World Business Report

Lula's win shocks Brazil's financial markets Oct 26, 2026 537 Lula da Silva wins fourth term as President in dramatic Brazil election comeback, but his opponent refuses to accept the result.India legalises E100 ethanol fuel for vehicles.And London's famous Oxford Street shopping district is going traffic

Oil hits $117 a barrel Oct 23, 2026 1586 In the U.S., President Trump's war in Iran has caused pain for low-income Americans. As voters go to the polls for nationwide Congressional elections, people are struggling to pay for food and fuel. The cost-of-living crisis deepens. Brazilians will be voting for a new president on Sunday in a run-off election. The current president - Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva - is being challenged by right-wing S

AI Spending Fears Hit Global Stock Markets Oct 23, 2026 538 Technology stocks face renewed pressure across US and Asian markets as investors grow increasingly concerned about the huge sums being poured into artificial intelligence. Luke Wilson examines what's driving the uncertainty. Also, Greece becomes the latest country to introduce a social media ban for children. And Volvo announces 2,000 job cuts after reporting a quarterly loss of more than $560 mi

Facebook-owner Meta fined $25 billion Oct 22, 2026 1587 A New Mexico judge has fined Meta $25 billion for its handling of user data. It is the latest large legal payout for the tech firm, following an $18 billion settlement reached with California over child safety, and comes as it releases its latest financial results.Vulnerabilities in the PHP programming language have led to websites being down in several countries, including Japan, Finland and the

Cyber crisis continues for second day, with race to secure world's websites Oct 22, 2026 1586 For the second day, many websites around the world — including those of government agencies and banks — are down. These are due to vulnerabilities in PHP — a programming language that much of the internet relies on. One government cyber security official in Finland tells us how his government is preparing for cyber-attacks. We go to Virginia to speak to a housing realtor about the housing market.

Major PHP Security Flaw Triggers Cyberattacks Oct 22, 2026 537 Millions of hacking attempts have been detected after a major security flaw was discovered in PHP. We hear from the cybersecurity firm behind the discovery and a business whose website remains offline.Also, Electronic Arts shuts down BioWare after 31 years, cutting 400 jobs.And Airbnb is banning lengthy checkout chores for guests.Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Bisi Adebayo

Facebook-owner Meta fined $25 billion Oct 21, 2026 1587 A New Mexico judge has fined Meta for its handling of user data. It's the latest large legal payout for the tech firm, following an $18 billion settlement reached with California over child safety, and comes as it releases its latest financial results. Vulnerabilities in the PHP programming language have led to websites being down in several countries, including Japan, Finland and the UK. Around s

India’s biggest share sale Oct 21, 2026 538 India telecoms company Jio Platforms has launched what is expected to be the country’s biggest ever share sale. The company, which is part of Reliance Industries and backed by India’s second richest man, Mukesh Ambani, aims to raise around $3.2bn in its initial public offering (IPO). Also, protests in Portugal over housing affordability spill on to the streets. And why Starbucks China has run out

Cost of Living Dominates US Midterms Oct 20, 2026 1587 With two weeks until the US midterm elections, Luke Wilson examines how rising living costs could influence voters and what the latest economic figures reveal.Also, Netflix reports its latest results after a difficult few months marked by job cuts and executive departures.And could Africa's economy grow faster than China's for the first time in decades? Presenter: Luke Wilson Producers: Neil Morro

France takes a hard look at its finances Oct 20, 2026 536 French lawmakers are continuing their scrutiny of next year's budget as the country reels from days of violent unrest. What began as protests over the cost of living and conditions in schools has escalated into some of the worst rioting France has seen in years.Thousands of people have been arrested, businesses have been looted and buildings set alight. We hear why the boss of one of the world’s

French businesses count the cost of riots Oct 19, 2026 1586 Around 2,000 businesses have been affected by riots and looting across France. We hear from those caught up in the unrest and examine the economic impact.Also, can Europe's biggest mobile operators build a rival to Elon Musk's Starlink?And Saudi Arabia postpones a major investment conference as Houthi attacks disrupt business in the kingdom.Presenter: Andrew Peach Producers: Neil Morrow and Bisi A

AI boom fuels China’s exports Oct 19, 2026 536 The world's second largest economy grew by 4.5% in the third quarter, but worries persist in China over weak spending at home. China’s economy grew by 4.5% in the third quarter of the year, thanks to the AI boom driving investment in Chinese exports. But global trade tensions and continued concerns at the level of consumer spending at home hang over the future of the world’s second largest econo

