The number of countries cutting energy taxes in response to the Iran war has doubled over the past month, and China blocked Meta’s $2bn purchase of the AI group Manus. Plus, big private equity backers have raised concerns that some firms may be waving through controversial deals.

Mentioned in this podcast:

Energy tax cuts spread across 39 economies as prices jump

China blocks Meta’s $2bn purchase of AI group Manus

Private equity backers raise new conflict concerns over sweetheart deals

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

Today’s FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed, Fiona Symon, and Sonja Hutson. Our show was mixed by Sam Giovinco. Additional help from Gavin Kallmann, Michael Lello and David da Silva. 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

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Private equity deals where the seller is also the buyer

FT News Briefing