In this episode of The Decisive podcast, experts from S&P Global Market Intelligence explore the complexities of global trade negotiations and their profound impact on geopolitical relationships. The panel discusses the objectives behind U.S. trade policy, including the implementation of tariffs as negotiation tools and their implications for job markets and elections.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of how countries in Southeast Asia and members of the European Union are navigating the dynamic trade environment, striving to maintain economic growth while advocating for reform in the global trade system. The episode also highlights the strategic importance of trade relationships for Latin American countries, particularly Mexico, as they balance ties with the U.S. and China amid evolving tariff discussions.

Join us for an engaging exploration of how current tariff negotiations are reshaping international relations and vice versa.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Country Risk Month Ahead: May 2025
• Trade and tariffs insights and news
• Power Plays in 2025: Download the full report

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: John Raines, Anton Alifandi, Dijedon Imeri, Jose Enrique Sevilla-Macip
• Produced By: Debbie Taylor, Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, S&P Global Market Intelligence's Paul Smith is joined by fellow economists Andrew Harker and Annabel Fiddes to explore the latest findings from the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) data. The discussion focuses on the significant impact of recent tariff announcements on the global economy, with a particular emphasis on Asia.

Listeners will gain insights into the current state of global goods trade, which has seen a notable decline in manufacturing new export orders—the largest month-on-month reduction since August 2023. The episode also explores the mixed manufacturing output trends across Asia, highlighting strong performances in some regions alongside declines in others, particularly due to shifting US trade policies.

Additionally, the podcast addresses the labor market trends in the UK, examining how changes in payroll costs and national insurance rates have affected hiring practices and candidate availability. With global business confidence at a two-and-a-half-year low, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of the economic landscape, offering valuable insights for policymakers and industry professionals alike.

Listen now to stay informed on the latest economic developments and understand how high-frequency data can guide decision-making in uncertain times.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Goods producers in Asia signal sharp loss of export momentum
• Trade and tariffs insights and news
• Power Plays in 2025: Download the full report

Credits:

• Host: Paul Smith
• Guests: Andrew Harker, Annabel Fiddes
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam dives into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the shipping and logistics industry.

Joined by industry experts Eric Oak and Eric Johnson, the discussion covers the distinctions between AI and automation, the current applications of AI in shipping, and the challenges companies face in leveraging this technology.

The conversation also touches on future trends, the evolving workforce landscape, and the potential for AI to reshape traditional roles within the industry.

Tune in to gain insights on how AI is a tool as well as a catalyst for change in logistics, enhancing efficiency and decision-making in a rapidly digitizing world.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Sectoral divide in AI adoption
• Tariff-related disruption spreading as US shippers 'pause' plans
• Navigating the Future of AI in Third-Party Risk Management

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Eric Johnson, Eric Oak
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun