Scott and Ed open the show by discussing the latest inflation report, Meta’s next round of layoffs, and the uncertain future of TikTok. Then Scott breaks down United Health’s first earnings call since the killing of executive Brian Thompson, explaining why the company appeared to downplay its successful year. He delves into how profit incentives in sectors tied to social goods can create harmful externalities. Finally, Scott and Ed review fourth-quarter bank earnings, explaining why the results are clear evidence that mergers and acquisitions are back.

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