World Business Report
The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.
Episodes
America at 250: swifties and soccer fans turn up
Swift wedding rumours, FIFA World Cup crowds and extreme heat hit New York on America’s birthday weekend. With electricity demand soaring, we hear what is happening on the ground.We are more than halfway through the 2026 World Cup, but ticket resale platforms have been causing problems for some fans, who say their tickets were cancelled at the last minute or never arrived. We hear from fans and ex
Taylor Swift's wedding and 4th July - big money celebrations take over NYC
A big birthday, a big wedding and big temperatures...it's a big weekend in the United States for citizens and business owners.
Also, Russia takes more steps to tackle its growing fuel shortages.
And why a Japanese mayor is facing criticism for taking maternity leave.
Presenter: Bisi Adebayo
Producer: Victoriya Holland
Editor: Justin Bones
How much could Taylor Swift's wedding cost?
With just 57,000 posts created in June, half the number expected, the US jobs market is showing signs of cooling. We talk to a restaurant owner about why it's getting harder to hire.
And the latest on the computer gremlins causing chaos at European airports. We hear from the family of a businessman delayed by 12 hours and a travel expert: Are glitches in the new EU-wide border control system going
Warnings you could get stuck in queues on EU borders
Is the US jobs market starting to lose momentum? Also, Europe's new border system is leading to long queues at some airports this summer. And India has told Meta to delay a new WhatsApp feature over fraud concerns. Presenter: Bisi Adebayo
Producer: Victoriya Holland
Editor: Justin Bones
Why are central banks still worried about inflation?
As Eurozone inflation lowers to 2.8% in June, heads of the US and European central banks have say inflation isn't beaten yet. We look at why top bankers are still worried about inflation and what's actually driving it. Also on the programme we speak to one of the Gulf's oldest oil companies about why the Gulf oil industry will have to build back better to secure supply chains. And as one of Califo
EU imposed €3 fee on small parcels in hit to Shein, Temu and AliExpres
The European Union has introduced a customs charge of just over $3 on low value items bought outside of the bloc. We hear from the EU commission MP who explained us why these measures are so important. The US president Donald Trump made more than $1 billion last year, from business dealing in cryptocurrency. And the toxic pufferfish with razor sharp teeth that are invading the waters around Greece
The Yen: How low can it go?
The Yen has hit a forty year low, despite the Japanese government spending billions on attempts to prop it up. We look at the impact on domestic business and exporters.Also, as sportswear giant Nike reports its full-year results, we speak to a brand expert to find out why the world's biggest sportswear name appears to have lost its way.
And as the world's favourite safe haven loses its shine, we
Japan's currency hit its weakest level in nearly 40 years
Japan's Yen drops to its weakest level in nearly 40 years. One business owner in Tokyo tells us the company is struggling to hang on.Are further interest rate rises on the way for the Eurozone? We ask a leader at the European Central bank forum.And a new deal for steel as the EU prepares to bring in tighter rules.
Could This Be Britain's Next Prime Minister?
Andy Burnham has unveiled his plan to spread economic growth beyond London as he moves closer to becoming Britain’s next prime minister. We ask whether devolution — giving more power to England’s regions — could boost growth, and what it would mean for businesses. Also on the programme, the US Supreme Court blocks President Donald Trump’s attempt to remove a Federal Reserve governor, in a ruling t
South Korea bets $880bn on chips and AI
South Korea has announced plans to pump in least $880bn to strengthen its semiconductor industry and artificial intelligence capabilities in the coming years.And Comcast prepares to spin off NBCUniversal and Sky in a major media shake-up.
New York rent freeze: What next?
New Yorkers breathed a sigh of relief at the news of a rent-price freeze for a million apartments. In a recent win for Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a housing board approved his pledge to prevent leases from going up and we hear about what this means for both the landlords and tenants. Our market expert also explains the potential pros and cons of this. And, as Europe's heatwave persists with temperatures
Asia leads tech stock sell-off
Asia is bearing the brunt of the latest technology stock sell-off, as concerns that the excitement around artificial intelligence may have pushed prices too high.The late arrival of India's monsoon and below-average rainfall are causing concern for the country's 300 billion dollar agriculture sector.And King Charles’s property management firm, the Crown Estate, has made a profit of more than £1bn
What does the World Cup, Barbra Streisand, Levi's, and Heinz have in common?
