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Can Elon Musk be right about both of these at the same time?

• Collapsing birth rates are the biggest threat to civilisation
• AI + humanoid robots will make almost all human jobs obsolete in the next 10–20 years

If robots do all the work… why is he Elon Musk asking the world to have more babies? And what does this paradox mean for the future of corporations and global trade?

- Elon Musk’s births and robot paradox 

- Global fertility collapse – the shocking numbers 

- Musk’s comments at the 2025 Saudi Investment Forum: “Work will be optional… money may become irrelevant”

- Universal High Income and the real future problem 

- Mr Nelson’s 1980s prediction vs today’s self-checkout hell

- Ronald Coase, zero transaction costs, and the coming death of the corporation 

- Electronic personhood for robots – the 2017 EU Parliament resolution 

- R2-D2

- Could droids get bank accounts and become consumers? 

- Intra-firm trade and the blockchain future 

- The Tesla that does 0-100 mph in 2 seconds when the speed limit is 55 

- What every company must do before the AI asteroid hits (McKinsey 2025) 

- Kodak, the East India Company… and the morning the multinational dies

Elon Musk | AI | Robotics | Optimus | Birth Rate Crisis | Fertility Collapse | Future of Work | Global Trade | Universal Basic Income | Transaction Costs | Corporate Death | Demographics | Automation | Tesla | Trade Policy | Geopolitics

Hosted by Justin Hayden Miller – global trade advisor & strategist, former partner at a top-tier European law firm and former senior leader in Big-4 international trade and tax practices.

If this episode made you think differently, please leave a quick 5-star rating — it’s the #1 way new listeners discover the show.

Subscribe and stay ahead.

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In October 2025, the International Maritime Organization's (IMO’s) Net-Zero Framework—designed to introduce carbon levies on high-emission fuels and raise up to $10 billion annually for developing nations—was delayed by a 57-49 vote until October 2026.

This episode examines:

• The U.S. role in blocking the measures and reported use of diplomatic leverage

• Saudi Arabia’s contrasting approach with economic incentives

• China’s $18 billion investment in alternative-fuel shipyards and its vote alongside the U.S.

• The current state of green-fuel technologies: LNG leakage risks, hydrogen supply challenges, ammonia toxicity, and early-stage nuclear options

• Indirect military dimensions: low-emission propulsion for naval stealth and endurance, e.g. the US Virginia class (SSN-774 class) nuclear submarine 

• The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and its potential ripple effects on high-carbon supply chains

• A parallel from France’s delayed Crit’Air vehicle-emission scheme

The episode also includes clips of an an interview discussion between me and shipping expert Simon Ward, in May 2025, which somewhat predicted US IMO involvement and the result, some 6 months before it happened!

Keywords: US China trade, shipping standoff, IMO blocked, levy blocked 2025, US China shipping, IMO $10B, green levy blocked, carbon tax shipping

I’ll deliver the closing address at ENSM’s conference “When Geopolitics Intrudes on Global Maritime Trade” on 20 November in Le Havre. Join in person or online—details below.

ENSM Conference – 20 November, Le Havre

Register: https://lnkd.in/e8tueJZX

Contact: [email protected]

Sources:

• UNCTAD – 80% of trade by sea

• IMO MEPC 82 – vote details

• Reuters – U.S. diplomatic tactics

• The New York Times – strong-arm reports

• Climate Change News – Saudi incentives

• Yale Climate Connections – cost projections

• U.S. Navy – Virginia-class

• BBC – AUKUS deal

• Global Times (20 Oct 2025) – CSSC statement

• China Briefing – retrofit investments

• Truth Social – Trump quote

• Connexion France – Crit’Air

• European Commission – CBAM

Email: [email protected]

X: @justinhaydenm

 #GlobalTrade #Maritime #Geopolitics #GreenShipping #ENSM

A Privileged Discussions Production

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

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Episode 14: AI Tsunami - Global Trade Boom or Bust?

AI's Impact on International Trade: Boom or Deglobalization?

Host Justin Hayden Miller, global trade lawyer at a top European law firm, analyzes AI's dual impact on global trade. Will it boost efficiency and growth, or drive localization and self-sufficiency? Insights from historical AI milestones, 2025 trade forecasts, and quantum computing trends for European policymakers.

