Simon Rabinovich

Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor for The Economist, dives into China's groundbreaking census data, revealing a stagnating population and the economic challenges of an aging demographic. Alice Fullwood, the Wall Street correspondent, discusses the rise of central bank digital currencies, or 'govcoins,' and their potential to reshape monetary policy and access to banking. The episode also touches on fascinating wildlife research from Ecuador that uses roadkill to track elusive species, showcasing the unexpected ecological insights gleaned from this method.

Avantika Chilkoti, an International correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the confusing landscape of travel restrictions during the pandemic. She discusses the socioeconomic impact these rules have on low-income countries. Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor, dives into Xinjiang's troubled economy, illustrating how repressive tactics against the Uyghurs are unlikely to achieve growth. The conversation also touches upon changing management practices and reflects humorously on workplace culture evolution.

Avantika Chilkoti, an international correspondent for The Economist, and Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor, discuss the tangled layers of travel restrictions during the pandemic. They delve into the opaque and often oppressive travel rules across nations, questioning their effectiveness. Chilkoti reveals the grim realities in Xinjiang, highlighting the region’s economic challenges amid Uyghur repression. The conversation also touches on evolving workplace norms and a farewell to a columnist critical of corporate inefficiencies.

Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor for The Economist, and Alice Fullwood, Wall Street correspondent, delve into China's latest census revealing a looming baby bust. They discuss the impending economic challenges of an aging population and declining birth rates. Rabinovich highlights how migration patterns affect workforce dynamics, while Fullwood explores the rise of central bank digital currencies, or 'govcoins,' and their potential to reshape monetary policy and access to banking, alongside the risks they pose to the private banking sector.

Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor for The Economist, and Georgia Banjo, a keen observer of the intersection between brain injuries and crime, dive into the effects of consumer boycotts against Western fashion brands in China. They explore the complex balance brands must strike amid rising tensions over human rights. Additionally, they discuss the alarming connection between traumatic brain injuries and criminal behavior, shedding light on neglected societal issues. Finally, the podcast touches on the rise and challenges of the audio app Clubhouse in the Arab world.

Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor based in Shanghai, and Georgia Banjo, a writer for The Economist, delve into the rising consumer boycotts of Western brands in China amidst political tensions over human rights issues. They explore how these boycotts impact trade and ethical business practices. Additionally, Georgia highlights the overlooked connection between traumatic brain injuries and criminal behavior, examining how this affects individuals in the justice system. The duo also touches on the rise of Clubhouse in the Arab world as a space for free expression amid strict media controls.

Tom Gardner, an Addis Ababa correspondent, sheds light on the troubling humanitarian crisis in Tigray, where war crimes seem increasingly evident, and international intervention remains elusive. Meanwhile, Simon Rabinovich, an Asia economics editor, discusses the rising anti-capitalist sentiment among China's overworked youth, who express a longing for a return to Maoist ideals as they struggle with inequity in the tech industry. The dialogue reveals stark contrasts in global responses to economic and humanitarian crises.

Tom Gardner, the Addis Ababa correspondent for The Economist, brings stark insights into the ongoing atrocities in Ethiopia's Tigray region, highlighting evidence of war crimes and a dire humanitarian crisis. Simon Rabinovich, the Asia economics editor based in Shanghai, discusses the rise of anti-capitalist sentiment among China's youth, fueled by overwork and inequality. The conversation dives into how historical grievances shape current frustrations amidst a media blackout, revealing the complex dynamics of conflict and dissent.

Join John McDermott, The Economist's chief Africa correspondent, who delves into the toxic legacy of lead mining in Kabwe, Zambia, where a class-action lawsuit reveals the community's fight for justice. He shares harrowing personal stories and the ongoing health crisis affecting children and adults. Meanwhile, Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor, unpacks the delicate balance of tradition and commercialization at the Shaolin Monastery, exploring the abbot’s efforts to revive its legacy amidst modern pressures. They also discuss notable book recommendations, blending culture with current affairs.

Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor for The Economist, discusses France’s new secularism bill aimed at tackling Islamist extremism while maintaining core secular values. He explores the public's reaction to these proposed measures in light of recent tragedies. The conversation shifts to Taiwan, where its robust economic growth during the pandemic is highlighted, alongside its strategic position in the global tech market. Lastly, Rabinovich offers insights into adapting holiday traditions in the workplace as companies navigate post-pandemic celebrations.