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
Sep 2, 2019 • 21min
Until blue in the face: Hong Kong’s protests
Escalating protests in Hong Kong see authorities resorting to extreme measures like live rounds and water cannons. The motivations behind these demonstrations highlight a growing push for democracy amid rising tensions. Meanwhile, the Baltic states are on high alert, employing espionage tactics to counter potential Russian threats. In a striking contrast, drag culture is surging into the mainstream, influencing beauty standards and celebrating diversity, exemplified by Europe's largest drag convention in London.
Aug 30, 2019 • 22min
Out to launch: American nuclear policy
Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, dives into the complexities of American nuclear policy, exploring if a 'no first use' stance could create instability. Dominic Ziegler, author on Asian affairs, discusses the dire effects of climate change on the South Asian monsoon, emphasizing urgent agricultural and water management challenges. Also, intriguing insights emerge on Taylor Swift's evolving relationship with streaming services, showcasing the intersection of pop culture and global policy issues.
Aug 29, 2019 • 21min
Suspend, disbelief: Parliament and Brexit
John Peete, Brexit editor for The Economist, dives into the political chaos following Boris Johnson's controversial suspension of Parliament and its implications for Brexit legislation. Jane Rickards, correspondent for Taiwan, analyzes the U.S. arms deal with Taiwan and China's military reactions, shedding light on the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Taiwan relations. Meanwhile, the fascinating conservation story of New Zealand's kakapo highlights human efforts to save this endangered species from extinction.
Aug 28, 2019 • 19min
Ex-Seoul-mate: Japan-South Korea spat escalates
Lena Shipper, the Seoul Bureau Chief, sheds light on the escalating tensions between Japan and South Korea, centering on the contentious Dokto and Takashima islands. She discusses how historical grievances from World War II continue to fuel nationalistic sentiments and complicate diplomatic relations. The conversation also touches on Japan's restrictive trade practices and South Korea's military actions, revealing the broader implications for regional stability. Tune in for sharp insights into this long-standing conflict and its modern-day ramifications.
Aug 27, 2019 • 22min
Emmanuel transmission: outcomes of the G7
Edward Carr, Deputy Editor of The Economist, shares insights on the recent G7 summit hosted by Emmanuel Macron, where leaders navigated the complexities of global cooperation and diplomacy. Joanna Lillis, who covers Central Asia, discusses the historic closure of Jaslyk prison in Uzbekistan, marking a shift towards reform following decades of oppression. The conversation also touches on intriguing advancements in exoplanet discovery, hinting at our quest to explore potential extraterrestrial life in the universe.
Aug 26, 2019 • 23min
A friend of mines: Asia’s coal habit
Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, and Will Brown, West Africa correspondent, delve into pressing global issues. They discuss Asia's alarming coal dependence, with China and India weighing economic growth against climate obligations. Johnson highlights the environmental risks while Brown shares insights on Liberia's struggles post-civil war, facing declining aid and rising costs. Together, they consider the ramifications of tourism commercialization in the Caribbean, questioning the authenticity of travel experiences, as local cultures grapple with economic dependencies.
Aug 23, 2019 • 20min
Fight or flight: Cathay Pacific
Stephanie Studer, the China business correspondent for The Economist, discusses Cathay Pacific's struggles amid rising political pressures from China and the implications for international businesses. Tom Gardner, an Economist correspondent in Ethiopia, explores the explosive growth of Pentecostalism and its political impact, providing personal stories that illustrate its appeal. The podcast also touches on the environmental plight of puffins in the Faroe Islands, highlighting the cultural and ecological challenges they face.
Aug 22, 2019 • 20min
Pull out all the backstops: Boris Johnson in Europe
In this engaging discussion, John Peet, Brexit editor at The Economist, and Henry Tricks, Schumpeter column author, tackle the sticky Irish backstop dilemma as Boris Johnson navigates Brexit ahead of the G7. They dissect the diplomatic tensions between the UK and EU, alongside the difficulties FedEx faces in the Amazon-dominated market. Additionally, they explore surprising economic insights on marijuana legalization and its unexpected influence on snack consumption versus alcohol sales. Tune in for a deep dive into these essential topics!
Aug 21, 2019 • 21min
League of its own? Italian politics
Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, discusses the political upheaval in Italy, examining Matteo Salvini's attempt to seize more power amid growing instability. Charlotte Howard, the New York bureau chief, explores the challenges faced by Latin America's state-run energy giants, highlighting issues of mismanagement and corruption. The conversation extends to the burgeoning film scene in Yakutia, revealing how local filmmakers are capturing their cultural narratives amidst harsh landscapes, gaining global attention.
Aug 20, 2019 • 23min
Power rationing: Sudan in transition
Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent for The Economist, provides insights on Sudan's tumultuous political transition following Omar al-Bashir's removal. He discusses the fraught power-sharing agreement between military leaders and civilians and the skepticism surrounding its effectiveness amid ongoing violence. The conversation also touches on the intriguing idea that parliamentary seating arrangements influence political debates. Additionally, Knowles highlights Estonia's Laulupidu festival, where choral music serves as a unifying force amid political challenges.