Tailored for senior executives, policymakers, trade professionals and those interested in geopolitics. 

Keywords: AI impact, international trade 2025, globalization deglobalization, AI supply chain optimization, 3D printing robotics, onshoring reshoring, WTO AI projections, Deloitte Tech Trends 2025, UNCTAD trade uncertainties, how AI affects global supply chains, quantum computing trade.

Meta Description: Explore AI's impact on global trade in 2025. Boom or bust? Insights for executives on globalization, 3D printing & more. 

Episode Highlights:

• AI Boosting Trade: Optimizes logistics, predictive chains, tokenized docs, and customs. UNCTAD: Trade uncertainties cost developing countries billions—AI mitigates risks.
• AI Driving Localization: Accelerates robotics and 3D printing, eroding offshoring. Bamboo Lab's PrintMon Maker enables text-to-3D; market to hit $88B by 2030.
• Adoption Speed: Deep Blue (1997) vs. ChatGPT (100M users in months); beats 50-year video tech lag.
• Key Projections: WTO: 34-37% trade rise by 2040 with AI. Deloitte Tech Trends 2025: AI fuels efficiency.
• Risks & Outlook: Data wars, regulatory Luddism, quantum computing acceleration.

Timestamps:

• Intro: AI's Trade Tsunami
• History: Kasparov vs. Deep Blue
• AI Trade Enhancements: Logistics & UNCTAD
• Tech Adoption: Video Calls to AI
• WTO/Deloitte Projections
• Localization: Robotics & 3D Printing 
• Policies: Tariffs & Onshoring
• Risks: Data, Regulations, Parallels
• Conclusions

Resources:

• WTO World Trade Report 2025: AI to boost trade 34-37% by 2040. https://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news25_e/wtr_15sep25_e.htm
• Deloitte Tech Trends 2025: AI in business transformation. https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/topics/technology-management/tech-trends.html
• UNCTAD: Uncertainty as the new tariff, costing developing economies. https://unctad.org/news/uncertainty-new-tariff-costing-global-trade-and-hurting-developing-economies
• 3D Printing Market: $88.2B by 2030. https://www.grandviewresearch.

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

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Strap in for an exclusive test drive of BMW's game-changing iX5 Hydrogen prototype—hitting roads in 2028! Join host and test driver Justin Hayden Miller at BMW's iconic Munich FIZ Center - with BMW hydrogen Lead and Hydrogen Council founder, Dr. Jürgen Guldner, riding in the passenger seat. 

Feel the instant torque, whisper-quiet EV ride, and zero-emission fuel cell speed: with sub-6-sec acceleration. Blending battery perks with gas-station ease, it's the future of sustainable mobility. Must-hear sequel to our previous hydrogen trade episode!

Key Highlights:

• Thrilling Test Drive: Feel the raw power—125kW fuel cell + 170kW battery boost for highway dominance and sports-mode adrenaline. Justin calls it "driving in the future"!
• Behind-the-Scenes: Live from Munich's innovation hub with 20,000+ experts, plus a nod to the BMW i3's EV legacy.
• Tech Deep Dive: Dr. Guldner explains fuel cell magic: Hydrogen + oxygen = electricity + pure water exhaust. Learn about regenerative braking, 6kg hydrogen tanks, and 3-4 minute refuels.
• BMW-Toyota Partnership: Over 10 years of collaboration culminates in this prototype, with series production hitting roads in 2028 as a complement to battery EVs.
• Sustainability Edge: Why hydrogen beats batteries for long-haul drivers—no home charging needed, just gas-station convenience with zero emissions.

Guest: Dr. Jürgen Guldner, Head of BMW Hydrogen Projects, Vehicle Dynamics Pioneer, founding member of the Hydrogen Council and Global Hydrogen Advocate.

Why Listen? Echoing Top Gear's iconic test drives, discover how hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are revolutionizing mobility, decarbonizing transport, and challenging Tesla-style EVs. Ideal for auto enthusiasts, green tech fans, and global trade pros eyeing Europe's energy transition.

Call to Action: Subscribe now for more episodes decoding global trade trends! Rate and review on Buzzsprout, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Follow @JustinHaydenM on X for updates. Missed the main episode? Check "Driving the Future: Europe's Hydrogen Mobility Revolution" first!

