Shows
The Leaders' BriefGoogle investigated in Russia; Ineos-Hyundai deal; Guatemala protestsIn today’s episode, we analyze tech giant Google's increasing troubles in the UK and Russia, examine the future of hydrogen fuel cells in light of the Ineos-Hyundai deal, and finally take a look at ongoing protests in Guatemala.
2020-12-0106 minThe Leaders' BriefCOVID-10 vaccine update; US cabinet; China’s moon missionIn today’s episode we will observe the progress in COVID-19 vaccine development as companies record positive results, take a look at US President elect Joe Biden’s cabinet picks as President Donald Trump finally softens his stand on holding on to office, and finally take a look at a Chinese moon mission.
2020-11-3006 minThe Leaders' BriefIndia’s oil disinvestment; Buzzfeed acquires HuffPost; Australian human rights violationsIn today’s episode, we will discuss the potential acquisition of BPCL, an Indian public sector oil and gas giant, by Vedanta, dive into Buzzfeed's purchase of digital news service HuffPost and look at a disturbing report that outlines the unlawful killings of civilians by the Australian military while posted in Afghanistan.
2020-11-2706 minThe Leaders' BriefHuawei’s 5g troubles; China to focus on domestic demand; Uganda’s election race starts with violenceIn today’s episode, we will explore developments in 5G technology as Chinese tech giant Huawei continues to face increasing obstacles globally, examine Chinese president Xi Jinping's latest announcement to lead Beijing towards a more socialistic economic model, and finally take a look at protests in Uganda over the arrest of presidential candidate and pop star Bobi Wine.
2020-11-2607 minThe Leaders' BriefCOVID-19 through frozen packaged food; India to better ease of doing business; Russia-Pakistan gas dealIn today’s episode, we will examine the possibility of the COVID-19 spreading through cold storage items after China reported finding coronavirus strains on recent frozen food imports from India, Russia, and Argentina; discuss India's global position in terms of ease of doing business, and look into a new Russia-Pakistan gas deal.
2020-11-2506 minThe Leaders' BriefTech CEOs summoned over US polls; Didi’s all electric plan; Airbnb files for IPOIn today’s episode, we will revisit the US elections as Congress has summoned the CEOs of Facebook and Twitter to discuss their handling of disinformation in the 2020 presidential election, look into China's Didi Chuxing's launch of electric vehicles for ride-sharing services, and finally look at the latest status of Airbnb's public listing plans.
2020-11-2405 minThe Leaders' Brief15 nations sign Asia Pacific trade pact; Belarus protests; Britain fund for climate changeIn today’s episode, we will look at what the newly formed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership means for the Asia Pacific region and why India has opted to stay out of it, revisit the protests in Belarus that escalated over the last week, and finally examine new British legislation directed towards addressing climate change.
2020-11-2307 minThe Leaders' BriefUS sees violence over Trump’s claim; Peru’s interim prez resigns; SpaceX launches second taxi shuttleIn today’s episode, we will look at violent protests in the United States as Donald Trump refuses to concede defeat to President-elect Joe Biden and has filed a total of six cases. We will then revisit Peru, where the interim president was forced to resign following protest deaths, before examining the future of commercial space flights in light of SpaceX launching its second mission.
2020-11-2006 minThe Leaders' BriefIndia jeopardises media freedom; Delhi sees increasing COVID trouble; Europe protestsIn today’s episode, we'll discuss the highly criticized order given by India's government regarding digital news and entertainment services, unpack the worsening situation in Delhi and the pandemic-induced protests erupting all over Europe.
2020-11-1907 minThe Leaders' BriefNepal’s COVID outbreak; India’s COVID package; Emirates records first loss in 3 decadesIn today’s episode, we will visit Nepal to examine the rising number of coronavirus cases in the landlocked country neighboring India and China, discuss India's road to post-COVID recovery, and look at ways in which Dubai plans to aid state-owned airlines Emirates.
2020-11-1806 minThe Leaders' BriefIran’s nuclear ambitions; Hong Kong security law; Serum claims 40 million vaccine dosesIn today’s episode we will analyze Iran's nuclear ambitions following an IAEA statement placing Iran's enriched uranium stockpile at 2,442.9 kilos, look at a recent walkout staged by Hong Kong's opposition that is being viewed by the Chinese government as undermining its authority, and finally discuss India-based Serum Institute manufacturing 40 million doses of AstraZeneca's COVID vaccine.
2020-11-1706 minThe Leaders' BriefCOVID-19 vaccine race; Peru’s president impeached; TCS’s Postbank acquisitionIn today’s episode, we will discuss developments regarding the leading COVID-19 vaccine contenders BNT162b21, Covaxin, and Coronav. We will also examine the Peruvian President's impeachment proceedings and the recent acquisition of Postbank Systems by TCS.
2020-11-1608 minThe Leaders' BriefEU's proposed $4 billion US tariffs; Japan's hydrogen potential; UAE's Mars missionIn today’s episode, we will explore Germany's decision to discuss a delay in imposing EU tariffs on $4 billion worth of US goods, examine the energy potential of Japan's new hydrogen project and revisit UAE's Hope probe.
