

FEAR & GREED | Business News
Fear and Greed
Business news you can use. A daily business news podcast with journalists Sean Aylmer and Michael Thompson. Find out more at https://fearandgreed.com.au
Episodes
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Dec 18, 2025 • 11min
Q+A: Five things economist Diana Mousina learnt in 2025
Markets aren’t always rational, and neither is the commentary around them. Diana Mousina, Deputy Chief Economist at AMP, talks to Sean Aylmer about the five lessons she learnt this year, including the growing market impact of politics, how to read Trump’s trade agenda, why gold and tech defied the textbook, why Fed “speak” can be noise, and why inflation can stay sticky, even when everyone expects it to fade.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 18, 2025 • 5min
Afternoon Report | Energy slumps
The ASX 200 closed flat, influenced by a slump in the energy sector due to low oil prices and geopolitical tensions. In tech news, Oracle's stock took a hit over concerns from a report on Blue Owl. Austal celebrated a share rise after landing a $1 billion defense contract. Meanwhile, the PM unveiled a five-point strategy to combat anti-Semitism. ANZ faced backlash over executive pay, experiencing a second strike from shareholders. Lastly, Warner Bros urged investors to back Netflix over a competing bid from Paramount.

Dec 17, 2025 • 15min
Budget deficits for years; Bondi charges laid; Treasury Wine Estate dumped
Today, the federal government outlines lower deficits in coming years in its mid-year budget review, but does little to improve the fiscal outlook. The first funerals for the victims of the Bondi beach massacre are held. Penfolds owner Treasury Wine Estates admits near defeat in the US and China. The competition regulator sues Hello Fresh. Tesla’s share price hits a new high on the back of robotaxis. Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, why we hide our money mistakes. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 17, 2025 • 10min
Q+A: How a company's emissions are really measured
Today's question comes from listener Peter, who sent it through the Fear & Greed website:Who measures emissions, how are they measured, is the number audited, checked off on, and by who? Is it measured the same way in every country? BHP and FMG can measure their emissions, I'm assuming they have budgets, but what about for smaller companies, companies that aren't listed? Sean Aylmer is joined by Thomas Hodgson from sustainability consultancy Anthesis for an answer to Peter's question.Fear & Greed Q+A: Join Sean Aylmer & Michael Thompson and the team as they answer questions on business, investing, economics, politics and more. If you have your own question, get in touch via our website, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook!Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 17, 2025 • 6min
Afternoon Report | ASX lower as oil price slumps
Oil prices hit a five-year low, causing a slide in the ASX 200, with energy and defense stocks affected. Funerals for victims of the Bondi terror attack begin, prompting discussions about security and support. The leadership at Star Entertainment sees a major shakeup with new appointments. Victoria's premier faced scrutiny over a costly trip to China, raising political eyebrows. Meanwhile, a controversial interview sparks fallout in the White House, highlighting the ongoing tensions in political circles.

Dec 16, 2025 • 17min
ISIS inspired Bondi attack; consumer confidence tumbles; Google to sell property?
A shocking massacre at Bondi Beach is linked to ISIS, sparking government scrutiny and community solidarity. Consumer confidence is taking a hit, reflected in fluctuating market sentiment. In real estate news, Google is exploring home sales online, shaking up the property market. Unforeseen shifts in corporate strategies are highlighted, including Ford's pivot away from large EVs. Additionally, the Nasdaq pushes for extended trading hours, promising new dynamics for investors.

8 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 9min
Q+A: Where SMEs are feeling the squeeze
Ivan Colquhoun, Chief Economist at CreditorWatch, dives into the challenges facing Australia's SMEs due to rising costs and tighter cash flow. He reveals that capital cities like Sydney and Melbourne are feeling the pinch more than regional areas, which benefit from lower rents and established businesses. Ivan discusses how the cost of living impacts business expenses and differentiates SMEs from larger firms, highlighting their vulnerability. He provides an outlook for insolvencies, suggesting they may plateau, influenced by economic factors.

6 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 6min
Afternoon Report | NSW Premier defends police
Tributes pour in for hero Ahmed El Ahmed, with his GoFundMe surpassing $2 million. NSW Premier Chris Minns stands behind police actions amid tensions. The ASX closes lower, particularly hit by tech and energy sectors. DroneShield celebrates a $50 million contract, boosting its share price significantly. Leadership changes at Star Entertainment follow the CEO’s departure and potential fines, while a charity faces legal issues for unlawfully cutting men's pay. Trump’s recent comments draw bipartisan criticism.

Dec 15, 2025 • 16min
Tougher gun laws after massacre; ASIC slams ASX; Aussie cattle icon sold for $315m
The national cabinet will pursue much tougher gun laws, as the federal government faces criticism for not doing enough to stop antisemitism, following Sunday’s massacre in Bondi. Corporate regulator ASIC comes down hard on the ASX. One of Australia’s largest cattle properties is sold for more than $300 million. Elon Musk’s SpaceX is valued at $US800 billion. New footage shows killer whales hunting in tandem with dolphins. Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week: five ways to deal with money anxiety. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 15, 2025 • 13min
Q+A: Investing when rates turn higher
As expectations shift from rate cuts to possible hikes, many investors are rethinking portfolio positioning. Tim Carleton, Chief Investment Officer at Auscap Asset Management, talks to Sean Aylmer about how investors should think about a turning rate cycle, why sentiment often overshoots reality, and where he’s finding value in healthcare and property despite rising rates.This is general information only. Seek advice tailored to your circumstances before making investment decisions.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


