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
32 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 22min
Manhattan transfer: New York’s finance folk flee
Mike Bird, Wall Street editor, discusses the exodus of finance professionals from New York, citing high taxes and living costs as key factors. Avantika Chilcotti reveals a shift in drinking habits, pointing to a decline in Western alcohol consumption and the rise of non-alcoholic options. Corbyn Duncan introduces the Chinese rapper Sky is Your God, exploring his unique blend of Cantonese opera and catchy beats that have captivated global audiences, showcasing the evolution of rap in China.
39 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 22min
War-chest X-ray: how to finance Ukraine
In this insightful discussion, Patrick Fowles, the Foreign editor at The Economist, highlights Europe's need to leverage seized Russian assets to finance Ukraine amid a critical funding gap. Callum Williams, a Senior economics writer, reveals research showing AI is reducing junior-level hiring, impacting mid-tier graduates. Meanwhile, Michelle Hennessy, the Graphic detail editor, presents the Henley passport-power ranking, explaining which countries now offer the most travel freedom and discussing the US passport's decline. A thought-provoking blend of geopolitics, economics, and global mobility!
74 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 24min
Bust a vessel: NATO v dark fleets
Alice Su, a Senior international correspondent, dives into the world of shadow fleets harassing NATO in the Baltic, revealing the complexities of maritime security. John Wineland, China’s business editor, highlights how 200 million gig workers are reshaping China's labor market, embracing both the perks and the pitfalls of flexible work. Meanwhile, John Fasman explores the evolving definition of antisemitism, examining its historical roots and contemporary implications. Together, they illuminate crucial global issues shaping our world today.
35 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 25min
Let Milei this out: Argentina’s midterms surprise
Hal Hodson, America editor at The Economist, and Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief, dive into the unexpected victory of Javier Milei in Argentina's midterms, analyzing its implications for his ambitious economic reforms. Hodson discusses the challenges Milei faces in coalition-building and managing the peso, while Nuttall critiques Germany's lackluster reform efforts under the Merz government. They also touch on how video games are becoming harder again, exploring the balance between challenge and accessibility in modern design.
33 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.
43 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.
24 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.
