The Flint Podcast

In this episode, Flint experts and US government relations experts from Invariant analyse the outcomes of the US midterm elections and what they reveal about the new balance of power between Congress and the Trump Administration.

They explore what the results mean for US foreign, trade and economic policy, and what this means for business.

Flint Founding Partner, Sir Simon Fraser chairs a discussion between:

In this episode, Flint experts analyse John Healey’s first Budget as Chancellor, delivered on Wednesday 28 October, and what it reveals about the political and economic priorities of Andy Burnham’s Government. 

They explore how the Chancellor navigated continued pressure on public spending and borrowing and economic headwinds, and whether the Budget delivers the departure from the strategy and tone of Starmer and Reeves that the public and the Labour Party were expecting. The discussion also unpacks the implications for business'. 

Flint Partner, Kiran Horwich chairs a discussion between:

In this episode, Flint experts examine the key announcements from this year’s Labour Party Conference, Andy Burnham’s first as Labour leader and Prime Minister.

They explore the priorities set out by the Prime Minister, Chancellor and wider Cabinet, what the conference reveals about Burnham’s approach compared with his predecessor, and what this means for the Government’s policy programme, forthcoming Budget and 10-year plan.

Flint Partner, Kiran Horwich chairs a discussion between:

In this episode, Flint experts examine what Andy Burnham's premiership means for policy and politics, as he took office on 20 July with relatively little yet set out publicly about his plans. 

They explore the priorities likely to shape Burnham's and his Cabinet's agenda, the implications for business of a change at the top of Government, and how organisations can engage effectively with the new administration from the outset. The discussion will also look ahead to the pace and shape of the legislative and policy agenda to come. 

Flint Specialist Partner, Liz Lloyd chairs a discussion be...

In this episode, Flint experts examine  the implications of the latest election results across Scotland, Wales and England, as pressure grows on the Prime Minister and both Labour and the Conservatives face losses to Reform UK and the Green Party. 

They explore what the results mean for the future of the UK Government, how administrations are likely to be formed in Scotland and Wales, and the implications of increasingly fragmented, multi-party politics for businesses across the country. The discussion will also look ahead to the King’s Speech and the Government’s upcoming legislative agenda. 

Flint S...

In this episode, Flint experts examine the outlook for the Scottish and Welsh parliamentary elections, as voters head to the polls with no party expected to secure a majority in either nation. 

They explore potential post-election scenarios and coalition negotiations, the implications for economic, planning and infrastructure policy, and what the results signal about the growing role of multi-party politics in shaping UK electoral outcomes, alongside the key considerations for businesses operating across Scotland and Wales.

Flint Partner Kiran Horwich chairs a discussion between: 

In this episode, Flint experts examine the outlook for US–Iran talks following the fragile ceasefire, and the broader geopolitical and economic implications of the evolving Middle East conflict.

They explore potential scenarios for the ceasefire and negotiations, the regional impact across the Gulf and beyond, the effects on energy markets and the global economy, and the wider political consequences for businesses operating in the region and internationally.

Flint Founding Partner Sir Simon Fraser chairs a discussion between: 

France held nationwide municipal elections on 22 March, with all towns and cities going to the polls. This marks the final major electoral milestone before the 2027 presidential and legislative elections and will offer a snapshot of the political landscape. It will also be the start of Macron’s final year in office, in a political situation that is more fragmented than ever.

In this episode, Flint experts examine what the municipal election results reveal about France’s evolving political landscape and the implications for the year ahead.

They explore how the outcomes could shape the dynamics of t...

The conflict in the Middle East is colliding with an already fragile global economy. While much of the immediate focus has been on Europe and the US, the second-order effects for Asia may prove more enduring — from energy security and capital flows to critical supply chains and financial stability.

In this episode, Flint experts examine how renewed instability in the Middle East could reshape the outlook for Asia’s major economies, investors and financial centres. 

They explore which economies are most exposed to energy price and supply shocks, how the US, China, India and Russia are r...

The conflict with Iran is entering a more dangerous and unpredictable phase, with consequences extending far beyond the Middle East. As the region undergoes a profound geopolitical realignment, businesses face mounting disruption to trade routes, energy markets, supply chains and personnel security.

In this episode, Flint experts assess how the crisis could evolve in the short to medium term, the prospects for leadership and governance in Iran, and the implications for global trade and the wider economy. They also examine what the turmoil means for business operations across the region — and how companies should respond in an in...