2020-11-1307 minThe Leaders' BriefUSA under Biden; India’s 30% UPI limit; New algorithm for COVID testingIn today’s episode, we will examine what Joe Biden's presidential victory could mean for the USA and its relationship with the world, look at a recent Indian decision that has irked digital payments companies, including Google, and finally decode the impact of a Rwandan algorithm that may prove critical in testing COVID-19.
2020-11-1206 minThe Leaders' BriefAnt IPO blocking; Norway’s Arctic bid; US-Taiwan drone dealIn today’s episode, we will be exploring China's decision to block Jack Ma owned Ant Group's initial public offering that had created quite a buzz in the business world recently, look at Norway's sustainability goals as their supreme court starts hearing a plea by environmental groups to stop the government from licensing new oil exploration bids in the arctic on constitutional grounds, and discuss a US-Taiwan drone deal that has irked China.
2020-11-1106 minThe Leaders' BriefCovid vaccine race; Coronavirus mutation; US bitcoin seizureIn today’s episode, we will get you the latest developments in the global race for the coronavirus vaccine, discuss the discovery of a mutated COVID-19 strain in minks in Denmark, and look at the seizure of bitcoins worth nearly $1 billion by the US Department of Justice.
2020-11-1005 minThe Leaders' BriefIndonesia goes into recession; UK okays month long lockdown; Bentley’s electric planIn today’s episode, we will be decoding the factors that led to Indonesia's first recession in over two decades and the possible timeline for its recovery, examine the worsening COVID situation in Europe as the British parliament agrees to another month-long lockdown and take a look at Volkswagen-owned luxury carmaker Bentley's plans to go fully electric by 2030.
2020-11-0907 minThe Leaders' BriefThailand protests; Amazon spars with Reliance; Volkswagen’s Chinese interestsIn today’s episode, we will update you on developments regarding the Thai protests, unpack Amazon blocking Reliance's retail interests in India and examine Volkswagen's growing presence in China's auto market.
2020-11-0606 minThe Leaders' BriefDiscontent against Macron’s Islam comment; Kashmir violence; Ex Nigerian minister’s bid to lead WTOIn today’s episode we will be discussing the growing discontent of Arab and other Muslim majority countries against French President Emmanuel Macron for his comments about Islam, examine cases of violence escalating in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, and look at former Nigerian Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo Iweala's bid to lead the World Trade Organisation.
2020-11-0507 minThe Leaders' BriefPhilippines typhoon; UK’s nuclear plan; New Zealand vote on euthanasiaIn today’s episode, we will visit the Philippines to examine the damage caused by this year's strongest storm that has already killed at least 16 people in the Southeast Asian archipelago, look into the UK government's decision to greenlight a nuclear power plant in Suffolk, and talk about two controversial bills that the newly formed Jacinda Arden government in New Zealand discussed after their historic victory.
2020-11-0408 minThe Leaders' BriefUS presidential pollsIn today’s episode we examine US President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign promises and prospect of a Democrat government, as American citizens decide on the country’s 46th President and discuss the possible changes a fresh government could bring with veteran American Journalist Alison Bethel-McKenzie.
2020-11-0311 minThe Leaders' BriefBangladesh’s refugee crisis; TikTok expansion; Sony’s Crunchyroll acquisitionIn today’s episode, we discuss the deportation of Rohingya Muslims to the island of Bhasan Char in Bangaldesh, examine TikTok's expansion despite US President Donald Trump's resistance, and dive into Sony's possible acquisition of animation streaming service Crunchyroll.
2020-11-0206 minThe Leaders' BriefFacebook public policy director tends resignation; Indian land law sparks political debate; Australia, Japan and the USA join hands in pacificIn today’s episode we will be talking about Ankhi Das’s resignation as Facebook’s South and Central Asia Public policy director after being accused of political bias, discussing a new law by the Indian government allowing the purchase of land in the previously autonomous state of Jammu and Kashmir, and finally visit Australia, Japan and the USA’s Partnership in the Pacific Ocean.
2020-10-3008 minThe Leaders' BriefUS-India military pact; Sudan, Egypt and Ethiopia talks; Ant Group’s public offeringIn Today’s episode we will look into a recent US-India military pact as both country’s express concern over China’s activities, revisit Ethiopia’s Great Renaissance Dam, and finally talk about Ant Group’s stock market debut.
2020-10-2907 minThe Leaders' Brief#EndSARS campaign; COVID-19 outbreak in France; US elections sagaIn today’s episode, we will revisit the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria as a campaign against the country's police force intensifies, look at a rise in the number of COVID cases in France and other parts of Europe, and analyze the second, 'more civil' US Presidential debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden.
2020-10-2807 minThe Leaders' BriefAntitrust case against Google; Poland-USA relations; Arab boycott on French goodsIn today’s episode, we decode the latest antitrust case on US tech giant Google, examine the future of Poland’s relationship with the US, and discuss reactions by Arab trade associations against French President Emmanuel Macron.
