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
Aug 19, 2019 • 22min
Scarcely surviving: Zimbabwe
John McDermott, The Economist’s Africa correspondent, explains the dire situation in Zimbabwe, revealing the struggles residents face with persistent shortages and economic mismanagement since Mugabe’s departure. He delves into the urgent need for genuine political reforms to revive the nation. Meanwhile, James Yan, Beijing correspondent, discusses the stiff competition among 8.3 million Chinese graduates entering a challenging job market, emphasizing the importance of adjusting expectations and considering less prestigious roles to secure valuable experience.
Aug 16, 2019 • 22min
Yield signs: the global economy
Anxiety is shaking the global economy, with investors flocking to safer assets amid recession fears. The stunning landscapes of Virunga National Park reveal a side of Congo often overshadowed by turmoil. Innovative measures are being implemented to protect endangered species and support local communities. Meanwhile, the complexities of language evolution are explored, shedding light on why some tongues are notoriously difficult to master. A rich tapestry of economic insights and cultural exploration makes for an engaging listen.
Aug 15, 2019 • 20min
Poll reposition: Macri fights back
Katrine Bragg, Environment editor for The Economist and expert on climate change, delves into the political and environmental crises impacting Argentina and the Arctic. She discusses President Mauricio Macri’s struggles after a primary loss and his attempts to attract voters with relaxed austerity measures. Meanwhile, wildfires in the Arctic are wreaking havoc, exacerbating climate change. Bragg also highlights the cultural censorship faced by writers in Gulf states, blending the themes of environmental and literary challenges.
Aug 14, 2019 • 22min
Let’s not make a deal: Brexit
Brexit editor John Peete shares his insights on the intensifying political drama surrounding Britain's potential no-deal exit from the EU, focusing on the struggles of parliamentarians to avert chaos. Defense editor Shoshank Joshi transports listeners to Ukraine, detailing military exercises with NATO amidst Russian aggression and the pressing need to rebuild naval capabilities. The discussion also touches on how Chinese tech companies are increasingly targeting the elderly, showcasing a fascinating blend of tradition and technology in their lives.
Aug 13, 2019 • 21min
Sex cells: the modern fertility business
Sasha Nauta, public policy editor at The Economist, and correspondent Amun Rizvi delve into the booming fertility business and its ethical gray areas. They discuss the explosion of IVF innovations and the marketing tactics that prey on hopeful parents, while cautioning about false promises. Additionally, Rizvi sheds light on the alarming rise of piracy in West Africa, highlighting the dangers faced by sailors and the inadequacies of security measures in the region. Together, they provide a compelling look at these pressing contemporary issues.
Aug 12, 2019 • 22min
Raid in Aden: Yemen’s fragmented conflict
Roger McShane, the Middle East editor at The Economist, dives into the recent armed rebels' takeover in Aden, highlighting Yemen's fragmented conflict and the impact of UAE's withdrawal on regional dynamics. Tim Cross, the Technology editor, discusses the potential of video game streaming, likening it to the rise of Netflix, while navigating challenges in tech and gamer access. They also touch on evolving narratives of female desire, linking historical perspectives to modern discussions on agency and self-worth. It's a captivating blend of geopolitics and entertainment trends.
Aug 9, 2019 • 19min
Withdrawal symptoms: America-Taliban talks
Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, dives into the complex negotiations between the U.S. and the Taliban, revealing the challenges of maintaining Afghan stability amidst troop withdrawals. He discusses the potential impact on women's rights and the verification of Taliban commitments. Natasha Loader, the health policy editor, highlights a groundbreaking typhoid vaccine that could save thousands of lives as antibiotic resistance rises. The conversation also touches on the intriguing economics of Scotland’s shortest flight, blending health and geopolitics.
Aug 8, 2019 • 21min
Clear-cut risks: the Amazon degrades
Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, shines a light on the urgent deforestation crisis in the Amazon. She reveals how Brazil's government policies are encouraging this environmental calamity, risking the transformation of the rainforest into a savanna. Maslin discusses the dire global consequences of this shift, emphasizing the need for immediate action to protect biodiversity and climate stability. Additionally, the podcast touches on the political struggles in Malaysia, where reform seems stalled despite a change in government.
Aug 7, 2019 • 22min
State of alarm: India moves on Kashmir
Alex Trevelli, The Economist's India correspondent, sheds light on the political turmoil in Jammu & Kashmir following the revocation of its autonomy by Modi's government. He discusses the fear and potential demographic changes within India's only majority-Muslim state. The conversation takes a darker turn as Trevelli describes the precarious lives of deep-sea divers navigating a volatile oil market, paralleling their struggles with the rise of deepfake technology, which poses serious risks for misinformation and societal trust.
Aug 6, 2019 • 20min
PLA a part? Hong Kong’s growing unrest
James Miles, China editor for The Economist, dives into Hong Kong's escalating unrest and the chilling signals of possible military intervention from Beijing. He discusses the nuanced government response and evolving public sentiment, contrasting it with past authoritarian actions. The conversation explores the implications of troop deployments, potential local backlash, and international perceptions. Additionally, they touch on the controversial rise of employee ownership and the staggering inflation of concert ticket prices, highlighting economic pressures on artists and consumers alike.
