Mnuchin urged to examine ‘deeply concerning’ takeover attempt by Singapore chipmaker

Some experts say variable annuities are too complicated and offer a poor deal for consumers 

Pressure on search giant rises following regulatory successes in Europe

Competition law should take changing business models into account

EU foreign ministers this week postponed a decision on whether to open membership negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia until October, prompting a warning from the two countries' leaders that the delay could strengthen the hand of nationalist forces. Gideon Rachmans discusses the EU's dilemma on the Balkans with Ben Hall and Valerie Hopkins.

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Gideon Rachman discusses the fraught process of selecting a new leadership team in Europe and the impact these choices will have on integration, Eastern Europe and the Brexit negotiations, with Jim Brunsden and Ben Hall

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Gideon Rachman discusses the crisis in Britain's relations with the US following the unscheduled departure of Kim Darroch as ambassador to Washington, with Ed Luce and Geoff Dyer.

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The judicial inquiry into alleged graft under the presidency of Jacob Zuma is laying bare the divisions of the ruling ANC. Gideon Rachman discusses Mr Zuma's testimony with Joseph Cotterill in Johannesburg and David Pilling, Africa editor.

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What are the factors Britain and its allies need to consider as they weigh their response to Iran's seizure of a British-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz? Barney Jopson discusses the difficult waters Iran and the west must navigate to avoid a further escalation with Andrew England and Najmeh Bozorgmehr

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Life in Europe's coronavirus hotspots: Foreign affairs columnist Gideon Rachman discusses how the coronavirus epidemic has been handled in Italy and Spain with the local FT correspondents, Miles Johnson in Rome and Daniel Dombey in Madrid. How are citizens reacting to the lockdown and what will be the long-term political and economic impact?

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Simon Kuper on how a new generation of CEOs has a different approach to life at the top

More men are offering to become allies, but is the move always welcome?

The tetchy leader needs to understand that people never forget abuse of hierarchical power

Ingrained hierarchy and lack of recognition drive away young recruits

Managers need to communicate and connect with staff, and convey they are all in the same boat

Andrew Hill picks his favourites among the 230 notable titles longlisted since 2005 — Join the discussion

The pandemic will prompt new rules insisting on better margins for error and will embed more safety-first habits

In this FT series people share their stories of this extraordinary time

As the coronavirus pandemic presents the ultimate leadership test for chief executives, the FT provides insights into their successes and setbacks

Experienced and adaptable bosses are more effective than rigid commanders

With lockdowns fuelling anxiety among staff, should companies be investing in meditation training?

James Timpson has been planning how to operate his stores post-pandemic

A previously simple decision of whether to reopen an office is now freighted with mortal peril

Your question for our expert — and readers’ advice

The Evolution Garden takes visitors on a chronological walk through plant life, with some surprising associations

The Twickenham house and garden played a part in 18th-century life and literature

Whichford Pottery’s terracotta wares are as appreciated overseas for their English style as they are in the UK for their robustness

A book on the economics of gardening puts today’s spending into perspective

Reflections and revelations from a year of politics — direct from a spinney in the English countryside where the annual badger summit took place

Here are choices to help you think outside the box (bush), avoid blight and encourage sustainability

Our gardens expert suggests some outstanding performers for summer blooms

An exhibition at Tate explores grand, ornate houses and gardens à la Versailles

The surrealist art of Salvador Dalí is thought to embody all that is unnatural — but, in fact, the natural world is the wellspring of his work

Compost plugs let you bypass seed sowing and are cheaper than bedding plants

Pergolas to pythons: prisoners joined volunteers to create this wildlife haven

The Edo-era artist Hōitsu painted different floral panels for every month

How plants, whether real or in the imagination, help calm fears and enhance our lives

These self-isolating desert fathers were connoisseurs of plants — and human nature

Robin Lane Fox on the best choices to sow now

Investors will be watching Christine Lagarde’s performance amid rising pressure on Italian bonds

It’s hard to find a single trade type who thinks failing to agree an extension is anything but a potential disaster

UK officials urge Brussels to move on three key areas ahead of crucial June meeting or risk breakdown

Germany accounts for half of state aid approved by commission during coronavirus crisis

Foiled €15m scam for face masks shows how organised crime is ‘quick to adapt’, says Ylva Johansson

EU-funded projects are returning migrants to a dangerous conflict zone, critics say

Gove unveils ‘customs agent academy’ and is talking to freight businesses

EU hosts online pledging event but €7.5bn target for vaccines, testing and treatment will only be first step

Pledging conference underscores urgency to develop vaccine and distribute it worldwide

Mistrust is rising over how to implement Brexit

EU push to incorporate Paris agreement adds to tension over post-Brexit relationship