The EU enters 2026 under sustained external and internal strain. As it readies its response to Donald Trump’s latest tariff threats, growing US pressure over Greenland risks escalating into the deepest transatlantic crisis in decades. One year into Ursula von der Leyen’s second term, the EU will also need to calibrate its increasing focus on sovereignty and “Made in Europe” with delivery of the Draghi competitiveness agenda, amidst continued concerns over the state of Europe’s economy.      

Flint Partner Fiona Wright chairs a discussion between: 

On Wednesday 26 November 2025, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered a long-awaited Autumn Budget. In this episode, Flint experts discuss the Budget decisions, what it means for Labour's programme, and the political and economic impacts for the business community.  

Flint Specialist Partner Sue Owen chairs a discussion with Specialist Partners, Andy King, former member of the OBR’s Budget Responsibility Committee, and senior Treasury official; Sam White, former Chief of Staff to Keir Starmer and Special Advisor to Chancellor Alistair Darling; Rav Athwal, former Special Advisor for Economic Policy to Prime Min...

As COP30 in Brazil approaches, Flint experts unpack what this pivotal summit means for global climate action and international business.

In this episode, our panel explores the key themes and initiatives shaping COP30 — from the next round of national emissions targets (NDCs) to the implications for global investment, carbon markets, climate finance, and sustainable infrastructure. They discuss how governments and businesses are positioning themselves ten years on from the Paris Agreement, and what to expect from negotiations in Belém.

Flint Partner Katie Whitting chairs a discussion with Virginia Sentance MBE, Fli...

As the Labour Party Conference 2025 draws to a close, Flint experts unpack the key announcements from the Prime Minister, Chancellor and wider Cabinet. 

In this episode, our panel explores Labour's policy programme, its strategic direction ahead of the next Budget, the Deputy Leadership race, and the implications for the UK business environment. 

Flint Director Anna Abela chairs a discussion with Specialist Partner Rav Athwal, Former Economic Adviser to Keir Starmer and author of Labour's 2024 manifesto, Specialist Partner Siôn Simon, a former Labour MP, MEP, Metro Mayor candidate and minister in the...

President Trump has followed through on the trade agenda he laid out at the start of his term, seeking to “rebalance” global trade in favour of the United States. On 7 August, a global regime of reciprocal tariffs came into force, marking a dramatic shift in the trade landscape. Alongside this, the administration has imposed targeted tariffs on autos and auto parts, copper, steel and aluminium, with more sectors including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and critical minerals, now in its sights.

The result has been a sharp rise in the average effective tariff rate, signalling major changes for businesses operating acro...

France faces a new phase of political uncertainty and instability as President Macron’s government, led by François Bayrou, loses a vote of no confidence, paving the way for Sébastien Lecornu’s new appointment as Prime Minister.

In this podcast, Director François-Joseph Schichan chairs a discussion with Anne-Juliette Rohrbach, Partner & Managing Director, Flint France, David Wright, Specialist Partner at Flint; former Deputy Director-General, DG FISMA (European Commission) and Benoît Roussel, Brussels-based Partner to discuss what Lecornu’s appointment means for politics, business and Europe. 

Following a tumultuous week in British politics, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has initiated a major reshuffle of his cabinet, a move accelerated by the resignation of his Deputy, Angela Rayner. This reshuffle has resulted in new appointments into several high-profile ministerial roles, including the Foreign Office and Home Office, setting the stage for a recalibration of government priorities and political strategy.

With the political landscape evolving, these changes are expected to have a significant influence on policy direction and the government's ability to deliver its agenda.  What are the implications for businesses and how might key s...

Against the backdrop of continued geopolitical uncertainty and instability, the European Commission has outlined a set of ambitious horizontal priorities aimed at enhancing the EU’s economic resilience and competitiveness. From the evolving European economic outlook to the ongoing work on the Savings and Investment and Banking Unions, the new institutional cycle is expected to tackle several critical, long-standing and politically thorny economic and financial issues. This includes a central focus on regulatory simplification, reinforcement of the Single Market, ramping up defence expenditure, as well as managing the multitude of pressures and demands on the EU budget at a ti...

On 6 May, Friedrich Merz was formally elected Chancellor by the German Bundestag. Merz and his government will take office at a critical moment for Germany and for Europe.

Our experts consider the implications for business of the choices confronting Friedrich Merz’s first cabinet. The challenges that Merz and his top team face are marked by economic difficulties, geopolitical uncertainties, declining competitiveness, and an urgent need for investment to drive growth.

