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
Oct 6, 2023 • 23min
Windows of opportunity: Microsoft’s AI push
Guy Scriven, The Economist's U.S. correspondent, shares insights on Microsoft’s strategic shift towards AI under CEO Satya Nadella, unveiling how this pivot could help the tech giant reclaim its market dominance. Rosie Blore discusses the WTA's response to serious allegations in China affecting tournaments, showcasing the intersection of sports and ethics. Anne Rowe reflects on the emotional impact of the fallen Sycamore Gap tree, symbolizing community grief and connection, and the broader repercussions of environmental loss.
6 snips
Oct 5, 2023 • 25min
So the Tory goes: Britain’s Conservatives meet
In this discussion, Tamara Jilks-Bohr, a U.S. policy correspondent for The Economist, dives into the UK's Conservative Party's struggles and the implications of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's new policies. She highlights the party's identity crisis amid low polling numbers and internal divisions. Switching gears, the talk shifts to groundbreaking treatments for alcohol use disorder, exploring how weight-loss drugs may offer new hope. Additionally, intriguing data reveals global sleep patterns, emphasizing cultural influences that affect rest.
9 snips
Oct 4, 2023 • 23min
Blown speaker: Kevin McCarthy is out
Daniel Franklin, the Deputy U.S. editor for The Economist, and Leo Marani, India correspondent based in Mumbai, bring expert insights into current events. They discuss the political chaos following Kevin McCarthy’s ousting as Speaker, highlighting implications for governance and urgent issues like Ukraine funding. Meanwhile, Marani delves into the Bollywood film "Jawan," showcasing its role in bridging cultural divides in India. They also explore fascinating findings about longevity in Okinawa, challenging the assumption that lifestyle alone determines age.
Oct 3, 2023 • 23min
SBF, FTX, WTF? Sam Bankman-Fried goes on trial
Henry Tricks, a business columnist for The Economist, and Max Norman, the culture correspondent, dive into the chaotic trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of the failed FTX cryptocurrency exchange. They unravel the complex legal challenges he faces and the staggering losses suffered by investors. The conversation also shifts to the alarming rise in shoplifting across Britain, exploring the underlying motivations. Lastly, they share insights into the cultural phenomenon of the One Bite Pizza Festival and its founder's unique impact on the world of food.
Oct 2, 2023 • 24min
They need to talk about Kevin: America’s near-shutdown
Daniel Franklin, Deputy U.S. Editor for The Economist, shares insights into the political upheaval surrounding Kevin McCarthy’s leadership amid funding negotiations. Mike Bird discusses the surge of electric scooters in Asia, highlighting their environmental benefits and urban transformation. Catherine Nixie examines Britain's risk registers, revealing how they quantify potential disasters, and explores the unsettling implications of preparedness versus inaction. Together, they navigate pivotal themes in politics, urban mobility, and crisis management.
5 snips
Sep 29, 2023 • 25min
When politics dictates policy: China’s faltering economy
Simon Cox, the China economics editor for The Economist, dives into the challenges facing China's economy, particularly the Evergrande crisis and the tight grip of internal politics on policy-making. He discusses how shifting government strategies under President Xi Jinping have dampened consumer confidence. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, reflects on Colombian artist Fernando Botero, exploring his unique artistic style that poignantly captures marginalized communities and addresses themes of violence and suffering.
8 snips
Sep 28, 2023 • 25min
A better pill to swallow: the bid to end AIDS
In this discussion, Robert Guest, Deputy Editor of The Economist, dives into the current landscape of HIV/AIDS treatment, emphasizing reduced mortality and the importance of medication access. He shares poignant stories from South Africa, highlighting stigma and the need for better drug adherence strategies. The conversation also navigates Japan's unregulated pornography sector, exploring legislative changes aimed at protecting performers while tackling serious economic implications. Lastly, the impact of UNESCO heritage status in China reveals the complex interplay of politics and preservation.
11 snips
Sep 27, 2023 • 23min
General’s knowledge: a chat with Ukraine’s spy chief
Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's head of military intelligence, provides a revealing look at the current state of the war, discussing tactical shifts and the management of resources. He emphasizes confidence in Ukraine's counter-offensive strategy while dismissing rumors about drone capabilities. The conversation also dives into Brazil's gambling landscape, highlighting a likely shift in regulations to bolster the economy. Additionally, the influence of TikTok's BookTok is reshaping the literary world, driving interest in both classic and contemporary works.
Sep 26, 2023 • 22min
The French disconnection: a retreat from Niger
Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief for The Economist, discusses France’s military withdrawal from Niger following a coup and the growing anti-French sentiments in the region. Matthew Simmons, who writes about defense, analyzes the shifting global arms market driven by the Ukraine war and highlights South Korea's emergence as a key player. Together, they explore how these geopolitical changes are reshaping international relations and the arms landscape, indicating a significant pivot for France on the continent.
7 snips
Sep 25, 2023 • 22min
Going bump in the right: Europe’s worrisome politics
Join Matt Steinglass, Deputy Europe Editor at The Economist, and Tom Wainwright, Media Editor, as they dive into Europe’s escalating far-right politics. They discuss the alarming rise of populist parties in countries like Hungary, Poland, and Italy, and the implications for the upcoming European Parliament elections. The episode also reflects on Rupert Murdoch's retirement and the future of News Corp, hinting at the ongoing influence he holds. Plus, they explore the debate around later school start times and its positive effects on teen health.