2020-10-2707 minThe Leaders' BriefTurkey-EU Mediterranean clash; Indo-Nepal relations; Singapore-India air bubbleIn today’s episode, we will look into Turkey’s deep-sea explorations, explore India’s relations with Nepal, which continues to act as a buffer state between New Delhi and Beijing, and finally discuss India’s air-bubble arrangement with Singapore at a time when the COVID pandemic has destroyed the travel industry.
2020-10-2607 minThe Leaders' BriefHigh school beheading in France; Potential COVID-19 surge in festive India; Polkadot's crypto surgeIn today's episode, we will learn more about the beheading of a high school teacher in France that has expanded the debate around freedom of speech and the protection of religious symbols, review the possibility of a new COVID wave in India as the festive season stretches health infrastructure, and examine the surge in popularity of Swiss crypto protocol Polkadot.
2020-10-2309 minThe Leaders' BriefBahrain-Israel normalization; Iran nuclear deal; EU probe on InstagramIn today’s episode, we will revisit the Abraham Accords, a normalization deal signed between Israel, the UAE, and Bahrain, as the Arab nations prepare to exchange ambassadors with Israel, examine what the lifting of a UN arms embargo on Tehran means for West Asia and discuss a European Union probe into Instagram.
2020-10-2208 minThe Leaders' BriefWorldwide COVID outbreak; New Zealand's Labor win; Brazil's inflation reactionIn today’s episode, we will examine the worldwide COVID situation and the status of vaccine development, look at the Jacinda Arden led Labor Party's landslide victory, and explore what it means for the future of New Zealand, and finally discuss inflating food prices in Brazil.
2020-10-2108 minThe Leaders' BriefEU-Africa trade; Trump's Supreme Court pick; China’s policy on tech exportsIn today’s episode, we will discuss the European Union's and Africa's trade equation at a summit focused on increasing Europe-Africa partnerships, take a look at US President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, Amy Barrett, as she edges towards securing her position, and examine China's attempts to "restrict sensitive exports vital to national security."
2020-10-2008 minThe Leaders' BriefJapan's radioactive water; Bangkok monarchy protests; Philippines' interests in South China SeaIn today’s episode, we examine Japan’s recent decision to release radioactive waste into the ocean that has raised global environmental concerns, discuss increasing protests in Thailand against it lese majeste laws, and explore the South China Sea dispute as Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte okays oil and gas exploration in disputed areas.
2020-10-1908 minThe Leaders' BriefNigeria's #EndSARS campaign; India’s caste violence; Germany warns TurkeyIn today’s episode, we discuss Nigeria's #EndSARS campaign and why it is necessary for the entire African continent, look into a rape incident in India that has raised concerns over caste-based gender violence, and examine Germany's recent warning to Turkey over its maritime activities.
2020-10-1609 minThe Leaders' BriefUK's new three-tier lockdown plan; Caucasus clash continues; Libya resumes oil productionIn today's episode, we will be examining increasing coronavirus cases in the UK and the country’s new three-tier lockdown plan. We will then revisit the Nagorno-Karabakh clash in the Caucasus that continues to claim lives even after Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a ceasefire deal, and finally, take a look at Libya’s plan to resume oil production at the Sharara oilfield.
2020-10-1508 minThe Leaders' BriefAnt Group is going public; Saudi’s NCB-Samba merger; Algerian refugee crisis continuesIn today’s episode, we look at the potential IPO listing of Chinese fintech giant Ant Group, examine a merger by the National Commercial Bank of Saudi Arabia, and explore the ongoing Algerian refugee crisis.
2020-10-1406 minThe Leaders' BriefEconomic reform law in Indonesia; Tax cuts in Australian federal budget; North Korea holds its largest military paradeIn today's episode, we will be examining the political upheaval that has followed a new economic reform law in Indonesia. We will also be highlighting the recent Australian federal budget and discuss the reported show of military strength by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
2020-10-1307 minThe Leaders' BriefUS COVID relief package flip-flop; Africa’s economic decline; Tesla bullish on 500,000 targetIn today’s episode, we will look at US President Donald Trump's proposed $1.8 trillion package days after he had tweeted that all relief packages will be stalled till election day on November 3, consider a recent World Bank estimate on Africa's economic decline caused by the COVID pandemic, and discuss electric automaker Tesla's 500,000 vehicle target by the end of this year.
2020-10-1206 minThe Leaders' BriefChina irks QUAD; India’s growing rice export; Trump’s tax fiascoIn today’s episode, we will be discussing the strong anti-Chinese sentiment present at the recent QUAD meet, explore the excellent opportunity India's rice exporters are trying to capitalize on, and discuss the latest developments on US President Donald Trump's tax fiasco.
2020-10-0907 minThe Leaders' BriefRussia's growing influence in Africa; China’s new vaccine; India as a smartphone manufacturing hubIn today’s episode, we will look into growing Russian interest in Africa as it plans to expand its footprint in the continent through trade and military endeavors, discuss a study that has claimed Beijing's experimental vaccine to be safe, and consider India's potential as a destination for smartphone manufacturing.