FIFA is blocking logos from brands like Levi's, Heinz, and Beats at the World Cup. We find out why, and how the banned brands are turning the ban into a viral marketing moment.Micron Technology has overtaken Meta, Tesla, and Apple in market valuation, but most people have never heard of it. So what does this chipmaker actually do, and how much is it cashing in on the AI boom? The International Mar
Europe's heatwave: Too hot to tour?
Tourism is taking a hit as an intense heatwave grips Europe. Several countries have issued red weather alerts as temperatures soar. We hear from tourists and a tour guide sweating it out in Paris.Oil prices have fallen to their lowest point since the war began. But when will consumers feel it? Around the world, gamers are bracing to spend $80 on Grand Theft Auto VI.And we speak to the COO of Patre
Heatwave blasts western Europe
Record June temperatures have been recorded in several countries, with highs of 44C. As the continent swelters, workers struggle in the heat.Power failure in Russian occupied Crimea after more overnight drone raids by Ukraine.And prices for Grand Theft Auto 6 have been revealed.
Heatwave blasts western Europe
Record June temperatures have been recorded in several countries, with highs of 44C. As the continent swelters, workers struggle in the heat.Power failure in Russian occupied Crimea after more overnight drone raids by Ukraine.And prices for Grand Theft Auto 6 have been revealed.
Farming during Europe's intense heatwave
Farmers across Europe are trying to protect their crops as an intense heatwave grips the continent. Several countries have issued red weather alerts as temperatures soar.Meanwhile, an operation is under way to evacuate thousands of seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz.Why have fuel sales to the public been suspended in Russian occupied Crimea?We also look at how trade between the UK and the
Russia's economy is hurting
Ukrainian drone attacks are causing fuel headaches for Russian motorists. Fuel purchases are restricted in much of Russia, with petrol pumps running dry in occupied Crimea. Tech stocks around the world have fallen sharply, led by Elon Musk's rocket and AI firm SpaceX.And it's exactly ten years since the United Kingdom voted to exit the European Union.
UK PM announces resignation
Sir Keir Starmer says he will step down as Labour leader and UK prime minister. What does the political uncertainty mean for the British economy? Cape Verde has become one of the stories of the FIFA World Cup - what impact is the tournament having on its economy? And Alan Greenspan, the longtime chair of the US Federal Reserve, has died aged 100. We’ll hear from the former Bank of England governor
UK PM Resigns: What Business Wants Now
Keir Starmer announces he is stepping down as Britain's Prime Minister, triggering a Labour leadership contest at a crucial moment for the UK economy. We hear from Rain Newton-Smith, CEO of CBI on what businesses will be looking for next. Plus, how SK Hynix overtook Samsung to become South Korea's most valuable company, and a look back at the life and legacy of former US Federal Reserve Chair Alan
World Cup hydration breaks give advertisers advantage
The World Cup hydration breaks are giving players the chance to cool off, but we look at why this is an advantage for advertisers. Venice is now charging day-trippers up to $11 to enter the city in the latest efforts to tackle over tourism, we take a look at what impact this will have on local businesses. And the Toy Story 5 film is out today, we take a look at why the film's franchise has been a
India's biggest ever share offer
IPO aims to raise $4 billion for Jio Platforms hopes, the telecom unit of billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance. Is the UK economy 6% smaller as a result of voting for Brexit in 2016? And Iran says ships won't be charged for passing through the Strait of Hormuz during the 60 days peace negotiations period.
