Episode Description: Economic Concerns, China's Debt Problem, Clean Energy Disparity, and a Musical Breakthrough

In this episode, we delve into the latest economic news, starting with the U.S. stock market hitting a five-week low. We explore the reasons behind this decline, including concerns about lower credit ratings for multiple lenders and the surprising resilience of the economy as indicated by strong retail sales data.

Shifting our focus to China, we discuss the growing unease about public finances in the country. Local governments are struggling with high levels of debt, prompting Beijing to send out debt squads to work with them and address the issue. However, this debt problem is challenging the relationship between the central government and local authorities, as the central government wants the local governments to resolve the problem on their own.

Next, we examine the disparity in clean energy subsidies in the United States. Surprisingly, these subsidies have predominantly benefited Republican-controlled areas, despite receiving little support from the Republican Party. We explore the conundrum this presents for Republicans, as they want to welcome clean energy projects and jobs in their districts while simultaneously launching efforts to repeal or water down the legislation.

Lastly, we delve into a fascinating breakthrough in the field of neuroscience. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley have reconstructed the iconic song "Another Brick in the Wall" by Pink Floyd using brain waves of people listening to it. We discuss the implications of this breakthrough, particularly in improving communication devices for individuals who are unable to speak.

Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive analysis of these diverse topics, providing you with a well-rounded understanding of the latest economic concerns, China's debt problem, the clean energy disparity, and a remarkable musical breakthrough.

US stocks hit a five-week low as a warning of potential Fitch downgrades sent bank shares lower, Beijing is making one of its biggest top-down efforts in years to tackle the debts racked up by local governments, and a year after passage of the US Inflation Reduction Act and Chips Act the vast majority of investment is going to red states. 

Mentioned in this podcast:

US and European stocks hit five-week lows after strong retail sales data

China sends finance experts to tackle regions’ debts

Republican districts dominate US clean technology investment boom

Pink Floyd strike a chord as scientists recreate song from brain activity

The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Josh Gabert-Doyon, Monique Mulima, Monica Lopez, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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