2020-10-0808 minThe Leaders' BriefNew government in Mali; BTS label goes public; Nobel for physicsIn today’s episode, we will be re-visiting Mali, which finally appointed a 25-member government after former president Boubacar Keita was forced to resign in a military coup, look at South Korean pop band BTS that saw a $50 billion bid from retail investors for coveted shares of their record label, and discuss the Nobel physics prize winners.
2020-10-0706 minThe Leaders' BriefBelarus protests rage on; Google hits back at Indian startups; Discovery of Hepatitis C get NobelIn today’s episode, we take a look at Belarus as protests which began in August over Alexander Lukashenko’s election win continue to cause friction between government forces and citizens, examine Google’s latest announcement to strictly enforce a payment system in India that has invited the ire of local CEOs, and talk about a discovery that has won three scientists the 2020 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine.
2020-10-0606 minThe Leaders' BriefUS elections and COVID-19; Indian startups against Google’s dominance; Big tech companies subpoenaedIn today’s episode, we look at the US presidential race and how President Donald Trump's COVID infection may affect his election campaign, discuss how a group of Indian startups is getting together to work against Google's app dominance, and examine Section 230 of the US's Communications Decency Act and why the Senate Commerce Committee has subpoenaed the CEOs of Twitter, Facebook, and Google.
2020-10-0507 minThe Leaders' BriefRussia calls for Caucasus peace; India’s ballooning fiscal deficit; China to investigate GoogleIn today’s episode, we will be revisiting the Caucasus as Russia offers to mediate a peace deal between Azerbaijan and Armenia, take a look at India’s ballooning deficit as the country asks states to reopen schools and other educational institutions in a phased manner despite COVID cases continuing to surge, and analyze media reports suggesting that China is planning to launch an antitrust probe into Google.
2020-10-0207 minThe Leaders' BriefAmnesty halts India operations; Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict escalates; NTT to take full control of wireless carrierIn today’s episode, we will be looking into Amnesty International’s decision to shut operations in India after its bank accounts were frozen, explore the situation in the Caucasus as Armenia remains embroiled in a dangerous conflict with Azerbaijan over disputed territory, and analyze the possibility of Japan's NTT taking full control of its wireless carrier business in a deal that could be worth $38 billion.
2020-10-0106 minThe Leaders' BriefCOVID deaths cross 1 million; US President accused of tax evasion; Africa losing $89 billion a year on illicit tradeIn today’s episode, we look into the rising number of coronavirus cases globally as the number of deaths caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus recently crossed the million mark with the US leading the grim tally, explore how recent tax revelations about US President Donald Trump could affect his re-election campaign, and examine billions of dollars that went out of Africa illegally.
2020-09-3006 minThe Leaders' BriefNew Zealand opinion polls indicate coalition government; EU mayors support Taiwan; Piedmont Lithium and Tesla ink dealIn today’ episode, we will analyze the political situation in New Zealand as the country heads to polls on October 17, examine the situation in Taiwan after the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy decided not to refer to Taiwanese cities as being a part of China, and will review Tesla's deal with Australian mineral supplier Piedmont Lithium.
2020-09-2905 minThe Leaders' BriefSudan’s economic crisis; KKR invests $755 million in Reliance Retail; Affordable Tesla at least three years awayIn today’s episode, we will examine Sudan's economic crisis as it awaits $400 million in aid, dive into KKR's $755 million investment in Reliance Retail in India, and consider what Tesla must do to excite investors in the near term.
2020-09-2806 minThe Leaders' BriefUS wants China to be held accountable for COVID; GM to manufacture a family of electronic vehicles; Somalia appoints new Prime MinisterIn today’s episode, we will be examining a fresh round of US-China tensions after Republican President Donald Trump, set to compete for re-election in November this year, told the United Nations General Assembly that Beijing must be held accountable for unleashing COVID-19 on the world, explore General Motors' own family of electronic vehicle drive systems it plans to start manufacturing, and finally, take a look at Somalia's plans for elections next year.
2020-09-2505 minThe Leaders' BriefChinese obstacle towards Nvidia-Arm deal; Spotify accuses Apple of monopoly; General Motors aims for flying taxisIn today’s episode, we will re-examine the Nvidia-Arm Holdings deal and the hurdles it may face from China, look at fresh criticism against Apple over its antitrust policies with Spotify making strong accusations against the tech giant, and look into General Motor's dream of operating flying cars.
2020-09-2406 minThe Leaders' BriefOracle-TikTok deal; Chinese military drill near Taiwan; Flipkart's aim to go public by 2021In today’s episode, we revisit the TikTok deal after US President Donald Trump accepted conditions towards a US-headquartered firm called TikTok Global with Oracle and Walmart taking minority stakes, discuss China-US relations as Beijing conducted a military drill while delegates from Washington met Taiwanese officials, and examine Flipkart's aim to go public by 2021.
2020-09-2305 minThe Leaders' BriefUAE and Bahrain’s normalization with Israel; Women protests in Belarus; UK Space Agency grants for orbital awarenessIn today’s episode, we examine reactions from West Asia after the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain officially signed the Abraham Accord, normalization agreements with Israel, at a White House ceremony, discuss the situation in Eastern Europe after hundreds of women protestors were arrested in Belarus and explore orbital awareness in the UK.
2020-09-2206 minThe Leaders' BriefRisks of India’s Chinese app ban; Singapore filling Chinese tech void; Australia provides $3.7 million in pandemic aid for national news agencyIn today’s episode, we look into a possible increase in data risk after India banned over 150 applications citing national security concerns in line with the US-led Clean Network Initiative against Chinese tech companies, explore how Singapore is gaining popularity as a hub for Chinese tech manufacturers, and finally examine Australia's $3.7 million pandemic aid for its national news agency.
2020-09-2108 minThe Leaders' BriefLebanon's stalled government formation; Indian Defence Ministry cautions China; Nikola suing short-seller after 40% share dropIn today’s episode, we will look at what Druze leader Walid Jumblatt called Lebanon’s last chance to stop its demise, as political parties struggle to form a government capable of implementing much-needed reforms, examine the Indo-China border dispute and the situation it may lead to in terms of the two Asian giants' trade relations, and explore accusations of unethical behavior on Nikola and the automobile company's attempts to sue such accusers.
2020-09-1807 minThe Leaders' BriefClimate change and immigration raging topics for US November elections; India’s Serum Institute gets nod for phase-III trials; Amazon to hire 100,000 as e-commerce boom continuesIn today’s episode, we discuss the US presidential elections in November and some areas that may significantly impact voters' sentiments, talk about India's COVID situation and determine where it stands in terms of vaccine development, and explore the e-commerce boom in light of Amazon's recent hiring spree.
2020-09-1707 minThe Leaders' BriefJapan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga set to replace Abe as PM; US Congress divided on covid relief fund; Israel to implement three-week lockdownIn today’s episode, we discuss the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan’s mandate selecting Yoshihide Suga to replace Shinzo Abe as Prime Minister of Japan, and what can be expected from the 71-year-old to revive the world’s third-largest economy from its financial slowdown, examine a coronavirus relief bill that threatens another government shutdown in the US, and talk about criticism against Israel’s three-week lockdown due to surging coronavirus cases.
2020-09-1607 minThe Leaders' BriefMali’s opposition forces reject military charter; Microsoft out of TikTok bid; Nvidia acquires Arm Holdings in $40 billion dealIn today’s episode, we talk about the situation in coup-hit Mali after opposition forces rejected a charter proposed by the military, discuss the US-TikTok deal and how Microsoft lost the bid to acquire the ByteDance owned company, and explore Nvidia’s $40 billion purchase of chip design giant Arm Holdings.
2020-09-1506 minThe Leaders' BriefTech giants Facebook and Google decide to clamp down on political ads; Epic Games’ trouble with Apple continues; AstraZeneca pauses vaccine trial after subject falls illIn today’s episode, we decode the entire fiasco of how and why political campaigns on social media are fast becoming a no go in light of Facebook’s recent announcement, discuss Epic Games’ battle against Apple’s App Store policies, and look at what led to the Serum Institute pausing its vaccine trials.
2020-09-1409 minThe Leaders' BriefPresident Trump confident of October vaccine launch; Increasing pressure on China over treatment of Uighur Muslims; Increasing woes for Thai tourismIn today’s episode, we will look into a US vaccine candidate that is expected to be made commercially available by November, examine what is being termed as 'ethnic cleansing' of Uighur Muslims in China, and explore the possibility of Thailand reopening its border for international tourists.
2020-09-1106 minThe Leaders' BriefPUBG ban in India; Japan boost for companies to manufacture outside China; Beijing attempts to establish global standard on data securityIn today’s episode, we will discuss India’s latest ban on 118 Chinese mobile applications and how it may impact the country’s app market, examine a Japanese government program aimed at diversifying the country's supply chains that could benefit New Delhi, and unpack China's initiative to establish global standards on data security.
2020-09-1006 minThe Leaders' BriefTwitter hack of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s website; Italy investigates Google, Facebook and Dropbox; Lativian startup Lokalise raises $6 millionIn today’s episode, we analyze a twitter hack by an anonymous group who call themselves John Wick, discuss increasing pressure on US tech giants as Italy becomes the latest country to launch an investigation into Google and Apple for unfair practices, and talk about Lativian startup Lokalise that recently raised $6 million in funding.
2020-09-0907 minThe Leaders' BriefIndian telecom sector set for losses; US oil giants lobby to dump plastic; Wild polio eradicated from AfricaIn today’s episode, we will analyze the India telecom industry and how companies are struggling to clear statutory dues, explore the possibility of increased plastic exports to Africa by big oil companies, and examine how wild polio has been completely eradicated from the African continent.