US lifts Iran naval blockade following US-Iran deal
The US has lifted its Iran naval blockade following the US-Iran deal. Both countries have signed a deal but what does it actually mean for the two nations? We head to Cuba where the government’s unveiled sweeping reforms, trying to steady an economy that’s really under pressure. And the Governor of Massachusetts has unofficially "legalised" the Scottish dish haggis, as the state continues to welco
Eyes on the Strait of Hormuz as oil tankers start moving
US and Iranian officials have signed a 'memorandum of understanding' to end the war which began in March. Oil and LNG prices are expected to fall as ship traffic resumes.Dozens of Ukrainian drones have struck the biggest oil refinery in Russia's capital Moscow. Many parts of Russia have suffered fuel shortages in recent weeks.And Cuba's Communist government has approved reforms to try and revive i
Is Russia running short on fuel?
Donald Trump’s new Federal Reserve chair, Kevin Warsh, has held interest rates steady at his first policy meeting, despite being appointed with a clear expectation that borrowing costs would fall. What does it mean for ordinary business owners in the States? And we look how motorbike couriers smuggling Iranian fuel into Pakistan, where riders say the war has triggered a new boom. Plus how does one
Ready, Fed, Go!
US Fed Chair Kevin Warsh who was appointed by Trump is to set to oversee his first meeting, but will he hold rates steady? In Japan, six major ice cream makers have been raided following accusations that they have unfairly raised prices. And the Boss of Mondelez who own Cadbury and Toblerone speaks on why he decided to not exit Russia despite their invasion of Ukraine. Presenter Sarah Rogers
Prod
SpaceX overtakes Amazon to become world's fifth most valuable firm
Elon Musk's SpaceX has overtaken Amazon to become the world's fifth most valuable company after a surge in its share price. Why are people keen to invest in commercial space?Also, Cuba's tourism feels the impact of US oil blockade as fewer people visit the country . We hear from a local tourist guide.And will AI replace jobs of young people? We hear from a father and daughter about the challenges
Why is consumer spending falling in China?
China's consumer spending and investment have fallen to levels unseen since the pandemic but what does that mean for their economy going forward? Also Donald Trump shares more details on that Iran-US deal at the G7. And we'll be finding out why tourism is declining in the Caribbean island of Cuba. Presenter Sarah Rogers
Producer: Barbara George and Aleeza Siddiq
How will a US and Iran deal affect global shipping?
The US and Iran agree deal to end war and could lead to supplies of gas and oil flowing more freely across the world. We hear from the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and from one of the world's biggest container shipping firms - Hapag-Lloyd.And as the UK ban socials for under 16's is that the right approach? And how it will affecting businesses?
Will energy prices come down after US and Iran deal?
The US and Iran have reached an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. We will be hearing what this mean for oil prices in the global market. In the UK there's a ban on under 16's on social media. The UK says it it going further than other countries to remove high-risk features on gaming platforms and livestreaming sites. And Starbucks across South Korea close for a staff history lesson - after
Elon Musk becomes the world's first trillionaire
Elon Musk has become the world's first trillionaire after SpaceX shares soared following the company's stock market debut in New York. Andrew Peach examines what's driving the company's remarkable rise from its Starlink satellite business to the enduring appeal of the Musk brand.Also on the programme, Switzerland is preparing to vote on proposals to limit population growth. But could restricting m
SpaceX Begins Trading in Landmark $1.8 Trillion Listing
Today is the day SpaceX begins trading on public markets after raising around $75 billion in one of the largest listings on record, valuing the company at nearly $1.8 trillion. Broader markets are also edging higher, with investors weighing whether enthusiasm around SpaceX is part of a wider surge linked to major AI-related listings still to come.There is also growing focus on the personal implica
It's official: 2026 is an El Niño year
El Niño has officially begun, according to scientists at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Will Bain examines what the climate phenomenon could mean for food prices, energy markets, economic growth and weather patterns around the world.
We'll also look ahead to Friday's huge Initial Public Offering in shares in SpaceX.
And the World Cup is under way. We hear from business
SpaceX Prepares for a Historic Market Launch
Wall Street is preparing for what could be the biggest IPO in history as SpaceX gets ready to begin trading on the public markets. We look at the final steps before launch, what investors can expect, and what the listing could mean for the wider technology and space sectors. Also on the programme, the European Central Bank has raised interest rates for the first time in almost three years as polic
US inflation hits three-year high
Gideon Long dives into the latest US inflation figures after prices rose at their fastest pace in three years. We hear from American business owners on the front line of rising costs.
