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
Mar 24, 2025 • 23min
Bibi driver: battles led by and within Israel
In this discussion, Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares his insights on the escalating conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. He highlights the breakdown of the ceasefire, and Israel's internal leadership challenges amid growing societal rifts. The conversation also touches on Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and her diplomatic balancing act in dealing with U.S. pressures, revealing the complex interplay of international relations and domestic politics. Fascinating topics abound, bringing deeper understanding to contemporary crises.
5 snips
Mar 21, 2025 • 23min
Spy-fall: Trump imperils intelligence pact
Shashank Joshi, Defence editor for The Economist and expert on intelligence, delves into the fragility of America's international intelligence-sharing relationships and how Donald Trump's influence may jeopardize them. He discusses the historical significance of the Five Eyes alliance and the integrity issues arising from political tensions. Joshi also highlights China's swift leap in biotechnology, forecasting a future where Western markets might soon adopt cutting-edge Chinese medicines. Plus, catch new recommendations for your weekend viewing!
Mar 20, 2025 • 26min
Not so delightful: Erdogan arrests rival
Ekrem Imamoglu was arrested just days before he was likely to be elected leader of Turkey’s opposition. Where does this leave Turkish democracy? What Panama’s concessions teach us about how to deal with Donald Trump (9:49). And how zoos help hospitals treat venomous snakebites (19:16).Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe 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.
Mar 19, 2025 • 22min
Cold call: Putin thwarts Trump
In this episode, Chris Lockwood, The Economist's Europe editor, analyzes Vladimir Putin's refusal of a US ceasefire proposal amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict, revealing the implications for global diplomacy. Catherine Nixie, the culture correspondent, explores the rising trend of erotic literature and its cultural significance. The discussion also touches on Tesla's plummeting sales, linking it to Elon Musk's controversial political affiliations and public persona. Tune in for insights that connect politics, literature, and business!
11 snips
Mar 18, 2025 • 24min
Peace broken: war returns to Gaza
Oliver Morton, The Economist's Planetary Affairs Editor, discusses the recent escalation of violence in Gaza and its implications for peace. He explores the dynamics behind Israeli military actions and the humanitarian crisis unfolding. Additionally, Morton highlights the rescue of two stranded astronauts from the International Space Station, shedding light on how private investment is reshaping the space industry and the competitive spirit among aerospace companies.
Mar 17, 2025 • 20min
In sickness and in stealth: threats to America’s CDC
Donald Trump’s team has called the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “the most incompetent and arrogant agency” in the federal government. Our correspondent talks to staff who fear that jobs and crucial public-health projects are under threat. Is silver the new gold (10:56)? And why live albums are staging a comeback (15:50).Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe 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.
19 snips
Mar 14, 2025 • 25min
Wheels of justice: the ICC gets Duterte at last
Aaron Connolly, Asia diplomatic editor for The Economist, discusses Rodrigo Duterte's arrest by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity, shedding light on the complexities of international justice. John Joe Devlin shares alarming insights into the recent spike in gang violence in Sweden, where youth are increasingly involved in bombings and extortion. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to playwright Athol Fugard, exploring how his work challenged apartheid and highlighted the human condition.
16 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 22min
When the levy doesn’t break: a trade-war world adjusts
Rajan Ashambog, Business Affairs Editor at The Economist, dives into the complexities of today's trade wars and the fervent return of tariffs under the Trump administration. He discusses the chilling effects of these policies on global trade and domestic manufacturing. The conversation also explores the rise of hard-right political parties in Europe, analyzing the socio-economic factors fueling their success. Finally, they touch on the influence of AI technology in shaping modern industries. A thought-provoking exploration of today's turbulent economic landscape!
12 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 25min
Thirty-day trial? A Ukraine-ceasefire proposal
Oliver Carroll, The Economist's Ukraine correspondent, delves into the intricate negotiations for a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. He discusses the cautious optimism surrounding a 30-day proposal and the complexities of Russian involvement. The conversation also explores shifting European defense strategies amid the ongoing conflict, highlighting NATO's urgent modernization needs. Additionally, the episode touches on a study linking loneliness to serious health risks, revealing its significant impact on longevity.
Mar 11, 2025 • 23min
Sects and balances: a violent flare-up in Syria
Horrifying attacks on Alawites, the sect of deposed leader Bashar al-Assad, throw into question the power—or the will—of Ahmed al-Sharaa, the country’s leader, to maintain peace. For the first time in decades it now makes more sense to pay off a mortgage early (10:36). And high-end satellite data, once the preserve only of spies, could soon be available to all (16:19).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.