Students protest in France, as fiscal concern mounts Oct 16, 2026 1544 Jean-Claude Trichet , former president of the European Central Bank, joins the programme to discuss economic stability. We hear his thoughts on the student protests in France and that country's fiscal struggles. Should the ECB intervene or can France sort this out on its own? And voters in the U.S. are worried about housing, polls suggest. But what role will it play in shaping the midterms? One re

Tesla shares rise after 'flying' car launch Oct 16, 2026 536 Shares in Tesla have climbed after Elon Musk's carmaker launched its new 'flying' Roadster car. EU leaders are meeting in Brussels, with its two biggest members - France and Germany - calling for tougher action against Chinese imports, particularly chemicals and plastics. And violent clashes between police and protestors are entering their fourth day in the Albanian capital, Tirana, as protests ag

The Tesla Roadster is finally here Oct 15, 2026 1589 Tesla is set to show off its latest EV, the Roadster, nearly nine years after it first unveiled the next-generation version of the electric sports car. We'll be hearing if Tesla's bet on an ultra luxury sportscar will pay off.It's another bumpy day for tech stocks as investors question who will pay for the AI spending boom.And why bold flavours such as Tequila ’Rita, Chilli Mango and Watermelon Sm

Brazil cuts working week from six days to five Oct 15, 2026 537 Brazil's Congress has approved a constitutional amendment that will cut the working week from 44 hours to 40 and give employees two days off per week without cutting their salary. The change represents the biggest overhaul to workers' rights since Brazil's return to democracy in 1988. Also on the programme, a global sell-off in memory-chip stocks has deepened, with South Korea's benchmark KOSPI in

US inflation is on the rise again Oct 14, 2026 1587 US inflation figures are higher than forecast in September. With the price of diesel and food increasing, lower income Americans have been hit the hardest. We hear from a saw manufacturer in Iowa and a computer repair shop in New York on how they’re coping with the higher prices. In China, many leave home for big cities in search of work and livelihoods. Our China correspondent reports Beijing on

US inflation heats up Oct 14, 2026 536 US inflation rose more than expected, climbing to 3.7% from 3.4% in the year to September. We'll look at what's driving the surprise increase in prices. China's exports are getting a boost from strong demand for AI-related products and electric vehicles. And despite tougher US sanctions, American exports to Cuba have reached record levels. Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Barbara George

IMF warns of global GDP shock if AI bust happens Oct 14, 2026 1573 IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva warns that an AI bust could wipe 1% off global GDP, rising to 1.8% in the U.S. The warning came as global tech and semiconductor stocks fell. We go to Ohio, where growing opposition to data centres is becoming a key issue ahead of the US midterm elections. And singer Raye questions whether the ticketing industry is fit for purpose.Presenter: Vishala Sri-P

Formula 1 heads back to Africa Oct 13, 2026 537 Rwanda will host the F1 African Grand Prix in a 10-year deal starting in the early 2030s. We delve into why F1 wants Africa back on the calendar. Earnings season gets underway with results from some of America's biggest banks. And Netflix has secured the rights in Spain and Andorra for the next men's football World Cup. Presenter: Luke Wilson Producer: Barbara George

Counting the fuel costs of two major conflicts Oct 13, 2026 1587 As fuel prices continue to put pressure on the global economy, we ask which has the greatest impact: the conflict in the Middle East or Russia's invasion of Ukraine? Hundreds of supermarkets across France were hit by a cyber-attack that has left supermarkets empty. We're joined by a journalist in Paris who tells us how shoppers have reacted. And why are so many of us watching horror movies? What d

Missile attacks disrupt Saudi flights Oct 12, 2026 540 We examine the impact of Houthi missile attacks on Saudi Arabia's aviation industry and wider economy, with thousands of flights cancelled. Also, Ukraine faces fresh power cuts following Russian attacks, as Washington's decision to import Russian diesel draws criticism. And a cyberattack on French supermarkets leaves fridges defrosted, food destroyed and businesses facing millions in potential

Trump strikes deal with Putin on diesel Oct 9, 2026 1587 President Trump claims Russia has agreed to supply the United States and other countries with millions of tonnes of diesel. And as Russia continues to attack Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, President Zelensky has condemned the deal which will also ease sanctions so that Russia can supply the diesel. We get the latest from an economist. The President and Vice-Chairman of Microsoft Brad Smith has

Microsoft hit by US green card restrictions Oct 9, 2026 535 We examine new US restrictions on green card sponsorship by Microsoft and other tech firms.Also, Adidas sues Australian fashion brand White Fox over its four-stripe designs And thieves steal $5.5 million worth of wine from a winery in Tuscany.

