Explore every episode of the podcast The Signal Daily

Shein is coming back to India, thanks to the Ambanis. Tune in to this episode as we break down the deal between Reliance and the Chinese fast-fashion label.

PS - The Signal Daily will go on a break starting tomorrow. 

In today's episode we discuss the developments around Joe Biden’s candidacy for the upcoming US elections. Tune in!

Our stories for today are — labour exploitation in the luxury fashion industry and SEBI’s notice to Hindenburg over its damning 2023 report on corporate malpractices in the Adani Group. Tune in!

Today we talk about the impact of Swiftonomics and India’s new criminal laws. Tune in!

Today we talk about the disastrous presidential debate between incumbent US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump and why India making its debut on JP Morgan Emerging Market Bonds Index is such a big deal. Tune in!

In this episode, we first dissect why ACs are breaking down in parts of North India. For the main segment, we deep dive into the uncertain future of Bengaluru-based car rental service Zoomcar. Tune in!

Today we talk about the case of fake resumes in India’s job market how Foxconn has been accused of not hiring married women in its iPhone factory in India. Tune in!

Today we get into why big tech is rushing to adapt chatbots to Indian languages. We also dive into the life and work of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange as he walks free from jail time after working out a plea deal with the US Justice Department to plead guilty to one single charge of espionage. Tune in!

Today, we’re diving into the world of pet parents and their fur babies and how this evolving relationship is transforming the pet healthcare industry. In our main segment, we talk about the chequered past of the National Testing Agency that has come under fire over allegations of severe mismanagement and discrepancies in the NEET and NET exams. Tune in!

Today we talk about India’s mango market and what farmers are doing to preserve the authenticity Alphonso mangoes and how Indian film and TV writers are pushing for copyrights over the finished projects. In this episode we’re be joined by Soumya Gupta, our in-house expert of all things media and entertainment. Tune in!

Also read: Writers write with few rights - Part 2

Today, we’re discussing the case of banks artificially inflating numbers. In our second story, we discuss Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea and Vietnam. What does it indicate? Tune in to the full episode.

Today for our first story we talk about the concept of gyemoim in South Korea, where communities of friends and families are pooling in money periodically to fund various activities together. This concept is getting popular enough for some banks to also provide “group account” offers to customers.

For our main segment, we analyse if Meta’s smart sunglasses are all they're cracked up to be. Tune in!

In today's episode we’re discussing Air India’s plan to open a new flying school in Maharashtra and the NEET controversy. Tune in!

In this episode, we look at how Indian summers can impact EVs. We're also discussing China's formidable solar energy industry — and if it can survive the twin challenges of prices crashing at home and trade restrictions abroad. Tune in!

In today's episode we take a look how India and China icy relationship is leading to a big predicament in trade and manufacturing. In other news, the Indian army has reportedly made some suggestions to tweak the contentious Agnipath scheme that was brought in two years back to revamp the recruital process for the Indian army. What are the suggestions and why does the Agnipath Scheme need a review? Tune in for more!

Today we look at how new ventures that provide elder care services in India are opening up — as the Indian family structure changes and life expectancies increase. We are also discussing why the initial euphoria around Kashmir’s lithium blocks has now dissipated. Tune in!

In today’s episode we get into how Japan’s government is planning to launch a dating app to encourage marriage and kids. We also unpack the latest WWDC event and what Apple is doing to be in the AI race. Tune in!

After a four-day-long electoral process,tThe counting process has begun for the EU Parliamentary elections and already it's triggering political drama as the wind shifts away from mainstream parties. In other news, corrupt officials in Gujarat have reached a new low and are now taking bribes in EMIs as they don't want to lose out on any opportunities. Tune in to this episode for more!

In today's episode we talk about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing in ceremony and which MPs made it to the final cut. We also dive into the recently concluded EU Parliamentary elections and what’s at stake for Europe. 

In other news, India is playing a cricket against Pakistan in a temporary stadium in Long Island in New York. Is this a push into cricket’s American aspirations? Tune in!

Danish Novo Nordisk’s patent on semaglutide — the active ingredient in weight loss drug Ozempic expires in 2026. In the meantime, Chinese firms have been hard at work, trying to develop at least 15 generic versions of Ozempic and Wegovy.  What does that mean for the pharmaceutical market?

In other news, a crisis is brewing at VIP industries as amid declining profits, Nisaba Godrej resigned as an independent director on the board of VIP Industries. What's happening to the legacy suitcase company VIP? Tune in!

In this episode, we discuss why so many former and current employees of OpenAI are criticising the startup and all the relevant Lok Sabha election-related developments. Tune in!

