Far-Right Germany Vote Win, Israel Nationwide Strike & $135M America's Cup Bet
Sep 2, 2024
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Chancellor Olaf Scholz discusses the alarming electoral success of far-right parties in Germany, analyzing the implications for his ruling coalition. Former French Premier Bernard Cazeneuve provides insights into the political turbulence brewing in Europe, highlighting Emmanuel Macron's future decisions amidst growing extremism. The episode also dives into Israel's nationwide strike aimed at pushing the government toward a Gaza cease-fire, while touching on the economic challenges posed by piling inventories in China. Lastly, a $135 million bet on the America's Cup showcases the allure of high-stakes sailing.
The far-right Alternative for Germany party has made significant electoral gains, signaling rising public discontent with Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition and immigration policies.
Israel's nationwide strike, driven by labor unions, reflects heightened public outrage towards the government amid escalating demands for accountability in the Gaza conflict.
Deep dives
Surge of Far-Right Parties in Germany
A far-right party achieved a significant milestone by winning a state election in Germany, marking the first victory of this nature since the Second World War. The Alternative for Germany party garnered nearly one-third of the votes in Thuringia, reflecting growing concerns about the country's economy and immigration policies. This election result highlights a troubling trend, as voters express dissatisfaction with Olaf Scholz's ruling coalition, which suffered major losses in both Thuringia and Saxony. The rise of non-democratic parties prompts serious discussions regarding the political landscape in Germany, especially considering historical context.
Israeli Labour Union's Nationwide Strike
Israel's largest labor union is preparing for a nationwide strike aimed at compelling the government to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Demonstrations erupted across the country following the discovery of hostages who were killed, escalating public outrage against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Critics, including family members of missing hostages, hold Netanyahu accountable for the deaths and accuse him of complicating potential ceasefire negotiations. This intensified unrest reflects deepening anger and a call for governmental accountability during a precarious time in the region.
Challenges and Ambitions in the America's Cup
Ernesto Bertorelli, Switzerland's wealthiest man, has invested significantly in the America's Cup sailing race, aiming to revitalize its profile amidst concerns about public interest. With a personal investment of $135 million, he seeks to innovate his team's approach by collaborating with Red Bull and Formula One technicians. Currently, however, his team faces challenges in early competition rounds, marking a tough start with no victories. Bertorelli envisions a more commercial future for the America's Cup, drawing comparisons to Formula One's success and aiming to enhance global engagement with the sport.
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On today's podcast:
(1) Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s ruling coalition was punished in two regional elections in eastern Germany on Sunday, with populist parties on the extreme right and left taking more than 60% of the vote in Thuringia and almost half in Saxony.
(2) President Emmanuel Macron will meet on Monday with Bernard Cazeneuve, a former Socialist Party official and ex-premier, as he heads toward naming France’s next prime minister.
(3) Inventories of key raw materials are piling up in China, evidence that economic activity remains too feeble to clear a surplus that’s crushing prices from steel to soybeans.
(4) Israel’s largest labor group is poised for a nationwide strike on Monday, the strongest push yet to force the government into a Gaza cease-fire and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
5) - Ernesto Bertarelli might be Switzerland’s wealthiest man, but a $135 million bet on a sailing race is a lot when it risks disappearing in day.