Rebuilding Germany’s leadership in Europe, notably by improving ties with France and with the UK, will also be a key objective of the new...

On Wednesday, 2 April, President Trump announced a baseline tariff of 10% on all US imports with specific tariffs for individual markets. Some of the highest rates were imposed on Asian jurisdictions. Countries across APAC have responded in a variety of ways: China has imposed retaliatory tariffs, Vietnam has offered to remove all tariffs, and a number of others, such as Japan, India and South Korea, are looking to start discussions with the US.

This podcast discusses the latest tariff developments, the response from Asian jurisdictions, the implications for businesses and what comes next.

 Flint Partner Katie W...

On Wednesday, 26 March, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, delivered her Spring Statement. What she originally hoped would be a low-key statement has taken on much greater significance as downgrades to economic forecasts test the Government’s ‘non-negotiable’ fiscal rules.

In this podcast, our experts discuss the decisions the Chancellor has made and consider the implications these choices will have for businesses – covering its impacts on the Government’s growth and public service ambitions, and what it could mean for the forthcoming Industrial Strategy and Spending Review.  

Flint Partner Jon Sell will host a discussion on the economic an...

In this podcast, our experts assess the results of the German federal elections held on Sunday, 23 February.

The new government faces considerable domestic headwinds, with a challenging economic outlook, waning international competitiveness, and significant investment needed to stimulate growth. Our experts discuss how the new government might tackle these challenges and the outlook for the business environment in Germany. On the international stage, we will also explore what a new government means for Germany’s foreign and defence policy, its position in the EU, and its relationship with the new Trump administration. Finally, we will se...

In this podcast, our experts take stock of Trump’s first month in office and discuss the implications for the US’s political, security and economic relationships around the world.

The Trump Administration has moved quickly, making a range of announcements about domestic policy, deregulation, tariffs, and foreign affairs. Even if this momentum slows, it is clear that the new Administration means change. For business, the most pressing issue is where Trump goes on tariffs. Beyond this, signalling on Ukraine, the Middle East, the transatlantic relationship, and China suggests the potential for significant shifts —with long-term implications for th...

Yesterday, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, delivered the Budget along with a one-year Spending Review setting departmental plans for 2025-26.

In this podcast, our experts discuss the Budget and its implications in greater depth, what it means for Labour’s government programme and the political and economic impacts for the business community. 

Flint Partner Jon Sell hosts the discussion between: 

In this podcast, our experts examine the successes and shortcomings of the Government to date, the style and dynamics of the top ministerial team and the potential impact of recent changes in No10. They also consider what Labour can do to regain momentum, including through Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first budget and the delivery of promised major policy strategies.        

Partner Kiran Horwich chairs the discussion with:  

Almost exactly a year after the Hamas attack triggered the crisis in Gaza, Israel’s land incursion into Southern Lebanon on 30 September opened a new phase of conflict in the Middle East. Iran and Hezbollah have suffered major blows in the past few days, with Israel demonstrating the superiority of its military and intelligence services. It is unclear yet how Iran and its proxies will respond. International diplomacy urging restraint and a ceasefire has been fruitless. This situation creates new uncertainties for the region and globally, coinciding with the final stretch of the US presidential election campaign. 

Our...

In our latest podcast, Flint experts review the Labour Party Conference, the Party’s first conference in power in 15 years.

Our experts examine the key announcements from the Prime Minister, Chancellor Rachel Reeves and the wider Cabinet. We discuss Labour’s policy programme, its direction and strategy ahead of the Autumn Budget, and what all of this means for organisations and businesses in the UK.     

Partner Katie Waring chaired the discussion between:

In this podcast, Flint experts explore the structure and policy direction of the new European Commission unveiled by President Ursula von der Leyen. 

Our experts discuss what the new allocation of portfolios reveals about the EU’s balance of power, internal dynamics and political priorities for the upcoming mandate, in the wake of Mario Draghi’s recently published report on the future of European Competitiveness. They will also explain what to expect from the Commissioner hearings in the European Parliament. 

Flint Partner Fiona Wright hosts the discussion between:

The first half of 2024 has seen several major international elections. Outwardly, international politics after these elections looks reasonably unchanged. In addition, the situation in Ukraine has to some extent stabilised, there has been no major conflagration in the Middle East, and the temperature has been controlled between the US and China. But beneath the surface, a trend of political fragmentation and fragility has been an important emerging theme, and against this backcloth, the impending and dramatic US election now assumes even greater global importance.   

