World Business Report

The market moments that shaped the year

Leanna Byrne is joined by Russ Mould of AJ Bell to look back at the market moments that defined the year from tariffs and precious metals to the growing influence of artificial intelligence. Plus,the latest US jobs figures show a fall in new applications for unemployment benefits. And India launches its heaviest-ever rocket yet, another sign of its ambitions to compete in the fast-growing global satellite industry.

US economy better than expected

The US economy picked up speed over the three months to September, as consumer spending jumped and exports increased but consumer sentiment is low, Rahul Tandon hears from a business about what things are like on the ground. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a pill version of the weight-loss drug Wegovy, according to pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk. And, an important moment for Indian female cricket players seeing their match fees doubled for domestic games. (Photo: A person shops for products imported from Asia at a market in Los Angeles, California, USA, 07 April 2025. Credit: ALLISON DINNER/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)

Is the US economy in better shape than expected?

New figures suggest the US economy is powering ahead but questions remain about what that really means for businesses? Leanna Byrne looks at what’s behind the data. Also, US regulators have approved the first pill version of the blockbuster weight-loss drug Wegovy. And could North Koreans be working remotely for US companies?

Another dramatic turn in the Warner Bros Discovery takeover

The American billionaire Larry Ellison has promised more than $40 billion of his money in support of Paramount to buy rival studio, Warner Bros Discovery. Where does this leave antitrust questions around a Paramount or Netflix takeover? Ed Butler hears from Phillip Berenbroick, who served as chief counsel for the US Senate’s judiciary subcommittee on antitrust matters. How much money is Morocco spending as host for the African Cup of Nations? Also, we explore Yiwu, China’s capital of Christmas (Photo: Paramount, Netflix and Warner Bros logos are seen in this illustration taken December 8, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration)

Why is whiskey maker Jim Beam pausing production?

Leanna Byrne takes a look as Jim Beam, one of the most recognisable names in American bourbon, confirms it will pause production for a year at its main Kentucky distillery from January. India and New Zealand strike a new free trade deal, cutting tariffs and opening markets on both sides. And at the box office, the latest Avatar: Fire and Ash opens more quietly than expected in the US, despite strong takings overseas.