Gold prices have surged close to record levels, and the EU has fined Apple €1.8bn as it boosts its fight against Big Tech. Plus, the FT’s Sam Fleming explains whether the Conservatives planned tax cuts will actually affect the outcome of the upcoming UK election. Mentioned in this podcast:Apple hit with €1.8bn fine for breaking EU law over music streamingWill Big Tech agree to play by Europe’s rules?The hard Budget choices facing a cash-strapped UKThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.