Squawk Pod

New York prosecutors have charged Ivy League grad Luigi Mangione with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, court records show. Though a manhunt is over for now, the health care industry may be ready for change. Next, Carnegie Endowment senior fellow Karim Sadjapour examines the power vacuum in Syria and the new leadership’s agenda for the nation. Plus, Dunkin' Donuts is making waves, but not just in your cup—find out why they’re showing up in bathrooms. And as the holiday travel season ramps up, The Points Guy Brian Kelly shares his top tips on how to maximize travel rewards and save this season. Karim Sadjapour - 16:17 Brian Kelly - 26:43 In this episode: Karim Sadjadpour, @ksadjadpour Brian Kelly, @thepointsguy Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Cameron Costa, @CameronCostaNY

Rebel forces led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham overtook Damascus, prompting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to flee the country and seek refuge in Russia. NBC’s Raf Sanchez joins from the Golan Heights border with the latest developments in Syria. Council on Foreign Relations President Michael Froman explains what the Assad’s fall could mean for politics in the Middle East and beyond. Next, the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has sparked security concerns for corporate leaders, as well as a surge of outrage online, as Americans seethe over denied insurance claims. Partnership for New York President Kathy Wylde says the reaction online is almost worse than the killing itself. Plus, TikTok is one step closer to being banned in the U.S., and Juan Soto signed an historic contract with the Mets. Eamon Javers - 02:46 Raf Sanchez - 12:17 Michael Froman - 17:36 Kathy Wylde - 25:47 In this episode: Kathy Wylde, @Partnership4NYC Eamon Javers, @EamonJavers Raf Sanchez, @rafsanchez Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Two days after a man fatally shot UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, NYPD’s manhunt is ongoing. Former Boeing Chief Security Officer Dave Komendat explains how executive security details assess threats to executive leaders, especially as negativity abounds on social media. New York City Mayor Eric Adams discusses safety in the city, as well as housing and immigration in his city. Next, Taylor Swift wraps up her record-breaking Eras Tour this weekend in Vancouver. Kara Reynolds, professor of “Swiftonomics” at American University, discusses the billions of dollars spent by fans across the world to see her perform. Plus, a cryptic post from Roaring Kitty sparked meme stock volatility and President-elect Trump has announced picks for ambassador to China and "AI and crypto czar." Dave Komendat - 16:53 Eric Adams - 21:25 Kara Reynolds - 37:05 In this episode: Mayor Eric Adams, @NYCMayor Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Andrew Ross Sorkin shares highlights from The New York Times DealBook Summit yesterday, including his interviews with Jeff Bezos, Fed Chair Jerome Powell, Prince Harry and former President Bill Clinton. Notable moments included Jay Powell comparing bitcoin to gold, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman calling Elon Musk a “mega hero,” and Google CEO Sundar Pichai’s comments on DEI. Plus, bitcoin has hit $100,000, and Majority Leader Rep. Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) the race for House Financial Services Committee chairman and his plans to work with a potential Department of Government Efficiency. Rep. Steve Scalise - 27:10 In this episode: Rep. Steve Scalise, @SteveScalise Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol abruptly announced a period of emergency martial law on Tuesday, but reversed the order hours later after backlash from citizens and South Korean Parliament. In France, lawmakers will hold a vote of no-confidence today in Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s minority government. CNBC contributor Michelle Caruso-Cabrera discusses the international politics and economics at play. Next, Philips CEO Roy Jakobs highlights the use of AI in health care, including in imaging, administrative tasks, and patient care. Plus, Andrew Ross Sorkin previews his lineup at today’s New York Times DealBook Summit, President-elect Trump may be rethinking his Defense pick, and Campbell’s CEO is leaving to become an NFL team president. Michelle Caruso-Cabrera - 13:23 Roy Jakobs - 29:28 In this episode: Michelle Caruso-Cabrera, @MCaruso_Cabrera Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Following news that Tesla buyers could be excluded from lucrative EV credits in California, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-California) is urging the state’s leaders to keep manufacturing in the state. In the name of bipartisanship, Rep. Khanna shares a list of agenda items ripe for collaboration across the aisle. Next, Crunch Labs founder and YouTuber Mark Rober discusses how he’s making science cool for kids. The former NASA employee and Apple engineer discusses the creator economy, coding for adults, and taking selfies from space. Plus, Elon Musk lost his bid for his $56B pay package, and Trump vows to block Nippon Steel’s bid for U.S. Steel. Ro Khanna - 14:02 Mark Rober - 25:23 In this episode: Rep. Ro Khanna, @RepRoKhanna Mark Rober, @MarkRober Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

