Economist Podcasts Shot chasers: big pharma’s covid-19 boost
May 26, 2020
Vijay Vaithi Swaran, U.S. business editor for The Economist, unpacks the shifting perception of big pharma during the pandemic. He discusses how vaccine development has elevated drug firms from scrutiny to vital innovators. The conversation also delves into the future of remote work, exploring its significant impact on commercial real estate and urban demographics. Additionally, Swaran touches on the political situation in Hong Kong, linking tumultuous changes in education to broader civic freedoms.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Pharma's Reputation Shift
- Big Pharma's reputation has improved due to its innovation in the pandemic.
- Its role in vaccine and treatment development has shifted public perception.
Pharma's Challenges
- Vaccine nationalism and intellectual property rights pose challenges for pharmaceutical companies.
- Governments prioritizing their populations and calls for patent-free vaccines create ethical dilemmas.
Balancing Access and Innovation
- Abolishing patents altogether would stifle innovation.
- Compulsory licensing during emergencies can ensure access while preserving incentives.