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
Nov 27, 2020 • 20min
One party to rule them all? India’s fraying democracy
Max Rodenbeck, South Asia bureau chief for The Economist, and Wendelin von Bredow, who covers Europe, discuss India's precarious democracy under Prime Minister Modi. They probe the erosion of judicial independence and the rise of a potential one-party system, expressing hope for India's diverse society. The conversation shifts to Sweden, where entrenched gang violence reveals troubling social divides, contrasting sharply with its peaceful reputation. They also explore how Black Friday is transforming in the pandemic era with a significant rise in online shopping.
Nov 26, 2020 • 23min
At his majesty, displeasure: Thailand’s anti-monarchy push
Tom Felix Jung, an Economist correspondent in Bangkok, discusses the brave grassroots protests demanding reforms to Thailand's monarchy, led by fearless youth challenging long-held royal authority. Meanwhile, Liam Taylor, based in Kampala, delves into the political unrest in Uganda following the arrest of popular opposition figure Bobi Wine, illuminating the risks faced by dissenters and the youth-driven demand for change. Together, they explore the rising tide of political activism in two very different corners of the globe.
Nov 25, 2020 • 22min
Tigray area: Ethiopia’s deadly standoff
Tom Gardner, an Addis Ababa correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the escalating conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, where federal forces inch closer to Mekele amidst a growing humanitarian crisis and rising civilian casualties. Shashank Joshi, the publication's Defense editor, discusses the impressive capabilities of AI pilots in aerial combat while highlighting the continued necessity of human involvement due to ethical concerns. They also touch on the cultural evolution of mixed martial arts, revealing its deep roots and political implications in both the US and UK.
Nov 24, 2020 • 22min
What funds we’ll have: green venture capital
Guy Scriven, The Economist’s climate risk correspondent, sheds light on the revival of green venture capital as both individual and institutional investments surge into environmental technologies. He discusses how policy shifts and innovations are unlocking funding for sectors like low carbon transportation and alternative proteins. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, examines the alarming exodus of medical professionals from Arab countries, emphasizing the emotional toll on both doctors and their patients left behind.
Nov 23, 2020 • 22min
Playing his Trump cards: Biden’s China policy
In this engaging discussion, Gari Epstein, The Economist's China affairs editor, explores the complex dynamics of U.S.-China relations under Biden, focusing on how his policies may echo those of his predecessor. Sasha Nauta, Public policy editor, delves into the stark racial disparities in COVID-19 outcomes, revealing how systemic health inequalities have affected ethnic minorities profoundly. They also touch on innovative solutions for sustainable coffee cups, showcasing the potential of biodegradable materials to tackle environmental challenges.
Nov 20, 2020 • 20min
Undercut a deal: the threat to Afghan peace
Join Daniel Knowles, an International correspondent for The Economist, as he discusses the precarious situation in Afghanistan. He addresses the implications of the U.S. troop withdrawal and how it threatens ongoing peace negotiations, with the Taliban tightening its grip. The conversation also touches on the food delivery business reshaped by the pandemic, scrutinizing the ethics and profitability challenges faced by companies like DoorDash. Lastly, Knowles highlights the evolving dynamics in modern golf, especially the impact of increasing driving distances on the sport.
Nov 19, 2020 • 21min
Quit it cold, Turkey: policy tightens at last
David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief, sheds light on China's recent anti-poverty initiatives that aim to reshape citizens' mindsets rather than simply provide aid. He discusses the political implications of these strategies, which involve urbanization and the complex narratives surrounding propaganda tours. Rennie also touches on the cultural evolution of Pepe the Frog, exploring its transformation from a harmless character to a symbol associated with the alt-right, prompting reflections on how narratives can shift in the digital age.
Nov 18, 2020 • 21min
Concession stand: Trump’s intransigence
Idris Kalun and Amy Hawkins join the discussion to tackle pressing issues in American politics and social justice. Kalun reveals how the outgoing president's refusal to concede poses significant risks to democracy, affecting the transition during a pandemic. Hawkins dives into the disturbing realities of sexual violence in Egypt, highlighting a social media movement demanding justice and shifts in public perception. They also explore the trend of lengthy narratives in modern television, examining how storytelling has evolved in today's entertainment landscape.
Nov 17, 2020 • 22min
Out on a LegCo: Hong Kong under pressure
Su Lin Wong, the China correspondent for The Economist, explores the chilling impact of Hong Kong's national security law, highlighting the outright absence of opposition in the Legislative Council and the ominous future for democracy. Natasha Loader, health policy editor, delves into T-cells' crucial role in COVID-19 immunity, shedding light on the emerging advancements in vaccine efficacy. Together, they discuss how psychometric tests are reshaping recruitment practices, reflecting a growing reliance on psychological evaluations in the workplace.
Nov 16, 2020 • 21min
Disrupter, disrupted: Britain’s government
Matthew Holhouse, a British political correspondent for The Economist, dives deep into the political chaos following Dominic Cummings' resignation. He highlights how this shake-up could reshape Boris Johnson's government. The discussion also touches on the contrasting responses to COVID-19 in Canada and the UK, alongside the surprising boom in the pasta market during lockdowns. Holhouse emphasizes the ongoing political strife within the Conservative Party and its implications for Brexit negotiations moving forward.
