks if Ethiopia can be brought back from the brink. She speaks to Yemane Nagish from the BBC’s Tigrinya service in Nairobi, Will Davison, aformer correspondent based in the country and now an Ethiopia analyst at the International Crisis Group, Irmgard Erasmus Irmgard, the senior financial economist at Oxford Economics Africa in Cape Town and Faisal Roble, a US-based analyst who specialises in the Horn of Africa. (Picture credit: AFP)
Wed, September 22, 2021
US war on e-cigarettes
The Food and Drugs Administration has withdrawn nearly a million e-cigarettes from the US market. Does this signal a turning point for the vaping industry? Small manufacturers like Amanda Wheeler, owner of Jvapes in Arizona and president of the American Vapor Manufacturers Association, are concerned about heavier regulation, as she tells Joshua Thorpe. Tim Phillips, managing director of ECigIntelligence, explains the impact of heavier regulation on the wider e-cigarette industry. In the UK, Public Health England promotes vaping as a method to stop smoking, as we hear from Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, associate professor at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, at the University of Oxford. But Desmond Jenson, a lawyer at the Public Health Law Center at the Mitchell Hamline School of Law in Minnesota argues that regulators need to do more to tackle a youth vaping epidemic. (Picture: a woman vaping. Credit: Getty Images.)
Tue, September 21, 2021
World gas prices surge
Today small energy firms among those struggling to stay afloat as world gas prices spiral. Ed Butler hears from Peter McGirr, who runs Green energy, a UK gas and electricity firm supplying about a quarter of a million households. Higher energy prices could lead to all types of additional business challenges. Sven Holester is the Norwegian President and CEO of Yara, Europe's second largest producer of commercial fertiliser. He says the spike in energy prices has already affected his firm's production. The cost of higher gas is affecting food prices, fertiliser, even abattoirs. But is it all Russia's fault? We ask Dieter Helm, professor of economic policy at the University of Oxford. Producer: Benjie Guy (Picture: The Slavyanskaya compressor station, the starting point of the Nord Stream 2 offshore natural gas pipeline.)
Mon, September 20, 2021
Lebanon in dire need
The new Lebanese government has been in place for a week, but with the economy still spiraling, Lebanese people lack confidence anything will be done in the short term to relieve the extreme economic crisis. Mohamed El Aassar, Middle East journalist with Fortune Magazine, tells the BBC's Rebecca Kesby how the country’s economy got to be in such a dire state. Reporter Houshig Kaymakamian outlines exactly who makes up the new Lebanese government, and why Lebanese people don’t trust them to enact any meaningful reforms. Beirut restaurateur Aline Kamakian describes daily life trying to run a business in the country, and economist Diana Menhem explains just how dangerous the present moment is, and what needs to change. Producer: Frey Lindsay. (Picture: The first batch of Iranian fuel oil arrives in the city of Baalbek in eastern Lebanon on September 16, 2021. Picture credit: Sleiman Amhaz/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Sat, September 18, 2021
Business Weekly
On Business Weekly, we hear how internal research at Facebook found that social media was harming the mental health of teenage girls. In the UK, the Royal Society of Public Health is calling for social media companies to identify which pictures have been digitally altered. Also, green investing or green washing? We hear from a former Blackrock investment officer who says corporate social responsibility policies are not helping to create a carbon-zero economy. Plus, our correspondent in Kenya goes stargazing to learn how African tourism operators are trying to attract domestic customers and diversify their businesses. And, as Broadway theatres reopen, we find out how the first night went - and what the future may hold. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, September 17, 2021
The business of seed banks
Increasingly scientists are using genetic material from wild plants to make agricultural crops more resilient to climate change. To find out how, Rebecca Kesby heads to the Millennium Seed Bank for the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, in the south of England. There she meets Dr Chris Cockel, one of their project coordinators. We also hear from Asmund Asdal of the Global Seed Vault, which is located in a mountain on the archipelago of Svalbaard, between mainland Norway and the North Pole. We speak to Dr Shivali Sharma, who is developing climate resistant varieties of pigeon pea, a staple crop in many parts of rural India. And Mohamed Lassad Ben Saleh, farmer in Tunisia, tells us how breeding crops that combine properties of indigenous wild varieties has improved the quality and yield of his crops. Producers: Clare Williamson and Benjie Guy (Picture: a hand holding seeds. Credit: Getty Images.)
Thu, September 16, 2021
The US and its trillion dollar infrastructure bill
The physical infrastructure of the United States is crumbling and businesses there are feeling the effects. So why is this bill that aims to restore roads, bridges and communications facing such a treacherous political road ahead? Successive Presidents have tried and failed to get something done about it. Now President Biden is having a go. A farmer in Mississippi tells Will Bain about the impact poor roads have on his business. He also hears from Emily Feenstra from the American Society of Civil Engineers who outlines just how bad the situation is and from the former Democratic Governor of Pennsylvania Ed Rendell who now co-chairs the infrastructure think-tank Building America's Future. (Picture credit: Getty Images)
Wed, September 15, 2021
The future of vaccines
The founders of German biotechnology company BioNTech were researching how to fight cancers using messenger RNA, "the unloved cousin of DNA", when covid-19 first appeared and they realised mRNA could be used to make a vaccine for the disease. Financial Times journalist Joe Miller has been following the company since just before the pandemic and tells Rebecca Kesby how they created the first covid-19 vaccine. Could mRNA help cure other diseases and improve vaccine access to low income countries? We ask Oksana Pyzik of the UCL School of Pharmacy. And how might the technology change the whole pharmaceutical industry? We hear from Dr Richard Torbett, CEO of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry. Producer: Benjie Guy (Picture: a collection of mRNA covid vaccines. Credit: Getty Images.)
Tue, September 14, 2021
Rethinking tourism in Africa
Tourism in Africa, even before the pandemic, was still not bringing in as many visitor dollars as it might. But, from stargazing trips to plans for a brand-new museum of evolution, we hear from the people changing perceptions around holidays in sub-Saharan Africa. Safari tours aren't going away, but the industry is changing and that's good news for Africa's underperforming tourism sector. Vivienne Nunis hears from Susan Murabana, CEO of The Travelling Telescope under the stars just outside Nairobi, Dr. Muchazondida Mkono, a Zimbabwean academic and lecturer in tourism at the University of Queensland Business School, and from famous Kenyan paleoanthropologist Richard Leakey. (Image credit: Supoj Buranaprapapong, Getty Images.)
Mon, September 13, 2021
Does sustainable investing make any difference?
Is corporate social responsibility, so called "greenwashing", really changing carbon emitting businesses or just making it look that way? Canadian businessman Tariq Fancy used to work as Blackrock's Chief Investment Officer for sustainable investing. He tells Ed Butler why he thinks CSR isn't a good enough tool to achieve a net zero economy. (Picture: Two climate activists from Extinction Rebellion talk to each other outside the Bank of England during a protest. Credit: Getty Images.).
Sat, September 11, 2021
Business Weekly
In this edition of Business Weekly, we look at why one of the poorest countries in Latin America, El Salvador, decided to make Bitcoin legal tender. We also find out what happened when the cryptocurrency crashed on the first day it was rolled out. We hear about the devastating economic effect of covid in Kenya as it rolls out further curfew restrictions. Also, in a few weeks’ time, the matriarch of European politics, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel, will step down. We hear what issues are playing on the minds of German voters as they get ready to head to the polls. And for years Lamu, Kenya’s ancient trading port, has been in decline. But government hopes the opening of a vast, new facility means it can be a commercial superstar once more. Plus, the chief executive of Babbel, Arne Schepker tells us why the company is listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and whether lockdowns have impacted on people’s desire to learn languages. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, September 10, 2021
Where have the UK's lorry drivers gone?