#HydrogenCars #BMWHydrogen #FuelCellTech #ElectricVehicles @BMW #SustainableTransport #AutoInnovation #TopGear

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

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Recorded live at BMW’s Cutting-Edge Innovation FIZ Center in Munich. Join global trade lawyer Justin Hayden Miller in conversation with Dr. Jürgen Guldner, having headed BMW's Dynamic Development he is Head of Hydrogen Projects at BMW Group, being a founding member of the Hydrogen Council. Elon Musk’s call for automotive disruption sparks debate as Europe navigates energy transition and global trade shifts. Could hydrogen technology be a game-changer?

• Elon Musk’s views on automotive disruption 
• H2-ICE vs. fuel cell vehicles: Hydrogen powertrain options
• BMW-Toyota collaboration: Decade-long partnership
• Hydrogen as an energy carrier: Imports, storage, grid support
• Battery electric vehicles vs. hydrogen: User needs and applications
• Hydrogen infrastructure in Europe: Current state and future networks
• Supply chain for hydrogen technology: Europe’s capabilities
• Trade policy and hydrogen: Regulatory frameworks
• Global hydrogen race: China, Japan, Korea developments
• BMW hydrogen 2028: Pilot fleet and production plans

The episode includes key topics for trade professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders concerning hydrogen’s potential in Europe’s energy and trade landscape. Essential for shaping hydrogen energy policy, trade strategy, or corporate sustainability. 

Share with your network to ignite discussions on Europe’s green trade future.

Don’t miss the next bonus episode: Justin test-drives BMW’s hydrogen prototype, launching in 2028.  Subscribe to the podcast for more global trade trends and analysis, and connect via X @JustinHaydenM or contact us by email on  [email protected].

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

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We've rebranded to "Global Trade Deciphered" to better reflect our sharper focus on global trade and business and to make the podcast more accessible and discoverable online. 

While the name has changed, our commitment to bringing you insightful analysis and expert perspectives on global trade remains the same.

For full details, and more, listen to the episode.

Trade Policy 2025

Please share the podcast with friends and colleagues who might find it valuable. Contact me with episode ideas or feedback at [email protected] or follow me on X @justinhaydenm.

If you like the podcast, please subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a rating. Also tell friends and colleagues about it so the podcast can grow.

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

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Privileged Discussions is now Global Trade Deciphered, a sharper reflection of our focus on global trade and business. Same expert insights, new name. Global Trade Deciphered is a Privileged Discussions Productions podcast. Thanks for listening!

Episode Description

Is the new US-EU trade deal an historic win or a dangerous pitfall? Join host Justin Hayden Miller,  global trade and international lawyer with 30 years' experience, as he dissects the high-stakes agreement unveiled by Presidents Trump and von der Leyen. 

From tariffs to massive energy and military deals, this episode uncovers the details and hidden risks. Listen now.

 Key Topics Covered

• Differing interpretations of the Trade Deal 
• Geopolitical Secrets: What’s behind EU Trade Commissioner Shekvovich’s cryptic hints about security and Ukraine?
• Criticisms of the deal by senior political figures
• How Europe can optimise and take advantage of the situation 
• Global Ripple Effects: and could Ireland face trade and political complications because the deal?
• Justin Hayden Miller’s take on what European governments and companies might do.

#TrumpTradeDeal #USTariffs #EUEconomy, Trade Policy 2025

Audio of the US / EU Press Conferences used for non monetised purposes, courtesy of:

© C-SPAN, 2025

© European Union, European Commission’s Audiovisual Service, 2025

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Privileged Discussions is now Global Trade Deciphered, a sharper reflection of our focus on global trade and business. Same expert insights, new name. Global Trade Deciphered is a Privileged Discussions Productions podcast. Thanks for joining us!

Episode Description

Renowned U.S. international trade attorney Peter Quinter speaks on how likely it is that the US Supreme Court will overturn President Trump's tariffs.

