In this insightful discussion, Mariana Mazzucato, a professor at University College London and a leading expert on mission-oriented policy, argues for a revitalized role of the state in innovation. She reflects on JFK's moon landing as a model for tackling large challenges today, like climate change and pandemics. Mazzucato critiques the myth of the solitary entrepreneur, advocating for government-led, collaborative initiatives to drive technological advancements. The conversation emphasizes the need for ambition and coordination in public policies to stimulate innovation.

Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, shares her journey as the first woman to hold multiple top finance roles, including her time at the IMF. She discusses Europe's sluggish economic recovery from Covid-19 and the challenges of inflation. Lagarde emphasizes the need for a more unified European approach to boost productivity and innovation. She also highlights the intersection of climate change and economic stability, advocating for green investments and addressing trade dynamics amid political shifts.

Lant Pritchett, a development economist and visiting professor at the London School of Economics, argues for the necessity of mass immigration to tackle aging populations in developed countries. He discusses how easing migration restrictions could significantly boost living standards in the developing world. Pritchett proposes a model for temporary work contracts to address anti-immigrant sentiments while meeting labor demands. The conversation highlights the urgent economic need for 450 million workers by 2050 and the rising political challenges surrounding immigration.

Larry Summers, former US Treasury Secretary and President Emeritus of Harvard, shares his insights on the economic risks posed by Trump’s policies. He discusses the potential inflationary effects of tax cuts and trade tariffs. Summers highlights public discontent with the Biden administration despite low unemployment. He draws parallels to Nixon's era, emphasizing threats to the Federal Reserve's credibility and the rule of law. The conversation navigates the disconnect between economic data and voter sentiments, warning of electoral repercussions for progressive leaders.

Join Philip Lane, chief economist of the ECB, as he unpacks the precarious state of the Eurozone. With inflation declining but economic vulnerabilities rising, he discusses the urgent need for policy reforms. Lane highlights the complex interplay between monetary policy and investment rates, and contrasts Eurozone issues with U.S. economic conditions. He also delves into how geopolitical tensions and oil prices threaten stability, underscoring the pivotal role of central banks in navigating these choppy waters.

Sam Bowman, founding editor of Works in Progress and an expert in UK economics, dives into Britain's economic struggles. He discusses how restrictive investment policies have led to stagnation, with soaring housing and energy costs compared to France and Germany. Bowman examines Brexit's impact, the challenges posed by rising energy prices on manufacturing, and the urgent need for transformative policies. He advocates for radical changes in urban planning and energy solutions to boost economic growth and infrastructure.

Former UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, delves into the intriguing world of government efficiency. He discusses the complexities behind public sector productivity, particularly within the NHS, and the hurdles of measuring success without traditional pricing mechanisms. Hunt highlights the political landscape's role in reforming public services and emphasizes the need for innovative solutions amidst rising demands. He also touches on pension reforms and the potential benefits of making pension pot portability the default choice for individuals.

In this engaging discussion, Kimberly Clausing, a UCLA professor and former lead economist in the Biden administration, explores the potential impacts of Trump's tariff policies. She examines whether tariffs are as harmful as some believe and reflects on past economic outcomes. Clausing highlights misconceptions about the U.S. trade deficit and argues that tariffs alone won’t fix underlying issues. The conversation also delves into how trade policies have historically impacted corporations and workers, advocating for more equitable economic solutions.

Michael Clemens, a migration economics expert from George Mason University, discusses the potential implications of a second Trump presidency on U.S. immigration policies. He explores concerns about mass deportation and its detrimental effects on the economy, emphasizing the reliance on both authorized and unauthorized workers. The conversation highlights the historical context of immigration rhetoric and its influence on voter sentiment. Clemens argues for comprehensive immigration reform rather than punitive measures, envisioning significant economic impacts by 2028.

Natasha Sarin, a Yale professor and former counselor to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, dives into the urgent need for tax reform aimed at the ultra-wealthy. She discusses the potential of a wealth tax and the complexities of taxing unrealized capital gains, spotlighting current disparities in the tax system. The conversation also touches on the impact of tax reforms on charitable giving and the staggering $600 billion revenue loss from uncollected taxes. Sarin offers a hopeful perspective on future policies that can enhance transparency and fairness in taxation.