The Monocle Daily

In a thought-provoking discussion, Tessa Szyszkowitz, UK correspondent for Volta and author of Echte Anglinder, dives into the escalating trade tensions between the US and China. She explores the consequences of potential tariffs and the broader implications for global markets. The conversation also touches on the 'Amer-Exit' phenomenon, highlighting a possible brain drain from the US and the impact on academia. Additionally, Szyszkowitz investigates the ethical complexities of reviving extinct species, such as the dire wolf, using cutting-edge biotechnological advances.

Guests Andrew Thompson, a Latin America specialist, and Terry Stiastny, a political journalist, break down the latest plummet in global markets as Trump's tariffs send shockwaves. They discuss the emotional toll on Wall Street and how this links to the UK’s governance changes. Howard Amos, author of 'Russia Starts Here', shares insights on Brazil's political turmoil, particularly regarding Jair Bolsonaro's controversial pardons. The conversation wraps with Japan's growing trend of proxy resignation services, reflecting societal shifts and technology's role in modern employment.

Sophie Grove, Monocle's Confection Editor, shares insights from the Watches and Wonders event in Geneva, highlighting the latest luxury watch innovations. The discussion shifts to South Korean politics, analyzing the implications of President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment and martial law attempts amid scandal. On the other side, Florida's controversial plans to revise child labor laws spark a conversation about historical exploitation and youth responsibility, blending serious topics with lighthearted anecdotes about early jobs and cultural quirks.

Julie Norman, an Associate Professor in Politics at UCL, and Robin Brant, a former BBC correspondent, dive into the intricate world of global politics. They discuss Qatar's alleged influence on Israeli politics and the troubling implications of lobbying. The conversation also explores how China might respond to U.S. tariffs, questioning TikTok's future amid rising tensions. Listeners get insights into the cultural contrasts faced by diplomats and the complexities of personal relationships in international affairs.

Michael Binyon, a foreign affairs specialist for The Times, discusses the implications of a liberal victory in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election and its potential impact on U.S. politics. The conversation also touches on Marine Le Pen's legal challenges amid a shifting political landscape in Europe. Joining him is Matt Ridley, a science writer and author who dives into the fascinating world of sexual selection, including insights from his book on black grouse mating rituals and the evolutionary significance of beauty in the animal kingdom.

Isabel Hilton, the founder of China Dialogue, and Quentin Peel, a regular contributor, dive into China's surprising military exercises around Taiwan and the implications for global security. They discuss the European Union's efforts to bolster its defense posture in response to foreign threats. The conversation shifts to major companies like LG and Samsung cautiously re-entering the Russian market. Additionally, they celebrate The Beatles' enduring legacy at CinemaCon and look ahead to the exciting Watches and Wonders event.

Elisabeth Braw, a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and author of 'Goodbye Globalisation', joins Ben Kelly, Senior Audience Editor at Newsweek, to dissect the guilty verdict in Marine Le Pen's embezzlement trial and its implications for democratic integrity in France. They discuss the White House Correspondents’ Association's canceled comedian feature amidst political tensions. The conversation also touches on a controversial airport proposal in Kashmir and the societal dynamics surrounding street performances and activism's evolving landscape.

Julia Lassica, a writer and researcher on Ukrainian affairs, and Gunnar Gronlid, a producer and Norway expert, discuss the intricate US-Ukraine minerals deal and its implications for Ukraine's economic autonomy. They explore the evolving nature of US-Ukrainian relations, emphasizing the transactional shift in their alliance. Additionally, they touch on rising geopolitical tensions over Svalbard, as Norway navigates its relationship with Russia in the Arctic. Their insights provide a thought-provoking view on the intersection of politics and global business.

Marie Leconte, a political journalist and author, and Rachel Cunliffe, Senior Associate Editor of The New Statesman, delve into France's military support for Ukraine, sparked by Macron's bold announcement. They analyze the potential global impact on leaders like Putin and Trump. The discussion also touches on Europe's brain drain, exploring how political climates might shift intellectual talent from the US. With humor, they tackle the concept of 'boomerasking' in conversations and engage in a lively debate over the cultural implications of naming conventions in Italy.

Terry Stiastny, an insightful political journalist, and David Brennan, an experienced reporter at ABC News, dive into the aftermath of Signal-gate and its impact on American politics. They discuss the ongoing House hearings about intelligence leaks, weighing the serious implications for national security. The duo also analyzes the upcoming visit by the U.S. Vice President to Greenland, highlighting its geopolitical significance amid Spain's defense plans for Europe. Plus, they touch on the ethical dilemmas of national security reporting. A thought-provoking conversation!