2020-09-0806 minThe Leaders' BriefSudan peace deal with Darfur rebels; Anti-COVID protests rock Germany; LG showcases air-purifying masksIn today’s episode, we will examine a recent peace accord between the Sudanese government and the Sudan Revolutionary Front, look at a growing divide between German citizens over the country's COVID-19 preventive measures, and explore LG's attempts to bring its air purification technology to wearable masks.
2020-09-0706 minThe Leaders' BriefRussian military support to end Belarus protests; Deteriorating Australia-China trade relations; General Motors to expand electric car manufacturingIn today’s episode, we will look at escalating protests in Belarus and Russia's reasons to back President Alexander Lukashenko, examine deteriorating ties between Australia and China in what is being seen as a second trade war, and discuss General Motor's growing interest in developing electric and automated cars.
2020-09-0407 minThe Leaders' BriefIndia’s GDP contraction; China updates export control categories to cover AI; US firms flock for TikTok bidIn today’s episode, we will chart out the future of the Indian economy as it registers its worst-ever contraction due to the COVID-pandemic, look at a new Chinese law that could affect any deal to acquire ByteDance owned Tiktok, and examine US companies flocking to be a part of the TikTok acquisition.
2020-09-0305 minThe Leaders' BriefLebanon’s political stalemate; Elon Musk demonstrates Neuralink; Reliance’s acquisition of Future GroupIn today’s episode, we will look at the political stalemate in Lebanon despite a government crackdown, examine the future of Elon Musk owned Neuralink, and see what Reliance's $3.4 billion acquisition of Future Group's units means for the Indian retail market.
2020-09-0206 minThe Leaders' BriefEscalating US-China tensions over Hong Kong security law; Google rolls out Kormo Jobs in India; Cannabis products see increased sales due to COVID-19In today’s episode, we will examine escalating trade tensions between the USA and Hong Kong as Beijing and Washington impose sanctions on each other's officials, look at the possible competition that Google's Kormo may give to Microsoft's LinkedIn in the Indian job market, and explore a boom in the sale of cannabis products caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020-09-0105 minThe Leaders' BriefComplaint against 101 European websites after scrapping of privacy shield; India’s growing influence in West Asian space missions; Scotland approves spaceportIn today’s episode, we will examine complaints against 101 European websites for sending European users data to the USA, look at India's increased scope as a tech provider for space programs in West Asian nations, and discuss Scotland finally getting approval for its spaceport.
2020-08-3108 minThe Leaders' BriefRussia-China economic alliance; Epic Games’ campaign against Apple; Australian law requires big tech companies to share media revenueIn today’s episode, we will look into the possibility of a Russia-China economic alliance and whether a de-dollarisation will help the Asian giants avoid US sanctions, take a glimpse into Apple Store's payment policies and its battle with Epic Games, and examine Google's reaction to an Australia draft compelling the tech giant to share its ad revenues with local media companies.
2020-08-2807 minThe Leaders' BriefUS moves troops from Germany to Poland; Wearable tech to monitor COVID-symptoms; Pandemic causes data drift for predictive AI modelsIn today's episode, we will discuss increasing tension between NATO allies, Berlin, and Washington as the USA announces it will withdraw troops from Germany, examine ways in which wearable technology can be adapted to tackle the coronavirus and the impact of COVID-19 on existing AI platforms.
2020-08-2706 minThe Leaders' BriefFacebook accused of bias towards India's ruling party politicians; USA's withdrawal from the Open Skies Treaty; Airbnb initiates public filingIn today's episode, we examine a Wall Street Journal report on an alleged bias by Facebook in allowing inflammatory posts by ruling party politicians in India, look into the Open Skies Treaty that the USA has decided to withdraw from, and discuss Airbnb's decision to go public.
2020-08-2608 minThe Leaders' BriefUS snapback sanctions on Iran; Belarus protests intensify; China to share Mekong data with Thailand.In today’s episode, we look at escalating tensions between the US, Russia, and China over the Iran Nuclear Deal, examine the situation in Belarus as protests intensify over Alexander Lukashenko's re-election, and discuss China and Thailand's stalemate over the Mekong River waters.
2020-08-2507 minThe Leaders' BriefThe coup in Mali; Trump’s tariff threat to bring back American jobs; US senate report on Russian interference in 2016 pollsIn today’s episode, we examine Mali's coup d'état and growing international condemnation for military leaders responsible for the action, look into US President Donald Trump's tariff threat on companies if re-elected, and explore a US senate finding that suggests Russia exerted significant influence in the 2016 presidential elections.
2020-08-2406 minThe Leaders' BriefPharma companies divided on US medical supply order; Last Canadian Arctic shelf collapses; The human link between AI and racismToday’s episode examines a US order directing federal agencies to prioritize the purchase of drugs and medical materials made in the USA, talks about increasing global climate change concerns as Canada loses its last fully intact Arctic shelf, and identifies the human influence on AI’s racism.
2020-08-2107 minThe Leaders' BriefGrowth of mobile payment apps in Africa; Goldman Sachs building merger matchmaking app; Japan’s growing power marketToday's episode analyzes the growth of MPesa as the largest online payment platform in Africa, examines the need for digital business platforms by looking at Gemini - Goldman Sachs' merger matchmaking app, and explores Japan's growth potential as a major power market.
