The Intelligence from The Economist cover image

The Intelligence from The Economist

Executive disorder: Trump’s first 100 days

Apr 30, 2025
Join John Prideaux, US editor at The Economist, as he dissects the chaotic first 100 days of Donald Trump's presidency, examining controversial policies and their impact on governance. Joshua Spencer, News editor in Asia, explores the Vietnamese diaspora's journey post-Saigon's fall, highlighting their influence on Vietnam's development. Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, celebrates the inspiring life of busker Alice Tan Ridley, showcasing how her music transformed the mundane subway experience into moments of joy.
25:21

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Vietnamese diaspora plays a crucial role in Vietnam's economic growth, contributing approximately $15 billion last year through remittances.
  • Alice Tan Ridley's busking career highlights the importance of personal connections in art, illustrating music's transformative power in everyday life.

Deep dives

The Impact of the Fall of Saigon

The fall of Saigon in 1975 marked the end of the Vietnam War and led to a significant Vietnamese diaspora, with over 5 million people leaving the country. This mass exodus not only reflected a deep embarrassment for the United States but also resulted in a loss of credibility in international power dynamics. Many refugees established new lives abroad, gaining skills and financial resources that they later channeled back into Vietnam's economy, sending approximately $15 billion last year alone. As today's Vietnam grows rapidly, these expatriates have played a vital role in shaping its development and reintegrating into their homeland, thus fostering a unique connection between the diaspora and the country they left behind.

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