The UK's suffering a huge shortage of lorry drivers, but where have 100,000 drivers gone? The shortage is now having an impact on everything from chicken in restaurants, to mattresses in furniture shops, fuel at pumps and even beer in pubs. So what's going on? We hear from drivers, driving trainers, retailers and the wholesale industry and what's causing the shortfall and what can be done to solve it. Picture credit: Getty Images
Wed, September 08, 2021
Reviving Kenya’s ancient trading port
Lamu, once a bustling gateway to the Indian Ocean, has seen its fortunes decline in recent decades, not least because of its position near the border with Somalia, and the threat from militants. But earlier this year a new deep sea port was opened, which, the Kenyan government hopes, will make Lamu a commercial superstar once more. Vivienne Nunis takes a tour of the port with Dolly Okanga from Kenya Ports Authority. We also speak to Famao Shukry about a special kind of sea turtle in the area, and from Atwaa Salim from the Lamu Marine Conservation trust, who explains why the area’s mangroves are so significant to the economy and the environment. Picture: Dolly Okanga from the Kenyan Ports Authority. Credit: Vivienne Nunis / BBC
Tue, September 07, 2021
Where next for AI?
AI will be the defining development of the 21st century and in the next two decades it is set to transform our lives. Kai Fu Lee, a former CEO of Google China and AI pioneer tells us that the technology will revolutionise health and education and has the power to create great wealth but it also has a dark side. AI he says, can pose huge risks like when used in autonomous weapons. Kai Fu Lee believes that we are now at a turning point, and is urging society to wake up to the benefits and the existential threats. (Image: Kai Fu Lee, Image credit: Getty Images)
Mon, September 06, 2021
Kenya and coronavirus
During coronavirus, while case numbers have seemed relatively low, there’s been a huge economic impact on many Kenyans. We hear from the BBC’s Michael Kaloki about the particular challenges of the Kibera slum, from single mother and Kibera resident Josephine, who Business Daily has heard from several times since the start of the pandemic. We also hear how reverse migration has meant that some Kenyans have returned to rural areas. Chris Macoloo the Africa director for the international development organisation World Neighbors explains. (Photo: Kibera resident Josephine. Credit: Vivienne Nunis / BBC)
Sat, September 04, 2021
Business Weekly
On Business Weekly, we hear from the World Meteorological Organisation which has been tracking weather-related disasters for the last 50 years. We look at the economic and human cost of extreme weather - and ask if anything, really, can be done to protect ourselves against it. Covid has claimed yet more victims in India as the economic hardship brought by the coronavirus sees a rise in the number of child brides forced into marriage. We hear from a young girl who resisted her family’s attempt to marry her off to an older man. Plus, filming for the latest Mission Impossible film has been put on hold multiple times over the last 18 months thanks to coronavirus cases on set as well as covid restrictions. But now, Paramount Pictures is suing its insurance company, saying the resulting pay-out doesn’t begin to cover its losses. And as more of us head back to the office, whatever will we wear? Business Weekly is produced by Matthew Davies and presented by Lucy Burton.
Fri, September 03, 2021
Should you trust reviews?
When are reviews real and when are they fake? We'll be asking a range of guests whether it's ok to be paid to do a review and how online sites can detect fraudulent write ups. We’ll also hear why negative feedback can be good for a business in the long run. Elizabeth Hotson speaks to James Kay, head of corporate communications at Tripadvisor, Carolyn Jameson, chief trust officer at Trustpilot and Michael Hanney, founder of Review Solicitors. We also hear from restaurant pr Hugh Richard Wright and Alison Edgar, author of 'The art of getting what you want.' Plus, Cynthia Giles from Cut Throat Marketing explains why negative reviews aren't necessarily bad for business. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Sarah Treanor (Picture: A mouth and comment symbols. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, September 02, 2021
OnlyFans flip flops on porn
Why did one of the world's best-known porn provider platforms, OnlyFans, decide to ban porn? The controversial site has become a global phenomenon over the last five years, but its decision to outlaw adult content got everyone talking. It appeared to bow to pressure from financial services companies and anti-porn groups. Then it changed its mind. We look at the pressures the company is under and also at the business logic of internet porn. We speak to content creators Jessica Starling and Alana Evans, President of APAG; Mike Stabile, Director of Public Affairs at the Free Speech Coalition and Alexander Konrad from Forbes. BBC reporter Noel Titherage talks us through his investigation of the site. (Image: OnlyFans logo; Image credit: Getty Images)
Wed, September 01, 2021
Life after Messi: FC Barcelona's financial mess
How did one of the world's biggest sporting brands end up in such a financial mess? FC Barcelona's collapse, from European Champions League winning juggernaut, to unable to register its players under salary cap rules took less than a decade. So how did it take so little time for one of football's giants to fall so hard? We explore that with club members and supporters, as well as the Financial Times journalist Simon Kuper, the author of a new book about Barcelona; Barca, the Inside story of the world's greatest football club. Picture credit: Getty Images
Tue, August 31, 2021
Child marriage is getting worse in India
Closed schools and economic hardship due to Coronavirus are seeing more young girls married off. We’ll hear from a young girl who managed to resist her family’s attempts to marry her to an older man. But many other young girls are not so lucky. Anindit Roy Chowdhury of Save The Children India estimates tens of thousands of such marriages may have already taken place during the pandemic, often with illegal dowries being exchanged for the young girls. Dr. Kriti Bharti, a leading activist for children’s rights, the peculiar economics of Indian marriages, along with some surprise consequences of the pandemic, gives parents a strong incentive to marry their girls off young, even in secret. And economist Dr. Monika Chaudhary reflects how this crisis highlights the longer-running tragedy of how the economic system India denies girls the chance of proper schooling. (Image credit: Getty Images.)
Mon, August 30, 2021
Is office wear dead?
Many of us are preparing go back into the office but after more than a year of working from home for a lot of people, have we forgotten how to dress professionally? Or are we chomping at the bit to put on the armour that is traditional office wear? Or it time to entirely rethink the whole concept of office dress codes? Presenter, Elizabeth Hotson strolls down London's Saville Row to meet tailor Richard Anderson and stylist Lizzie Edwards gives some us tips on how to dress to impress. Deirdre Clemente, a historian who specializes in clothing and fashion at the University of Nevada tells us why March 2020 marked a huge shift in sartorial expectations and photographer Victoria Rose describes how her approach to fashion shifted during the pandemic. Plus Vivienne Nunis and Anastasia Wanjiru in Nairobi, Kenya explore shifting norms in workplace clothing. (Picture of a suit fitting via Getty Images) Producer: Elizabeth Hotson
Sat, August 28, 2021
Business Weekly
While the eyes of the world are on Afghanistan and the US withdrawal, the American Vice President is trying to generate some headlines of her own during a charm offensive in South East Asia. We’ll hear what she’s been saying and what she hopes to achieve. Zambia has a new president and he’s made some big promises. Can he afford to keep them? And do you feel like time is just running away from you? Or perhaps it has slowed down to an unrelenting crawl? We’ll hear how our brains interpret time - and what we can do to make it work better for us. Business Weekly is produced by Clare Williamson and presented by Lucy Burton.
Fri, August 27, 2021
From 'nudge' to 'sludge'
Nobel laureate Richard Thaler talks about why his and Cass Sunstein's 'nudge' theory needs a re-boot.
Thu, August 26, 2021
Life under the Taliban
Gaisu fled the Taliban when she was 18. Now she's fleeing again. Speaking to the BBC's Tamasin Ford, Gaisu recounts being engaged to the son of a local warlord at age 6, fleeing to the United States at 18, and then returning as a civil servant after the Taliban were toppled. She recounts her time as the only female journalist at a local radio station as a teenager, how she butted heads with the Taliban and how her mother inspired her to be a feminist from a young age. We'll also hear how in the post-Taliban era Gaisu worked to get more women into public and government roles. And she tells Tamasin how she feels now, seeing the country come fully under Taliban rule once again, and women once again disappearing into the margins of society. (Image credit: A woman in Afghanistan in 1996. Image credit: Getty Images.)