French FM tries to allay fiscal fears Oct 8, 2026 1737 France is under growing pressure over its finances. The government is spending much more than it brings in through taxes, while borrowing becomes more expensive. We speak to a French businessman to get his thoughts. We hear from the World Trade Organisation's chief economist, Robert Staiger about the significance of Artificial Intelligence in global trade. The BBC's Cyber correspondent Joe Tidy ex

Is AI powering a global trade boom? Oct 8, 2026 537 The World Trade Organization has more than doubled its forecast for global goods trade growth this year, with AI-related products driving much of the strong performance.Also, Samsung and TSMC report bumper results as demand for AI chips continues to grow.Plus, France's finance minister addresses concerns over rising borrowing costs.

US mortgage rates highest since 2023 Oct 7, 2026 1587 Buying a home in America has just become even more expensive as mortgage rates have gone up for a seventh straight week to their highest level in nearly three years. We'll find out what's pushing the rate up further.We hear from the first black woman in the world to own and run a billion-dollar company who says she had to forgive herself for being 'black, female and smart' when setting up her busi

Indian businesses brace for higher interest rates Oct 7, 2026 537 Interest rates rise in the world's most-populous country for the first time in four years: will it curb inflation? Also, are hybrid vehicle prices about to jump in the EU? World Business Express - Finance, economy and business news from BBC journalists around the world. The stories that matter: World Business Express brings you the essentials on the fast-changing global economy. What forces are dr

Paramount takes over Warner Bros in mega deal Oct 6, 2026 1577 Paramount Skydance has officially taken over Warner Bros Discovery in a $110bn merger that is set to change the entertainment industry. We hear what this mean for cineme goers across the globe.As Lionel Messi prepares to play his final match for Argentina, we look at the extraordinary fortune the football superstar has built alongside his record-breaking career.And we will tell you why the price o

Education protests continue in France Oct 6, 2026 536 Mass protests and school blockades have swept across France as teenagers, teachers, and unions demand more investment in dilapidated classrooms and smaller class sizes.India says its trade talks with the United States have now reached a “plateau”, after Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal wrapped up negotiations in the US without the breakthrough many had hoped for.OpenAI’s chief strategy officer has a

Markets rally after surprise Brazilian election result Oct 5, 2026 1587 Brazil's presidential election fails to return a frontrunner. This sets up a second-round runoff later this month between right-wing Senator Flávio Bolsonaro finishes and incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.There’s increasing concern about the pressures on airlines as fuel forces up costs. One airline, AirBaltic has announced more than 500 jobs lossesAnd we look at the financial fallout

Spain's housing crisis leads to snap General Election Oct 5, 2026 506 Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez seeks new mandate after Parliament rejected housing reforms. The election will be held on November 29.More oil is leaving the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman than in the days before the US/Israel war on Iran began. Will oil prices start to fall?And workers in India from different sectors are being used to train robots of the future.

Why has Nike lost its shine? Oct 2, 2026 1587 In a bid to head off a US diesel export ban, G7 countries agree to release 100mn barrels of diesel and crude. We ask if the plan will be enough to keep global supplies flowing. And a home for one euro in some of the most beautiful regions of Europe sounds like a steal, but what does it really cost to take on an abandoned house? Picture: Mina Kim, REUTERS

G7 agrees to release diesel from strategic reserves Oct 2, 2026 537 Thieves target holders of cryptocurrencies in their own homes. As crypto coins have risen in value, reports of these violent robberies linked to digital assets have emerged in the UK, France and the US.And British pop star Olivia Dean has been accused of copying the melody of Bill Withers' soul classic Just The Two of Us in a legal case filed in California.

G7 agrees to release diesel from strategic reserves Oct 2, 2026 537 Thieves target holders of cryptocurrencies in their own homes. As crypto coins have risen in value, reports of these violent robberies linked to digital assets have emerged in the UK, France and the US. And British pop star Olivia Dean has been accused of copying the melody of Bill Withers' soul classic Just The Two of Us in a legal case filed in California.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal walkout could cost millions Oct 1, 2026 1586 One of the biggest names in world sport, Cristiano Ronaldo, has left the Portuguese national teams training camp, amidst speculation he could retire from international football. Ronaldo is the most famous Portuguese footballer of all time, the most well paid athlete in the world according to Forbes and his net worth is estimated at $1.2 billion. So how much is he worth on and off the pitch to the

