Join John O'Sullivan, Capital Markets Editor for The Economist, and Susanna Savage, South Asia correspondent, as they dissect the current turmoil in financial markets. They discuss the alarming drops in major indices amid looming interest rate changes and the emotional impact on investors. The conversation also dives into the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance, particularly in South Asia, highlighting urgent health concerns. Plus, they explore how veganism could reshape land use and the environment, revealing surprising benefits of plant-based diets.

Leo Marani, Asia editor for The Economist, shares insights on Sri Lanka's new leadership under Ranul Vikramasingha and their ambitious plans to restore stability following widespread unrest. John O'Sullivan, an Economics writer, contrasts Sri Lanka's economic crisis with Turkey's growth amidst rampant inflation, raising eyebrows at President Erdogan's unusual policies. The discussion weaves through the public's expectations for governance and the socio-political realities that frame these nations' futures.

Kinley Salmon, an Africa correspondent based in Dakar, shares insights on the pandemic's impact in Africa, highlighting the looming public health challenges posed by Long Covid and vaccine distribution hurdles. John O'Sullivan, The Economist’s Capital Markets editor, unpacks predatory trading in volatile markets, illuminating how some traders exploit crises for profit. Additionally, they discuss the troubling rise of plastic pollution in oceans and its unintended consequences for marine life, underscoring urgent environmental concerns.

Roger McShane, the Middle East editor for The Economist, delves into Iran's strict election regulations that stifle candidate diversity, a tactic by hardliners to diminish voter turnout. John O'Sullivan discusses the controversial legacy of Michael Milken, the 'junk-bond king,' and the implications of his recent pardon. Meanwhile, Miki Kobayashi highlights the paradox of Japan's powerful passport, noting that fewer citizens are using it due to cultural and economic factors, contrasting with other nations.

John O'Sullivan, an author on financial markets, and Olivia Ackland, a reporter covering Congo, dive into the current global economic landscape. They discuss investors flocking to safe assets amid rising anxiety over trade tensions and recession fears. The conversation shifts to the remarkable resilience of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, exploring its conservation efforts and the intertwined struggles of nature and local communities. They also touch on the fascinating complexities of language evolution, revealing why some languages are particularly challenging to learn.