Simon Rabinovich, US economics editor at The Economist, discusses America's surge in startup culture, highlighting how the pandemic ignited a new wave of entrepreneurship. The conversation reveals how remote work has allowed diverse innovators to thrive from less conventional locations. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, shares the life story of June Mendoza, a self-taught artist known for her intimate portraiture of both the famous and everyday people, showcasing her impact on capturing individual stories through art.
America is experiencing a new startup boom, marking a shift from the dominance of giant firms to a surge in entrepreneurial ventures nationwide.
Hong Kong's crackdown on freedom is exemplified by the suppression of the annual Tiananmen Square remembrance vigil and the trial of pro-democracy activists, tightening political control.
Deep dives
Startup Boom in America
America is experiencing a new startup boom, marking a shift from the dominance of giant firms in the economy to a surge in entrepreneurial ventures. The startup culture is no longer confined to Silicon Valley but has spread nationwide. Entrepreneurs are innovating across various sectors beyond tech giants, creating a diverse business landscape. The increase in business formations, particularly tech startups, has been significant, reflecting a revival of America's entrepreneurial spirit.
Crackdown on Political Freedom in Hong Kong
The summary discusses the erosion of political freedom in Hong Kong, exemplified by the suppression of the annual Tiananmen Square remembrance vigil. The trial and conviction of pro-democracy activists, known as the Hong Kong 47, for organizing an unofficial primary election underline the tightening grip on dissent. The National Security Law has been wielded to silence opposition, leading to a chilling effect on political expression and activism in the territory.
Implications of New Startup Trends
The rise of startups in America carries implications for economic growth and job creation, with potentially far-reaching effects. While the surge in business formation fuels innovation and competition, the economic impact is yet to be fully realized. The sustainability of these startups and their contribution to the economy may take years to materialize, echoing past transformative technological shifts that eventually boosted overall economic efficiency.
There has been a slow strangling of freedom in the territory where pro-democracy activists have been convicted; an annual vigil for the victims of the Tiananmen Square crackdown in Beijing in 1989 has been replaced by a food fair. A boom in startups suggests America is recovering its pioneering spirit (8:06). And remembering June Mendoza, portrait painter to the royals, and the less well-known (16:28).