We also turn to China, where inflation remains far lower than in the United States, and examine what the latest figures reveal about the strength of the world's second-largest economy.
And with the FIFA World Cup
US Inflation Hits Three-Year High as Energy Prices Surge
The cost of goods in the United States is rising at its fastest pace in three years, with inflation driven mainly by soaring energy prices since the start of the war in Iran. Economists say the energy shock is feeding through into broader price pressures across the world’s largest economy.Meanwhile, Taiwan’s TSMC, a key player in the global AI boom and the centre of the US-China tech rivalry, has
UK watchdog investigates mega takeover with Paramount and Warner Bros
The UK competition watchdog started the investigation into Paramount Skydance's $110bn takeover of Warner Bros Discovery. We ask the former CMA director how will it affect the deal?Also, why is Switzerland going to restrict the number of the population in the country?And we look into one of the most successful IPO - SpaceX.
China and North Korea: Strengthening Ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping has wrapped up a two-day visit to North Korea featuring military honours, public displays of friendship and talks with Kim Jong Un. While few concrete agreements emerged, the trip sends a clear signal that Beijing wants to strengthen its relationship with its isolated neighbour.Plus, Indonesia's central bank has unexpectedly raised interest rates in an effort to stabil
Another legal setback for Trump
A federal judge has overturned the $100,000 H 1B visa application fee ordered by President Donald Trump saying it's an unlawful tax.IATA, the airline industry's main body says it likely to miss its key emission target.And China's Xi Jinping is in North Korea. What's he after?
Markets Rattled by Tech Sell-Off and Middle East Tensions
Global stock markets have fallen sharply after a sell-off in technology shares combined with growing uncertainty over tensions in the Middle East.South Korea's Kospi index briefly suspended trading after plunging at the open, while Japan's Nikkei also suffered heavy losses. Plus, Chinese President Xi Jinping is in North Korea for talks with Kim Jong Un. We look at what the visit could mean for tra
Is the FIFA World Cup boosting the US job market?
US hospitality industry leads on new jobs growth, but is AI still impacting hiring for white-collar roles?Moscow says the Russian economy is proving resilient in the face of international sanctions - we hear how the economy hits the local business from the Russian business owner in St Petersburg.And the legacy of the co-founder of Netflix, Reed Hastings, who departs the streaming giant today after
US jobs growth way better than expected
US jobs growth was way better than expected last month. The world’s biggest economy added twice as many jobs as economists had forecast: 172,000 versus predictions of around 88,000. Many of the new jobs were in the hospitality sector as pubs, bars and restaurants ramped up hiring ahead of the World Cup. The figures cover the lead up to the tournament, being jointly hosted by the US, Mexico and Can
Why water bottles have been given a red card by FIFA
As Elon Musk's SpaceX seeks a valuation of nearly one-point-eight trillion dollars, which would make it the largest initial public sale in history, we find out what that could look like.Elsewhere Armenia has today secured €50m in aid from European union to offset Russian trade restrictions, we find out the impact on business.And as a Nepali man who went missing on Mount Everest is found alive... w
The US seeks to refloat its tariffs policy
The US proposes new duties of at least 10% on 60 countries in response to the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down Donald Trump’s earlier tariffs
US trade representative Jamieson Greer argues that the 60 nations, which cover most of the world including the European Union and Canada, have not done enough to crack down on forced labour.Plus, the OECD gives its latest assessment of the global econ
Toy Story is back!
More than 30 years after the original movie, Tom Hanks and Tim Allen are back as Woody and Buzz in the fifth instalment of one of the most lucrative franchises in film history. Plus, with inflation rising above 3%, is a rate hike back on the table for the Eurozone? And, Nvidia doubles down on Taiwan despite the self-governed island's tensions with China.
Nvidia “re-invents the computer” with new chip
Tech giant Nvidia says it will launch a new “superchip” for personal computers, marking a major new venture for the world’s most valuable company. Plus, Softbank eclipses Toyota to become Japan’s biggest company by market value, and we look at what a rise in fertiliser prices – triggered by war in the Middle East - means for farmers in India.