The holiday season is in full swing, and happiness guru Arthur Brooks is offering advice to maximize gratitude into the new year. Host of the “How to Build a Better Life” podcast says Thanksgiving offers a helpful psychology, and that an emphasis on being “grateful, not cheerful” can improve mental health. Next, on this Cyber Monday, Amber Venz Box discusses the rise of live shopping on social media via influencers or creators. She co-founded LTK, a platform that helps influencers earn commissions by connecting them with brands to promote and sell products on social media. She says over a thousand creators on her platform are now millionaires. Plus, President Biden pardoned his son, Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger has retired, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares has stepped down, and President-elect Trump has picked Charles Kushner for ambassador to France and Kash Patel for FBI director. Arthur Brooks - 17:20 Amber Venz Box - 31:38 In this episode: Arthur Brooks, @arthurbrooks Amber Venz Box, @AmberVenzBox Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Black Friday is here, and while many shoppers are hitting the malls, others are taking advantage of deals on social media. Marketing and social media expert Gary Vaynerchuk highlights the rise of live shopping on social media as a potential disruption to the retail industry. Influencers are making millions of dollars each month through live shopping events on TikTok, he says, much like QVC. Next, Dr. Scott Gottlieb gives his perspective on the future of health care as President-elect Trump’s transition team takes shape, including Trump’s pick of RFK Jr. as health secretary. CNBC’s wealth reporter Robert Frank shares the impact philanthropy has had on the net worth of America’s richest people–and explains why Warren Buffett has already shared his will with his family. Plus, the FTC has launched an antitrust investigation into Microsoft, and Moana 2, Wicked and Gladiator II had a successful Thanksgiving. Dr. Scott Gottlieb - 21:19 Gary Vaynerchuk - 34:52 In this episode: Gary Vaynerchuk, @garyvee Scott Gottlieb, @ScottGottliebMD Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Steve Liesman, @steveliesman Robert Frank, @robtfrank Zach Vallese, @zachvallese

In this bonus episode of Squawk Pod, the beloved “Roundball Rock” NBA theme song could make a return to NBC. CNBC’s Alex Sherman shares the latest on the rights to the iconic song and whether fans will hear it when the NBA returns to NBC starting in 2025. The Roundball Rock composer himself, John Tesh, heard us squawking about his song and reacted to it on his podcast. Tesh then joined Squawk Box to share his perspective on the likelihood of a rights deal and his song making a comeback. In this episode: Alex Sherman, @sherman4949 John Tesh, @JohnTeshMedia Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Israel and Hezbollah reached a permanent ceasefire agreement overnight after nearly 14 months of fighting. In Washington, CNBC’s Eamon Javers discusses the latest picks for Trump’s economic team, and in Silicon Valley, OpenAI is allowing employees to sell about $1.5 billion worth of shares in a new tender offer to SoftBank. Wall Street Journal columnist Peggy Noonan is turning her nearly 25-year-old “Declarations” column into a book. After years of speech writing for Ronald Reagan and writing on American politics, Noonan reflects on our nation’s journey to Trumpian conservatism. Plus, this Thanksgiving, a Squawk Box tradition: Butterball is back with its Turkey Talk-Line, helping holiday cooks avoid turkey turmoil. Supervisor Bill Nolan shares this year’s turkey trends and tips for the perfect bird. Eamon Javers - 03:23 Peggy Noonan - 17:28 Bill Nolan - 28:52 In this episode: Peggy Noonan, @Peggynoonannyc Eamon Javers, @EamonJavers Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Zach Vallese, @zachvallese