2020-08-2007 minThe Leaders' BriefUS Clean Network Initiative; YouTube deletes Chinese propaganda accounts; Chinese role in Russia’s Eurasia dreamToday’s episode examines threats posed by US President Donald Trump's Clean Network Initiative, explores the use of social media as a political tool as YouTube deletes over 2,000 spamming accounts, and discusses Russia's ambitious Greater Eurasia dream and China's role in it.
2020-08-1907 minThe Leaders' BriefJapan-UK trade deal developments; India’s investments in developing Chabahar port; Strengthening of Indo-US trade ties against ChinaIn today’s episode, we look into the future of Japanese investments in the UK post-Brexit, examine Indo-Iran trade ties over New Delhi’s investments in Tehran, and talk about bettering Indo-US trade relations over increasing rivalries with China.
2020-08-1807 minThe Leaders' BriefAn uncertain US presidential race; Escalating protests in Hong Kong; Singapore’s foreign worker policyIn today's episode, we look into an uncertain US presidential race with elections slated in November, discuss increased protests in Hong Kong over China's security policies, and examine Singapore's recovery potential as it allows foreign workers to return to the country.
2020-08-1707 minThe Leaders' BriefGoogle’s $10 billion investment in India; Africa’s target to add 120 million metric tons to its food production; Lockheed Martin’s proposal to add $16.9 billion to Canada’s economyIn today’s episode, we will examine how Google plans to make a $10 billion investment in India, explore Africa’s agricultural market as the TAAT targets an addition of 120 million metric tons to the region’s food production, and look into Lockheed Martin’s promise of adding $16.9 billion to Canada’s GDP.
2020-08-1406 minThe Leaders' BriefFuture of cryptocurrency; Interpol report on increasing cybercrime; Chinese investments in IranIn today’s episode, we will explore increasing investments in cryptocurrency, look at a COVID-induced hike in cybercrime, and examine what Chinese investments in Iran could mean for the US in West Asia.
2020-08-1307 minThe Leaders' BriefMisinformation on social media; Greece-Egypt maritime deal; Laying the foundation stone for Ayodhya templeIn today’s episode, we take a look at Facebook and Twitter deciding to delete a post by US President Donald Trump over its COVID-19 misinformation policy, escalating tensions between Greece and Turkey over maritime claims, and the laying of a foundation stone for a temple on a long-disputed land in India.
2020-08-1206 minThe Leaders' BriefUS ban on TikTok; WHO research to find COVID origins; Russia's claim to create vaccineIn today’s episode, we examine the probable outcomes a US ban on Chinese applications may mean for global free trade, discuss a WHO mission in China investigating the origins of the novel coronavirus, and look at where present vaccine candidates stand.
2020-08-1106 minThe Leaders' BriefProtests escalate in Beirut over massive warehouse explosion; China-Saudi uranium extraction; Sri Lankan parliamentary electionsIn today’s episode we take a look at a massive explosion that has devastated Lebanon's capital Beirut, discuss reports of possible extraction of uranium in Saudi Arabia and explore where Sri Lanka might be heading after its recently concluded elections.
2020-08-1008 minThe Leaders' BriefEU investigation on Google-Fitbit deal; Twitter under US FTC scanner for targeted advertisements; Huawei growth amidst US sanctionsIn today’s episode, we examine data privacy concerns as Google faces an EU investigation and Twitter may see itself coughing up a $250 million fine over targeted advertisements, and take a look at Huawei’s future as European sentiment fast catches up to US distrust against the Chinese firm.
2020-08-0706 minThe Leaders' BriefUS decision to ban TikTok; Chinese boost for Sri Lankan trade; India’s attempts to replace China as a mobile manufacturing hubToday, we are examining the possible closure of TikTok’s US operations, taking a look at the trade potential of Sri Lanka’s Port City and exploring an Indian policy that aims to manufacture mobile phones and components worth $140 billion in the next five years.
2020-08-0606 minThe Leaders' BriefIndia’s National Education Policy in 2020; Floods in Bangladesh and India; Political crisis in MaliIn today’s episode, we take a look at the salient features of India’s draft education policy and how it would impact education in the county, examine the extent of damages caused by floods in eastern India and Bangladesh, and explore what the Mali crisis means for West African nations.
2020-08-0508 minThe Leaders' BriefSaudi Arabia’s nuclear ambitions; A COVID-induced EdTech boom; China’s mission to MarsIn today’s episode, we talk about Saudi Arabia’s attempts to harness nuclear energy as neighboring UAE makes significant progress in establishing a nuclear powerplant, examine the influence of the COVID pandemic on the EdTech industry and unpack China’s ambitious space mission.
2020-08-0408 minThe Leaders' BriefPoland to quit Istanbul Convention; Ethiopia to fill Nile dam despite Egypt and Sudan’s concerns; New Zealand designs charter for government use of algorithmsToday’s episode examines Poland’s position in safeguarding women’s rights as it decides to opt-out of the Istanbul convention, analyses the situation in Africa over sharing of the Nile’s waters between Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt, and takes a look at New Zealand’s new charter setting standards for the use of algorithms by government agencies.