A slice of the AI pie
Workers at Samsung Electronics in South Korea have voted for a massive pay deal. It will mean some workers – particularly those in the AI chip department – receiving a bonus of more than $400,000. Also in the programme, why it's going to be a very expensive Eid al-Adha this year for Muslims due to global inflation.Presenter: Leanna ByrneProducer: Barbara George
Former F1 boss on Ferrari's electric gamble
Former F1 team manager Professor Andrew Graves gives us his take on Ferrari's electric gamble as they unveil their latest product, an electric vehicle they are calling the Luce. And we hear from an Indian fruit farmer as their mango crop is crushed by extreme weather.
Oura ring sets eyes on Wall Street
The Finnish company behind the brand Oura, the maker of the health and wellness tracking ring has now filed to become a public company in the U.S. The company is valued at about $11 billion. And Pope Leo has raised his strong concerns on the development of Artificial Intelligence.
Hike, Cut or Hold? What will the new Fed head do on interest rates
The new chair of the world's most powerful central bank is being sworn in at the White House today. Kevin Warsh becomes the 17th Chair of the Federal Reserve at a very tense moment for the US and global economies.He's an advocate for cutting rates. something President Trump has long demanded.Also, why were 2 boxes of Japanese Melons worth $36,500?
Inside Space X's IPO plan
Elon Musk's space X is going public, in what could be the biggest initial public offering in history. Leanna Byrne speaks to Dr Stephanie Hare about the significance of the IPO.We also hear from Azadeh Moshiri in India about why the cockroach has unexpectedly become India's new political mascot.
Trump leaves, Putin enters
Hot on the heels of the US President, the Russian leader is the latest to meet with President Xi in Beijing, signing over 20 agreements on trade and technology.The two leaders failed to come to an agreement on a long awaited Russian gas pipeline between the countries. China is Russia's top trading partner and also its biggest customer for oil and gas.Elsewhere, we hear from Greenland where Preside
Kenya's government cuts fuel prices after deadly protests
Deadly protests in Kenya have forced the government to cut diesel prices after a sharp jump in fuel costs, driven by supply pressures from the Middle East conflict.Roads into the Nairobi were blocked, tyres burned and public transport disrupted as anger grows over fuel hikes.A nationwide transport strike has now been called off for a week as negotiations take place.And what next for Elon Musk afte
Major rail strike brings New York to a halt
Long Island Rail Road workers walk out, leaving hundreds of thousands of commuters scrambling for alternatives and raising concerns about the wider economic impact of the disruption.Elsewhere, rising fuel prices around the world have led to a nationwide strike by public transport operators in Kenya. While in India the rupee has hit a historic low, with oil prices are up and imports becoming more e
What's life like for seafarers stuck in the Strait of Hormuz?
The ceasefire between Iran and the US is looking increasingly fragile after another day of attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. As tensions rise, so are concerns about the welfare of the 20,000 seafarers believed to be stranded around the passage.In Brussels, European finance ministers have been meeting to discuss the economic impact of the war.And why is the Met Gala, fashion's biggest night under a
GameStop wants eBay for $56bn
Video game retail chain GameStop has made a surprise $56bn bid to take over the online marketplace eBay. GameStop’s CEO says he plans to create a competitor to Amazon.Also, the US military says it’s started guiding ships through the Strait of Hormuz as part of President Donald Trump’s “Project Freedom”.And steel boss Lakshmi Mittal and vaccine maker Adar Poonawalla have bought a majority stake in
EU frees up money for Ukraine
The European Union has unlocked a $100 billion loan for Kyiv - money that’s been stuck for months. Hungary had been holding it up, arguing it wasn’t receiving Russian oil through a key pipeline that runs across Ukraine. That line was damaged after a Russian strike earlier this year, but Kyiv says repairs are now complete and oil is flowing again.Plus, we get a rare insight into what it’s like tryi
The new head of the Fed?