Justin Hayden Miller, a global trade lawyer, sits down with Peter to unpack the legal battles surrounding Trump’s controversial trade policies. From whether they are constitutional to Trump's unprecedented use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977, we dive into whether his tariffs will ultimately stand up in U.S. courts, or whether the US State will have to reimburse importers the tariffs already paid.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Trump’s Tariff Strategy: How President Trump’s executive orders since January 20, 2025, have reshaped U.S. trade policy.
• Legal Challenges: Two landmark cases (VOS Selections Inc. vs. United States and Learning Resources Inc. vs. Trump) headed to the U.S. Supreme Court, questioning the president’s authority under IEPA.
• U.S. Constitution and Tariffs: The role of Congress vs. the President in imposing tariffs, and the non-delegation doctrine’s impact on these cases.

Guest Spotlight: Peter Quinter

Peter Quinter, an equity partner at Gunster and chair of its U.S. Customs and International Trade Law Group, brings 35 years of expertise to the conversation. A globally recognized international trade attorney ranked in Chambers USA, offers unparalleled insights into their legal and economic ramifications.

Notable Quotes

• Peter Quinter: “These are the two most extraordinary cases that I’ve ever seen in my 35 years as a U.S. customs and international trade lawyer.” (On the Supreme Court-bound cases)
• Justin Hayden Miller: “Tariffs are somewhat on trial before the American people as well”

Trade Policy 2025

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

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Privileged Discussions is now Global Trade Deciphered, a sharper reflection of our focus on global trade and business. Same expert insights, new name. Global Trade Deciphered is a Privileged Discussions Productions podcast. Thanks for joining us!

Episode Description

Join host Justin Hayden Miller, a global trade lawyer, as he interviews Richard Corbett, former Leader of the European Parliamentary Labour Party and CBE recipient, on Brexit and the recent UK-EU Reset Summit. Recorded the morning after the summit on 21 May 2025, Corbett shares his insights on Brexit, its economic consequences, its trade and business impacts as well as the summit's outcomes. Key discussions include:

- Brexit’s Economic & Trade Impacts: Corbett reflects on the 2016 referendum, the flawed Remain campaign, and Brexit’s economic toll, with a 4-5% GDP loss and £40 billion in annual lost tax revenue, as per the OBR.

- UK-EU Reset Summit: The summit addressed trade barriers, security cooperation, and agriculture, but Corbett notes it’s a modest step, not fully resolving customs union and single market challenges.

- Trade Challenges: From red tape to rules of origin, businesses face ongoing hurdles, with limited summit relief for most sectors.

- Security & Geopolitics: Post-Brexit, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and US policy shifts under Trump highlight the need for UK-EU collaboration.

- Future Relations: Corbett sees the summit as a mindset shift, paving the way for deeper UK-EU ties, potentially rejoining the EU by 2033.

Corbett also discusses Margaret Thatcher’s European stance, the summit’s “reset” terminology, and possible future Labour representation in the European Parliament. A must-listen for insights into UK-EU relations and global trade dynamics.

Trade Policy 2025

Margaret Thatcher clips: © UK Parliamentary Recording Unit, All rights reserved

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.

Send us a text

Privileged Discussions is now Global Trade Deciphered, a sharper reflection of our focus on global trade and business. Same expert insights, new name. Global Trade Deciphered is a Privileged Discussions Productions podcast. Thanks for joining us!

Episode Description

Justin Hayden Miller is a Global Trade lawyer (with 25 years' experience) formerly at the Big 4 and now partner in one of Europe's largest commercial law firms. 

In this episode, we dive into President Trump’s ambitious “Made in America” policy, exploring whether his push to bring manufacturing back to American soil will succeed—or falter. 

Trade Policy 2025

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Don’t forget to rate and review to help us grow!  

**Resources & References**

- IBISWorld Report: [Canada’s Shrinking Auto Industry](https://www.ibisworld.com/canada/industry-trends/biggest-exporting-industries/)  

- BBC Article: [Challenges of Relocating North American Auto Industry](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn7vjlv7pzdo)  

- David Ricardo’s *Comparative Advantage* (1817): Learn more about this foundational economic theory. 

- Adam Smith’s *The Wealth of Nations* (1776): The roots of *Absolute Advantage*.  

Tags: #TrumpPolicies #MadeInUSA #ComparativeAdvantage #EconomicsPodcast #Tariffs #GlobalTrade #PersonalProductivity  

**Next Episode Teaser**

Brexit!

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*Disclaimer: This podcast is simply for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not in way constitute legal, business, financial or other advice whatsoever. Should you require advice then please seek such from an appropriately qualified professional, explaining your specific circumstances.