The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Get a daily burst of illumination from The Economist’s worldwide network of correspondents. Our reporters dig past the headlines to get to the stories beneath—and to stories that aren’t making headlines, but should be. A unique perspective on the issues and events shaping your world.Sign up for Economist Podcasts+ at http://www.economist.com/podcastsplus-intelligence.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
18 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 24min
A farewell to arms? Hamas considers its options
Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, offers insights into the evolving dynamics surrounding Hamas. He discusses how shifting international and local sentiments might pressure Hamas to consider disarmament in exchange for Palestinian concessions. The podcast also dives into the psychological factors behind market movements, particularly the role of fear of missing out. Additionally, it reflects on Japan's WWII surrender and the emotional impact of peace declarations, giving listeners a deep historical and contemporary perspective.
9 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 23min
Frozen conflict? A special episode in the Arctic
Adam Roberts, Correspondent for The Economist, shares insights from his visit to Svalbard, home to a unique Russian settlement called Barentsburg. He discusses the area's geopolitical significance, emphasizing its potential as a flashpoint for Russia’s expansionism. The podcast highlights the striking contrast between Barentsburg's Soviet echoes and the contemporary world, as well as the local desire for freedom. Roberts also delves into Russia’s ambitions in the Arctic, amid ongoing tensions with NATO and the increasing involvement of global powers like China.
15 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 23min
Just getting started: El Salvador’s president for life
Guests Sarah Burke, The Economist's bureau chief for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, and Carrie Richmond Jones, the international economics correspondent, dive into the controversial ascent of El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele. They discuss his aggressive crackdown on gang violence and the troubling constitutional changes allowing indefinite re-election. Shifting family dynamics in the U.S., including a historic drop in birth rates, also take center stage, revealing fascinating societal trends. Finally, they explore the allure and challenges of Provence as a tourist destination.
75 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 22min
Next top model: GPT-5 and its AI rivals
In this insightful discussion, Alex Hearn, an AI writer at The Economist, teams up with Moeka Iida, a Japan specialist, to explore the latest advancements in generative AI with a spotlight on GPT-5. They delve into how this model revolutionizes software creation and its implications for the future of human cognition. Additionally, Iida shares intriguing shifts in Japanese investing habits influenced by online culture. The conversation takes an entertaining turn as they examine the vibrant world of indie wrestling and its cultural significance in America.
28 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 24min
The summit of its parts: Ukraine, Trump and Putin
In this discussion, Oliver Carroll, a Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the complexities of peace negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the challenges of territory swaps and the vital role of the U.S. and Russia. Meanwhile, Don Wineland, China’s business and finance editor, explores how Chinese cities are fiercely competing to become leaders in electric vehicle manufacturing, revealing the strategic shifts in the automotive landscape as they pivot from petrol to electric.
9 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 26min
Not all’s fair: Israel and accountability
Shul Pfeffer, the Israel correspondent for The Economist, and Catherine Nixey, the culture correspondent, delve into the pressing issues surrounding Israel's justice system and allegations of war crimes in Gaza. They discuss the complexities of accountability amidst high civilian casualties and resource limitations. The conversation also touches on the outmoded notion of job-hopping for salary growth, juxtaposed with economic realities. Additionally, they reflect on the life of Father Patrick Ryan, an emblematic figure in the IRA's history, highlighting themes of innocence lost.
18 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 23min
Duty regime: America’s consumers will foot the tariff bill
Rachana Shanbhogue, The Economist's business affairs editor, and Shishank Joshi, the defense editor, dive into the impact of Trump's tariffs on American consumers, highlighting the financial strain these duties impose. They discuss how tariffs may persist beyond Trump's era and the broader implications for global trade. The conversation shifts to the U.S. Space Command's evolving role in space defense amid rising tensions with countries like China and Russia. Lastly, they humorously touch on Gen Z's fascination with personalized water bottles, blending culture and commerce.
9 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 24min
Unsteady state: Somalia in disarray
Tom Gardner, Africa correspondent for The Economist, dives into Somalia's alarming descent into chaos after a period of progress. He highlights the power struggles, political unrest, and humanitarian crises plaguing the nation. Gardner contrasts the federal government's precarious situation in Mogadishu with the relative successes of autonomous regions. He also emphasizes the crucial role of international support in fostering stability and resilience, shedding light on the complex challenges that continue to hinder peace in Somalia.
21 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 21min
Consultant management: McKinsey loses its shine
Tom Lee Devlin, Business Editor at The Economist, delves into the struggles of McKinsey & Company as AI and new competitors reshape the consulting landscape. He discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by traditional consultancies and how they can adapt. The podcast also touches on intriguing airline pricing disparities for solo travelers versus companions, and the rise of women's sports bars in America, celebrating female athletes and reflecting a cultural shift in sports engagement.
18 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 25min
Degrees of freedom? Harvard’s shakedown dilemma
Kenneth Werner, Deputy Culture Editor at The Economist, dives into the complex tensions at Harvard, where rising anti-Semitism clashes with government pressure. He discusses the influence of the Trump administration on academic freedom and the precarious decisions facing the university. The conversation shifts to European security, featuring insights from General Thierry Burghardt on Russia's threats. Finally, they explore the challenges of political satire in an era where humor meets an unprecedented political landscape, testing its boundaries like never before.
