Bloomberg Talks

Tony Spring, the innovative CEO of Macy's, shares insights on the retail giant's transformation strategy. He discusses the upswing in mall foot traffic and how Macy's is improving customer experience metrics with record net promoter scores. Spring reveals his four-part framework for success and plans to reduce the store count, while emphasizing a curated brand mix. He also highlights the importance of reimagining store formats and enhancing digital integration for a brighter retail future.

Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York/New Jersey Host Committee, discusses the region's preparations for an anticipated $3 billion economic boost. He shares plans to welcome international fans and create a vibrant fan-fest atmosphere, all while addressing immigration debates. Lasry predicts that the World Cup final will draw larger audiences than past Super Bowls. He emphasizes the event's potential to inspire youth soccer participation in the U.S. and highlights collaboration with Canadian and Mexican hosts for a seamless experience.

Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader and U.S. Representative from New York, discusses the pressing issues of healthcare costs and redistricting. He criticizes Republicans for not keeping their promises on lowering living costs and warns millions might face rising healthcare expenses without an extension of ACA tax credits. Jeffries also addresses the implications of recent redistricting decisions and notes the lack of GOP interest in bipartisan solutions, emphasizing what voters truly want: action on affordability and healthcare, not just empty promises.

US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum discusses the Trump administration's bold energy plan, linking it to national security. He highlights the need for regulatory reforms to reduce drilling costs. As AI demand surges, he reveals how energy policies shape investment decisions, particularly in states with restrictive regulations. Burgum points to California's policies causing higher energy prices and emphasizes the importance of reliable power sources. The conversation explores balancing the power needs of AI with consumer costs amid an ever-evolving energy landscape.

Robert Kaplan, former president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and now vice chair at Goldman Sachs, dives into the future of the Federal Reserve and potential candidates for Fed chair. He explains the sluggish labor market and highlights existing economic pressures. Kaplan discusses the delicate balance between inflation and employment amid political pressures on interest rates. He also explores the impact of AI on productivity and warns about the rapid pace of disruption affecting worker mobility and education needs.

Toto Wolff, the CEO of Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1, and Eugene Willemsen, CEO of International Beverages at PepsiCo, dive into the exciting collaboration between F1 and PepsiCo. They explore how F1 is captivating younger audiences and expanding its reach, discussing the appeal of social media in engaging fans. Willemsen shares insights on attracting Gen Z and balancing gender representation through sports. Wolff also highlights the commercial growth of F1 and shares a fan's hopeful prediction for the next race, rooting for George Russell.

Roxana Minzatu, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, drives EU policy on social rights and skills amid tech changes. She discusses a new plan to future-proof 'quality jobs,' balancing competitiveness with necessary protections in an AI-driven landscape. Minzatu explains the importance of consultations aimed at enhancing worker rights without burdening businesses. She champions a human-centric AI approach, emphasizing safety and privacy while detailing budget initiatives for reskilling workers to adapt to new technologies.

Scott Sanborn, CEO of LendingClub, shares insights on consumer credit trends as the holiday season approaches. He discusses the profile of their 'middle majority' customers, revealing the complexities of income data. Sanborn also highlights LendingClub's evolved marketplace strategy and the importance of being selective with borrowers. He dives into the mechanics of debt consolidation and why high credit card rates persist. Additionally, he notes the resilience of consumers, despite mixed spending sentiments, as they navigate the holiday hustle.

Mary Culler, President of Ford Philanthropy, discusses the company's $100 million contributions to nonprofits across 30 countries. She highlights their impactful disaster relief efforts during events like the 2011 earthquakes in Turkey and the COVID-19 pandemic. Culler explains Ford's strategic focus on community building and leveraging its vast network of employees and dealers for global support. She also addresses the challenges faced by private philanthropy today, emphasizing the importance of volunteer expertise alongside monetary contributions.

Fran Tarkenton, NFL Hall of Famer and former quarterback, dives deep into the evolution of football, comparing its modern-day changes with his era. He shares insights on the growing concerns over player health with expanded seasons and critiques the financial disparity in player salaries now versus his rookie days. Tarkenton also discusses transitions into entrepreneurship through his ventures like PIPIQ, which supports small businesses with AI. Reflecting on his career, he highlights the necessary agility of today's quarterbacks and emphasizes the importance of addressing safety in sports.