The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Join Jason Palmer and Rosie Blau for noise-cancelling news and analysis from The Economist's global network of correspondents. Every weekday this award-winning podcast picks three stories shaping your world—the big shifts in politics, business and culture, plus things you never knew you needed to know. On Saturdays, download The Weekend Intelligence to dive deep into a single story, vividly told. 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
15 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 23min
The great brawl: China is winning the trade war
In this discussion, Simon Rabinovich, Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, delves into China's strategic leverage in the trade arena, highlighting its rare-earth export controls and their impact on global markets. He reveals how China's manufacturing dominance translates into geopolitical power. Tom Wainwright, Media editor at The Economist, explores the unexpected screen habits of older adults, showcasing how their screen time often surpasses that of the young, while discussing both the benefits and health concerns linked to digital engagement in later life.
18 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 23min
Shutting match: what will break the US federal impasse?
Sam Beale, an International correspondent, discusses the U.S. federal shutdown's political standoff and its economic implications, revealing its second-longest status amid minimal urgency for resolution. Tom Gardner reports from Ghana, explaining why the country has avoided jihadist violence, attributing stability to its political institutions and trusted security forces. Meanwhile, Carla Zuburana dives into the booming bottled-water market, exploring trends toward upscale flavored products and the industry's environmental challenges.
41 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 24min
Cocaine and able: drug runners innovate
Kinley Salmon, a Latin America correspondent, reveals the innovative tactics transforming the cocaine trade, discussing the shift to outsourced networks and new smuggling methods like narco-submersibles. He argues that U.S. actions won't significantly disrupt this resilient industry and suggests legalization might reduce profits. Meanwhile, Don Wineland, China business and finance editor, sheds light on the Liu Zhi detention system, highlighting the rising number of disappearing businesspeople and its chilling effects on China's private sector.
34 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 22min
Rock and rule: Japan’s first female PM
Noah Snyder, East Asia bureau chief at The Economist, delves into Takaichi Sanae's unexpected rise as Japan’s first female prime minister, highlighting her rock-star persona and alignment with both Abe and Thatcher. He discusses her ambitious policy agenda focused on defense and conservative social stances. Meanwhile, Archie Hall, U economics editor, explores the implications of the US's zero-migration policy, detailing its immediate economic disruptions and longer-term threats to innovation. Both guests provide keen insights into pressing political and economic landscapes.
17 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 27min
Voices of Gaza: life amid a fragile peace
In this insightful discussion, Sarah Lanyuk, an Audio correspondent for The Economist, shares her firsthand experiences from Gaza, where a fragile ceasefire reigns. She captures the heart-wrenching stories of displacement and daily survival, revealing how families endure shortages and emotional trauma. Gazans express their hopes for education, jobs, and rebuilding amid uncertainty. Alongside this, the episode touches on the global cycling boom, exploring how urban infrastructure is transforming city life and the unique advantages of left-handed athletes in competitive sports.
17 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 26min
Bolt-on charges: Trump's former adviser is indicted
Adam Roberts, Digital Editor at The Economist, analyzes the indictment of former Trump adviser John Bolton for mishandling classified materials, raising concerns over the politicization of justice. Shashank Joshi delves into the fallout from a dropped espionage case among alleged Chinese spies, which has significant political implications for the UK. Additionally, Anne Rowe honors the legacy of Saul Zabar, a deli icon whose influence on New York’s culinary landscape endures. Tune in for insights into politics, national security, and cultural history.
16 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 22min
Rome run: Meloni’s surprising stamina
John Hooper, Italy and Vatican correspondent for The Economist, discusses Giorgia Meloni's unexpected stability as Italy's prime minister and her coalition management skills. He explains her moderate stance on the EU and migration policies amidst economic challenges. Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief, dives into the issues plaguing Germany's long-distance trains, detailing government efforts to improve punctuality while acknowledging bureaucratic hurdles. The conversation wraps up with a quirky look at the World Conker Championships and its storied traditions.
26 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 24min
Aid pro quo: Trump weaponises foreign help
Kerry-Anne Richmond Jones, an international-economics correspondent at The Economist, discusses how Trump has reshaped US foreign aid to prioritize personal allies and counter China. Matthew Simons, an economist, reveals Ukraine's strategic strikes on Russian fuel infrastructure, highlighting the impacts on Russia's refining capacity. Sunny Lochman explores the success of J.D. Wetherspoon, a pub chain thriving amidst a national decline, thanks to its value strategy and broad appeal. The episode offers a captivating look at politics, war, and business in today's world.
38 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 22min
Wrong side of the hack: cybercrime grows
In this intriguing discussion, Alex Hearn, Technology correspondent for The Economist, delves into the alarming rise of cyberattacks, particularly ransomware tactics targeting major firms. He highlights the drastic shift from stealthy theft to destructive demands for payment. Tom Gardner, Africa correspondent, sheds light on the complexities of counting conflict-related deaths in Africa, emphasizing how this uncertainty affects humanitarian efforts and policy. Together, they unpack critical implications for both technology and global aid.
25 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 24min
Out at last: Israeli hostages return
Josie DeLapp, The Economist's Middle East editor, discusses the momentous release of Israeli hostages and the ongoing challenges in Gaza, including tricky negotiations and Hamas's control. Avantika Chilkoti, a global business writer, reveals why luxury travel is thriving thanks to a shift from goods to experiences fueled by social media, while warning of potential pitfalls. Finally, Anne Rowe reflects on the life of Claudia Cardinale, highlighting her rise to fame and unforgettable roles, showcasing her independence and lasting legacy in film.