This pre-summer podcast takes stock of where things stand and looks ahead to th...

The second round of the French snap parliamentary elections took place over the weekend with surprising results. Over the coming days, the final count will probably raise more questions than answers. French politics will now likely change dramatically, with implications well beyond France’s borders.   

 In the Flint Briefing Call recording our experts will explore these implications and what they mean for businesses and investors. They will consider what government could emerge from the election and what it would mean for policymaking, economic policy and financial stability in France and in Europe. More widely, they will cover the i...

We now know who will form the next UK government. Starmer will head into the weekend leading a Labour government with a sizable parliamentary majority. However, while the most likely outcome of the election has been predicted for some time, there will still be business-critical lessons to learn from the results and the approach, we can expect the incoming government to take.

In this Flint Podcast, our experts explore these questions and what they mean for businesses and investors. They consider the personnel of the new government as ministerial appointments begin, how Labour will prioritise and make...

Next week a new Government is expected to form in the most significant change of political leadership since 2010. This will, of course, have major implications for any business or investor in markets where there is a government interest. For many, it will mean a need to build new relationships and shift messaging. For some, it will mean new risks to manage, or new opportunities to grab.   

Our political experts explore what clients need to be prepared for after election day. Focusing on the practical, covering the likely choreography of the formation of a new government and its ea...

Following a crushing defeat at the European election on 9 June, President Macron called a snap parliamentary election that will take place in two rounds on 30 June and 7 July.

The result is uncertain but is likely to represent a watershed moment for French and European politics, with the far-right set to become the biggest party in the National Assembly.

The election raises big questions for business on matters such as the political and economic stability in France and in the Eurozone, and on France’s influence at the EU level and internationally.

The discussion is...

Last week, the UK’s three major parties launched their manifestos, setting out their policy pitch to voters. With the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives both a significant way behind in the polls, Labour’s was closely watched. Firstly, for the indications, it gives of what a Labour Government would do in power, and second, for any signs of unforced errors as the finish line nears. 

Our expert panel covers what they mean for the remainder of the campaign, what businesses need to be ready for in the early days of the next government, and what we should expec...

With Labour’s Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves indicating she would wait for new fiscal forecasts before a post-election Budget eyes now turn to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). Their take on the UK’s economic prospects and what different party’s plans will mean for growth will play a critical role in determining the decisions the next Chancellor can take. As manifestos are finalised - each party’s expectations for the fiscal room for manoeuvre they will have will also impact their overall ambition.

To explore what this likely means, Flint Partner, Jon Sell, a former senior c...

As part of our coverage of the EU’s 2024 transition, this episode will discuss the EU’s external actions in an increasingly fragmented geopolitical environment.

In recent years, the war in Ukraine, global supply chain disruptions and growing trade tensions with both China and the US have profoundly shaken the EU’s belief in a multilateral, rules-based international order. As the continent approaches the June 2024 European Parliament elections and the start of a new Commission mandate, a growing number of voices are calling on the EU to fundamentally review its approach by putting issues such as defence, econom...

Rishi Sunak’s unexpected decision to call an election in July raises many immediate questions for business on matters such as the process from here, the fate of legislation, government decision-making, and engagement with politicians and civil servants. In this episode, our experts shed light on this.

The discussion is chaired by Flint Partner, Kiran Horwich, and joined by Jacqui Smith, former Labour Home Secretary, Dame Sue Owen, former Permanent Secretary for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and Nikki da Costa, former No10 Director of Legislative Affairs.

Russian forces are on the offensive again. Putin has made significant changes to his defence and security team and is strengthening Russia’s relationship with China.  

In the West, US support has resumed after months of delays, but upcoming US and EU elections mean that long-term support will remain a challenge. Switzerland will host a peace conference next month, although it still seems unlikely that the war will end quickly. 

This episode examines these developments, what they mean for Ukraine and the geopolitical environment businesses operate.

Director Francois-Joseph Schichan, form...

Welcome to the latest Flint podcast episode. In this call experts assess the fallout from last week’s UK local elections, the last major electoral test before the general election.  

Flint Specialist Partners Sion Simon and Nikki Da Costa, join Partners Kiran Horwich and Matthew Hanney to examine the key results from the local and mayoral elections, the implications for the party leaders, and what all of this means for this year’s general election.