Emma Irving

Gareth Brown, the Middle East correspondent, reveals Baghdad's booming construction scene and shares insights from his discussion with Prime Minister Muhammad al-Sudani about the city’s future. Archie Hall, US economics editor, dives into the YIMBY movement in Washington, D.C., where locals embrace population growth. Emma Irving, Asian news editor, explores the intriguing role of superstition in Hong Kong, examining how beliefs shape economic behaviors and even tourism during festivals. Tune in for a whirlwind tour of these dynamic topics!

Join Tom Wainwright, Media editor at The Economist, and Emma Irving, News editor in Hong Kong, as they dive into the implications of AI-generated content. Tom discusses how AI is democratizing creativity, benefiting amateurs while challenging mainstream creators with copyright issues. He also highlights how algorithms can boost attention for both established stars and new creators. Meanwhile, Emma explores the resurgence of yellow-gold engagement rings, tracing its comeback to cultural trends and rising gold prices, making traditional choices trendy again.

Josie DeLapp, Middle East editor at The Economist, discusses Mohammed bin Salman's significant visit to the White House, highlighting arms deals and his Vision 2030 reforms. Emma Irving, Asian news editor, addresses the troubling rollback of LGBT rights in Hong Kong and the challenges activists face. Meanwhile, James Fransham, data correspondent, reveals the surprising tactic of using snail farms as a loophole for tax avoidance in Britain, exposing the complexities of local business regulations. A highly informative and engaging discussion!

Emma Irving, Asian news editor at The Economist, analyzes the devastating Hong Kong high-rise fire, discussing its probable causes and the community’s outcry over housing inequality. Sarah Lonyuk, an audio correspondent, explores a year of protests in Georgia, detailing government repression and the challenge of achieving coordination for change. Lastly, Anne Rowe, obituaries editor, reflects on He Yanxin, the last natural inheritor of the Nushu script, emphasizing its cultural significance and her efforts to preserve this unique women-only language.

Tom Wainwright, Media editor at The Economist, discusses how AI-generated content, or 'slop', is revolutionizing creative industries, enabling amateurs to produce professional-quality outputs while posing challenges for mainstream artists. Emma Irving, News editor in Hong Kong, explores the surprising resurgence of yellow gold engagement rings, attributing this trend to celebrity influence and rising gold prices. Their insights shine a light on the evolving dynamics between technology, culture, and consumer preferences.