Economist Podcasts
Putty people: can Trump get his picks?
Jan 30, 2025
Adam O'Neill, Washington correspondent, discusses the challenges Trump faces in confirming his crucial nominees amidst Republican loyalty. Avantika Chilcotti analyzes the luxury goods market's downward trend, revealing the rise of 'accessible luxury.' Meanwhile, Luke Lithgow shares innovative strategies tackling Australia's cane toad problem, including cannibalistic tadpoles and genetically engineered solutions. Together, they explore the intersections of politics, luxury, and ecology, offering captivating insights into pressing global issues.
23:20
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Quick takeaways
- Donald Trump's controversial nominations highlight a divide within the Republican Party, challenging their traditional values and party unity amidst his influence.
- The innovative scientific strategies being implemented in Australia to combat invasive cane toads represent a crucial effort to protect local biodiversity.
Deep dives
Shifting Trends in Luxury Goods
Sales of luxury goods, particularly higher-end items such as handbags and designer apparel, experienced a significant downturn, with a reported 2% drop in personal luxury goods sales last year. This shift marks a notable change for an industry that has seen continuous growth for decades, largely fueled by globalization and increased wealth in emerging markets, notably in China. Brands targeted at the ultra-wealthy, like Hermes, continue to thrive, while other brands, such as Gucci, struggle as they attempt to appeal to a broader, more price-sensitive customer base. The idea of 'accessible luxury' appears to be losing its allure, as many consumers now see it as contradictory to the exclusivity that characterizes true luxury.
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