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Episode details

World Service,15 Mar 2025,49 mins

US averts shutdown as Democrats split over spending bill

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The US government narrowly avoids a shutdown after Democratic senators back a Republican-led spending bill, exposing deep party divisions. Was this a necessary compromise or a political defeat? Steff Chávez from the FT breaks it down. Meanwhile, gold hits a record $3,000 per ounce as investors seek stability. But who really benefits? Adrian Ash of BullionVault and Julia Yansura from FACT discuss the legal and illicit gold trade. Also, Canada’s new PM, Mark Carney, faces economic challenges, including potential US tariffs. We assess his road ahead with expert Fen Hampson. Plus, as LA’s wildfire cleanup continues, concerns grow over debris being dumped near parks and schools. Marketplace’s Caleigh Wells reports.

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