Ukraine Grain & DeSantis Campaign Shakeup | 7.18.23

Podcast Summary

• Russia Suspends Participation in Black Sea Grain Initiative After Bridge Attack: Russia's suspension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative could impact global food supply due to Ukraine's status as a significant agricultural exporter. Tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, with each side accusing the other of noncompliance.

  Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative, an agreement aimed at ensuring the free flow of grain exports from Ukraine, following a bombing attack on a key bridge connecting Russia to Crimea. This move comes as tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate. Russia claims it hasn't received promised concessions, while Ukrainian officials believe President Putin is bluffing and the world should not be swayed by his threats. The suspension of the agreement could have significant implications for the global food supply, as Ukraine is a major exporter of agricultural products. Additionally, Republican presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis is shaking up his campaign by firing staffers and agreeing to more media appearances, hoping to secure wins in key primary states. New data also suggests that money management firms are distancing themselves from Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, which could signal a shift in the controversial practice's future.

• Tensions between Russia and Ukraine impact global grain shipments and international relations: Russia demands reconnection to SWIFT, complains about sanctions' impact on exports, and seeks to restart an ammonia pipeline. Ukraine claims responsibility for explosions on the Kerch Strait bridge, and the DeSantis campaign is reportedly making changes.

  The ongoing tension between Russia and Ukraine continues to impact global grain shipments and international relations. While Ukrainian President Zelensky has downplayed concerns over grain shipments and companies' willingness to continue hauling Ukrainian grain, Russia is demanding the reconnection of its state-owned agricultural bank to SWIFT, complaining about the sanctions' impact on its exports, and seeking to restart an ammonia pipeline. Meanwhile, there have been explosions on the Kerch Strait bridge connecting Russian-occupied Crimea to mainland Russia, which Moscow considers a key piece of infrastructure and a supply route for its forces in southern Ukraine. Ukraine has claimed responsibility for the attacks, and the damage appears to be less severe than in October. The DeSantis campaign, which has struggled in the polls since its launch, is reportedly making changes, leading to speculation about a potential pivot.

• Florida Governor Ron DeSantis shifts media strategy: DeSantis campaign adapts to challenges by engaging with legacy media, acknowledging previous strategy wasn't effective, and addressing concerns about online presence and unlikability.

  Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' campaign is undergoing changes in response to recent challenges. Despite a large fundraising haul, a significant portion of the money has already been spent, and there are concerns about donor fears due to his lackluster poll numbers. To address these issues, DeSantis will be giving interviews to legacy media outlets, including CNN and Megyn Kelly's podcast, marking a shift from his previous strategy of avoiding traditional media. This move is likely an acknowledgement that his approach wasn't working, as some of his best moments have come from engaging with critical reporters. The campaign is also looking to address concerns about being too online and unlikable with GOP voters by embracing traditional media. Overall, these changes indicate that the DeSantis campaign is adapting to the current state of the race and attempting to counter negative narratives.

• Florida Governor DeSantis faces criticism over Twitter and ads, Trump's potential absence from debate: DeSantis campaign faces backlash for messaging and ads, Trump may not attend first GOP debate due to poll lead, ESG initiatives losing support among big money managers and companies

  The DeSantis campaign is facing intense criticism over its messaging on Twitter and controversial ads from outside PACs. The campaign aims to regain control of the narrative against Governor DeSantis, who has been known for his combative interviews. Trump's campaign has responded by painting the DeSantis campaign as disorganized and has also shown support for businessman Vivek Ramaswami. Chris Christie, a more vocal critic of Trump, is also gaining attention in New Hampshire. With the first GOP debate approaching, there's speculation that Trump might not attend due to his commanding lead in the polls. However, if the gap between Trump and DeSantis narrows, Trump may be more likely to participate. Another notable development is that big money managers and major companies are reportedly abandoning Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Megan Basham, Daily Wire culture reporter, can provide more insights on this trend.

• ESG momentum may be waning: Despite some figures expressing regret and a drop in mentions, sustainable investing remains strong with over $400 billion in new assets in 2022

  There are signs that the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) movement is losing momentum. This is evident from the comments of influential figures in the financial industry, such as BlackRock CEO Larry Fink. Fink, who has been a prominent advocate for ESG, recently expressed regret over the political controversy surrounding the issue and suggested that the term has been "weaponized" by both the left and right. This sentiment is reflected in the data, with the number of S&P 500 companies mentioning ESG during earnings calls dropping to the lowest level in nearly three years. Additionally, over half of new sustainable funds have dropped the ESG label. These developments suggest that there may be a shift away from the ESG label and a focus on financial returns over social goals. Despite this, BlackRock still saw over $400 billion in net new assets in 2022, indicating that the trend towards sustainable investing remains strong, even if the label is changing.

• ESG investing faces image problem, political pressures, and lack of proven value: BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street face backlash over ESG commitments, states withdraw billions, firms may change terminology, BlackRock invests in fossil fuels but pushes for climate reforms

  The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing strategy, which has been a hot topic for some time, has faced a significant image problem. This issue stems from both political pressures and a lack of proven value for investors. This problem has caused substantial pain for major investment firms like BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street. In response, some states, like Florida, have withdrawn billions from BlackRock due to its commitment to net-zero climate change initiatives. However, it's unclear if these firms will abandon the ESG philosophy altogether or simply change the terminology. In his interviews at the Aspen Festival and Fox Business, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink emphasized his commitment to conscientious capitalism, but he also highlighted the importance of investing in traditional fossil fuel companies. While BlackRock does invest in oil companies, it has also used its influence to push for climate change reforms within these companies. Overall, the ESG landscape is evolving, and it's crucial for investors and stakeholders to stay informed about the changing terminology and priorities within the industry.

• Discussing the uncertain impact of data privacy and security changes: The EU's GDPR and Apple's App Tracking Transparency framework aim to give users more control over their data, but the long-term effects on businesses and consumers are uncertain. Experts predict a more privacy-focused internet or negative impacts for small businesses and a fragmented digital advertising landscape.

  While there have been recent changes in the tech industry regarding data privacy and security, the full impact of these changes is still uncertain. The discussion touched upon the European Union's GDPR and Apple's App Tracking Transparency framework, both of which aim to give users more control over their data. However, it's unclear how these changes will affect businesses and consumers in the long run. Some experts believe that these changes could lead to a more privacy-focused internet, while others argue that they could negatively impact small businesses or lead to a fragmented digital advertising landscape. Ultimately, it's important for individuals and organizations to stay informed and adapt to these changes as they continue to unfold. Thanks for tuning in, and we'll keep you updated on any new developments.