President-elect Trump says he plans to raise tariffs by an additional 10% on China and impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada. CNBC’s Megan Cassella talks through the latest reporting on Trump’s plans for tariffs on day one of his administration. Next, the U.S. has finalized a $7.9B award to Intel to fund chips projects. Chris Miller, Tufts Fletcher School professor and ‘Chip War’ author, discusses the future of semiconductor legislation in a second Trump administration, as well as the global competition for US chipmakers. Ahead of Thanksgiving, chef, restaurateur, and Eataly partner Lidia Bastianich shares her turkey dinner tips amid rising food prices and her experiments with a surprising ingredient: crickets. Plus, Walmart pulls back on DEI efforts and Qualcomm’s interest in taking over Intel is reportedly waning. Megan Cassella - 03:51 Chris Miller - 19:23 Lidia Bastianich - 27:55 In this episode: Megan Cassella, @mmcassella Chris Miller, @crmiller1 Lidia Bastianich, @LidiaBastianich Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

President-elect Trump’s Treasury Secretary pick Scott Bessent prompted a positive market reaction as the last few cabinet roles are filled. Sports team owner Mark Wilf had a big weekend, scoring a trifecta of wins for his teams: Orlando Pride, Orlando City, and the Minnesota Vikings. He discusses the Pride’s first NWSL championship victory and his return on investment in women’s sports. Plus, Wicked and Gladiator II made a splash at the box office this weekend, Novak Djokovic names long-time tennis rival Andy Murray as his new coach, and the Squawk anchors talk gift ideas heading into the holidays. Mark Wilf - 19:14 In this episode: Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

A big weekend is coming up for the box office, with Wicked and Gladiator II expected to bring in a combined $200 million. CNBC’s Julia Boorstin explains the stakes and the marketing blitzes for both movies. Puck’s Matt Belloni discusses Wicked-ator and Comcast’s rationale for “SpinCo,” its cable spinoff. Restaurant review platform The Infatuation is out with its best new restaurants of the year. CEO Paul Needham highlights recent dining trends, including “rip and dip” bagels and mini martinis. Plus, DirecTV scraps its merger with Dish, SEC Chair Gary Gensler will resign once President-elect Trump takes office, and Matt Gaetz is out and Pam Bondi is in for Trump’s attorney general pick. Megan Cassella - 03:52 Julia Boorstin - 19:00 Matt Belloni - 22:21 Paul Needham - 32:35 In this episode: Julia Boorstin, @JBoorstin Matt Belloni, @MattBelloni Paul Needham, @paul_needham Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Cameron Costa, @CameronCostaNY

NHL legend Wayne Gretzky is readying a congratulations for Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals player set to break one of Gretzky’s many career records. The Great One weighs in on the recent growth of the sport, as well as the impact of his most famous quotes. Bitcoin is cruising toward its 100k milestone; Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming) is a crypto enthusiast, and she’s supporting a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve. As President-elect Donald Trump assembles his cabinet picks, Sen. Lummis explains what she needs to hear from Attorney General contender Matt Gaetz. Plus, AI demand drove Nvidia’s earnings above expectations, and the Department of Justice is aiming for a Google Chrome spinoff. Jake Sherman - 09:21 Sen. Cynthia Lummis - 21:00 Wayne Gretzky - 31:30 In this episode: Jake Sherman, @JakeSherman Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Cameron Costa, @CameronCostaNY

