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
May 15, 2020 • 21min
Continental divides: covid-19 strains the EU
Duncan Robinson, Brussels bureau chief for The Economist, and Richard Enzer, a correspondent based in Mexico, dive into the EU's ongoing struggles amid COVID-19. They discuss the existential crisis facing the bloc and the need for reform. In contrast, they examine Nayib Bukele's controversial rise in El Salvador, highlighting his dictatorial tendencies and mixed public perception. The conversation also touches on the intriguing yet misunderstood connection between sunlight exposure and COVID-19, shedding light on myths and realities surrounding the virus.
May 14, 2020 • 21min
Bibi steps: Israel’s long-awaited government
Alec Jha, Science correspondent for The Economist, joins to unravel the lightning-fast evolution of scientific research during the pandemic. He discusses how traditional barriers in scientific publishing were shattered, allowing unprecedented collaboration and rapid publication. Alongside this, the fragile unity government formed by Binyamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz is examined for its political tensions and upcoming challenges. The conversation also touches on the implications of banning salary history inquiries in job interviews, highlighting its potential to close the gender pay gap.
May 13, 2020 • 20min
Fool Britannia? A covid-19 response under scrutiny
Emma Duncan, Britain editor for The Economist, unpacks the UK's troubled COVID-19 response, revealing its reputational fallout both domestically and internationally. She discusses the confusing messaging from the government, particularly the switch from 'stay at home' to 'stay alert', which has only added to public frustration. The impacts extend beyond borders, with Duncan highlighting how Britain's pandemic management threatens its global influence on pressing issues like human rights. Additionally, the conversation touches on press freedom challenges in the Philippines and the rich themes of an Argentinian novel that resonate today.
May 12, 2020 • 22min
Moveable feast: a global food system adapts
Mathieu Favas, a finance correspondent at The Economist, dives into the shifting dynamics of the global food supply chain in response to COVID-19. He highlights how firms are navigating supply bottlenecks and food security challenges. Duncan Weldon, Britain economics correspondent, discusses the complexities of measuring inflation during the pandemic, as traditional methods falter. With economic impacts felt across sectors, this conversation explores vital adaptations needed to foster both food stability and accurate economic insights.
May 11, 2020 • 21min
Back to the furore: protests set to reignite
Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent based in Beirut, and Joel Budd, the social policy editor focusing on urban environments, delve into Lebanon's recent protests fueled by worsening economic conditions. They also discuss how historical epidemics have influenced urban design, pondering how COVID-19 will impact future city planning. Additionally, they highlight the challenges faced by Corona beer in redefining its brand identity amidst the pandemic's stigma. The conversation weaves together activism, architecture, and brand resilience.
May 8, 2020 • 22min
Rises and false: markets v the economy
Join Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor at The Economist, as she remembers legendary rock climber Joe Brown, known for his innovative climbing routes. David Rennie, based in Beijing, shares insights on the struggles of documentary filmmakers in China, particularly the creative solutions they employ to bypass censorship. He highlights filmmaker Jiang Nengjie's decision to offer his grim documentary for free, shedding light on the harsh realities of illegal coal mining. Together, they explore the stark contrast between flourishing stock markets and the underlying economic challenges.
May 7, 2020 • 20min
Hitting a Vlad patch: 20 years of Putin
Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia editor for The Economist and expert on Russian politics, shares keen insights on Vladimir Putin's 20-year rule. He discusses how plunging oil prices and the pandemic challenge Putin's grip on power amid rising public dissatisfaction. Ostrovsky highlights the contrasting trajectories of major tech firms versus struggling startups in the crisis. He also explores music as a form of escapism during tough times, drawing parallels to past economic hardships. The conversation weaves together themes of authority, resilience, and cultural expression.
May 6, 2020 • 22min
Disarming revelation: a chance at a global ceasefire
Richard Cockett, Senior Editor at The Economist, dives into the surprising response of armed groups to a global ceasefire amid the pandemic. He discusses the geopolitical challenges that threaten these peace efforts, particularly in places like the Philippines and South Sudan. Cockett also highlights the intriguing potential of convalescent plasma as a treatment for COVID-19. Lastly, a captivating family feud unfolds, revealing the tumultuous dynamics within the Barclay brothers’ empire over the ownership of the Ritz Hotel.
May 5, 2020 • 20min
Degrees of separation: universities and covid-19
Dominic Ziegler, a columnist on Asian affairs for The Economist, joins to discuss the precarious financial situation of universities exacerbated by COVID-19. He highlights the drastic revenue declines in American education and the significant role international students play. The discussion also touches on the unique circumstances of Ramadan celebrations during the pandemic across Asia, contrasting local customs and restrictions. Additionally, Ziegler delves into the population challenges faced by North Macedonia, raising important questions about governance and demographics.
May 4, 2020 • 21min
Lives v livelihoods: Africa’s covid-19 tradeoffs
In this discussion, James Waddell, Culture writer for The Economist, shares insights on the intricate balance African leaders face between pandemic policies and economic survival. As Nigeria eases lockdowns, the dire consequences of these measures come to light. Unexpectedly, there’s a fascinating link between nicotine and COVID-19 symptoms, prompting medical research. Additionally, Waddell reflects on the Metropolitan Museum of Art's 150-year history, highlighting its financial struggles and the pivotal changes it faces in a post-pandemic world.
