World Business Report – Details, episodes & analysis

Frey Lindsay looks back on the stories shaping the world of money and work in 2025. It's been a year where tariffs have grabbed many of the headlines and we hear from our correspondents around the world on the impact they've had. We also hear about the biggest toy and collector craze of 2025 - the Labubu doll.

(Picture: U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks on tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 2, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Carlos Barria)

Greenlandic and Danish foreign ministers are about to hold talks in Washington with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The meeting could shape investment, mining and military spending across the arctic. Plus, China has announced record export numbers and its biggest-ever trade surplus. We examine what this means. Also, Saks Fifth Avenue has applied for bankruptcy protection.

Airlines have grounded flights, one of the world’s busiest airports has shut, and oil prices are climbing after strikes in the Middle East. We hear from investors and analysts as they react in real-time to the US-Israel war with Iran. And we find out how the disruption is affecting air passengers and the wider travel industry.

Plus - we learn how the insurance market is responding to fast-moving events as it assesses coverage and war risk premiums.

Natural gas prices spike in Europe after Qatar closes its LNG base. Meanwhile the Strait of Hormuz closure sends crude oil higher and its importance in the shipment of fertiliser ingredients could have major effects on global crop production this year, the boss of Yara says

As global oil prices continue to climb, crude oil supplies from Iraq and Kuwait could stop shipping within days if travel through the Strait of Hormuz remains virtually halted. Plus, China cuts its economic growth forecast to the lowest level since 1991.

The US treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, says he will grant India a 30-day waiver to buy sanctioned oil from Russia to help ease supply concerns in the global market.

It comes as the Qatari energy minister warns that all energy producers in the Gulf region could shut down exports within weeks.

Plus - we hear from Nepal where votes are being counted in what’s being dubbed the young versus old election.

The Sri Lankan government has increased electricity prices for most households by more than 8% as fuel costs surge due to the Iran conflict.

Plus, Bisi Adebayo looks at the impact the war is having on jet fuel costs and how British and American food giants, Unilever and McCormick, have agreed a deal to combine parts of their food businesses.

The price of diesel has risen nearly 90% since the start of the war in Iran according to ICE. Why is that more than other fuels?

Plus Sarah Rogers hears why the price of subscriptions could rise after the World Trade Organsiation fails to reach a deal on ecommerce tariffs

and we look at the growth of fast fashion in India

The US and Iran have come to a temporary ceasefire, but for many businesses and consumers, the pressure may be far from over.

Hundreds of ships are still backed up in the Strait of Hormuz, with many waiting for clearance from Iran before they can move.

Plus, what it means for flights, holidays and passenger confidence as airlines proceed cautiously.

Presenter: Leanna Byrne Producer: Matt Lines Editor: Justin Bones

For the first time in seven years, India has bought its first cargo of Iranian oil. India hasn't purchased any Iranian oil since 2019 because of US sanctions, but those restrictions were waived last month. Leanna hears from the BBC's Archana Shukla.

Plus, its a big day for K-pop fans right across the globe as BTS, one of the world's biggest boy bands, have officially kicked off their new tour. Leanna Byrne hears from journalist Nemo Kim based in Seoul.