This podcast discusses China's faltering economy and the challenges it faces, including the struggles of the property developer Evergrande. It also explores potential policy measures and the impact of a future Communist Party meeting. Additionally, it talks about Russian spies in Europe, particularly those working under false identities, and explores the life and art of Colombian artist Fernando Botero.
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Quick takeaways
China's government is hesitant in responding to their struggling economy due to political constraints and caution by central bankers.
Latin America is a favorable ground for Russian spies due to proximity to the United States, corruption levels, and lack of professionalism in local intelligence agencies.
Deep dives
China's economic slowdown and hesitant response
China's struggling economy is facing a slowdown, partly due to changes in the housing market and global economic weakness. However, the Chinese government has been hesitant in its response to the downturn, with limited interest rate cuts by the central bank. Political constraints and caution on the part of China's central bankers contribute to the timidity. The usual responder to an economic slowdown, the Prime Minister, lacks the influence and assertiveness needed to boost confidence and stimulate the economy.
Increasing presence of Russian spies in Latin America
In recent years, suspected Russian spies have been detected in Europe, sharing a common characteristic of adopting Latin American identities. The Americas, with their proximity to the United States, have historically been viewed as favorable ground for Russian espionage, also facilitated by higher levels of corruption in Central and South America. Local intelligence agencies in these countries are often politicized, lacking professionalism and unlikely to engage in conflicts with Russia. The invasion of Ukraine has increased cooperation between Western and South American intelligence agencies, but challenges persist as Russian spies continue to operate in Latin America.
Fernando Botero and his unique artistic style
Fernando Botero, a Colombian artist, became known for his signature artistic style known as 'Boterismo.' Through his paintings and drawings, he portrayed ordinary life, often depicting plump figures to emphasize their volume and importance rather than to mock or portray them as fat. His work drew inspiration from old master paintings, and he approached serious themes such as drug violence in Colombia and the American torture of Iraqi prisoners with his distinct style. Botero remained dedicated to his art throughout his life, working long hours and expressing vulnerability and humanity through his unique portrayal of figures.
During past economic downturns, officials have been both swift and bold. This time not so much—because their hands are tied by knotty internal politics. We ask why Latin America makes for such a useful playground for Russian spies (10:07). And remembering Fernando Botero, a Colombian artist who never deviated from his not-quite-comically plump figures (18:16).
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