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
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 26, 2020 • 23min
Council insecurity: the UN at 75
Daniel Franklin, The Economist's diplomatic editor, shares insights on the UN's relevance as it turns 75, discussing the need for reforms amid rising nationalism and global power dynamics. Kenneth Werner examines the shift in media portrayals of policing post-George Floyd, critiquing how shows distort public perceptions. They also explore the future of live music festivals, highlighting how the pandemic has reshaped the industry and accelerated the adoption of live streaming, while emphasizing the unique charm of in-person events.
Jun 25, 2020 • 22min
Rush to a conclusion: Latin America’s lockdowns
Richard Enzer, the Mexico City Bureau Chief, provides a deep dive into the staggering impact of COVID-19 across Latin America, marking it as a new pandemic epicenter. He emphasizes the socio-economic disparities that complicate effective lockdowns and discuss urgent needs for tailored crisis strategies. Meanwhile, Adam Roberts sheds light on the U.S. visa suspension's ramifications on skilled workers and the tech industry, exposing the contradiction between immigration policies and economic needs amid rising nationalism.
Jun 24, 2020 • 21min
Leave in peace: Afghan-Taliban negotiations
Ben Farmer, a journalist specializing in Afghanistan for The Economist, teams up with Wendelin von Bredow, the European business and finance correspondent based in Berlin. They dive into the complexities of the Afghan-Taliban peace negotiations, highlighting the challenges of a U.S. withdrawal agreement and ongoing violence. The discussion also covers Wirecard's dramatic fall from grace amid a massive fraud scandal, and how national football victories can temporarily unify a nation, as seen in the Ivory Coast.
Jun 23, 2020 • 24min
Past its Prime? Amazon comes of age
Tamsin Booth, Technology and business editor for The Economist, analyzes Amazon's shifting market strategies and the challenges posed by the pandemic. Shishang Joshi, Defense editor, discusses how COVID-19 has intensified global conflicts and affected war zones. Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, shares the captivating story of Antonio Bolivar, an Amazonian storyteller turned film star, who embodies cultural heritage amidst modern struggles. The conversation weaves together e-commerce, war, and the preservation of indigenous narratives.
Jun 22, 2020 • 21min
Isle be damned: Britain ravaged by covid-19
Emma Duncan, The Economist's Britain editor, offers a deep dive into the UK's tumultuous handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses how the country's diverse makeup amplified the virus's impact and the government's questionable decisions that eroded public trust. The conversation also highlights the dire situation of Native American communities facing significant health challenges and cultural risks due to COVID-19. Additionally, Duncan touches on the intriguing dynamics of corporate governance in China driven by the power of company seals.
Jun 19, 2020 • 22min
Syria’s condition: Bashar al-Assad
Join Callum Williams, a Senior Economics Writer for The Economist, as he dives into Syria's dire economic state under Bashar al-Assad. They discuss the impact of U.S. sanctions, examining the regime's struggle amidst growing civilian unrest. The conversation shifts to America's debate on reparations for slavery, exploring complex solutions like baby bonds. Williams also touches on the changing dynamics of loyalty in Syria and how corporate America is grappling with racial equity in light of Juneteenth.
Jun 18, 2020 • 22min
Painting the red towns: covid-19 in America
Join John Parker, an international correspondent for The Economist, as he dissects the shifting COVID-19 landscape in the U.S., revealing how infection rates are fluctuating between Democratic and Republican areas and the electoral implications. Also featuring Jack LaHarte, who discusses Ireland's groundbreaking coalition government formed to keep Sinn Féin at bay, reshaping a political rivalry that has lasted nearly a century. They also touch on the inspiring story of a young chess prodigy, illustrating the personal impacts of national changes.
Jun 17, 2020 • 20min
Himalayan assault: India and China clash
Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, dives into the recent violent clashes at the India-China border, marking the first fatalities in decades. He discusses the historical context of their ongoing disputes and the geopolitical implications of these tensions. The conversation also explores the evolving role of mercenaries, particularly in Africa, where they are gaining acceptance as strategic assets. This intriguing intersection of military conflict and international relations provides a thought-provoking glimpse into modern warfare dynamics.
Jun 16, 2020 • 22min
No port in a storm: the world’s stranded sailors
Tom Wainwright, media editor at The Economist, dives into the overlooked crisis of merchant seamen stranded at sea due to COVID-19. He sheds light on 1.3 million seafarers facing neglect while playing a crucial role in global trade. The discussion also tackles the dangerous rise of misinformation during the pandemic, revealing its impact on political divides. Additionally, Wainwright explores Britain's puppy demand surge, touching on the darker side of breeding practices and the emergence of a black market. It's a captivating look at the human and societal costs in unprecedented times.
Jun 15, 2020 • 21min
A shifting alliance: NATO
Daniel Franklin, The Economist's diplomatic editor, and Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent, delve into the pressing challenges NATO faces against rising Chinese influence and the waning interest of the U.S. They discuss the surprising resolution of the Olof Palme murder case, revealing many frustrations over its trivial conclusion. The duo also touches on the booming matchmaking scene in Japan, significantly influenced by the pandemic, highlighting unique adaptations and personal journeys in the search for love during isolation.
