A key UK government official says Britain’s leaders have shown a “corrosive complacency” towards defence, OpenAI’s $852bn valuation is under increasing scrutiny from its own backers and fixed-income traders at Goldman Sachs suffered an unexpected drop in revenues at the start of 2026. Plus, the FT’s Raya Jalabi explains how Lebanon has become a sticking point in US-Iran negotiations.  

Mentioned in this podcast:

Starmer accused of ‘corrosive complacency’ on UK defence by former Nato chief

OpenAI investors question $852bn valuation as strategy shifts

Goldman bond traders take shine off bumper quarter

The 10 minutes that set Lebanon ablaze

Note: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts 

Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted by Sonja Hutson, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s Global Head of Audio. The show’s theme music is by Metaphor Music. 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.