Wed, August 25, 2021
Sexism, tribalism and housing
Finding a place to live in Nigeria’s big cities. Finding somewhere to live can be stressful wherever you are in the world. But in Lagos, Africa’s fastest growing city, add in sexism, tribalism and stumping up more than a year’s worth of rent in advance. Are these practices making it an impossible place to live and what is being done to try and change the situation? Tamasin Ford speaks to Stephanie Chizoba Odili and Chiamaka Okafor who both, as single women, had problems finding a place to rent. She also speaks to Uchenna Idoko, the Executive Director of the Centre for Gender Economics in Lagos. She says Nigeria's patriarchal structure dictates how marriage is viewed as the single most important social custom, awarding women both respect and status - and that it has to change. And Ugo Okoro is the co-founder of Muster, a housing app that allows people to rent out their rooms in Lagos, Abuja and Kalabah. He says they are working hard to change the narrative by eliminating prejudice, sexism and tribalism so there is no more discrimination. (Picture credit: Adeyinka Yusuf/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Tue, August 24, 2021
The economics of the Taliban
The economy of Afghanistan is collapsing as remittances and foreign aid dry up. As the militant Taliban consolidate their control over the country, it's unclear whether they will be capable, or even interested, in propping up the economy to prevent further humanitarian crises. Today on Business Daily, we're looking at how the economics of life under the Taliban. Professor Jonathan Goodhand of SOAS University of London, explains how the Taliban managed to generate revenues over the years since the US invasion, from local taxation on commodities, as well as support from sympathetic parties outside the country. Ian Hannan, a British mining engineer, says the Taliban has also benefitted enormously from mining in recent years. Now, the big question is whether they will be able to manage the country's entire economy, and Vanda Felbab-Brown of the Brookings Institution in Washington D.C. thinks Afghanistan cannot survive without the aid it has relied on for decades. Producer: Frey Lindsay (Image: Taliban militants in Kabul on August 16th, 2021. Image credit: AFP via Getty Images)
Mon, August 23, 2021
'Youngism' in the workplace
Age discrimination doesn't just affect the elderly. The BBC's Tamasin Ford speaks with Priscilla and Nadirah about the discrimination they've experienced as young people in the workplace. We'll also hear from Michael North, an assistant professor of management and organisations at New York University’s Stern School of Business, on the research he and his team have done showing the extent of 'youngism' in business. Also in the programme, consultants Lauren Rikleen and Elizabeth Houghton explain how young people can best navigate the workplace, even in the presence of discrimination. (Picture credit: Getty Images.)
Sat, August 21, 2021
Business Weekly
As the Taliban takes control of Afghanistan this week, we ask what the future holds for the country. The central bank governor, Ajmal Ahmady, who fled earlier this week, tells us about the days and weeks leading up to the takeover. Dr Weeda Mehran from the University of Exeter outlines how the country arrived at this point, and what the future could hold. She argues that unless the Taliban gains legitimacy internationally it will struggle to govern effectively or grow the economy. Plus, a new Alzheimer's drug has been approved by the FDA in the US, but lawmakers are looking at how and why it was approved so quickly. Apple’s decision to scan users’ phones for images of child abuse has privacy campaigners worried - and we’ll hear from the businesses busy preparing for Christmas 2021. Business Weekly is produced by Clare Williamson and presented by Lucy Burton. (Image: Afghans gather outside the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul to flee the country, Image credit: European Pressphoto Agency)
Fri, August 20, 2021
Rethinking time
All our lives are ruled by time and it's a fundamental part of our daily routines but what if we could make time go more slowly - or quickly? Adrian Bejan, a professor in thermodynamics at Duke University says that this is possible if we just open our minds to how we perceive change. And if we could make time last longer, what would be the most efficient way of using it? We get some tips from Laura Vanderkam a writer and speaker on time management. Plus, research scientist Christian Clot tells us about an experiment where all markers of time were taken away, including clocks, watches and sunlight - and what that could mean for how we live in the future. And casino designer and consultant, Bill Friedman explains how the idea of timelessness is put to practical use in casinos where professional gamblers want to feel that they're always in the moment. Picture: antique clocks, Picture credit: Getty Images Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Sarah Treanor
Thu, August 19, 2021
Controversial new Alzheimer's drug in the spotlight
After decades without progress, this June a new treatment was approved by the US Food and Drugs Administration - Biogen's Aduhelm. Ivana Davidovic looks into why this process has been so controversial that is now under investigation by a federal watchdog. Aaron Kesselheim, a Harvard Medical School professor, served on the FDA’s advisory committee that considered Aduhelm and voted against its approval. He explains why he decided to resign from his post and what consequences there could be for future research and also for Medicare and Medicaid for covering such an expensive drug. Geri Taylor has participated in the Aduhelm trial since 2015 and both her and her husband Jim believe that the drug has slowed her decline. Jason Karlawish - a practising physician, co-director of the Penn Memory Centre and the author of The Problem of Alzheimer’s book - says that more money should be spent on providing carers for the vast majority of Alzheimer's patients and that people should not be forced to choose between cure and care. PHOTO: 3d illustration of the human brain with Alzheimer’s disease/Getty Images
Wed, August 18, 2021
Should our photos and messages always be private?
Apple is to scan users' iPhones for images of child abuse. Privacy advocates are dismayed. They say it's a slippery slope to monitoring a wider range of content. Andy Burrows from the UK's NSPCC tells us why Apple's move is an important step in protecting children online, while India McKinney from the Electronic Frontier Foundation explains why privacy activists like her are so worried. Namrata Maheshwari from the campaign group Access Now describes the battle between WhatsApp and the Indian governmentment over access to encrypted messages - an example of the wider battle between governments and tech firms over access to data. And Andersen Cheng, CEO of the tech company Post-Quantum, tells us about the time he invented a messaging app so secure it became the app of choice for a terrorist organisation. (Photo: Messaging apps on an iPhone screen. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, August 17, 2021
Killer robots
Are these the future of modern warfare and how concerned should we be? There are efforts to limit the development of these weapons. More than 50 nations met at the UN in Geneva this month to discuss a possible treaty. But neither Russia nor the United States have expressed any willingness to support the treaty. Ed Butler speaks to Professor Noel Sharkey who's been campaigning against the development of these weapons for 14 years and asked him how close any type of agreement was. Evanna Hu, CEO of AI firm, Omelas, and a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington, says this technology is now at the forefront of many countries' weapons development. And George Rey is a retired Lieutenant Commander in the US navy. He now works with private sector defence contractors supporting the development of autonomous weapons systems for the department of defence. (Picture credit: CARL COURT/AFP via Getty Images)
Mon, August 16, 2021
Sexism in the alcohol industry
Women in the drinks industry share their stories to try to change the way women are treated in pubs, clubs and bars. After many shared stories of harassment in craft breweries, the consensus is: enough is enough. Charlotte Cook, an experienced brewer, says the most important thing is to believe the stories, as some are being silenced by UK libel laws. Professor Chris Land from Anglia Ruskin University explains how certain workplaces can create unhealthy cultures, while bartender Nichola Bottomley says she was inspired to speak out after years of abuse working in pubs and bars. In the US, Victoria James, who was named the country's youngest sommelier at 21, has inspired other women working in wine to come together to speak out - and her book led to many responsible to resign. Becky Paskin, journalist and co-founder of Our Whisky, talks about the repercussions she faced after calling out sexism in the whisky industry. While Brad Cummings, co-founder of craft beer company Tiny Rebel tells us why it's no longer business as usual after the firm was called out by former employees online. (Images: Alcohol being poured. Art159 / Getty Images)
Fri, August 13, 2021
No boss, no problems
A young entrepreneur builds the ‘happiest company in the world’, an online shoe retailer so profitable that Amazon snaps it up for over a billion dollars. But what if the company’s profits and happiness could be boosted by a radical reimagining of the workplace? No more bosses, no more job titles, just creativity, equality and pure joy. We hear the story of Tony Hsieh, a visionary entrepreneur who abandoned social hierarchy in his Las Vegas-based shoe company. Could it be that the secret to happiness lies in making everybody equal? (Image: Tony Hsieh in 2013. Credit: Christopher Farina/ Getty Images)
Thu, August 12, 2021
Neurodiversity at work
Neurodiversity is a broad term inclusive of a number of very different things including, but not limited to, autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. And until relatively recently, it's not something that many workplaces have paid much attention to. But rethinking those spaces and the way neurodiverse staff can be best accommodated, can reap benefits for both the companies involved and their employees. Stand-up comedian Don Biswas, explains how his different way of thinking has shaped his comedy routine, we also hear about the trials and tribulations faced by successful author Elle McNicoll. PR executive, Yemi Gbadebo describes the impact of getting an ADHD diagnosis as an adult, and Professor Amanda Kirby explains why females in general are less readily diagnosed with all forms of neurodiversity. Plus, Paul Graham, Britvic's managing director for the GB region, tells us how his neurodiverse family has inspired his approach to the workplace and Professor Robert Austin from Ivey Business School in Ontario, Canada, describes how the understanding of cognitive differences is gradually improving. (Picture of a group of young people via Getty Images).
