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
6 snips
Sep 8, 2023 • 23min
Moves over: American house prices
Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor for The Economist, reveals the surprising resilience of the American housing market despite skyrocketing mortgage rates. He discusses how unique features of the mortgage market are keeping prices high and the ongoing challenges for first-time homebuyers. Anne Rowe pays tribute to Isabel Crook, an anthropologist who navigated the complexities of China's communist transformation, reflecting on the balance of ideals and realities in her remarkable life. They explore the implications of these themes for today's society.
4 snips
Sep 7, 2023 • 22min
A messy oil change: Nigeria’s fraught reforms
Ore Ogunbiyi, a Lagos correspondent, discusses Nigeria's tumultuous political landscape under President Bola Tinubu, particularly the delayed reforms and rising public discontent amid inflation. Leo Marani, reporting from India, analyzes the uniquely positive aspects of Bhubaneshwar as a model for urban governance, advocating for more local autonomy in addressing urban challenges. The conversation also touches on the intriguing shift in video gaming towards non-violent narratives, reflecting broader cultural changes in entertainment.
5 snips
Sep 6, 2023 • 23min
Show and sell: Amazon v Hollywood
Tom Wainwright, technology and media editor at The Economist, breaks down Amazon's audacious streaming strategy amidst lukewarm critical reception. Duncan Weldon, Britain’s economics correspondent, reveals newly uncovered data suggesting a rosier UK GDP than previously thought. Meanwhile, author Keith Houston delves into the fascinating history of the pocket calculator, tracing its journey from humble beginnings to its role in shaping digital computation. This lively discussion spans innovation, economic insights, and the nostalgia of technology.
4 snips
Sep 5, 2023 • 22min
Upping arms: the new three-way nuclear race
Anton LaGuardia, The Economist's diplomatic editor, dives into the complexities of modern nuclear arms control. He discusses the heightened tensions among the U.S., Russia, and China, especially in light of the geopolitical shifts since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The conversation emphasizes the need for dialogue to avoid a new arms race and maintain global security. Additionally, LaGuardia touches on post-pandemic challenges in education, particularly rising absenteeism in schools, and the innovative solutions emerging in India's transportation sector.
18 snips
Sep 4, 2023 • 22min
Held fire: America’s murder rate slips
Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent for The Economist, dives into the intriguing trend of declining murder rates across American cities. He examines the Chicago Cred initiative's success in reducing gun violence in particular neighborhoods. The discussion extends to the complex relationship between democracy and economic growth, highlighting the struggles and delays nations face during transitions. Additionally, Knowles explores how niche hobby groups in Britain wield significant political power, influencing legislation that intertwines with national culture and environmental concerns.
7 snips
Sep 1, 2023 • 26min
Paranoia politics: a Tunisian lesson in demagoguery
Anne Rowe, The Economist's obituaries editor, delves into the manipulation of fear in Tunisia's political climate, highlighting the rise of racist rhetoric as a tool for autocratic distraction. The discussion touches on the alarming increase in violence against migrants and the fading hope for democracy. Rowe also shares inspiring stories of Americans, including an African-American family's move to Portugal for safety. Lastly, she pays tribute to Ukrainian pilot Andrei Pilshkov, showcasing his tragic dream of flying F-16s in defense of his country.
6 snips
Aug 31, 2023 • 23min
Going, going… Gabon: another African coup
Guest John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent at The Economist, dives into the alarming rise of military coups across Africa, focusing on Gabon's recent upheaval following election cancellations. He highlights the historical issues tied to the Bongo family and the growing instability in the region. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom discusses Lebanon's paradox of a booming tourism sector amidst an economic crisis, revealing the disconnect between tourist activity and local hardships. Together, they explore the pressing challenges faced by these nations.
5 snips
Aug 30, 2023 • 25min
Game of drones: can Ukraine pull ahead?
Oli Carroll, The Economist's correspondent on the ground in Ukraine, and Mark Johnson, an international affairs writer, delve into the evolving drone warfare landscape in Ukraine, focusing on innovations like the Morok drone and their implications against Russia. They also discuss fresh regulations targeting Caribbean tax havens, examining legal complexities intertwined with illicit practices. Additionally, the podcast touches on Spain's regional language policy reforms and their broader political ramifications, adding layers to the narrative of national identity.
5 snips
Aug 29, 2023 • 25min
Teutonic plague: is Germany the sick man of Europe?
Henry Trix, an insightful author and commentator for The Economist, dives deep into Germany's economic struggles and the impact of large electric vehicles. He discusses how Germany, potentially the only G7 economy facing contraction, must navigate significant challenges, including an aging workforce and energy transitions. Trix also critiques the rising demand for flashy, bigger electric vehicles, questioning their environmental costs. Additionally, he touches on the curious decline in interest in learning Mandarin, linking it to geopolitical shifts and changing attitudes.
7 snips
Aug 28, 2023 • 30min
Going non-nuclear: East Asia’s changing families
Noah Snyder, Tokyo Bureau Chief for The Economist and expert on East Asian demographics, discusses the shifting family structures in East Asia. He highlights the rise of premarital cohabitation, single parenthood, and two-income households, along with the societal implications of these changes. Noah also shares personal stories from residents, examining how traditional roles are being redefined. Additionally, the global impact of hip-hop and its evolution is explored, showcasing its cultural significance and empowerment for marginalized voices.
