Share Sounds

Despite better-than-expected economic data, a 'tonne' of hard Brexit rhetoric is on the way and looks likely to wear down the pound. Could it fall below $1.20 again? Dr David Stubbs, Global Market Strategist from JP Morgan, joined Share Radio's Ed Bowsher to discuss the day's big economic stories including the latest consumer data and house price figures.

This week Sue Dougan is joined by the Group Chief Executive at Police Mutual, Stephen Mann. Stephen spent his early financial career with Aviva before joining Police Mutual nearly 9 years ago. He has a background in law, and an interest in law and order issues - he's trustee of the Police Memorial Arboretum Trust and a member of a key group with Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary.

The Culture Secretary's going to ask the watchdog to look into two public interest issues regarding the proposed takeover of Sky by 21st Century Fox. They are media plurality and commitment to broadcasting standards. Karen Bradley's told the Commons her decision isn't the end of the matter. Both parties have until tomorrow to give any further input. Mrs Bradley will make a decision within a week on whether to intervene in the merger. Meanwhile to find out why the deal is so controversial, James Brydges heard from competition lawyer Howard Cartlidge, from law firm DWF, but first got the financial angle from Michael Hewson, market analyst at CMC markets.

Financial heavy weights Lindsay Cook and Andy Webb join Georgie Frost in the studio. After years of rampant growth could the property market be cooling? As ever it all comes down to location but there are a few tips to make the best of the buyers market. Plus find out which charity fundraising site is in line for the sucker punch this week and why you could find many supermarkets overcharging you at the till.

From fitness trackers to smart watches wearable tech has become increasingly prevalent in recent years however there are signs of a market slowdown. Market leader Fitbit has reported lower sales this quarter whilst a recent US study concluded the devices did not aid weight loss. For a closer look at the industry and products available Sarah Lowther was joined by analyst at CCS Insight Ben wood.

Up to 130,000 people who lost money investing in Spanish property after the 2008 financial crash could claim it back. Potentially billions were lost on properties bought off plan which were never completed as the crisis drove developers out of business. However a landmark Supreme Court ruling could pave the way for people to reclaim the money, plus interest. To find out how, Share Radio's Tom Hill spoke to CEO of Spanish Legal Reclaims Luis Cuervo and A Place in the Sun presenter Amanda Lamb.

Every week, around 100 money blogger experts take to Twitter to kick off the week and share experiences, tips and questions on anything money related. Last night, they discussed women and money, ahead of International Women's Day which takes place tomorrow. Joining Sarah was blogger Francesca Mason, who runs the website frompenniestopounds.com

Sarah Pennells was joined by Jo Faith, Editor of YourMoney.com this morning. Today on the agenda, they discussed the fund of £320 million for new free schools being announced in tomorrow's budget. Plus they look into why junk food should join tobacco in having plain packaging. All these stories and more on The News Review.

The chancellor has pledged half a billion pounds to build new schools and revamp others. Elsewhere, Ministers are at risk of a second defeat in the House of Lords over the bill paving the way for Brexit talks. This after the Lords voted in favour of an amendment demanding protection for EU citizens living in the UK after Brexit. And finally, former Tory leader Lord Hague has urged Theresa May to call an early general election. He wrote in a Daily Telegraph column that bringing forward the next election could help the UK secure a better deal in Brexit negotiations. To discuss this, Sarah Lowther was joined by Jack Sommers of the Huffington Post.

Joining Sarah Lowther to discuss the latest market headlines was Share Radio's very own Nigel Cassidy starting with Paddy Power Betfair and Just Eat has releasing their figures. Plus we check out why Direct Line’s profits are down.