WSJ What’s News

P.M. Edition for June 3. Many New Yorkers looking to watch the Knicks play in the NBA Finals are finding themselves priced out of Madison Square Garden. We speak to Journal sports reporter Jared Diamond about what’s got prices so high, as well as a few Knicks fans who found it more cost-effective to travel to San Antonio to see their team play the Spurs. Plus, Meta launches artificial intelligence agents for businesses. WSJ tech reporter Meghan Bobrowsky discusses Meta’s enterprise ambitions. And, federal regulators are investigating whether former Congressman George Santos traded illegally on prediction markets. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2026

A.M. Edition for June 3. Heavy gunfire between U.S. and Iranian forces in the Persian Gulf tests a fragile ceasefire, while the OECD warns of multiple global recessions if the conflict isn’t resolved by next year. Dow Jones economics editor Paul Hannon explains the risks and how the U.S.’ new proposed tariffs on 60 countries would work. And an Iowa farmer pulls off an unexpected upset against a Trump-backed candidate in the state's GOP gubernatorial primary. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2026

P.M. Edition for June 2. President Trump has named Bill Pulte, leader of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, as acting director of national intelligence. WSJ White House reporter Natalie Andrews discusses how Pulte has urged investigations into the president’s perceived enemies and lawmakers’ criticism of his appointment. Plus, the Trump administration is abandoning its $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund after it drew broad condemnation from GOP lawmakers. And, we hear from Jason Zweig, who writes WSJ’s Intelligent Investor column, about how the year of the mega IPO is triggering changes by index providers—the firms that compile market averages like the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100–to accommodate these titanic deals. SpaceX, one of those massive IPOs, is eyeing a valuation of around $1.75 trillion. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

A.M. Edition for June 2. Google parent Alphabet plans to issue $80 billion in equity this year to pay for its massive spending tied to the AI race. Plus, California voters head to the polls in a closely-watched primary to choose Governor Gavin Newsom’s successor. And WSJ foreign correspondent Stephen Kalin details a new demand by President Trump complicating efforts to negotiate an end to the Iran war: that Arab states establish diplomatic relations with Israel. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

P.M. Edition for June 1. AI giant Anthropic has confidentially filed paperwork to go public, potentially as soon as this fall. WSJ Heard on the Street writer Asa Fitch discusses why it matters whether Anthropic or rival OpenAI make their stock market debut first. Plus, the Trump administration is signaling a retreat on its $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, which met powerful pushback from members of Congress. And the top two movies at the box office this weekend were horror films made by Gen Z filmmakers. We hear from Journal entertainment reporter Ben Fritz about whether this represents a new pathway for Hollywood hits. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

A.M. Edition for June 1. Nvidia unveils a next generation lineup of laptops and desktops designed to run AI agents. Plus, SoftBank leapfrogs Toyota to become Japan's most valuable company on news it will invest more than $50 billion in data centers in France. And Colombia lurches right, as voters back a presidential candidate pledging a major drugs crackdown. WSJ South America bureau chief Juan Forero says a potential win by firebrand Abelardo de la Espriella in a runoff later this month could hand President Trump another close ally in Latin America. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

Flawless skin. Thicker hair. A snatched jawline. Better sleep. These are some of the benefits social media users claim peptides can deliver. But many of these uses are not FDA-approved, and consumers are increasingly turning to the grey market. WSJ’s Sara Ashley O’Brien, who covers the business and culture of wellness, joins host Alex Ossola to discuss the reality behind the hype and the risks involved. Further Reading The Explosive Rise of Unapproved Peptide Injections Teen Boys and Young Men Are Injecting Peptides in Search of Perfection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 May 2026

