World Business Report

Could Europe have ‘maybe 6 weeks of jet fuel left’?

That’s a warning from the International Energy Agency boss, Fatih Birol as the Middle East conflict continues to disrupt energy supplies. So what could that mean for airlines and travel? Plus, how did China’s economy grow by 5%, faster than expected despite the Iran war? And Australia’s fuel supplies face added pressure after a major fire at one of the country’s two oil refineries.

Trump threatens to fire Fed chairman

President Trump has threatened to fire US Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell if he does not step aside next month, raising concerns over central bank independence and market uncertainty. Pakistan remains involved in diplomatic efforts over the US, Israel and Iran conflict, as questions grow over whether this could bring any economic benefit amid domestic pressure. And travellers across several European airports are facing long delays due to the EU’s new entry and exit system, with some missing flights after hours in queues. (Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speak during a tour of the Federal Reserve Board building, in Washington DC, July 24, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Kent Nishimura)

Pressure on US to ease global economic pain

World finance ministers meeting in Washington have been voicing their anger and frustration at the US because of the financial strains being placed on the global economy caused by its military offensive in the Middle East. Rachel Reeves from the UK described the US-Israeli war with Iran as 'folly' while France's finance minister Roland Lescure called for renewed efforts to unblock the Strait of Hormuz. The calls come as Iran's military widens its threats on shipping the Gulf to include the Red Sea and the Gulf of Oman - if the US naval blockade of Iranian ports continues.  The International Monetary Fund has been warning of the risk of a global recession at its Spring Conference in Washington DC. There was further evidence of these concerns today. Hermes is the latest fashion house, after LVMH and Gucci-owner Kering to say sales have been weaker than expected at the start of this year...with spending hit both in the Middle East, but also fewer tourists visiting Paris and buying handbags and designer clothes. And there has been continued unrest in parts of India over wages, as the increased costs of living caused by the crisis continue to hurt the economy.  Also in the programme - are hedge fund managers cashing in on the uncertainty of whether firms will receive refunds on tariffs? And we discover why Google is clamping down on so-called ‘back button hijacking’...when sites mess with your browser so you can’t leave. Presenter: Leanna Byrne Senior Producer: Craig Henderson

IMF warns conflict could tip global economy into recession

With the Global recession warning from the International Monetary Fund, Andrew Peach looks at rising oil, gas and food prices, and how they could force central banks to keep interest rates higher for longer. Also, European airlines call for emergency support as the conflict disrupts aviation. And we ask whether America’s tipping culture improves service or simply keeps wages low. (Photo: People walk in front of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) HQ2 building in Washington, DC, USA, 13 April 2026. Credit: SHAWN THEW/EPA/Shutterstock)

IMF warns of global recession

In its World Economic Outlook report the International Monetary Fund says that, in a worst case scenario -  where oil, gas and food prices spike and remain high this year and next - global growth could fall below 2% in 2026. That's if the US-Israel war with Iran continues and high energy prices persist. It said the most severe conditions that could lead to a worldwide slowdown would include oil prices reaching an average $110 per barrel this year and hitting $125 in 2027. Based on these assumptions, the IMF said inflation could reach as much as 6% next year. This could force central banks to increase interest rates to slow the pace of price rises. We hear how Africa's fuel crunch continues - and hopes for a more stable future... Evergrande was once China’s biggest real estate firm, before its debt crisis sent shockwaves through the wider economy.. Today the founder of the collapsed property giant Hui Ka Yan pleaded guilty to a series of fraud charges. It's a case that marks a major moment in the fallout from the company’s collapse. And - how a gold pocket watch owned by a hero of the Sinking of the Titanic could fetch up to one hundred and thirty five thousand dollars at auction... Presenter Leanna Byrne Senior Producer: Craig Henderson