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
18 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 22min
Go, fourth? France likely to lose another PM
Sophie Petter, The Economist's Paris bureau chief, and Simon Cox, China economics editor, dive into the political chaos in France as Prime Minister Francois Bayrou faces probable ousting due to an unpopular budget. They discuss rising voter discontent and a fragmented parliament threatening reform efforts. The conversation then shifts to China, where reforms in pension and social security aim to stimulate consumer spending amid economic challenges. Lastly, they explore the debate on podcast listening speeds and how it impacts comprehension.
9 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 27min
For her eyes only: a new boss at MI6
Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, Vijay Vaiteswaran, the energy editor, and Anne Rowe, the obituaries editor, delve into the challenges facing MI6 as it welcomes its first female chief. They discuss how technology complicates spycraft amid rising geopolitical tensions with Russia and China. The conversation also explores the emergence of optimism in the nuclear energy sector, driven by new policies and innovations. Plus, hear uplifting stories of women battling for rights under the Taliban and a tech pioneer breaking barriers.
32 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 25min
Mission possible: Baghdad is booming
Gareth Brown, a seasoned Middle East correspondent, shares insights from his recent visit to Baghdad, including a compelling interview with Prime Minister Muhammad al-Sudani. They discuss the construction boom, advancements in digital bureaucracy, and the political hurdles Iraq faces ahead of elections. Meanwhile, Archie Hall, a US economics editor, explores the revitalization of the Noma neighborhood in D.C., contrasting its transformation from an industrial wasteland to a vibrant hub, and addressing the ongoing housing debate of YIMBYs versus NIMBYs.
19 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 21min
Sino-the-times: China gathers global allies
Patrick Fowles, Foreign editor at The Economist, and Anjani Trevedi, Global business correspondent, dive into China's recent international summit and grand military parade. They discuss how Xi Jinping is leveraging global political chaos to strengthen alliances. The conversation takes a sharp turn to the dark side of AI, revealing how it's amplifying cybercrime. They also explore Britain's controversial crackdown on strip clubs, questioning the wisdom behind uniform regulations amid evolving social attitudes.
Sep 2, 2025 • 21min
Call the shots: vaccine cuts imperil global health
Natasha Loder, the health editor at The Economist, discusses the perilous effects of funding cuts on mRNA vaccine research, significantly impacting future pandemic preparedness. She highlights the ongoing turmoil within the CDC following the firing of its director and challenges posed by health misinformation. The conversation also touches on Britain’s largest supercomputer, Isambard AI, reflecting on its groundbreaking research potential. Loder further explores the rising cultural fascination in Mexico with Japanese and Korean cultures compared to China's more economic focus.
17 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 23min
Indonesia ablaze: Riots test Prabowo
Join Asia correspondent Sue-Lin Wong, Planetary Affairs Editor Oliver Morton, and China business editor Don Weinland as they dive into Indonesia's recent chaotic protests fueled by socio-economic issues, including deep public discontent after a tragic incident. They discuss the potential collapse of the Atlantic current, highlighting the urgent need for climate action. The conversation also touches on the rise of fashionable facekinis in China, reflecting changing attitudes towards sun protection in a post-COVID world. It's a fascinating exploration of current global dynamics!
18 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 26min
Split ends: political in-fighting in Israel
Join Anshul Pfeffer, an insightful Israel correspondent, as he breaks down the political turmoil surrounding Bibi Netanyahu amidst the Gaza conflict. Explore how internal divisions impact military strategy and public sentiment. Daniela Raz, a savvy data journalist, discusses the revolutionary shift in college sports, as athletes can now get paid, challenging traditional economic models. Finally, Anne Rowe reflects on the legacy of Sen Genshitsu, the 15th master of the Urasenke tea ceremony, who promoted peace through his art, bridging cultural divides.
Aug 28, 2025 • 22min
Chill baby chill: Modi-Trump relations dip
Kira Huyu, Asia correspondent at The Economist, discusses the latest diplomatic rift between India and the U.S., following Trump's 50% tariff on Indian imports. She explores how Modi might respond and the broader implications for India's foreign relations, particularly with China. The conversation also touches on Palantir's potential overvaluation and the surprising resurgence of analog media, highlighting a nostalgic shift away from digital dominance in music and photography.
28 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 23min
Fed alert: can Trump fire a governor?
Rachna Shambhog, Business Affairs Editor at The Economist, Kinley Salmon, Latin America Correspondent, and Tom Nuttall, Chief Germany Correspondent, discuss the implications of Donald Trump's attempt to fire a Federal Reserve governor, highlighting issues of institutional independence. They delve into Uruguay's progressive legislation on assisted dying through the poignant story of Pablo Canepa and celebrate the cultural significance of shooting clubs in Germany, noting their community role and challenges amidst societal changes.
40 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 20min
Grand theft global: the business of street crime
Tom Sass, Britain Public Policy Editor at The Economist, uncovers the dark side of car and phone theft, revealing how these petty crimes have evolved into a global enterprise. He discusses the challenges law enforcement faces against sophisticated thieves exploiting modern technology. The conversation also touches on the impact of consumerism on crime rates and the emerging trends in private chefs catering to the elite, reshaping culinary choices in affluent circles. Expect insights into the intersection of crime, economy, and personal life decisions!
