Sam Beale

In this discussion, Sam Beale, an international correspondent for The Economist, delves into the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, highlighting the lack of urgency from both parties and the potential economic fallout. Tom Gardner, the Africa correspondent, shares insights from Ghana, emphasizing how its democratic stability has spared it from jihadist violence affecting neighboring regions. Carla Zuburana explores the premiumization trend in the bottled-water industry, discussing consumer shifts toward flavored waters and the environmental implications of this market change.

Sam Beale, an International correspondent, discusses the U.S. federal shutdown's political standoff and its economic implications, revealing its second-longest status amid minimal urgency for resolution. Tom Gardner reports from Ghana, explaining why the country has avoided jihadist violence, attributing stability to its political institutions and trusted security forces. Meanwhile, Carla Zuburana dives into the booming bottled-water market, exploring trends toward upscale flavored products and the industry's environmental challenges.