Wed, August 11, 2021
Electrifying Sierra Leone
Bringing electricity to his village for the first time, we speak with Jeremiah Thoronka in Sierra Leone about the challenges of energy inequality in the country. As a teenager, using kinetic energy, Jeremiah changed the lives of hundreds of people – we speak to them to talk about the difference between the two worlds – and why having more light often means more hours to earn money, in a country where economic success lags behind its neighbours. As three quarters of people in the world with no access to electricity live in Africa, UN energy representative Damilola Ogunbiyi explains why Africa energy poverty persists, despite some pockets of success, and answers why it takes ‘heroes’ like Jeremiah to change the lives of people, and why leaders should be stepping up. (Image: Lightning storm approaches Freetown, Sierra Leone. Credit: Michael Duff / Getty Images)
Tue, August 10, 2021
Bitcoin ban has opposite effect in Nigeria
Bitcoin’s popularity in Nigeria has exploded – with one of the youngest populations in the world, coupled with a high unemployment rate, its popularity was almost inevitable. Many young Nigerians are attracted to cryptocurrencies as an alternative and quick way to make money. Jude Umeano tells us that he lives his life using only Bitcoin, and that the government ban on funding crypto-based businesses only made him find loopholes. In fact, the government ban was likely the catalyst that increased its popularity, says Idayat Hassan from the Centre of Democracy and Development in Abuja. But there are still common, old fashioned concerns that make crypto investing so popular – and that’s mainly because it’s seen as a more secure and valuable currency in the global markets, says Eke Urum, chief executive of Risevest, one of Nigeria’s many investment platforms, which is still seeing users grow, despite the government ban. (Image: Bitcoin app in Lagos. Credit: Alexander Sanchez/ Getty images)
Mon, August 09, 2021
Doping in eSports: the billion-dollar pill
Doping is a growing problem in the multi-billion dollar industry of competitive online gaming – but remains an open secret. As prize money runs in to the millions, are more young people turning to drugs to stay focused to win? With major league eSport athletes admitting to mass doping, we speak with the founder of the world’s first eSport university programme - Dr Glenn Platt at Miami University, Ohio - who tells us the casual attitude to doping for performance enhancement. Varsity eSport players Jared Shapiro and Jennifer Frank tell us that doping using Adderall and Ritalin are engrained within eSports, making it to difficult ban, when so many gamers need them for medical purposes. Doping in eSport regulator Ian Smith from the eSports Integrity Commission says that the major tournament organisers and games publishers should foot the bill for testing – which is severely underfunded. But while the major names – DOTA 2, Overwatch and League of Legends – continue to grow in users during lockdown, Craig Fletcher, an eSports tournament organiser, says the business has less money to spend on regulation, after coronavirus stops people gathering for tournaments. (Image: Pixelated pills. Credit: non157 / Getty Images)
Sat, August 07, 2021
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we look into Lebanon’s economy - a country going through the worst economic crisis since its civil war of the 70s and 80s, with severe disruption to basic services and food shortages. We also hear from Zambia, where the pandemic has meant the usual cash-rich tourists have stayed away, and the economy is dominating the general election campaigns. Plus, we look at another attempt to narrow the gender gap in science and engineering careers, by introducing female role models into toy dolls. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Wed, August 04, 2021
China's Tech Crackdown
Is China's behavior towards its innovators separating the country further from the world? That's the question on everybody's mind, as the Chinese authorities continue to exert their political power over the country's rising tech companies. George Magnus, associate at the China Centre at Oxford University warns that despite increasing western interest in the Chinese market, foreign investors should be wary about political clampdowns on companies. But Angela Zhang at the University of Hong Kong, argues some of the government's actions could be seen simply as prudent regulatory moves against the power of Big Tech. And Ker Gibbs, Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, explains how businesses are navigating this intersection between politics and commerce. Producer: Frey Lindsay. (Picture: Logo of Didi Chuxing, China's largest ride-hailing company. Picture credit: Zhang Peng/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Tue, August 03, 2021
Why isn't Africa producing vaccines?
Less than two percent of Africa’s population has been vaccinated against Covid-19. Could homegrown vaccines be the solution? If so, why isn’t it happening? Is it an issue with patents and intellectual property rights? Is big pharma standing in the way? Or is it simply about money and profits? Things are beginning to happen. Last month a consortium was set up with the aim of opening an mRNA technology transfer hub in South Africa. If they succeed it will be the first regional mRNA vaccine manufacturing production facility in Africa. In this edition of Business Daily, Tamasin Ford hears from Marie-Paule Kieny, the chair of the Governance Board of the Medicines Patent Pool, Toyin Abiodun from the Tony Blair Global Institute for Change, based in Rwanda, and from Petro Terblanche, the Managing Director of Afrigen, the South African biotech company where the first African vaccines will hopefully be produced. (Producer: Joshua Thorpe) (Image: Health workers prepare a dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine during a mass vaccination campaign against the Covid-19, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Credit: Getty Images.)
Mon, August 02, 2021
GMOs - from 'Frankenfoods' to Superfoods?
