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
Jun 1, 2021 • 21min
Bibi, it’s cold outside: Israel’s improbable coalition
Anshul Pfeffer, the Israel correspondent for The Economist, delves into the chaotic world of Israeli politics, where opposition leaders unite solely to remove Prime Minister Netanyahu. He discusses the obstacles this diverse coalition faces, including deep ideological divides and external pressures. The conversation shifts to troubling money laundering practices in the Balkans' real estate market, exposing the grim realities for local residents. Lastly, they touch on the implications of U.S.-Mexico trade agreements on Canada's dairy industry, highlighting challenges and opportunities for consumers.
May 31, 2021 • 22min
From the head down: rot in South Africa
Join John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent, and Sasha Nauta, public policy editor, as they delve into Jacob Zuma's long-awaited corruption trial, revealing deep-rooted issues within the ANC. They discuss how the pandemic has disproportionately affected working parents, especially mothers, impacting mental health and career choices. The duo also explores the fight for better sanitation in Harismith and the revolutionary design of toothpaste tubes that reduce waste. Their insights provide a captivating glimpse into South Africa's political and social landscape.
May 28, 2021 • 20min
Caught in the activists: oil majors’ shake-ups
Vijay Vaithi Swaran, The Economist’s Global Energy and Climate Innovation Editor, and Hamish Beryl, a public policy correspondent, dive into the seismic shifts in the oil industry driven by activist investors. They dissect how ExxonMobil is adapting with green board members while Chevron faces pressure to cut carbon. The discussion takes a turn to Scotland's alarming drug-death crisis, revealing governmental response efforts amid historical neglect. They also explore the cultural impact of music in Peru, showcasing the revival of the indigenous Quechua language.
May 27, 2021 • 21min
On the origins and the specious: the SARS-CoV-2 lab-leak theory
Natasha Loader, Health policy editor at The Economist, and Callum Williams, Senior economics writer at The Economist, dive into the ongoing debate over the origins of COVID-19, focusing on the lab-leak theory from Wuhan. They explore how public perception has shifted as new evidence emerges. The discussion shifts to Latin America's severe economic fallout from strict lockdowns, highlighting a GDP contraction that far exceeds the global average. Lastly, they touch on innovative shark breeding techniques that could benefit conservation efforts.
May 26, 2021 • 22min
From out of thin air: Belarus dissidents' fates
Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's Russia editor, delves into the chilling implications of Belarus’s government detaining a dissident journalist and his girlfriend, sparking international condemnation. Olivia Ackland reports on the chaos following the Mount Nyiragongo eruption in Congo, where locals fled to safety amid panic. The duo also discuss the increasing trend of copyright disputes in the music industry, highlighting how artists navigate the fine line between inspiration and infringement.
May 25, 2021 • 20min
To protect and serve: police reform one year after George Floyd
Lee Merritt, an attorney for George Floyd's family and advocate for racial justice, dives deep into the aftermath of Floyd's murder. He shares insights on the challenges and advancements in police reform, including the push for the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. Merritt discusses shifting public opinions on policing, reflecting on the transition from 'defund the police' to community resource reallocations. He also addresses the ongoing discussions about racial justice and whether recent protests can lead to substantial societal change.
May 24, 2021 • 21min
From a tax to attacks: Colombia’s unrelenting unrest
Mariana Palau, The Economist's Colombia correspondent, dives into the ongoing protests in Colombia, sparked by proposed tax reforms and growing public discontent with President Iván Duque. She discusses the resignation of the finance minister and the potential shifts in political power amidst calls for reform. The conversation also touches on the broader socio-political challenges in Latin America and the implications of unrest on the country's future. Additionally, the podcast highlights the unique addressing system in Costa Rica and its economic impacts.
May 21, 2021 • 24min
The dust settles: ceasefire in Gaza
Anshul Pfeffer, The Economist's Israel correspondent, shares insights on the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, discussing its fragile future and the broader regional impacts. David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief, delves into China's upcoming centenary celebrations and the party's historical revisionism, highlighting the contrasts between reality and propaganda. Anne Rowe reflects on the life of Asfaw Yemiru, an Ethiopian educator whose dedication transformed the futures of over 120,000 children, showcasing the power of education to uplift communities.
May 20, 2021 • 19min
Game on: the Tokyo Olympics
Noah Snyder, The Economist's Tokyo bureau chief, discusses the impending Tokyo Olympics amid rising COVID-19 cases and public dissent in Japan. He explores the motivations behind the IOC's decision to proceed with the Games despite significant hurdles. The conversation also highlights the vulnerabilities of satellite navigation systems and the implications of jamming signals. Additionally, Snyder draws parallels between the Olympics and the reemergence of cicadas, examining climate change's impact on their life cycle.
May 19, 2021 • 21min
Populists poised: Italian politics
John Hooper, The Economist's Italy and Vatican correspondent, delves into the precarious balance of Italian politics, highlighting the looming threat of right-wing populists like Matteo Salvini. He discusses how the current government may shape Italy’s future amidst rising immigration challenges. Meanwhile, Sarah Burke, bureau chief for Mexico, examines the unprecedented militarization of the Mexican government under AMLO, revealing the military's expanded role in civilian affairs and its implications for democracy and stability.
