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
Apr 17, 2020 • 23min
Gross domestic plummet: China’s historic contraction
Join Simon Long, Deputy Digital Editor at The Economist, as he discusses China's historic GDP decline amid the COVID-19 pandemic, examining its global implications and economic recovery prospects. He also highlights the escalating struggles of the homeless population during this crisis, featuring inspiring initiatives to support them. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe, Obituaries Editor, reflects on the remarkable life of civil rights activist Joseph Lowry, detailing his impactful journey and commitment to non-violence during tumultuous times.
Apr 16, 2020 • 23min
This sequestered isle: Britain’s covid-19 response
Anne McElvoy, a senior editor at The Economist, shares insights on Britain's controversial COVID-19 response amid rising scrutiny. Mark Johnson, the Beijing correspondent, dives into China's promotion of traditional Chinese medicine, spotlighting the skepticism surrounding its efficacy. They explore the balancing act between public health and economic recovery, while also highlighting the surprising ways animals can mitigate the impacts of wildfires in ecosystems. Expect a thought-provoking discussion blending health, culture, and environmental dynamics!
Apr 15, 2020 • 20min
The gloves are on: South Koreans vote
Hal Hodson, The Economist’s Asia technology correspondent, dives into South Korea's innovative response to the COVID-19 pandemic during legislative elections. He discusses how masked campaigners and voters navigated the process amidst strict health protocols. Hodson explores futuristic contact tracing technologies developed by tech giants, emphasizing privacy concerns and decentralization of data. Also touched upon are the pandemic's potential effects on birth rates, exploring historical trends of increased intimacy versus decreased planned pregnancies.
Apr 14, 2020 • 24min
Dis-Kurti-ous: intrigues in Kosovo
Tim Judah, The Economist's Balkans correspondent, delves into the turbulent political landscape of Kosovo, spotlighting the upheaval around reformist prime minister Albin Kurti and the intriguing role of American officials in his ouster. Judah discusses the challenges Kosovo faces, from internal political rivalries to external pressures exacerbated by the pandemic. The podcast also touches on the rising financial struggles of emerging markets and the unique interplay of social media in romance, particularly within conservative contexts like Indonesia.
Apr 13, 2020 • 22min
Opening arguments: Europe’s cautious restart
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, and Tom Nuttall, the Berlin bureau chief, discuss Europe's tentative economic restart amid the COVID-19 pandemic. They delve into the tricky balance of reopening economies while safeguarding public health. The conversation highlights the contentious debate over corona bonds and financial interdependence among EU nations. Additionally, they explore an innovative chocolate project in Congo, which aims to boost local economies and protect wildlife amidst challenges.
Apr 10, 2020 • 26min
The fascists and the furious: remembering the 43 Group
Andrew Miller, Culture editor for The Economist, explores post-war Britain’s surprising fascist undercurrents, revealing how the 43 Group, made up of Jewish ex-servicemen, boldly confronted this threat. They used confrontational tactics to dismantle fascist operations, shedding light on anti-fascist resistance’s complexities. The conversation also weaves in the artist Leonora Carrington’s surreal journey from Paris to Mexico, illustrating how cultural resilience shaped her vibrant art. Plus, catch a glimpse of the fascinating resurgence of Burmese wizards in modern Myanmar.
Apr 9, 2020 • 23min
What Viktor’s spoiled: ten years of Orban
Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, reveals how Viktor Orban has transformed Hungary into a quasi-dictatorship, manipulating laws to consolidate his power while the EU struggles to respond. Emma Hogan, Deputy briefings editor, discusses the psychological aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis, highlighting increased mental health challenges among various demographics. They also touch upon Japan's #KuToo movement, which aims to reform discriminatory dress codes, advocating for gender equality in the workplace.
Apr 8, 2020 • 24min
Movement at the epicentre: Wuhan’s lockdown lifts
Join David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief, as he discusses China's complex COVID-19 narrative and the tight controls lingering even after Wuhan's lockdown lifts. Meanwhile, John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent, sheds light on the escalating conflict in northern Mozambique, revealing its impact on a key energy project. The conversation dives into the interplay of public health, propaganda, and violence, showcasing the intricate facets of crisis management amid rising tensions and the quest for stability in both regions.
Apr 7, 2020 • 23min
States’ evidence: Brazil’s messy covid-19 response
Sarah Maslin, The Economist’s Brazil correspondent, provides insight into Brazil's chaotic COVID-19 response, spotlighting President Jair Bolsonaro's dismissive stance and the proactive measures taken by local communities. Sasha Nauta, the public policy editor, discusses the surge in online wellness services during lockdowns, transforming fitness habits and revealing the long-term impact on traditional gyms. The conversation also pays tribute to the late chef Michel Roux, who revolutionized the culinary scene in England.
Apr 6, 2020 • 24min
An app for that: covid surveillance
Hal Hodson, Asia technology correspondent for The Economist, delves into the role of digital surveillance and contact tracing apps during the COVID-19 pandemic, weighing public health benefits against privacy risks. Meanwhile, Matthew Holhouse, British political correspondent, analyzes Keir Starmer's emergence as the Labour Party leader and the challenges he faces in steering the opposition. They also discuss the unusual warmth of the northern hemisphere's winter, linking it to broader climate change issues.