In today's episode, we first discuss a unique beauty pageant that has an AI twist, and then move on to the elephant in the room: the election results. Who are the big winners and losers, what are the big takeaways from this election — we unpack the election madness. Tune in!

After two and half months of elections and high-voltage campaigns, D-day is here! In this episode we talk about what's at stake for the voters, the incumbent government and the opposition.

In other news, Hollywood’s big-ticket summer films are flopping at the box office. What’s behind the tinsel town’s summertime sadness?  Tune in for more!

In today's episode we recap the recent exit poll predictions as the country anticipates the results of one of India’s most crucial Lok Sabha elections. In the main story, we’ll decode the biggest headache of India’s e-commerce industry: orders that never reach customers. Tune in!

In today's episode, we talk about India’s surging power demands as the country simmers in severe heat waves. 

In other news, we are also looking at how the media world is facing a huge dilemma that could shake up the future of journalism as we know it. Tune in to learn more!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini
Edited by Roshni Nair
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we look at the recent development from the Israel-Gaza war. Recently, Ireland, Norway and Spain recognised Palestine’s statehood, but what does it mean in practical terms for Palestine?

In other news, YouTube enters the gaming arena with 'Playables', a collection of casual games within its platform. What does it mean for YouTube and other competitors in this sector? Listen in to find out!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we are talking about the AI-fication of the arms race around the world. From gun-toting robo-dogs to autonomous drone hordes, these questionable weapons could rewrite the rules of warfare.

In other news, India’s real estate market is in a bull run. Premium properties are selling out like hot cakes. Gurgaon especially has become a topic of conversation because of the number of luxury properties that are being sold there. But who are lapping up these properties? People who are actually moving into these residential units or investors? Tune in to find out!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we are taking a look at the rise in luxury sneakers. Italian premium sneaker brand Golden Goose is planning to go public soon in Milan and athletic brand Hoka is also dipping its toes in the premium sneaker market.

In other news, we talk about why so many Ola-Uber drivers are following the ‘No AC Campaign’. What are their demands for providing an AC cab service? Tune in to find out!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today’s episode, we are talking about dating apps, yet again. But this time numbers show that women are feeling the “burnout”. And for our main story, we talk about the rise of Chinese study apps in the US. Stay tuned till the end to learn the details of both stories!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we are talking about managers struggling with the GenZ workforce. What seems to be the problem? Listen in to find out!

And in our second segment, we dive into the realities of the $100 billion climate pledge that required richer nations to mobilise funding for climate initiatives in LMIC countries. How much of that has actually been fruitful? Stay tuned to know more!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today’s episode, we are first taking a look at the Singapore Airlines incident. A Boeing 777 flight plunged over 6000 feet due to severe turbulence. And for the second segment, we are talking about how Flipkart is taking a shot at quick commerce again.

Episode credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Anup Semwal and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

For our first story today, we are talking about a Bengaluru-based startup named Calmosis, which is now providing doorstep delivery of cannabis-based medicinal products. And in our second segment, we are taking a look into the latest controversy surrounding OpenAI, which has been accused of allegedly stealing Scarlett Johansson's voice for its AI assistant! Dive right in.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Anup Semwal and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today’s line up we are talking about a flying thief and Covid’s resurgence with its new variant. So far in India 250 cases have been reported, however the number could go up considering the election season and IPL matches. And even Singapore has witnessed a massive spike in COVID cases. Stay tuned till the end to learn more!

Also, check out: AstraZeneca Faces the Music Over Vaccine Side Effects

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Anup Semwal and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

Netflix is no longer just flirting with sports - it is going all in. The streaming giant announced a three-season deal with the NFL to become the exclusive global home for two marquee Christmas Day games each year, starting in 2025. But why is the streaming platform suddenly so thirsty for live sports? We dive into it.

In today’s episode, we also look at the allegations of human rights abuse that taint the EV industry’s supply chain network. Tune in!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Roshni Nair
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode we are talking about the problem with fake reviews on e-commerce platforms, how it affects consumers and how there’s a dire need for a mechanism to weed out this issue.

And in other news, we are taking a look at how the Canadian dream is now losing its appeal for Indian students.

Tune in to this episode of The Signal Daily to learn more!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode we are talking about Google’s latest announcements from its I/O event. The tech giant introduced several AI tools that are set to overhaul Google Search.

In other news, we take a look at an interesting legal battle between face cream brands Nivea and Ponds. What is the fight about? Keep listening to find out.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we are looking at OpenAI’s launch of its new AI model - GPT-4o. We talk about the new features and why it is both alarming and intriguing at the same time.