Are memory chips the new oil? And why are energy stocks getting the cold shoulder? Plus, how is Ford cashing in on the AI boom? Imani Moise discusses the biggest stock moves of the week and the news that drove them. Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 29. Across industries, companies have been telling their employees to use more AI in their work. Now, as compute prices go through the roof, WSJ deputy tech bureau chief Brad Olson discusses how these companies are trying to scale it back. Plus, a federal judge puts a temporary pause on President Trump’s “anti-weaponization fund” amid a legal challenge. And move over Los Angeles—big film and TV studios are setting up shop in New Jersey. We hear from Journal entertainment reporter Ben Fritz about what’s drawing them to the Garden State. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 29. A Blue Origin rocket explodes on its Florida launchpad, dealing a setback to Jeff Bezos’ space company. Plus, the Iran war energy shock sends drivers flocking to Costco gas stations. And with the U.S. intensifying its pressure campaign on Cuba, indicting Raúl Castro and warning of an increase in Russian and Chinese operations on the island, Dragonfly Intelligence analyst Ben Hiorns discusses whether U.S. military action could be in the cards. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 28. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told reporters today that the U.S. and Iran are near an agreement, but that President Trump hasn’t signed off on it yet. Iran signaled that a final deal isn’t ready. Plus, 19 years after leaving Venezuela, Exxon Mobil is weighing whether to restart operations there. WSJ reporter Collin Eaton discusses the negotiations between Exxon and the Venezuelan government…and the company’s dilemma. And in New York City, wealthy retirees are buying “med-à-terres” to have a place to stay when they come back to see their doctors. Journal residential real estate reporter Jessica Flint explains what’s driving the trend. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 28. As the backlash against artificial intelligence builds in the U.S. and elsewhere, WSJ China economics reporter Hannah Miao says Beijing is pushing companies to embrace AI, but warning them not to cut jobs as they embrace new tools. Plus, federal prosecutors charge a Google employee with insider trading after the software engineer allegedly made more than $1 million betting with nonpublic information. And Meta rolls out paid subscription plans for Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp as the company tries to recoup some of the costs from its expensive AI buildout. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 27. Pharmaceutical companies have been testing a new type of drug to lower levels of lipoprotein(a); high levels have been linked to heart disease and can’t be lowered with diet and exercise. WSJ reporter Xavier Martinez walks us through how the new drugs work and what is still needed before they can make their way to patients. Plus, Ford’s stock has been surging for the past two weeks, but the reason doesn’t have much to do with cars. Journal autos reporter Ryan Felton discusses. And President Trump says he doesn’t fear political fallout from the Iran war, while the U.S. blockade throttles the Iranian economy. We hear from WSJ Middle East correspondent Benoit Faucon about what that economic pressure means for both sides as they seek a deal for long-term peace. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 27. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton defeats incumbent John Cornyn to clinch the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate, setting up a showdown with Democrat James Talarico in what could be the red state’s most competitive general election in years. Plus, The Trump administration plans to deploy public health officers to Kenya for a potential Ebola quarantine facility for Americans. And WSJ chief foreign-affairs correspondent Yaroslav Trofimov says with Russia stuck on the Ukrainian battlefield and launching massive strikes on Kyiv, European capitals fear Moscow could expand the conflict beyond Ukraine. Luke Vargas hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 26. Ferrari’s first all-electric vehicle fails to rev up fans–and investors. WSJ reporter Ben Katz breaks down the fallout, and why Ferrari says it’s unfazed. Plus, British oil giant BP removes its chairman after bullying concerns. And it’s getting more expensive to build a house. WSJ commodities reporter Ryan Dezember explains how the conflict in Iran and AI frenzy is rippling through the housing sector. Imani Moise hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 26. The U.S. says it carried out “defensive strikes” against targets in Iran, following a flareup in back-and-forth attacks over the weekend. American officials say the U.S. continues to observe a cease-fire and that talks to end the war are ongoing. Plus, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and incumbent Senator John Cornyn face off in a GOP primary that is the latest test of the power of president Trump’s endorsement. And Pope Leo XIV warns of the ethical and social challenges created by the rise of artificial intelligence. Luke Vargas hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

Which tech giant will kick off the next IPO boom? And why weren’t investors impressed by Nvidia’s blowout quarter? Plus, how is the AI frenzy changing the way investors get paid? Host Imani Moise discusses the biggest stock moves of the week and the news that drove them.Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 22. The Journal is exclusively reporting that Russia and China have been building out their operations to spy on the U.S. from Cuba. National security reporter Alex Ward discusses what this means for the U.S. as it escalates its pressure campaign on Havana. Plus, Kevin Warsh was sworn in as Federal Reserve chair at the White House today. We tell you what President Trump had to say about the central bank’s independence, and what the Fed should prioritize under Warsh’s leadership. And Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard becomes the latest Trump administration official to leave her post. Alex Ossola hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

Bonus Episode for May 22. Financial results from Nvidia give investors a look into the “parabolic” demand for AI hardware. Wall Street Journal Reporter Robbie Whelan discusses how the rise of AI agents is shifting the company’s business, and how Nvidia could benefit from blockbuster IPOs from SpaceX and OpenAI–even with rising competition in the chip industry. Heard on the Street columnist Dan Gallagher hosts this special bonus episode of What's News in Earnings, where we dig into companies’ earnings reports and analyst calls to find out what’s going on under the hood of the American economy. Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 22. The U.S. puts arms sales to Taiwan on hold, saying the munitions and arms are needed for the war with Iran. Plus, weight-loss drugs like WeGovy and Mounjaro show a surprising ability to stall cancer. And WSJ’s Laura Cooper details how bourbon distillers are facing a hangover as more Americans pinch pennies and join the ranks of the sober-curious. Daniel Bach hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 21. The Senate’s at an impasse after a majority of Senate Republicans collide with President Trump over plans for an “anti-weaponization fund.” WSJ national political reporter Ken Thomas discusses what that means for President Trump’s agenda ahead of the midterms. Plus, a day after officially kicking off its IPO process, tonight SpaceX plans to launch a new version of its Starship rocket. We hear from Journal space reporter Micah Maidenberg about why Starship is so critical to the future of SpaceX’s business. And dividend investors were making gains and many years even beat the wider S&P 500… until about three years ago, when things went south. WSJ senior markets columnist James Mackintosh dug into the data to understand why. (Hint: the AI boom.) Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 21. Wall Street is bracing for a historic wave of tech listings as Elon Musk’s SpaceX unveils its blockbuster S-1 prospectus. WSJ reporter  Becky Peterson parsed the filing and says its setting the stage for a landmark debut that could make Musk the world’s first trillionaire. Plus, an exclusive look at Anthropic’s mind-blowing growth as the AI-startup looks set for its first profit. And, new research shows MAHA-approved natural food colors may cause cancer and diabetes. Daniel Bach hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 20. We’re exclusively reporting that ChatGPT maker OpenAI has been working with bankers to prepare to file for an initial public offering in the coming days or weeks. Reporter Berber Jin joins to discuss the timing of the possible IPO and what that could mean for OpenAI’s business. Plus, stocks of chipmakers like Intel, Micron and AMD have hit a volatile stretch after weeks of massive gains. We hear from WSJ reporter Jared Mitovich about why they’re now looking to Nvidia’s earnings for the path forward. The chip company reported its latest record quarter. And the Trump administration has charged former Cuban president Raúl Castro with murder as the U.S. continues its pressure campaign against the island nation’s Communist government. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 20. Thomas Massie’s ouster in the Kentucky primary, highlights President Trump’s growing grip on the Republican party. We take a closer look at the evening’s other ballots and what it all means for the midterms. Plus, WSJ editor Jason Douglas explains why a global selloff in bonds is bad news for stock markets too. And the EU agrees to move forward with its U.S. trade deal, warding off new auto tariffs. Daniel Bach hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 19. The legal liabilities of some of the biggest home builders in the U.S. have surged in recent years as buyers increasingly sue for what they allege to be shoddier, error-ridden homes. WSJ reporter Nicholas Miller discusses why this is happening more frequently and the impact this is having on the companies’ operations. Plus, a document posted by the Justice Department today says the federal government will end all pending tax audits of President Trump and his businesses. And Carvana, the used-car titan, is expanding into selling new cars. We hear from Journal autos reporter Chris Otts about what this means for traditional auto dealers. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 19. The outcome of a handful of primaries across the country could signal whether Republicans are willing to adopt a form of MAGA politics that embraces leaders who break with President Trump, including Thomas Massie in Kentucky, WSJ’s Washington coverage chief Damian Paletta says. Plus, oil prices slide on the prospect of a potential peace deal between Iran and the U.S. And with blocked data centers, plummeting poll numbers and booed commencement speeches, the American rebellion against artificial intelligence is gaining steam. Daniel Bach hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 18. A California jury sides against Elon Musk in his lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman. The decision clears the path for OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, to go public. Plus, the Trump administration has created an unusual settlement fund for people who claim they have been victimized by the Justice Department. We hear from Journal reporter Ryan Barber on what we know about the fund and why it’s already getting pushback. And NextEra Energy has agreed to buy Dominion Energy in a $67 billion deal. Jennifer Hiller, who covers the power industry, says it would create the largest U.S. utility–but it’ll have to pass regulatory scrutiny first. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 18. Commuters in New York face a day of chaos as the strike shutting the Long Island Rail Road goes into its third day. Plus the U.S. and China agree to launch boards of trade and investment. And while you may think fuel is expensive now, it could get a lot worse. Because global oil inventories are falling at a record pace and as WSJ correspondent Georgi Kantchev explains, that could send prices to all new highs. Daniel Bach hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

