The Briefing

Nobel Prize-winning economist Richard Thaler, famous for founding behavioral economics, discusses his career and the nuances of human behavior. Julia Jenne, a Ukraine expert, provides a gripping account of the recent Russian strikes in Kharkiv amidst severe winter conditions and explains Ukraine's emergency measures. Meanwhile, Carlotta Ribello reports from Davos, examining the World Economic Forum's global risks survey, which highlights both geo-economic tensions and climate concerns, all contrasting with the backdrop of Trump’s possible influence.

Nada Al-Tahir, a Senior foreign reporter at The National, shares vital insights on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan, discussing the challenges of disarmament and the complexities of humanitarian access. Meanwhile, Thomas Chatterton Williams, a Staff writer at The Atlantic, reflects on the unrest in Minneapolis, advocating for disciplined nonviolent protest strategies. He emphasizes the need for Democrats to offer a compelling vision during this period of national division and exhaustion.

Tomohiko Taneguchi, former special advisor to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, discusses Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s upcoming snap election and her strong public support driven by youth engagement. Ewan Potts analyzes China’s impressive trade surplus and the implications of U.S. tariffs facing legal challenges. Austin Ramsey reveals China's strategic ties with Iran amidst protests, highlighting economic collaboration. Caroline Avedon shares insights into her grandfather Richard Avedon's impactful photography series, emphasizing its lasting human resonance.

This week features Alexa Self, Monocle's foreign editor, who dives into Trump's 25% tariff threat aimed at nations trading with Iran, particularly focusing on the implications for global powers like China. Patricia Cohen from The New York Times analyzes the Federal Reserve's independence and how Trump's pressure may affect market confidence. Lastly, Carlotta Ribello shares insights on urbanism, discussing Amsterdam's new tourism regulations and the critical data gaps affecting U.S. cities. An engaging blend of geopolitics, economics, and urban trends!

Ed Stocker, Monocle's Europe editor, shares insights on the recent release of political prisoners in Venezuela and the implications for US-Venezuela relations. Ewan Potts, a Bloomberg journalist, discusses the pressures on the US Federal Reserve and the challenges facing American retail amid a mall crisis. Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Monocle's senior correspondent, highlights the success of Brazilian cinema at the Golden Globes and reflects on cultural icons like Wagner Moura, enriching the discussion on Brazil's cinematic landscape.

We assess how the seizure of Venezuelan tankers will be viewed in Moscow and whether it has any bearing on broader US-Russia relations. Plus: a day of mourning in Switzerland to honour the 40 victims of the Crans-Montana fire on New Year’s Eve.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tractors have gathered in front of the Arc de Triomphe in a show of dissent against a European trade deal with the South American bloc Mercosur. Plus: what an invasion of Taiwan would actually look like and three exhibitions to have on your radar in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Donald Trump unveils his plan for Venezuela to turn over millions of oil barrels to the US, we assess how viable this ambition might be.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did Donald Trump declare victory too soon? We analyse the next steps in Venezuela with Nick Redman of Oxford Analytica. Plus: Ukraine’s cabinet shake-up and a look-ahead to Maison&Objet in Paris.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Chermak, a senior news editor and geopolitical analyst, discusses Trump's foreign policy towards Venezuela, emphasizing a strategy focusing on oil interests over democracy. Garana Gerjic, a security correspondent, reveals how this situation strains European trust and complicates upcoming security discussions in Paris. Laura Kramer updates on the recent fire in Crans-Montana, detailing victim identifications. Isabel Hilton offers insights on China's economic positioning as it navigates challenges heading into 2026.