And for the second segment, we are talking about the surge in ghost shopping malls in India. We are also joined by Soumya Gupta, Senior Editor at The Core and The Signal who shares some insights on what works for malls.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we dive into India’s 10-year deal with Iran to manage Chabahar. What does India gain from this? Stay tuned till the end to know more. And in other news, we are looking at why Bhavish Aggarwal, CEO of Ola Cabs, wants to move away from Microsoft’s Azure cloud services. However, according to a detailed thread by an X user, Ola has been relying on Amazon Web Services for its cloud needs.

Tune in to this episode of The Signal Daily!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Roshni Nair
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we're taking a look at the competition between bots in the hiring process. Turns out that both applicants and employers are using AI to speed up the hiring process. 

In other news, we're diving into Elon Musk's X's recent decision to ban over 100,000 Indian accounts and his broader campaign against what he views as government 'censorship' on a global scale.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we're looking at the rising popularity of Uniqlo's crescent-shaped bags and how the Japanese brand is planning to leverage the trend, turning it into a fashion statement.

In other news, we're talking about the challenges in India's aviation industry. Just a month after Vistara pilots staged a mass sick leave, now the cabin crew of its sister company Air India Express is following suit, some even facing potential termination. Stay tuned till the end to learn more about the reasons behind this development.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth and Shorbori
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

Also, check out our previous episodes:
Vistara's Rocky Patch
Stanley Ka Tumbler

In today's episode, we are talking about AI and chip competitions. We look at the launch of Apple’s new M4 chip and what it means for the company’s AI plans. We also talk about the US’ new restrictions on chip exports to China.

And in other news, we look at why big hotel chains are now expanding in India’s tier 2 and 3 cities.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

Today we talk about Bengaluru and the potential beer crisis that is building up in the city and United Beverages’ new moves. And for the deep dive we are looking at AI’s increasing involvement in the music industry. Case in point: Drake’s diss track Taylor Made Freestyle against Kendrik Lamar.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan 
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

On today's episode, we are talking about how service-based businesses are increasingly charging fees for no-shows or cancellations.

In other news, we are taking a look at the impact of climate change on coffee production, which is ultimately driving up the cost of your morning cup of Joe.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

Check out our. previous episode on coffee shortage and Roshni Nair's story for The Core - Indian Robusta Growers Were About To Reap A Windfall. Then They Ran Out Of Water

In today's episode, we are talking about how Indian students are struggling to land good internship opportunities in the US amid a global economic downturn.

And for the main segment, Boeing is launching two astronauts into space on its Starliner capsule today. Stay tuned till the end as we also delve into Boeing's latest array of challenges.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Roshni Nair
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

Also, check out our other Boeing story - Boeing Hit With Fresh Crisis

In today's episode, we are talking about the spat between daily news publications and AI companies. We’ll also be joined by Roshni Nair, executive editor at The Signal to share her views on this conflict.   

In other news, we are looking at Tesla’s woes, yet again. And this time around,  the EV maker is revoking internship offers. Listen in to find out the reason.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth and Shorbori
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we're talking about the split in the Godrej family business and who’s getting what.

In our second segment we look at the rising popularity of Ramen noodles in India. Is it a phenomenon that is here to stay? To talk about this we’ll be joined by Anjali Palod, Staff Writer at The Core.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we're taking a look at the ongoing student protests at colleges and universities across the US, Canada, and parts of Europe. What are the reasons behind their demonstrations and what impact they might have? Listen in , to find out! 

In other news, we're talking about AstraZeneca finally admitting that its vaccines might have some rare side effects. Stay tuned till the end to get the lowdown on the details.

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode, we're talking about how heatwaves are shaking up the gig economy in India. In other news, we're taking a peek into India's co-working scene. Stay tuned for the latest: WeWork's bowing out of India while Awfis Space Solutions gears up for its public debut. Tune in for this insightful episode!

Episode credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode we delve into the burgeoning weight loss drug market and how Indian pharmaceutical companies are eyeing opportunities to seize its growth.

In other news, we'll discuss the ongoing challenges facing TikTok in the US. Is it on the brink of bidding farewell? Stick around until the end to uncover the latest developments!

Episode credits:
The episode was researched, written, and produced by Shorbori and Manaswini

Edited by Dinesh Narayanan 
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave

In today's episode we dive into Meta’s earnings report — what is working out for it and what’s not.

And in our second segment we look at how the plastic treaty discussions in Canada are progressing. What are the anticipated roadblocks and what kind of policies do we need to have for effective plastic waste management. Our guest for this episode is  Suneel Pandey, Director & Senior Fellow at The Energy and Resources Institute. Stay tuned till the end of the episode!

Episode Credits:
The episode was researched, written by Shorbori 

Produced by Manaswini

Edited by Venkat Ananth
Mastered and mixed by Yash Hirave