Inflation may have sunk the Democratic Party at the ballot box in 2024. But high prices at the grocery store and the gas station are now a problem for the GOP. According to the Labor Department, consumer prices in April saw their biggest year-over-year jump in three years and gasoline prices were up 28% from a year earlier. For our special What’s News series The Cost-of-Living Election, WSJ national politics reporter Sabrina Siddiqui met with voters and congressional candidates in and around Allentown, Pa., to uncover what stubborn inflation could mean for the area’s primary election this Tuesday. She then speaks with the sitting congressman for Pennsylvania’s 7th congressional district, Republican Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, about what he’s doing to address the rising cost of living. Relevant links: Tariffs’ Messy Reality: The Cost-of-Living Election | Part 1: Ohio Inflation Soared to 3.8% in April, Driven by Gasoline Prices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2026

What drove an up-and-down week for chips stocks like Intel, Nvidia, Micron and Qualcomm? And what kind of clarity did crypto traders get from the Clarity Act advancing in the Senate? Plus, how are investors liking Klarna’s pivot away from “buy now, pay later”? Host Jack Pitcher discusses the biggest stock moves of the week and the news that drove them. Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 15. After making a big bet on EVs for the U.S., Japanese carmaker Honda is now confronting some of its biggest challenges ever. WSJ autos reporter Sean McLain discusses the company’s options. Plus, U.K. bond markets were spooked today after left-wing Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham opened a path to take on sitting Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Journal’s Chelsey Dulaney joins us from London to break down why borrowing costs hit their highest level since 2008. And Anthropic raises another $30 billion ahead of its expected IPO, while SpaceX sets a date for its highly-anticipated stock-market debut next month. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 15. With President Trump wheels up after a two-day summit in China, WSJ White House reporter Annie Linskey discusses the significance of a visit light on concrete new announcements. Plus, the Supreme Court preserves widespread access to abortion pills. And the head of the CIA visits Havana, as Cuba’s Communist regime grapples with a U.S. energy blockade. Luke Vargas hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 14. A privacy-focused alternative to bitcoin called Zcash is winning over crypto evangelists. WSJ special writer Greg Zuckerman explains what’s got the crypto community so excited, along with the risks of the coin. Plus, Pentagon leaders say the war in Iran is costing so much that they’re running out of money for other operations. And New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art has agreed to merge with the Neue Galerie, cosmetics billionaire Ronald Lauder’s esteemed museum for German and Austrian modern art. We hear from Journal reporter Kelly Crow about why that’s an important move for the Met. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 14. Chinese leader Xi Jinping has warned President Trump that any mishandling of the Taiwan issue could lead to ‘an extremely dangerous situation’ – a message China bureau chief Jon Cheng and national security reporter Alex Ward tell us is casting a cloud over a closely-watched summit. Plus, the CDC assigns more staff to respond to the hantavirus outbreak as it tries to strike a balance between a swift response and sparking panic. And columnist Callum Borchers shares career advice for new grads, including that no one cares about your GPA. Luke Vargas hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 13. OpenAI has for years been the major AI company, with ChatGPT dominating with users and in the discourse. But as WSJ reporter Kate Clark tells us, new data indicates that Anthropic has taken its crown—though keeping it is far from a sure thing. Plus, the Senate has voted to confirm Kevin Warsh as the new chair of the Federal Reserve by the tightest margin since 1977, when a vote was first required. And new data from the CDC shows that the number of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. fell for the third year in a row, a sign that the country might be emerging from the opioid epidemic. Journal reporter Jen Calfas discusses what’s driving the decline. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 13. As Tim Cook, Elon Musk and Jensen Huang arrive in China alongside President Trump, WSJ Beijing bureau chief Jon Cheng considers whether the U.S. could be posed to expand Chinese access to advanced American tech. Plus, U.S. household debt closes in on $19 trillion as student loan delinquencies rise. And WSJ's Ed Ballard explains how continued disruption to the Strait of Hormuz is sending trade overland, potentially changing trade routes permanently. Luke Vargas hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 12. President Trump left today for his summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. WSJ Washington bureau chief Damian Paletta lays out the stakes, with the two leaders expected to tackle trade, Iran and Taiwan. Plus, inflation hit its highest level in three years last month, outpacing wage growth. Journal economics reporter Chao Deng explains how the war in the Middle East is driving up prices. And there’s a fire sale on MBAs, with a number of business schools offering deep discounts on their tuition. We hear from reporter Ray Smith about why it has everything to do with AI. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 12. With the U.S. and Iran still far apart on a peace deal, WSJ reporter Caitlin McCabe says investors are embracing a new Tex-Mex-inspired trade based on the assumption the Strait of Hormuz won’t be opening anytime soon. Plus, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer fights for his job as a rebellion against him spills into markets. And Democrats face another setback in the midterm redistricting fight. Luke Vargas hosts.  Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 11. When Spirit Airlines stopped flying earlier this month, it left dozens of planes scattered around the country. We hear from WSJ’s Alison Sider about the plane repo men and what it takes to bring the jets back to the companies that own them. Plus, the Trump administration, worried about affordability ahead of November’s midterms, plans to temporarily ease beef tariffs to lower grocery costs. And the Journal has learned that the United Arab Emirates has secretly carried out military strikes on Iran. Our reporter Shelby Holliday explains what drove the U.A.E. to become an active combatant in the war in the Gulf. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 11. Around 150 passengers from a hantavirus-stricken cruise ship are finally returning home, with authorities around the world coordinating flights for quarantine and isolation. Plus, fading hopes of a peace deal between the U.S. and Iran are reigniting a climb in oil prices. According to the AAA, Americans on average are paying $4.52 for a gallon of gasoline, with drivers in California hardest hit. And while consumers may be anxious about higher fuel costs, Expedia’s CEO tells us that they’re still booking trips. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

The U.S. pioneered early nuclear technologies—not only for war, but also for peacetime, in the form of abundant nuclear energy. After a surge in new reactor construction, the 1979 partial meltdown at Three Mile Island precipitated the end of nuclear energy’s expansion in America. But recent calls for reliable, clean energy to fuel AI data centers have shifted attitudes and increased investment and innovation in the industry. Will the AI race be enough to reboot nuclear energy in the U.S.? This episode is part of The Wall Street Journal’s USA250: The Story of the World’s Greatest Economy, a collection of articles, videos and podcasts aiming to offer a deeper understanding of how America has evolved. Listen to previous installments of our USA250 podcast: The Struggle To Keep America’s Workers Safe An Economy Built on Speculation America’s Road to a DIY Retirement Further Reading: Why Fusion Is Considered Energy’s Elusive Holy Grail America’s First Commercial Nuclear-Power Projects in a Decade Just Broke Ground ‘Three New York Cities’ Worth of Power: AI Is Stressing the Grid Inside the Audacious Plan to Reopen Three Mile Island’s Nuclear Plant Five Things to Know About AI’s Thirst for Energy ‘It’s Time for Nuclear’ to Meet Growing U.S. Power Needs, Trump Declares Nuclear Power Is Making a Comeback Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2026