US government borrowing costs hit the highest level since 2002 Oct 1, 2026 537 Government borrowing costs are rising sharply around the world, led by a sell-off in US government bonds. The yield on the benchmark 10-year US Treasury has climbed above 5.3%, its highest in more than two decades. Also, a US judge has cleared the way for Paramount’s $110 billion takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery. Manchester City’s main sponsor, Etihad Airways, is considering legal action against

Ukraine introduces emergency power cuts in Kyiv Sep 30, 2026 1586 Ukraine has begun introducing emergency power cuts in Kyiv as Russia steps up its attacks on energy infrastructure. Kyiv has been preparing for a renewed onslaught before winter begins, by building fifteen small scale power plants in heavily fortified concrete bunkers. We find out how businesses are operating. Also, will a major new oil refinery in Kenya increase oil sales in Africa? Andy Burn

Kenya breaks ground on a major new oil refinery Sep 30, 2026 537 The construction of a $16bn dollar oil refinery in Lamu, coastal Kenya is expected to create about 60,000 jobs and be completed within three years. It hopes to provide 1,000 megawatts of power generation, twice the capacity of his Lagos refinery, serving the needs of the Lamu refinery and beyond. It’s being backed by Africa’s richest man, the Nigerian billionaire oil tycoon Aliko Dangote. But the

Trump: AI companies to self-regulate Sep 29, 2026 1586 On Tuesday Trump, Musk and tech CEOs signed a document they have referred to as the "Accord on Super Intelligence." We go to the U.S. to hear the latest. Manchester City has been found guilty of all charges by the Premier League. A former chairman of the club tells us there's only one appropriate punishment. And in Spain young and old have protested for housing rights — after an 87-year-old was fo

US ban on Canadian exports comes into effect Sep 29, 2026 536 A US ban on several Canadian imports, including alcohol, dairy and motorcycles, has come into effect as a trade war between the two neighbours drags on. We hear from two business owners about the impact on their US sales.Also, inflation in Spain has risen more sharply than expected, hitting the highest rate in more than three years.And FIFA v UEFA continues, as football's world governing body accu

Musk's SpaceX Starship orbits earth Sep 28, 2026 1586 Starship carried out two laps of the Earth – rather than the planned six – before SpaceX decided to end the mission early and bring it back to Earth. There was concern launch would not go ahead as planned when engineers found an issue with one of its six engines before the mission started. In the U.S. there is backlash against data centres. We go to Pennsylvania to speak to a veteran activist abou

How will the latest US-China trade deal impact businesses? Sep 28, 2026 537 The US and China are cutting tariffs on billions of dollars’ worth of goods. What does it mean for trade between the two countries? Plus, what’s pushing oil prices higher again? And why are some people in Ethiopia’s Tigray region struggling to access their money? Presenter: Bisi Adebayo Producer: Victoriya Holland Editor: Naomi Rainey

President Xi goes to Washington Sep 23, 2026 537 President Trump will welcome China's leader to the US capital ahead of talks ranging from tariffs to energy costs to the future of AI.The trip is Xi's first state visit to the US in just under a decade and his third meeting with Trump since the US president began his second term in office.Meanwhile, the head of the International Monetary Fund has warned that advanced economies need to reduce borro

Could a shortage of tankers keep oil prices high? Sep 22, 2026 537 The prices companies are paying for shipping the fuel have risen 12 fold in the last few months.In that time Brent Crude oil has fallen below 100 dollars a barrel, relieving some pressure that the rising prices have put on inflation around the world.But there are concerns that the shortage in tankers could reverse those falls.Also, Volkswagen's top executive in China says the country's domestic ca

Trump's favourite word is back Jul 24, 2026 525 New import taxes have been placed on more than 60 trading partners of the United States. Businesses in Australia and Norway give us their reactionTech stocks continue to struggleand should AI have a 'kill-switch'Presenter: Barbara George Editor: Justin Bones

Petrol and gasoline prices set to go higher Jul 23, 2026 537 The price of oil has gone back above $100 a barrel which could mean higher prices at the pump. It's after attacks on at least one tanker in the Red Sea by Iranian-backed HouthisPlus a shortage of eggs in Myanmar has led to prices soaringand the footballers rewarded for winning the world cup in Tomatoes Presenter: Gideon Long Senior Producer: Naomi Rainey Editor: Justin Bones

Brazil hit by US tariffs Jul 22, 2026 536 New 25% US tariffs on selected Brazilian imports are raising trade tensions. What impact could they have on Brazil's economy?Also in the programme Malaysia's ambition to become Southeast Asia's next data centre powerhouse. And why a campaign encouraging Japanese office workers to wear shorts is causing controversy. Presenter: Gideon Long Producer: Barbara George Editor: Naomi Rainey.

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