The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Get a daily burst of illumination from The Economist’s worldwide network of correspondents. Our reporters dig past the headlines to get to the stories beneath—and to stories that aren’t making headlines, but should be. A unique perspective on the issues and events shaping your world.Sign up for Economist Podcasts+ at http://www.economist.com/podcastsplus-intelligence.If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.For more information about Economist Podcasts+, including how to get access, please visit our FAQs page at https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts
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Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 24min
Rule and divide: opposition grows in Syria
Gareth Brown, a Middle East correspondent, and Anne Rowe, The Economist's obituaries editor, delve into Syria's escalating dissent post-Assad’s fall. They discuss the violent clashes sparked by sectarian strife and the growing denouncement of the regime's failures. Attention turns to British pensioners leading political protests, highlighting a surprising shift in activism dynamics. Additionally, they celebrate Terence Stamp's illustrious film career, illustrating his journey from self-doubt to iconic status.
50 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 21min
Stake and chips: will America take 10% of Intel?
Join Charlize Chitness, a global business writer at The Economist, and Claire McHugh, a Latin America expert, as they dissect Intel's declining fortunes and the potential for government intervention in the chip-making giant. They delve into the political turmoil following a shocking assassination in Colombia, reflecting on the legacy of violence and instability in the region. Plus, enjoy a whimsical take on a local snail race in rural England, which humorously ties into broader themes of business and community spirit.
16 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 23min
Trouble in paradise: US plans for Pacific war
Vijay Vaiteswarian, Energy editor at The Economist, discusses the surprising optimism around climate technology amidst U.S. military preparations in the Pacific. He reveals how strategic locations like Tinian Island are being revitalized for modern warfare while highlighting the shift towards prioritizing energy security. On a lighter note, he touches on Hello Kitty's evolution and how Sanrio is expanding its global presence with innovative brand strategies. The intersection of defense and sustainability makes for a captivating conversation.
16 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 19min
On a win and a player: Britain’s gaming prowess
Stanley Pignol, Brussels bureau chief for The Economist, dives into the thriving British gaming industry, ranking as the world’s third-largest exporter. He discusses the industry's transformative milestones since the 1997 breakout game and its quirky innovations that define its culture. The conversation also touches on Europe's declining sin tax revenues as vices fade and highlights the rise of electric rickshaws in Bangladesh, examining their mixed benefits of economic relief versus safety and environmental concerns.
7 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 21min
Peace by piece? Zelensky and Trump meet again
Oliver Carroll, the Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, and Chris Lockwood, the Europe editor, discuss high-stakes diplomacy with Zelensky's upcoming meeting with Trump. The precarious balancing act of Ukraine amid U.S.-Russian tensions takes center stage. They also delve into the rise of solopreneurs leveraging AI to create startups with minimal staff, alongside the resurgence of a 400-year-old Chinese cough syrup gaining popularity in the West, spurred by social media and shifting market dynamics.
18 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 24min
A farewell to arms? Hamas considers its options
Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, offers insights into the evolving dynamics surrounding Hamas. He discusses how shifting international and local sentiments might pressure Hamas to consider disarmament in exchange for Palestinian concessions. The podcast also dives into the psychological factors behind market movements, particularly the role of fear of missing out. Additionally, it reflects on Japan's WWII surrender and the emotional impact of peace declarations, giving listeners a deep historical and contemporary perspective.
9 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 23min
Frozen conflict? A special episode in the Arctic
Adam Roberts, Correspondent for The Economist, shares insights from his visit to Svalbard, home to a unique Russian settlement called Barentsburg. He discusses the area's geopolitical significance, emphasizing its potential as a flashpoint for Russia’s expansionism. The podcast highlights the striking contrast between Barentsburg's Soviet echoes and the contemporary world, as well as the local desire for freedom. Roberts also delves into Russia’s ambitions in the Arctic, amid ongoing tensions with NATO and the increasing involvement of global powers like China.
15 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 23min
Just getting started: El Salvador’s president for life
Guests Sarah Burke, The Economist's bureau chief for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, and Carrie Richmond Jones, the international economics correspondent, dive into the controversial ascent of El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele. They discuss his aggressive crackdown on gang violence and the troubling constitutional changes allowing indefinite re-election. Shifting family dynamics in the U.S., including a historic drop in birth rates, also take center stage, revealing fascinating societal trends. Finally, they explore the allure and challenges of Provence as a tourist destination.
75 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 22min
Next top model: GPT-5 and its AI rivals
In this insightful discussion, Alex Hearn, an AI writer at The Economist, teams up with Moeka Iida, a Japan specialist, to explore the latest advancements in generative AI with a spotlight on GPT-5. They delve into how this model revolutionizes software creation and its implications for the future of human cognition. Additionally, Iida shares intriguing shifts in Japanese investing habits influenced by online culture. The conversation takes an entertaining turn as they examine the vibrant world of indie wrestling and its cultural significance in America.
28 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 24min
The summit of its parts: Ukraine, Trump and Putin
In this discussion, Oliver Carroll, a Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the complexities of peace negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the challenges of territory swaps and the vital role of the U.S. and Russia. Meanwhile, Don Wineland, China’s business and finance editor, explores how Chinese cities are fiercely competing to become leaders in electric vehicle manufacturing, revealing the strategic shifts in the automotive landscape as they pivot from petrol to electric.
