Ted Plafker

Roger McShane, The Economist's Middle East editor, discusses Israel's COVID-19 resurgence and the political fallout as Prime Minister Netanyahu faces protests over an overwhelmed contact-tracing program. Ted Plafker, the Beijing correspondent, reveals the impact of devastating floods displacing nearly 2 million people in China, sparking criticism on river management efforts. The conversation also touches on the societal shift towards bedtime stories for adults as a soothing escape during turbulent times, highlighting the growing trend in sleep-related content.

Duncan Weldon, The Economist's Britain economics correspondent, and Ted Plafker, the China correspondent, share fascinating insights on government responses to the pandemic. They discuss the U.S.'s historic $2 trillion relief package and the challenges of equitable aid distribution. Plafker highlights how China managed its agricultural sector during lockdowns, ensuring food security during crucial planting seasons. Additionally, they touch on the precarious lives of crocodile hunters in the Congo, revealing the risks and rewards of this dangerous profession during economic turmoil.

Duncan Weldon, Britain economics correspondent for The Economist, and Ted Plafker, the China correspondent, discuss the financial landscapes shaped by COVID-19. They delve into the US's massive relief package and the strategies China deployed to ensure food security during lockdowns. The conversation highlights the balance of health and economic strategies, and also touches on the risks faced by crocodile hunters in the Congo Basin, revealing the intertwining of crisis responses and individual livelihoods.