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
Feb 2, 2024 • 23min
The Intelligence: Will Apple’s customers share its Vision?
In this episode, Guy Scriven, The Economist's US technology editor, discusses the challenges facing Apple as it competes with Microsoft for tech supremacy. He explores the potential impact of Apple's new augmented reality headset on its declining core business and the pressures from regulatory scrutiny. The conversation touches on the geopolitical risks tied to Apple's dependence on China and reflects on the ambiguous nature of a new slogan from the Chinese Communist Party. Additionally, a tribute to the comedic genius of Peter Schickele and P.D.Q. Bach adds a lighthearted note.
Feb 1, 2024 • 23min
The Intelligence: Vietnam’s golden opportunity
Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist, shares insights into Vietnam's unique position to navigate tensions between the US and China, discussing its economic potential and workforce challenges. Max Rodenbeck, the Berlin bureau chief, delves into the rise of a new left-wing party in Germany, examining how it draws support amid political dissatisfaction. They also touch on the controversies surrounding VAR in football, debating its impact on fan experiences and the future of officiating in the sport.
Jan 31, 2024 • 21min
The Intelligence: Indonesia’s election, more TikTok than tick-box
Su Lin Wong, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, dives into the intriguing dynamics of Indonesia’s elections, where social media prowess often trumps policy discussions. She highlights TikTok's transformative role, engaging young voters and reshaping political strategies. Despite the digital frenzy, there's a desire for authentic information. The conversation also touches on the economic implications of alternatives to the Panama Canal and the alarming rise of invasive wild boars in Canada, complicating agricultural practices.
9 snips
Jan 30, 2024 • 23min
The Intelligence: China’s ever grander property crisis
China's massive property crisis takes center stage as Evergrande grapples with over $300 billion in debt, leaving homebuyers and creditors in limbo. The turmoil raises questions about the future of housing in the country. Meanwhile, political tensions rise in the U.S. as Biden's leadership faces scrutiny and the dynamics of the upcoming presidential election shift. The tragic events of the 1972 Munich Olympics are examined, revealing the haunting intersection of sport and international conflict, highlighting enduring geopolitical challenges.
Jan 29, 2024 • 24min
The Intelligence: Iran increases the stakes in the Middle East
Shashank Joshi, defence editor for The Economist, provides keen insights into escalating tensions in the Middle East after Iranian-backed strikes killed American soldiers. He discusses the potential U.S. military response and the political ramifications for President Biden. Hal Hodson, a special projects writer at The Economist, tackles Britain's ambitious plans to revamp its electricity grid for decarbonization. They also explore the cultural evolution of musicals into films, including the shifting tones in contemporary adaptations.
4 snips
Jan 27, 2024 • 47min
The Weekend Intelligence: Digital Ghosts
Explore the intriguing concept of creating digital avatars to simulate conversations with deceased loved ones. Delve into personal stories of coping with grief through technology, raising essential questions about ethics and emotional healing. Discover the complexities of digital remnants and the tension between nostalgia and authenticity. The discussion navigates how advanced AI impacts memory, loss, and our digital legacies, prompting reflections on the nature of human connection in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Jan 26, 2024 • 24min
The Intelligence: Milei’s laborious reforms
Ana Lankes, a keen observer of Argentine politics, dives into the radical labor reforms proposed by the country’s new libertarian president amid a severe economic crisis. Andrew Miller and Cassia Sinclair explore two compelling films that tackle Holocaust narratives, examining themes of memory and representation. They also discuss the cultural revival of chrome in design, linking it to contemporary desires for optimism. This lively conversation blends serious politics with pop culture insights, offering a fresh perspective on resilience in crisis.
Jan 25, 2024 • 25min
The Intelligence: what AI could mean for the world’s poorest
Robert Guest, Deputy editor at The Economist, explores how AI can revolutionize education and healthcare in developing countries. He discusses AI’s potential for personalized learning and medical assistance through chatbots, highlighting both its promise and challenges, including privacy concerns. Sophie Pedder, the Paris bureau chief, shares insights on the emotional restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral and the public's perceptions of language beauty, revealing surprising consistencies in how different languages are rated.
13 snips
Jan 24, 2024 • 24min
The Intelligence: Donald trumps Haley in New Hampshire
Idris Kaloon, Washington bureau chief for The Economist, dives into Trump's stronghold over the GOP following his New Hampshire primary win and the challenge posed by Nikki Haley. Matthew Ball discusses the Marvel franchise's declining performance at the box office, attributing it to shifting audience demands for quality over quantity. Fraser McIlwraith explains the implications of new sanctions on Russia's diamond industry and the complexities of enforcing them, hinting at emerging solutions to improve transparency in the market.
7 snips
Jan 23, 2024 • 22min
The Intelligence: is Germany al[t]right?
Max Rodenbeck, Berlin bureau chief at The Economist, explores the significant protests in Germany against the rising anti-immigrant rhetoric of the Alternative for Germany party, revealing deep societal tensions. Duncan Weldon, the Britain economics correspondent, discusses the decline of the British penny in the face of inflation and a shift towards cashless payments. The conversation also touches on Japan's initiatives to re-integrate women into the workforce, highlighting the cultural and systemic barriers they confront.
