The Documentary Podcast BBC correspondents' look ahead to 2026
15 snips
Dec 28, 2025 
Anthony Zurcher, a Senior North America correspondent, dissects the political landscape around Trump's potential return. Asma Khalid shares insights on electoral risks for Republicans and the internal debates within the Democratic Party. Faisal Islam examines the economic implications of new tariffs and the rise of AI in the market. Laura Bicker reports on China's tech ambitions and the ongoing Taiwan tensions. Meanwhile, Lyse Doucet highlights fragile peace prospects in Ukraine and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
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AI Boom Hides Financial And Energy Risks
- An AI and tech investment boom has cushioned economic uncertainty but risks forming a frothy bubble.
- Energy constraints for data centres and chips add a physical limit to the sector's growth story.
China Counters Tariffs With Rare-Earth Leverage
- China positions itself as a tariff-resistant winner, using rare-earths leverage and preparing for a stabilising Trump visit in 2026.
- Officials expect ties to stabilise and hope for concrete agreements during a spring summit.
Graduate Flood Meets Limited Jobs
- Youth unemployment stems from a mismatch between mass graduates and available skilled jobs, prompting 'lying flat' and alternative life choices.
- Beijing pushes vocational training and tech education to absorb graduates into new industries.