Kevin Warsh - Donald Trump’s nominee for the post as chairman of the Federal Reserve, the US central bank - appears before senators in a bid to convince them he is the right man for the job. Some senators have threatened to block him unless a criminal probe into the current Fed chair Jay Powell is dropped.Plus, the end of an era at Apple as Tim Cook steps down as CEO. We look at his replacement.An
Tensions in the Gulf as US seizes Iranian ship
Global financial markets have headed south again after tensions between the US and Iran took a turn for the worse over the weekend. American forces attacked and then seized an Iranian cargo ship just east of the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran has responded by saying it will retaliate. Plus, the BBC’s Nick Marsh has been looking at a story that’s been quietly building in financial markets. Traders plac
First Iranian oil for India in seven years
For the first time in seven years, India has bought its first cargo of Iranian oil. India hasn't purchased any Iranian oil since 2019 because of US sanctions, but those restrictions were waived last month. Leanna hears from the BBC's Archana Shukla. Plus, its a big day for K-pop fans right across the globe as BTS, one of the world's biggest boy bands, have officially kicked off their new tour. Lea
What the US-Iran ceasefire means for oil prices, flights and bills
The US and Iran have come to a temporary ceasefire, but for many businesses and consumers, the pressure may be far from over.Hundreds of ships are still backed up in the Strait of Hormuz, with many waiting for clearance from Iran before they can move.Plus, what it means for flights, holidays and passenger confidence as airlines proceed cautiously.Presenter: Leanna Byrne
Producer: Matt Lines
Editor
Why Sri Lanka is raising electricity prices for most households
The Sri Lankan government has increased electricity prices for most households by more than 8% as fuel costs surge due to the Iran conflict.Plus, Bisi Adebayo looks at the impact the war is having on jet fuel costs and how British and American food giants, Unilever and McCormick, have agreed a deal to combine parts of their food businesses.
Why diesel is rising quicker in price than other fuel?
The price of diesel has risen nearly 90% since the start of the war in Iran according to ICE. Why is that more than other fuels?Plus Sarah Rogers hears why the price of subscriptions could rise after the World Trade Organsiation fails to reach a deal on ecommerce tariffsand we look at the growth of fast fashion in India
US allows Russian oil sales to tackle rising prices
The US treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, says he will grant India a 30-day waiver to buy sanctioned oil from Russia to help ease supply concerns in the global market.It comes as the Qatari energy minister warns that all energy producers in the Gulf region could shut down exports within weeks.Plus - we hear from Nepal where votes are being counted in what’s being dubbed the young versus old electi
Can Gulf countries export oil before storage runs out?
As global oil prices continue to climb, crude oil supplies from Iraq and Kuwait could stop shipping within days if travel through the Strait of Hormuz remains virtually halted.
Plus, China cuts its economic growth forecast to the lowest level since 1991.
Strait talking: Energy markets rocked as conflict intensifies
Natural gas prices spike in Europe after Qatar closes its LNG base. Meanwhile the Strait of Hormuz closure sends crude oil higher and its importance in the shipment of fertiliser ingredients could have major effects on global crop production this year, the boss of Yara says
Iran: War in Middle East rattles global markets
Airlines have grounded flights, one of the world’s busiest airports has shut, and oil prices are climbing after strikes in the Middle East. We hear from investors and analysts as they react in real-time to the US-Israel war with Iran. And we find out how the disruption is affecting air passengers and the wider travel industry.Plus - we learn how the insurance market is responding to fast-moving ev
Could US access to Greenland's minerals be the answer to President Trump's territorial ambitions?
Greenlandic and Danish foreign ministers are about to hold talks in Washington with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The meeting could shape investment, mining and military spending across the arctic. Plus, China has announced record export numbers and its biggest-ever trade surplus. We examine what this means. Also, Saks Fifth Avenue has applied for bankruptcy protec
Review of the year 2025 - from tariffs to Labubu
Frey Lindsay looks back on the stories shaping the world of money and work in 2025. It's been a year where tariffs have grabbed many of the headlines and we hear from our correspondents around the world on the impact they've had. We also hear about the biggest toy and collector craze of 2025 - the Labubu doll.(Picture: U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks on tariffs in the Rose Garden at t
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