How is the AI trade different from the dot-com bubble? And why wasn’t Wall Street impressed by Palantir’s blowout quarter? Plus, what does a glass company and a luxury toilet maker have to do with AI? Host Imani Moise discusses the biggest stock moves of the week and the news that drove them. Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 8. The U.S. economy added 115,00 jobs in April, beating analyst expectations for the second month in a row. WSJ economics reporter Chao Deng explains how this could be a turning point for the labor market–and what that means for the Federal Reserve. Plus, the Virginia Supreme Court threw out Democrats’ efforts at redistricting ahead of the midterm elections. We hear from Journal national political reporter Ken Thomas about how this could affect Democrats’ chances at retaking the House. And we’re exclusively reporting that Intel will supply some chips for Apple devices—a deal that could be huge for the chipmaker’s attempt to turn around its business. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

Bonus Episode for May 8. Financial results from pharmaceutical companies Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Merck, Bristol Myers Squibb and AbbVie show strong demand continuing for weight-loss drugs and autoimmune treatments. Wall Street Journal pharma reporter Peter Loftus discusses which drugmakers have the upper hand in the race to dominate those markets.  WSJ Heard on the Street columnist David Wainer hosts this special bonus episode of What's News in Earnings, where we dig into companies’ earnings reports and analyst calls to find out what’s going on under the hood of the American economy. Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 8. Early U.K. election results point to a surge in populism and deep voter dissatisfaction with the incumbent Labour party. WSJ U.K. correspondent Max Colchester explains how voters are becoming increasingly polarised and what that means for governments around the world. Plus, President Trump’s tariffs face another legal setback. And WSJ’s Te-Ping Chen details the extremes writers go to, in order to prove that they are not AI. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 7. During Trump’s second term, his administration has announced direct investment stakes in at least 10 companies such as Intel and U.S. Steel. We hear from WSJ reporter Maggie Severns about why this is an unorthodox approach by the government and how American executives are responding. Plus, Secretary of State Marco is in Rome in an effort to repair the relationship with Pope Leo and Italian leaders. National security reporter Robbie Gramer gives us an update from the Italian capital. And Elon Musk is being summoned to France to face criminal charges in a sprawling investigation of his social media platform, X. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 7. U.S. airlines are warning that already-high airfares will surge if the war in Iran doesn’t end soon. And the Trump administration is taking heed, as new polling shows most Americans blame the President for rising fuel costs. Plus, we look at the risks posed by the lowly power bank. And WSJ markets reporter Gunjan Banerji explains the pros and cons of asking AI for investment advice. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 6. A patient in Switzerland has been hospitalized with a strain of hantavirus after returning from a cruise to South America. Three people who traveled on that cruise ship have died. Journal reporter Xavier Martinez discusses what’s concerning about the virus and what health officials are doing about it. Plus, media titan Ted Turner, who created CNN and shaped the cable-TV industry, has died at 87. And as some companies lay off workers because of AI, others are keeping their headcount, but they expect workers to do more. We hear from WSJ workplace reporter Chip Cutter about what that means for their workers. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2026

A.M. Edition for May 6. A Journal investigation finds China is supplying Russia and Iran with drone factories. WSJ senior correspondent Josh Chin explains how Chinese companies are managing to circumvent U.S. sanctions. Plus, Samsung joins the trillion dollar club amid relentless demand for AI memory chips. And weight-loss drug giant Novo Nordisk surprises with strong sales even as competition with Eli Lilly continues to weigh on growth. Daniel Bach hosts. Sign up for the WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2026

P.M. Edition for May 5. After Iran’s most recent attacks on the United Arab Emirates, the Trump administration is looking the other way. WSJ chief foreign-affairs correspondent Yaroslav Trofimov explains why the U.S. response is worrying its allies. Plus, China is pushing back against U.S. sanctions on Iranian oil. We hear from Journal chief China correspondent Lingling Wei, who writes the WSJ China newsletter, about why China is cracking down. And we’re exclusively reporting that President Trump is pressuring FDA Commissioner Marty Makary to to approve flavored vapes. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2026