2020-08-0307 minThe Leaders' BriefFuture of the Iran Nuclear Deal; US stand on China’s Maritime claims; US-Kenya Free Trade AgreementIn today’s episode, we examine the future of the Iran Nuclear Deal as the USA continues its campaign for extending the embargo, explore the situation in the South China Sea caused due to Beijing’s controversial claims on the water body, and explore the possible outcomes of a proposed US-Kenya free trade deal.
2020-07-3106 minThe Leaders' BriefUS sanctions on Europe-Russia gas pipeline project; Mozambique’s potential as a major natural gas exporter; Development of a low-cost polymer batteryToday we are taking a look at Russia’s ambitious Nord Stream-2 project with Germany and what US sanctions mean for it, examining Mozambique’s potential as a gas exporter by tapping reserves from its Cabo Delgado province, and exploring what a new resin-based battery would mean for electric vehicles.
2020-07-3007 minThe Leaders' BriefCost of potential vaccine candidates; Resumption of commercial flights; German experiment with 4000-strong concert crowdToday’s episode examines potential costs for COVID vaccines expected to be ready for commercial use by the end of this year, explores what the future of international air travel looks like, and talks about a German pop concert being organized to understand ways of COVID-19 spread.
2020-07-2907 minThe Leaders' BriefCOVID-impact on cab aggregators; AI's opportunity to restructure tourism; Future of startups in AfricaToday, we will examine some options cab aggregators may exercise for as they brace for COVID-induced financial stress, explore AI in tourism to minimize social contact while increasing efficiency, and look at the startup potential of Africa.
2020-07-2808 minThe Leaders' BriefIndo-Australian relationship fueled by Chinese aggression;The famine in Yemen; Dubai's road to economic recoveryIn today's episode, we will look into the recent Indo-Australia virtual summit and China's role in increasing Indo-Australian friendship, understand the extent of famine in Yemen and its aid shortage, and examine the amount of economic gain that Dubai's tourism could inject into UAE's declining economy.
2020-07-2707 minThe Leaders' BriefFuture of Work From Home; Huawei and the 5G race; Poland's trouble with the European UnionToday's episode explores the possibility of work from home evolving into a conventional business structure, understands Huawei's role in developing 5G technology and America's growing concerns over the Chinese technology giant, and discusses the implications of Poland's recent election result on its foreign relations.
2020-07-2409 minThe Leaders' BriefImpact of COVID-19 on the airline industry; Future of electric cars; Singapore elections and its foreign labor approachToday we will be looking into the feasibility of social distancing in air travel and losses being incurred by the global aviation industry, exploring a push towards electric cars to revive the European automobile industry, and examining the reaction of Singapore's ruling People's Action Party on losing a large share of vote percentage despite winning the elections.
2020-07-2307 minThe Leaders' BriefChinese investments in India; Lebanon's economic crisis; Impact of Black Lives Matter movement on businessesToday's episode details the extent of Chinese investments in India as relations between the Asian giants remain sour, sheds light on what Lebanon's declining economy could mean for West Asia, and examines the possible outcomes of the Black Lives Matter movement on businesses.
2020-07-2209 minThe Leaders' BriefAcquisition of satellite broadband operator OneWeb; Rising digital tech in healthcare; China's advantage in the high-tech industryIn today's episode, we will decode Bharati Airtel's recent acquisition of satellite broadband operator OneWeb, explore cutting edge technology developments from the healthcare sector, and dive into China's high-tech advantage through its domination on rare earth minerals.
2020-07-2109 minThe Leaders' BriefFuture of digital advertising; Increasing interest in global e-commerce; Use of health monitoring and contact tracing appsToday's episode examines declining revenues and possible outcomes for the advertisement industry and firms dependent on it, explores growing interests in global e-commerce, and lists the pros and cons of contact tracing mobile applications.
2020-07-2009 minThe Leaders' BriefEffects of COVID mutation on vaccine; India mulls e-commerce future as demand soars; Boost for Italian autoIn today’s episode we explore mutations of the novel coronavirus and if it will impact vaccine development, understand how India’s new e-commerce draft could encourage more market players as demand rises and examine whether government aid will rescue Italian auto.
2020-07-1709 minThe Leaders' BriefIndia’s push for a COVID-19 vaccine; Indian resentment against Chinese aggression; positive employment numbers for the USAToday we will look at India’s developments in its attempt to launch a COVID-19 vaccine by August 15, examine the economic impact of Indo-China friction, and analyze what a high employment number means for the USA.
2020-07-1609 minThe Leaders' BriefThe effects of USMCA; China's tightening grip on Hong Kong; Facebook ad boycottIn the inaugural episode of The Leaders' Brief, we explore the effects of the US-Mexico-Canada agreement, decode the impact of China's new security law on Hong Kong's trade potential and unravel the growing boycott of Facebook by advertisers.
2020-07-1508 min