Business Daily

In this discussion, Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, emphasizes the UAE's strategic investments in Africa, focusing on clean energy, logistics, and social impact. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of DP World, shares insights on optimizing logistics and their extensive presence across the continent, while Dr. Josie Di Lima Masano from Angola discusses her country's need for economic diversification and the role of UAE investments. They explore the balance between equity and lending in partnerships, shaping a promising future for UAE-Africa relations.

Zoe Kleinman, BBC Technology Editor, and Lily Jamali, Silicon Valley correspondent, dive into the future of tech. They explore whether the AI investment boom is sustainable and the environmental impact of AI data centers. Predictions fly about mainstream gadgets by 2026, including robots and AR glasses. Lily discusses geopolitical tech dynamics, the rise of open-source models in the US-China tensions, and how big tech is shifting to content. Additionally, they highlight NVIDIA's Jensen Huang's role as a tech diplomat amid chip industry challenges.

Suranjana Tewari, an Asia business correspondent, and Arunoday Mukharji, who reports on India's economy, dive into the economic landscape of 2026. They discuss the fallout from 2025's tariff shocks on supply chains and the innovative partnerships emerging as a result. India's challenging trade negotiations with the US are highlighted, along with its strategic pivot to other nations. The duo also explores investments in AI infrastructure across Asia and contrasts growth prospects between Asia and stagnating Western economies.

Gideon Long, a veteran Latin America correspondent, shares his insights on Venezuela's oil situation following recent political upheavals. He discusses the country's vast reserves, their challenging extraction process, and the implications for U.S. oil companies. The conversation dives into the historical context of nationalization, the damage done by sanctions, and the role of China in the oil market. Long highlights the staggering investment needed to revitalize the industry and addresses the skepticism surrounding the potential return of American firms.

Tariffs and trade wars dominated 2025, but what does the year ahead have in store? And what about the prospect for rising prices we’ve seen around the world? The BBC’s Deputy Economics Editor, Dharshini David, and North America Business Correspondent, Michelle Fleury, pick through what we learned last year and explore the trends likely to shape the global economy in 2026. If you would like to get in touch with the programme, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.ukPresenter: Will Bain Producer: Matt Lines(Picture: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, US President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the G7 summit in Kananaskis on June 16, 2025. Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Dr. Alex Wood, an economic sociology expert from the University of Cambridge, joins delivery riders Joshua Cavallaro and Bryce, known as London Hustle, to discuss the gig economy. They reveal the high stakes of delivery work, including unpredictable pay and safety risks. Bryce and Joshua share their experiences with unusual deliveries and the impact of tipping culture. Dr. Wood highlights survey findings on riders' mental health and the need for better labor protections. Together, they explore why many continue in this precarious yet flexible line of work.

Ned Guinness, or Lord Iveagh, is the Fourth Earl of Iveagh and a member of the illustrious Guinness family. He shares his journey of managing family legacy while growing crops and brewing beer for his two pubs in rural England. Ned reflects on the pressure of family expectations and the rich history behind the Guinness brewery. He discusses innovation in the brewing industry, including non-alcoholic options, and emphasizes the importance of community values. His passion for the perfect pint and stewardship of the Elvedon estate shines through his stories.

Han Lin, China Director at The Asia Group, discusses Yiwu's unique role in global trade, highlighting its massive market with 75,000 traders. Ashley Dudarenok, founder of a research consultancy, shares insights on how local entrepreneurs shaped Yiwu's dominance in Christmas goods. Mac Harmon, CEO of Balsam Hill, reveals how US tariffs are impacting pricing and orders for festive decor. The conversation navigates trade tensions, the shift in market focus, and a cautious optimism among traders adapting to new opportunities.

Explore the magic of Christmas marketing, from iconic ads featuring Hollywood stars to clever local adaptations like Guinness's tailored campaigns. Discover how cultural context shapes advertising, with KFC's unique rituals in Japan as a prime example. Learn how brands utilize budget-friendly strategies, like double-sided coffee cups, to connect with diverse audiences. With social media changing the game, creativity and timing are key to delivering memorable holiday cheer.

This discussion reveals a shift in festive spending, with younger shoppers prioritizing meaningful gifts while cutting back. Insights from a Toronto market underscore the trend toward smaller, reusable items. The impact of AI on shopping habits is explored, highlighting how it helps find deals and gifts. Generational differences come into play, as Gen Z and millennials navigate economic challenges, favoring experiences over material goods. Listeners share their spending priorities, emphasizing food and family connections during the holidays.