Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent, delves into Sweden's escalating gang violence, revealing alarming youth recruitment trends and the complexities of political responses. David Rennie, Beijing Bureau Chief, discusses China's strategic maneuvering in Middle East diplomacy, highlighting its role in the Gaza conflict and implications for global politics. The discussion also touches on maritime innovations, including advances in sailing technology that aim to shatter speed records. Join for insights into urgent social issues and evolving diplomatic landscapes.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on Sweden and Finland's pivot towards NATO membership, spurred by security concerns following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Tom Wainwright, the media editor, reflects on Facebook's declining appeal, particularly among younger users, as demographic shifts reshape its user base and strategy. Additionally, the podcast discusses the monumental imaging of Sagittarius A*, the black hole at our galaxy's core, showcasing its distinct features and the challenges of capturing such cosmic marvels.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, and Tom Lee-Devlin, Global business correspondent, dive deep into Finland's historic NATO accession and what it means for Russia and European security. They explore the challenges faced by Western multinationals in a volatile geopolitical landscape. Additionally, they discuss an unexpected trend: TikTok's influence on the popularity of romance novels in Britain, revealing how social media reshapes cultural consumption.