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
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 31, 2025 • 23min
Luxe run out? LVMH
Avantika Chilkoti, a global business writer at The Economist, dives into the challenges facing LVMH, the giant in luxury goods, led by Bernard Arnault. They discuss how shifting consumer behavior and tough market conditions are testing the company’s resilience. Chilkoti also examines the dangerous allure of South Korean dramas in North Korea and the severe risks viewers face. Additionally, the conversation touches on the impact of tariffs on American consumers and how they are linked to a faltering dollar and rising prices.
21 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 20min
Heavy meddle: Trump and Brazil
Anna Edelstein, Brazil bureau chief at The Economist, discusses the strained relations between Donald Trump and Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, emphasizing Trump's loyalty to ousted leader Jair Bolsonaro. Leo Marani, the India correspondent, reveals that India has overtaken China in private jet ownership, driven by a growing affluent class amidst urban challenges. The conversation also touches on the cultural evolution of Hong Kong’s famous cha chan tang cafes, adapting to the diaspora while navigating political changes.
16 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 23min
Pause for little effect: a trickle of aid in Gaza
Greg Carlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and Moeka Iida, Japan correspondent, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss the tactical pauses in Gaza, arguing they primarily relieve international pressure rather than aid the starving population. The conversation shifts to Japan's surname law, exploring how changing it could boost birth rates. Finally, they highlight Bad Bunny's meteoric rise in the music industry, showcasing the power of Latin culture in gaining worldwide recognition.
6 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 21min
EU gotta know when to hold ‘em: America’s latest trade deal
In this engaging discussion, Joel Budd, the social affairs editor at The Economist, dives into the nuances of the recent U.S.-EU trade deal involving 15% tariffs for American promises. He elucidates the geopolitics at play and the complexities of international negotiations. The conversation also spotlights the often-overlooked Midlands region, exploring its cultural identity and contributions, while celebrating the inspiring life of Fauja Singh, who completed a marathon at age 88, leaving a lasting legacy.
6 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 23min
Xiaomi the way: a Chinese tech giant gets bigger
Don Weinland, China business and finance editor for The Economist, and Kenley Salmon, Latin America correspondent, dive into Xiaomi's evolution from smartphone powerhouse to contender in the electric vehicle market. They discuss the challenges of expanding abroad and how the company's success at home influences its global strategy. The conversation shifts to the South Atlantic's rising geopolitical significance, reshaping U.S.-Britain-Argentina relations, and how women's sports are on a thrilling upswing, marked by increased investment and growing popularity.
16 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 24min
Anti-anti-corruption? A bill in Ukraine sparks protests
Oliver Carroll, a seasoned Ukraine correspondent, discusses the significant protests erupting in Ukraine over a contentious anti-corruption bill. He delves into how the bill threatens the independence of anti-corruption agencies, centralizing control under the prosecutor general and alarming citizens and international observers alike. This rising discontent reflects the broader struggle for reform and accountability in wartime. Carroll captures the urgent voices of Ukrainians demanding transparency amidst ongoing political tensions.
Jul 23, 2025 • 22min
The smaller C: progress in beating cancer
In this engaging discussion, Slovea Cankova, a Healthcare correspondent for The Economist, delves into recent advancements in cancer treatment, spotlighting innovative therapies and breakthroughs that shape patient care. Despite the rising cancer mortality rates, she emphasizes how modern medicine is making strides in lessening the disease's deadliness. The conversation also touches on the challenges the food industry faces, particularly with changing consumer habits that affect major brands like Kraft Heinz, weaving in the complexities of politics and consumer preferences.
36 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 25min
Hawks v talks: barriers to peace in Gaza
Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent, discusses the evolving humanitarian crisis in Gaza as international outrage grows but aid remains limited. Alex Hearn, AI writer, explores the paradox of technology enhancing convenience while potentially undermining human skills. Rebecca Jackson, Southern correspondent, highlights the rising demand for testosterone therapy among men, addressing societal influences and the challenges of unregulated use. Together, they unravel complex themes of conflict, innovation, and health in today's world.
34 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 23min
Land of the rising shun? Immigration and Japan’s politics
The Liberal Democratic Party, which has dominated the country’s politics for seven decades, just got a pasting at the polls—again. We ask why staid politics are getting swiftly messy. Iceland is a NATO member in a volatile region; at last it must consider raising its own army. And the tricky balance of company culture, job satisfaction and working from home.Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.
28 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 26min
The ships are down: Houthis resume strikes
In this insightful discussion, Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent, delves into the resurgence of Houthi maritime attacks in the Red Sea, analyzing their strategic timing and implications for global shipping. Anne Rowe, the obituaries editor, highlights the pioneering legacy of Simon Groot, a Dutch agronomist who revolutionized seed development for tropical agriculture. The podcast also covers Australia's groundbreaking climate visa for Tuvaluans, paving the way for migration due to rising sea levels, and the vibrant culture of Tuvalu's people under threat.
