The Fin

This week on The Fin podcast, economics correspondent Michael Read and political correspondent Tom McIlroy discuss whether winding-back the two big tax advantages to buying property – negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount – will help solve Australia’s housing crisis. This podcast is sponsored by IGFurther reading:These Australians are most likely to negatively gear their propertiesThe housing policy choices facing votersWe’re more nuanced on negative gearing than five years agoA quick guide to the politics of housing tax breaksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phillip Coorey, a political editor, and Matthew Drummond, an AFR Magazine editor, dive into the dynamics behind Australia's influential power shifts. They discuss the criteria for selecting power figures and the fading voice of corporate leaders. Cartoonist David Rowe shares his favorite prime minister to illustrate while reflecting on the artistic challenges of depicting power. The trio also explores how recent events like the Gaza conflict impact Australia's cultural landscape and political scene, revealing insights into upcoming electoral dynamics.

Join billionaire Anthony Pratt, along with his sisters Heloise and Fiona, as they delve into the dramatic legal battles surrounding their family's fortune. Discover how their father Richard's complex succession plan ignited disputes, especially involving their half-sister Paula. The siblings share insights on the tension between wealth, legacy, and the public fallout from their father's controversial relationships. With Anthony's ties to Donald Trump also under the microscope, their narrative reveals the intricate balance of business and family ties.

Neil Chenoweth, a senior writer known for his keen insights into media dynamics, joins Sam Buckingham Jones, a savvy media and marketing reporter. They dissect the tense succession drama involving Lachlan Murdoch and the lingering influence of Rupert Murdoch. Legal battles are brewing among family members, with stakes high for News Corp's future. The discussion also unpacks the implications of dual-class shares and internal family conflicts on the profitability of major media outlets. It’s a rollercoaster of ambition, rivalry, and strategic maneuvering.

Robin Khuda, founder of AirTrunk, discusses his journey in creating a $24 billion data center giant in just nine years, driven by the booming demand for cloud computing. He outlines the challenges of scaling the business and environmental concerns ahead. Khuda reflects on the pivotal moments from humble beginnings and the strategic partnerships that fueled growth. With an ambitious target of $100 billion, he contemplates the future of AirTrunk and the impact of significant acquisitions on the tech landscape, especially in Asia.

Michael Bleby, a deputy property editor known for his expertise in real estate trends, and Bonnie Campbell, a luxury property writer focusing on high-end real estate, dive into the Spring housing market. They unravel why property listings are increasing and whether it’s a good time to buy. The duo examines price fluctuations, challenges facing first-time buyers, and shifting dynamics in luxury markets. They also discuss opportunities for homebuyers and the role of interest rates in shaping future trends. A must-listen for anyone eyeing the market!

This week on The Fin podcast, senior reporter Ronald Mizen and media and marketing reporter Sam Buckingham-Jones on the case for and against gambling ad reform, what the government is likely to do and whether it will be enough. This podcast is sponsored by Team Global ExpressFurther reading:Rowland wins some, loses more in gambling advertising debatePointless non-disclosure agreements, an agitated backbench – miscalculations have marred long-overdue reform to wagering advertising rulesTV ad ban but not jerseys and field signs is ‘illogical’: bookies Sportsbet, Entain and Pointsbet say they won’t put their logos on sports jerseys or around the stadium during live sportGambling ad ban MPs to go over Rowland’s head and lobby PM direct The direct approach over the head of the communications minister illustrates growing frustration in Labor ranks over the party’s position on gambling advertisingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, United States correspondent Matthew Cranston and International editor James Curran on why the presidential race has been turned on its head, how the candidates and their running mates match up and what they would mean for the world if they make it to the White House.This podcast is sponsored by Team Global ExpressFurther reading: Obamas ignite Harris campaign but warn of tight raceThe former president told a roaring crowd the vice president would not be a self-centred leader like Trump, but instead focus on improving Americans’ lives. Kamala Harris’ big test this week: Policy or personality All eyes will be on the vice president at the Democratic National Convention as she tries to keep momentum going in the race for the White House. Democrats now the American dreamers Democrats have become the true believers in the American mission. Republicans will be more prudential in assessing foreign policy capacities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Fin podcast, professional services editor Edmund Tadros on the rise of a sales-driven culture at PwC, why the firm bungled its response to the tax leaks scandal, and why it has failed to move on. This podcast is sponsored by Team Global Express Further reading: ‘We couldn’t believe it’: Insiders reveal how PwC unravelled as scandal broke The inside story of how PwC transformed from dull accountant into a sales-driven firm that would tear itself apart.‘I’ll make you more money’: Inside Seymour’s CEO pitchThe candidates had unofficial campaign managers and developed manifestos. Lobbying was done in the office, over drinks, during the weekend. And like any good election, the voters’ main concern was what was in it for them.‘Nerds gone wild’: Inside PwC’s last party before it all blew upIt is the days-long party now described as the last hurrah before the storm of the tax leaks. Within six months, the scandal would change the firm forever.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan Shapiro, a senior reporter specializing in financial news and scandals, dives deep into ANZ’s explosive bond trading scandal. He discusses allegations of market manipulation and the potential consequences for top executives, including the CEO. Shapiro highlights the troubling culture within ANZ's trading division and the urgent call for accountability and reform. The conversation raises critical questions about the integrity of financial operations and the broader impact of this scandal on the financial industry and regulatory bodies.