Theory overview of tree-level $B$ decays

Abstract

I describe the theoretical progress in the study of semileptonic tree-level B decays, and its interplay with recent experimental results. In particular, I focus on two anomalies: the ratios $R(D^{(*)})=\displaystyle\frac{{\cal B}(B \to D^{(*)} τ\bar ν_τ)}{{\cal B}(B \to D^{(*)} \ell \bar ν_\ell)}$ and the inclusive versus exclusive determination of $|V_{cb}|$. I review a few explanations proposed for such anomalies, and discuss tests to shed light on their origin.

LaTex, 9 pages, 6 figures. Invited talk at "The European Physical Society Conference on High Energy Physics - EPS-HEP 2017" (5 - 12 July 2017, Venice, Italy). References added