Since they first appeared in the nineties, GMOs have remained wildly unpopular with consumers, who see them as potentially sinister tools of big agricultural companies. Ivana Davidovic explores if the new scientific developments might make them shed their bad image. She visits Norwich in the east of England where professor Cathie Martin has been developing genetically modified tomatoes for decades. One purple variety - unusually high in antioxidants - has shown high cancer-fighting properties in mice and is expected to be approved for sale directly to consumers in the US later this year. Alex Smith's Alara Wholefoods based in London was licensed by the Soil Association back in 1988 to produce the first Organic certified cereal in the world. He explains why he changed from anti-GMO campaigner to someone who believes this technology could help with the worst effects of climate change. Rose Gidado, the Assistant Director at the National Biotechnology Development Agency in Nigeria, explains why the country approved the world's first GM cowpea - also known as black-eyed pea - and why gene editing and genetically modifying staple crops could help combat malnutrition. Marta Messa from the Slow Food movement is particularly concerned about the implications of intellectual property rights behind some of the genetically engineered produce. And professor Fred Gould, who chaired a large study into safety of GMOs for the National Academy of Sciences in the US, warns that this technology is not a silver bullet for solving all of our environmental and health problems. PHOTO: Genetically modified tomato created by professor Cathie Martin at the John Innes Centre/Ivana Davidovic/BBC
Sat, July 31, 2021
Business Weekly
This week the major technology companies posted record-breaking quarterly results, as they reaped the benefits of a world in lockdown. However, as politicians seek to curb their power, will they be able to keep making such vast amounts of money forever? Also on Business Weekly, we hear why more of us are quitting our jobs, why the price of coffee is close to a seven-year high and whether rental fashion is really good for the environment. Plus, from near bankruptcy to the Bangles via The Police – the legendary music producer Miles Copeland tells us about his long and successful career in the industry. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, July 30, 2021
The rise of digital therapy
Mental health care apps have boomed during the pandemic. But can receiving therapy through an app ever be as good as face to face? And do they raise concerns over our privacy? Tamasin Ford speaks to Brad Kettridge, founder and CEO of the mental health care app Brightside as well as the co-founder of the Oliva app, Sancir Sahin, which is aimed at businesses. We also hear from writer Julie Peck who suffers from bipolar disorder on why she sought help from one of these apps. John Torous, director of the digital psychiatry division at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, and Heleen Riper, professor of eMental-Health and Clinical Psychology at the Amsterdam University Medical Centre, discuss some of the concerns around privacy and effectiveness of digital mental health care. (Image credit: Getty Images).
Thu, July 29, 2021
Miles Copeland's life in the music business
Lessons from nearly fifty years producing and managing bands, with industry veteran Miles Copeland III. From brilliantly promoting his brother's band The Police, to founding a record label for all the misfits in the industry: the Buzzcocks, the Cramps, The Go Go's, R.E.M., The Bangles, and many more; the American-born, Lebanon-raised record executive, and now the author of the memoir 'Two Steps Forward, One Step Back', tells the BBC's Ed Butler how he built his empire with music nobody else wanted. Producer: Frey Lindsay. (Picture: Stewart Copeland, Andy Summers and Sting from The Police at the A&M offices after signing a record deal. Their manager, Miles Copeland is 3rd from left. Picture credit: Richard E. Aaron/Redferns via Getty Images.)
Wed, July 28, 2021
The billionaire space race
Why Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk are battling it out among the stars. Ed Butler speaks to Brad Stone, author of the book Amazon Unbound, about Amazon founder Jeff Bezos's lifelong obsession with space, and to Christian Davenport, space reporter for the Washington Post, about the growing rivalry between the worlds two richest men over government space contracts and the future of the space economy. Former astronaut Janet Kavandi tells us why, like Elon Musk, NASA has Mars colonisation in its sights. (Photo: Jeff Bezos among Blue Origin’s New Shepard crew after flying into space on July 20, 2021. Credit: Getty Images)
Tue, July 27, 2021
The great resignation wave
Has the pandemic encouraged more of us to quit our jobs? Rebecca Kesby speaks to Anthony Klotz, associate professor at Texas A&M University, who says the US is about to face a wave of resignations, as many people re-evaluate what they want from a job after months of lockdowns. Ben Kiziltug from the HR software company Personio tells us why companies who managed their staff poorly during the pandemic risk losing workers now. But Zeynep Ton from the MIT Sloan School of Management explains why there might not be a long-lasting shift in power from employers to employees. (Photo credit: Getty Images)
Mon, July 26, 2021
Just how bad is rental fashion?
Rental fashion is in the spotlight when it comes to climate footprint. A new study suggests it might not be the silver bullet as once thought, but environmental journalist Lucy Siegle cautions the study is too limited to give a blanket judgment on the rental industry overall. Meanwhile, Christina Dean, of the charity Redress, argues that the potential for rental fashion marks a revolutionary step in the way we think about our clothing. Eshita Kabra, founder of By Rotation, the world's first social fashion rental app, says people around the world could easily solve the fashion industry’s problem with the clothes already in their wardrobe. And sustainable stylist Susie Holland argues that there is a wealth of value stored up in second-hand and recycled clothing. (Picture: Clothes hanging in the wardrobe. Picture credit: Getty Image.)
Sat, July 24, 2021
Business Weekly
In this episode of Business Weekly, we look at the use of vaccine passports in the tourism and hospitality industries. Owning a 'pass sanitaire' is now compulsory to visit certain sites in France and nightclubs in the UK have been told they can only admit people who’ve been double-jabbed come September. We also have a special report on the Champlain Tower in Miami, where nearly a hundred people died last month when the building collapsed. What lessons should be learned? And Jeff Bezos blasted into space this week, hot on the heels of fellow billionaire supersonic joyrider Richard Branson. We’ll ask why. Business Weekly is produced by Matthew Davies and presented by Lucy Burton.
Fri, July 23, 2021
Will the Tokyo Olympics pay off?
Japanese businesses are struggling with the lack of tourists during the Tokyo Olympics. Despite delaying the games by a year, the authorities have still been forced to hold the games without spectators, as Covid cases rise. Seijiro Takeshita at the University of Shizuoka explains why the Japanese were hoping for a successful Olympics, and why it’s now become so controversial. Also in the programme, we’ll hear from a number of businesses affected by the lack of tourists. And Yoko Ishikura, Professor Emeritus at Hitotsubashi University, describes how big sponsors have resisted pressure from the Tokyo government not to withdraw support for the games. (Picture: The logo for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Picture credit: Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images)
Thu, July 22, 2021
The future of the Afghan economy
What will the US withdrawal from Afghanistan mean for the economy? The relative security provided by US forces and others over the past 20 years not only helped many grow successful family enterprises but also attracted foreign investors and larger business ventures. Rebecca Kesby speaks to Saad Mohseni, Chief Executive of MOBI, a media company that launched the first private radio station playing pop music in Afghanistan, which had been banned under the Taliban. What does he make of the sudden withdrawal of American troops? Among those with the most to fear are businesswomen. Under the US influence women and girls enjoyed greater freedom, access to education and many built successful companies of their own including Ayeda Shadab who has her own fashion brand. In the past few weeks she has received several death threats just for running her own business. And Iskander Akylbayev, Executive Director of the Kazakhstan Council on International Relations, tells Rebecca that increased instability in Afghanistan may affect the whole regional dynamic. Photo: A vendor displays a traditional outfit at a shop in Koch-e Morgha street in Kabul on June 15, 2021. Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, July 21, 2021
The long shadow of Covid on kids' education
The pandemic has left an indelible mark on the education of children around the world. Today on Business Daily, the BBC's Nisha Patel speaks with young people in the UK and India about how their futures have been affected by missing education. We'll also hear from Maya Sukumaran, Principal of Gitanjali Senior School in Hyderabad, India, for her thoughts on how online learning is changing students' relationships and behaviour. And Hans Sievertsen, an economist at the University of Bristol, lays out some of the expected impacts to the economy of all this lost learning. (Picture credit: Getty Creative.)
Tue, July 20, 2021
Vatican reforms see a cardinal on trial
Ten people, including an Italian cardinal, will face a Vatican trial for alleged financial crimes. Cardinal Angelo Becciu has become the highest-ranked cleric in the Vatican to be indicted over charges that include embezzlement and abuse of office. The charges relate to a multi-million-dollar property purchase with church funds in London. Ines San Martin, Rome reporter for Crux, outlines the charges and what we know about the trial so far. This will mark the first time such a high-ranking Vatican official will face trial over financial crimes, but Gerald Posner, an investigative journalist and author of God's Bankers: A History of Money and Power at the Vatican, explains financial scandals themselves are nothing new for the Vatican Bank. And Massimo Faggioli, Vatican historian and Professor of Theology and Religious Studies at Villanova University, explains how this trial sits among Pope Francis' larger efforts for reform. (Picture: Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu and Pope Francis. Picture credit: Reuters.)
Mon, July 19, 2021
Chefs call time on abusive practices
Is it time the old trope of the brilliant, angry chef gets retired for good? Michelin-starred chefs are often famous for their skill, precision and passion. But many of them are just as well-known for their tyrannical and belligerent behaviour towards staff. With ever more allegations surfacing of abuse and harassment in Michelin-starred restaurants, leaders in the industry are calling for the culture to change once and for all. Eric Rivera, owner and head chef at Addo in Seattle tells the BBC’s Tamasin Ford about the abuse he’s seen and experienced first-hand, and why he thinks it’s always white male chefs who get praised for this behaviour. Asma Khan, chef and owner of Darjeeling Express in London, says chefs should be stripped of their accolades if found to be abusive. Chef and TikTok star Poppy O’Toole says she’s worried that without positive change, an industry ravaged by Covid-19 might never fully recover. And Viviana Varese, chef and owner of Viva in Milan, tells Tamasin how she built an inclusive and supportive environment for her staff, while still achieving Michelin-star excellence. Producer: Frey Lindsay (Photo: Chef holding a pan in flames. Credit: Getty Images)
Sat, July 17, 2021
Business Weekly
Global economies are starting to see the return of inflation after a long period of low prices and low interest rates. Central bankers seem pretty calm so far, but some economists are getting jittery. We’ll find out why prices are rising and what can be done to steady the global economic ship. As the EU announces dramatic plans to curb climate change we ask what more financial institutions can do to play their part. We’ll hear how the fight against HIV/AIDS has progressed in the 40 years since it was first described in a medical journal. With the Olympics just around the corner could shoes worn by some athletes be giving them an unfair advantage? We’ll be looking at so-called ‘mechanical doping’. Plus, reporting from the garden of England, our reporter looks at the company developing new varieties of strawberries. Business Weekly is produced by Clare Williamson and presented by Lucy Burton. (Image: A gas station attendant fills a car in Peshawar, Pakistan, Image Credit: European Pressphoto Agency)
Fri, July 16, 2021
Amazon's fake reviews problem
Online marketplaces are being flooded with bogus reviews. Is the whole model of ecommerce under threat? Rebecca Kesby speaks to Neena Bhati from UK consumer group Which? about the ways unscrupulous sellers are generating fake reviews to boost sales of their products, and Amazon seller Janson Smith tells us the impact fake reviews can have on legitimate small businesses that depend on Amazon for their sales. Saoud Khalifah, CEO of FakeSpot, decribes the scale of the bogus reviews problem, and the threat it poses to the integrity of the ecommerce model. (Picture: Graphic of a five-star review, Credit: Getty Images)
Wed, July 14, 2021
Carlos Ghosn speaks out
Carlos Ghosn was the superstar chairman of the Nissan-Renault-Mitsubishi alliance, one of the largest automakers in the world. Now, he’s an exile from the Japanese authorities in his home country of Lebanon. Ghosn sat down with the BBC’s Simon Jack to discuss everything that happened between these two points: from his shock arrest in a Tokyo airport charged with financial crimes, to prolonged legal battles and his dramatic escape from Japan. (Picture: Former Renault-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn in Beirut on January 8, 2020. Picture credit: JOSEPH EID/AFP via Getty Images)
Tue, July 13, 2021
Why gin is still fizzing
From its early reputation as mothers’ ruin to its prime spot in upscale cocktail bars, we tell the story of the juniper-infused spirit. And as the gin craze in the US and the UK shows no sign of slowing, we ask where the next global hotspots will be. Dr Angela McShane of Warwick University tells Elizabeth Hotson how and why gin drinking became popular in the UK and Sandie Van Doorne, from Lucas Bols - which claims to be the oldest distillery brand in the world - explains how the Dutch spirit, genever, fits into the story. Sean Harrison of Plymouth Gin explains how the company is taking on the new contenders in the market and we hear from up-and-coming brands; Toby Whittaker from Whittakers Gin and Temi Shogelola of Black Crowned Gin. Plus, we hear from Emily Neill, Chief Operating Officer at the IWSR which provides data and analysis on the beverage alcohol market. And a programme about gin wouldn’t be complete without a cocktail; William Campbell-Rowntree, bar supervisor at Artesian in London’s Langham Hotel, gives his tips for the perfect tipple. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Sarah Treanor (Picture of a gin and tonic with garnish; Picture via Getty Images)
Mon, July 12, 2021
Tokyo Olympics: Battle of the super shoes
As we head towards the postponed Tokyo Olympics, the world’s eyes will be on athletics. But huge controversy is brewing over a new type of super shoe which has led to a recent surge in track and field records. Ivana Davidovic asks whether runners' ability is becoming less and less important for success on the track? And what does that do the sport? US Olympian Mason Ferlic is worried that this is creating a division between the haves and the have nots and thinks that World Athletics should pander less to big brands and tighten regulation on running shoes. Canadian Olympian Madeleine Kelly talks about the unprecedented situation when rival brands allowed their sponsored athletes to run in Nike's super spikes, which are widely regarded as ahead of the pack at the moment. But they are not the only ones. Technology used to assist disabled athletes is now propelling their able-bodied counterparts to new heights. Running coach and former World Athletics official Peter Thompson - who also worked in shoe development for Nike and Hoka - says we are nowhere near the limit to where materials can go. He also sees these super shoes as "mechanical doping." While professor of sports innovation Mike Caine warns that to limit innovation would be a commercial disaster for any sport, as viewers and sponsors are attracted by tumbling records. (Photo: Male sprinter starts from blocks in athletics stadium. Credit: Getty Images)
Sat, July 10, 2021
Business Weekly
Authorities in China ordered Didi to stop taking new ride sharing customers, and banned the sale of the app, because of data sharing issues. Investors in the newly floated company are furious, but this isn’t the first kind of regulatory intervention China has made. So what’s behind this crackdown? As numerous sporting events take place this weekend we’ll be looking at the political power wielded by sports stars and what that means for the brands that sponsor them. We’ll head to a geo-thermal plant in Cornwall, UK, to find out whether the industry could provide secure, reliable renewable energy in a de-carbonised world. Plus, we’ll hear from the woman trying to make amends for her family’s part in slavery. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Clare Williamson. (Image: A vehicle of China's ride-hailing platform Didi Chuxing, Credit: Getty Images)
Fri, July 09, 2021
Climate change: the financial fight
When it comes to climate change, what is the world of finance doing? Manuela Saragosa speaks to Jan Erik Saugestad, executive vice president of Norwegian asset managers Storebrand, whose investments must meet certain environmental, social and governance standards. This week also saw finance ministers from the V20 group of countries most vulnerable to climate change meet virtually. We talk climate justice with former president of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, currently speaker of the country's parliament. Produced by Benjie Guy. (Picture: coins in a jar with plant on a table. Credit Getty Images.)
Thu, July 08, 2021
Bustling or bust: How is the City of London coping after Brexit?
It’s been six months since the UK’s transition period from the EU ended. While the two sides hammered out arrangements for how various goods-producing sectors would continue to trade post-Brexit, financial services was largely left out of negotiations. We hear from the boss of Euronext, the head of securities trading at the London Stock Exchange, the man who authored a government-commissioned report on reforming the city’s listings regime, and a host of others to find out whether Brexit has been good or bad for the industry. Presented by: Victoria Criag Produced by: Stephen Ryan, Nisha Patel, Jonathan Frewin
Wed, July 07, 2021
The tyranny of merit
Can anyone make it in the modern western world with hard work and good education? No, says Harvard philosopher Michael Sandel in conversation with Ed Butler. He says liberal politicians have lied to us, which is why populist politics has taken root. So what's the solution to the failure of globalisation? (Picture: Michael Sandel addresses a theatre audience. Credit: http://justiceharvard.org)
Tue, July 06, 2021
Player power
Footballers and other athletes are standing up to the sponsors who subsidise them. Ed Butler speaks to Laurence Halsted, a former British Olympic Fencer who wrote about his concerns about the Games in Rio de Janeiro, in 2016. Sports marketing consultant Tim Crow says the involvement of people's politics in sport makes the usual bonanza for sponsors at events a lot more problematic. Martyn Ziegler, chief sports reporter at The Times, thinks the Olympics may find itself under growing pressure as players blur the messages that brands and governments are hoping to promote. Produced by Benjie Guy. (Picture: Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo at a Euro 2020 press conference. Credit: Getty Images.)
Mon, July 05, 2021
Tapping the sun beneath our feet
Could geothermal energy provide a big missing piece in the puzzle of how to decarbonise the world economy? And do we need the help of oil companies to make use of it? Laurence Knight visits the UK's first ever geothermal power project at United Downs in Cornwall. The project's managing director Dr Ryan Law says it could provide the perfect complement to solar and wind energy, while the resident geologist Hazel Farndale explains how and why they have drilled down more than 5km into Cornwall's granite beds. The last two years have seen a rush of investment and interest in geothermal energy, much of it from the traditional oil and gas fracking industry. Renewable energy journalist David Roberts describes the many innovative new techniques being developed to drill even deeper down into "superhot" rock, including lasers and microwaves. Programme contains a clip from the film There Will Be Blood, produced by Ghoulardi Film Company and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. (Picture: 3D rendering of the Earth's core and mantel; Credit: Getty Images)
Sat, July 03, 2021
Business Weekly
Global tourism has lost trillions of dollars during the pandemic, leaving communities who rely on the sector desperate. Now that parts of the world are slowly starting to open up again, Business Weekly asks whether travel can be done safely and sustainably in a pandemic. We hear from an intimacy co-ordinator whose job it is to ensure actors feel comfortable with their sex scenes. She tells us why having someone in their role is vital in the post #metoo era. And menopause has been called the last workplace taboo as women all over the globe drop out of the workforce as they struggle with symptoms. Should businesses give them more support and, if so, in what form should that be? Plus, should we think about trading with aliens? The Pentagon hasn’t ruled out the existence of extra-terrestrials and some people are already thinking about what we could sell them! Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, July 02, 2021
Do oil companies have a future?
Shareholders and courts pile pressure on the oil majors. Amid falling demand for oil and targets to cut carbon emissions, what role if any do companies like ExxonMobil and Shell have in a decarbonised world? Manuela Saragosa speaks to Aeisha Mastagni from the California State Teachers' Retirement System - a shareholder in ExxonMobil pushing the company to change its long-term strategy. Lord Browne, former boss of BP, tells us why oil companies need to diversify if they want to survive. And Charlie Kronick from Greenpeace explains why the winds have turned agains the oil industry in recent weeks. (Photo: Oil drilling operations in California. Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, July 01, 2021
The rise and rise of plant milk
There's a bewildering world of milk alternatives. From oats, to tiger nuts, the list of varieties keeps growing but not everyone’s delighted about the march of plant based drinks. Some dairy farmers worry that the rural economy is at risk and just don’t get the hype. Elizabeth Hotson talks to plant-based pioneers, Camilla Barnard, co-founder of Rude Health and Alpro's General Manager Sue Garfitt. We also hear from ex-beef and dairy farmer Jay Wilde who now produces oat milk at his farm in Derbyshire in the north of England. And Carrie Mess, a Wisconsin dairy farmer and speaker on agriculture puts forward the case for cows' milk, whilst Deborah Valenze, author of Milk: a Local and Global History tells us the story behind milk consumption. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Sarah Treanor (Photo of various kinds of plant milk. Photo Credit: Getty Images).
Wed, June 30, 2021
How would we trade with aliens?
A US government report on UFOs has said there was no clear explanation for the unidentified aircraft, but did not rule out extra-terrestrial origin. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been invested into searching for signs of alien intelligence. Ed Butler speaks to Lisa Kaltenegger, an astronomer at Cornell University, who has analysed the closest, most likely planets to support alien life. If, or when, we do make contact what could we trade with our new neighbours? David Brin, a science fiction writer and astro-physicist says our culture would be the most easily exchanged aspect of our civilisation. And what about making money on Earth from the continued interest in aliens? Juanita Jennings is the public affairs director for the town of Roswell, New Mexico. The site of the most famous UFO sighting. (Picture: a UFO over the Mojave desert, USA. Credit: Getty Images.)
Tue, June 29, 2021
Menopause - the last workplace taboo?
Women across the globe are leaving their jobs and sometimes careers because they are unsupported at work when they go through the menopause. But could mandated menopause leave re-dress the balance? Ivana Davidovic speaks with Lauren Chiren, who abandoned her high-flying career in finance because her menopause symptoms were so bad she thought she had early onset dementia. Karen Arthur, who also left her job as a teacher due to menopause and now hosts the Menopause While Black podcast, says that women of colour are particularly worried about being sidelined at work. British MP Carolyn Harris discusses her "menopause revolution", while Emily Mutua, an HR executive from Nairobi, says that menopause conversations in Kenyan workplaces are almost non-existent. Plus Tanuj Kapilashrami from Standard Chartered explains what the big multinational bank has in store to support its staff, and Australian professor Marian Baird asks whether some of the menstrual and menopause policies could actually increase discrimination. (Picture: Co-workers having a meeting in the lobby; Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, June 28, 2021
How to be Idle
Is crushing office boredom a curse or an opportunity? Manuela Saragosa hears from David Bolchover, a writer who spent years at major insurance firms with almost nothing to do all day, and Tom Hodgkinson, founder of the Idler magazine, on why being idle is so important to the creative process. (Photo: A man relaxing at work, Credit: Thinkstock)
Sat, June 26, 2021
Business Weekly
On this edition of Business Weekly, we look at Tokyo 2020 and hear how the organisers of the Olympic Games are trying to get spectators into the venues, whilst trying to minimise the risk from coronavirus. We also take a look at legal challenges brought against employers who are insisting workers have a Covid vaccination before they re-enter the office. We hear from both an international legal expert, and the lawyer representing a group in Texas who want to take their case all the way to the Supreme Court. Plus, we hear how getting the nuance wrong in corporate communications can be costly, and what businesses can do to ensure they respect and understand local cultures. Business Weekly is presented by Sasha Twining and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, June 25, 2021
Co-ordinating intimacy
There is a new job on film sets, a job that has grown out of the #MeToo movement. Manuela Saragosa speaks to Ita O’Brien, the woman who created the guidelines for the role, about why every film set needs an intimacy co-ordinator. Could their inclusion as members of the production team become a legal requirement? We hear from Elizabeth Wagmeister, Variety magazine's senior correspondent in Los Angeles. Producer: Sarah Treanor and Benjie Guy (Photo: Actors Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan in the film Fifty Shades of Grey. Credit: Alamy)
Thu, June 24, 2021
Can we trust Big Tech with our health data?
Big Tech companies such as Google, Amazon and Microsoft are moving into AI healthcare services in a big way. But can we trust private, for-profit, companies to use our data properly? Prof Allyson Pollock, director of the Newcastle University Centre for Excellence in Regulatory Science in the UK, tell the BBC's Ed Butler she is alarmed at the rate healthcare services are being privatised in the country. And Nicholson Price, Professor at the University of Michigan School of Law in the US, warns that the stakes are different when tech companies collect healthcare than say marketing information. But Dr Robert Wachter, Professor and Chair of the Department of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, says that though these concerns are real, it may be a price we have to pay for better healthcare in the future. Producers: Frey Lindsay, Laurence Knight. (Image credit: Getty Creative)
Wed, June 23, 2021
How to communicate
Communicating with people from different cultures is a potential minefield. We’ll discover what can happen when things get lost in translation and we’ll also get some tips on how to avoid major clangers and embarrassing faux pas. We hear from Nazir Ul-Ghani, the Europe, Middle East and Africa director of the software tool Workplace from Facebook and Roger Kreuz, a professor of psychology at the University of Memphis, tells us what can go wrong when companies try to expand into new territories without doing their homework. Plus, we get insights from Lisa Thorne, founder of TogetherGlobal.com who helps personnel in international banks better understand their colleagues in different countries; she also tells us about an unfortunate misunderstanding of her own in 1980s Tokyo. Plus, Jab Borgstrom, worldwide chief creative officer of advertising giant BBH Group, explains how his language skills and dyslexia help him approach communication in a very unique way. Plus Bibek Shrestha from NIC ASIA Bank in Kathmandu, Nepal, tells us how a simple greeting can say a thousand words. Presenter: Elizabeth Hotson Producer: Sarah Treanor (Picture of people talking via Getty Images).
Tue, June 22, 2021
Healthcare's digital future
Is medicine about to be transformed by digitisation and artificial intelligence? Ed Butler has his cognitive abilities assessed by a computer app. Thomas Sawyer of the health tech company Cognetivity, which developed the AI-assisted app claims it will help revolutionise the early detection and treatment of Alzheimer's. But pretty soon our wellbeing could be monitored by multiple apps - on our phones, in our bathroom scales, even in our toilets - streaming data back to computerised healthcare systems. That's the vision of Robert Wachter, chair of the department of medicine at the University of California in San Francisco. But he also tells Ed of the many pitfalls that could await us in this data-driven future. Plus Sarah Deeny of The Healthcare Foundation in the UK raises concerns about the sensitivity of some of the data being handled. Producer: Laurence Knight (Picture: Doctor holds a tablet computer showing an X-ray image; Credit: Getty Images)
Mon, June 21, 2021
The economic life of Gaza
Israel's military says it struck a thousand targets in Gaza last month, in response to more than 4,300 missiles it claims were fired into Israel. With the latest bout of violence now over, the reconstruction can begin once again. Manuela Saragosa speaks to Samir Mansour, who saw his famous Gaza bookshop destroyed before his eyes. International donors want to help rebuild businesses like Samir's. Elizabeth Campbell, director at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, describes how this can be done without also enabling the Hamas government, which is labelled a terrorist group by the US, EU and Israel. Israel and Egypt maintain a blockade on Gaza that has rendered commerce with the outside world almost impossible. But could the economy have great potential, were the blockade ever lifted? Asmaa AbuMezied of Oxfam points to Gaza’s fledgling startup scene, while Manal White of the social enterprise Zaytoun in London highlights the opportunity for Gazan agricultural exports. Producer: Frey Lindsay (Picture: Samir Mansour stands before the remains of his bookstore in Gaza; Credit: Marcus Yam/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images)
Sat, June 19, 2021
Business Weekly
This week, two Americans went on trial in Japan, accused of smuggling former Nissan chief executive, Carlos Ghosn, out of the country in a music equipment box. On Business Weekly, we ask why they did it and if Mr Ghosn will ever face Japanese justice. We hear from the broadcaster, author and activist, Gretchen Carlson, about the role she played in the #metoo movement. She sued her former boss at Fox News for sexual harassment and says more has to be done to protect women in the workplace. And how do you deliver bad news? We have a special report on the art of making employees redundant. Do you deliver bad news over Zoom or in person? Or just cancel their work passes? The answer of course is neither - we learn how to do it properly. Plus, as hundreds of prospectors descend on the small village of KwaHlathi in the South African province of Kwa-Zulu Natal, we hear how the discovery of what might be diamonds could potentially transform lives in one of the country's poorest rural areas. Business Weekly is presented by Lucy Burton and produced by Matthew Davies.
Fri, June 18, 2021
China's birth rate problem
After decades of restrictions, China's leaders want women to have more children. But will a 'three-child' policy prevent a decline in China's population? Ed Butler speaks to Professor Stein Emil Vollset from the University of Washington School of Medicine about the dramatic population declines expected in many countries including China. China demographics expert Yong Cai explains why the declining birth rate will be difficult to reverse. And author and journalist Mei Fong tells us why the one-child policy of the past will make it even harder for Chinese authorities to promote larger families in the future. (Photo: A nurse holding a baby at an infant care centre in Yongquan, in Chongqing municipality, in southwest China; Credit: Getty Images)
Thu, June 17, 2021
Game over for test cricket?
Do audiences, sponsors and broadcasters still have the patience for five-day matches? Or is the future now with the shorter one-day and Twenty20 formats? Rahul Tandon speaks to Geoff Allardice, general manager of cricket for the International Cricket Council, about his hopes that the inaugural World Test Championship final this year will reinvigorate traditional long-form cricket, as well as Lalit Beriwala, director of the major cricket sponsor Shyam Steel, one of the tournament's major sponsors. But the world's biggest cricketing nation, India, has moved firmly over to the faster-moving - and more profitable - three-hour T20 matches. We hear from cricket writer Sharda Ugra, player-turned-commentator Deep Dasgupta, and sports business analyst Mudar Patherya. (Picture: Indian batsman Virat Kohli leaves the field after being dismissed in a test match against New Zealand; Credit: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)
Wed, June 16, 2021
Sexual harassment: Can smart tech help?
Can technology help victims of sexual harassment feel more confident in reporting their perpetrators? Ed Butler hears how the #MeToo movement inspired Ariel Weindling to start up a reporting app called #NotMe. Meanwhile, Neta Maidev's own experience of sexual harassment eventually led her to create another app - Vault Platform. But can HR departments sometimes be part of the problem? That's the view of Nuala Walsh, founding director of the Global Association of Applied Behavioural Scientists. But Rachel Suff of the UK's Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development takes issue with. Plus, Dr Frances Frei of the Harvard Business School, who has helped a range of US firms reassess their workplace culture, says there's much still to be done. Producer: Nisha Patel (Picture: Woman looking uncomfortable next to a colleague in the office; Credit: Prot Tachapanit / EyeEm)
Tue, June 15, 2021
Gretchen Carlson: My fight to stop sexual harassment
Five years ago she successfully sued her former boss at Fox News, Roger Ailes, for sexual harassment. Now, American broadcaster Gretchen Carlson tells Ed Butler about how she helped kick off the #MeToo movement, why major American companies continue to gag employees and protect workplace predators through non-disclosure agreements, and how she is fighting in Washington DC to make the working environment safer for women. Producer: Nisha Patel (Picture: Gretchen Carlson; Credit: Stephanie Cowen)
Tue, June 15, 2021
The global youth unemployment crisis
The UN has predicted it could take two years for the world job market to recover from the Coronavirus pandemic. The hardest hit could be young jobseekers, who had almost got a foot in the door before it closed. We’ll hear from young people around the world, who have found their employment prospects shattered by the pandemic. We’ll also hear from Guy Ryder, Director-General of the International Labour Organisation, about how the pandemic could exacerbate inequality around the world. At the same time, Mamta Murthi of the World Bank breaks down how progress for young women in the workplace could be rolled back by decades. Finally, Daniel Susskind from Oxford University, explains why those lost jobs might never come back. Producer: Frey Lindsay (Image credit: Getty Creative)
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