Comcast plans to spin off its cable networks, including CNBC, E!, and MSNBC. CNBC’s founder and NBC Cable’s first president Tom Rogers is optimistic about the move and the influx of resources it might present for cable channels. Delta CEO Ed Bastian joins ahead of the airline’s 100-year anniversary and Delta’s annual investor day. Despite retailers like Target reporting inflation-conscious customers, Bastian says consumers are still spending on travel. While Bastian is confident that Boeing’s new CEO is working on the supplier’s many issues, for now, Delta is “an Airbus customer.” Plus, Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan’s NFL team is partnering up with Hallmark! Donovan discusses the Taylor Swift tailwinds for his fandom. Tom Rogers - 2:21 Ed Bastian - 17:09 Mark Donovan - 28:02 In this episode: Mark Donovan, @Chiefs Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Department of Justice antitrust officials will reportedly ask a judge to force Alphabet to sell its Chrome browser. Google’s former CEO Eric Schmidt considers the friction between big tech and the government, and weighs how tech regulation might change under another Donald Trump administration. In Schmidt’s new book “Genesis: Artificial Intelligence, Hope, and the Human Spirit,” he explores the future of tech and AI regulation, as well as the line between humanity and technology. Martha Stewart is now an author of 100 books! Stewart’s newest cookbook coincides with drama over the Netflix documentary chronicling her life. She sets the record straight on her feud with a journalist and her “brat” attitude, as lauded by Charli XCX on Saturday Night Live. Plus, Russia says Ukraine launched an attack with U.S.-made long-range missiles, and CNBC’s Megan Casella has the latest on the sweepstakes for Trump’s Treasury Secretary pick. Eric Schmidt - 12:54 Martha Stewart - 27:10 In this episode: Eric Schmidt, @ericschmidt Martha Stewart, @MarthaStewart Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

As President-elect Donald Trump quickly reveals his picks for roles in his administration, Axios co-founder Mike Allen suggests what each name means for Trump’s priorities in his next administration. While some picks are surprises, the contenders for Treasury Secretary are predictable, so far. In the AI revolution, platform Perplexity is rolling out a shopping feature to extend user queries from informational to transactional. CEO and co-founder Aravind Srinivas says, successful AI models will start narrowing focus and offering actions, as well as answers. Plus, Tesla stock is surging, Spirit Airlines has filed for bankruptcy, and the NBA and Warner Bros. Discovery have reached a settlement. Mike Allen - 05:39 Aravind Srinivas - 26:57 In this episode: Mike Allen, @mikeallen Aravind Srinivas, @AravSrinivas Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

Vaccine stocks are falling after President-elect Donald Trump has tapped Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be his Secretary of Health and Human Services. Former Walgreens Boots Alliance executive, John Driscoll, shares his concerns about the potential impact and what it could mean for the future of healthcare policy. Home Depot CEO, Ted Decker, discusses how inflation is hitting consumers and how the company is responding to the pressure. Plus, Ark Invest’s Cathie Wood discusses her bet on Tesla and what she thinks Elon Musk’s new role in government could mean for the company - and for the future of innovation in the U.S. John Driscoll - 02:24 Ted Decker - 13:11 Cathie Wood - 30:29 In this episode: Cathie Wood, @CathieDWood Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Zach Vallese, @zachvallese

President-elect Donald Trump said he will nominate Rep. Matt Gaetz, (R) Florida, to be attorney general. CNBC’s Eamon Javers has the latest from Florida on the surprising selection, as Gaetz is the subject of a House Ethics Committee investigation into whether he engaged in sexual misconduct. Tom Barrack, a longtime Trump ally who chaired his 2016 inaugural committee, shares his insight on the president-elect’s hiring style, the Department of Government Efficiency and expectations for Trump’s second term. Plus, the FBI raided Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan’s home and the AI version of Andrew Ross Sorkin makes a special Squawk Box appearance. Eamon Javers - 02:23 Tom Barrack - 19:32 In this episode: Eamon Javers, @EamonJavers Tom Barrack, @TomBarrackJr Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Zach Vallese, @zachvallese

President-elect Trump announced last night that Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will head a Department of Government Efficiency, DOGE for short, to trim government spending during his second administration. CNBC’s Eamon Javers has the Trump team’s latest from West Palm Beach. Next, the Senate is gearing up for a vote today on who will be the next majority leader. Eric Cantor, Wall Street executive and former Republican House leader, gives his prediction on the leadership race and discusses his outlook for M&A and regulation under Trump. Also, shares of fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant Cava are soaring on the company’s earnings beat. CEO Brett Schulman says Cava is a “category-defining brand” and discusses his growth outlook. Eamon Javers - 02:23 Eric Cantor - 16:21 Brett Schulman - 27:20 In this episode: Eamon Javers, @EamonJavers Eric Cantor, @EricCantor Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie