The Intelligence from The Economist

The Economist
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Aug 14, 2023 • 24min

West-siding story? Turkey’s tactical shift

Join Piotr Zalewski, The Economist’s Turkey correspondent, and Ed Carr, Deputy editor, as they dissect Turkey's shifting geopolitical stance under President Erdogan. They explore the nuances of Turkey's renewed ties with the West and skepticism around true alignment. The conversation also dives into a global survey revealing the mixed reception of liberal values. Plus, the hosts discuss a monumental paleontological discovery that could redefine the title of the largest animal ever, adding a prehistoric twist to the dialogue.
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10 snips
Aug 11, 2023 • 25min

In the big leagues now: Saudi Arabia’s push into sport

Miranda Mitra, International editor at The Economist, and Ana Lankas, a Latin America correspondent, discuss Saudi Arabia's ambitious sports investments under Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, aimed at modernizing the nation despite criticism over human rights. They delve into Brazil's economic revival under Lula, highlighting a shift from investor skepticism to optimism, buoyed by tax reforms and credit upgrades. The conversation also touches on the revolutionary impact of first-person-view drones in modern warfare, showcasing their advantages in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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10 snips
Aug 10, 2023 • 23min

Taken too soon: why so many Americans die young

Daniel Knowles, The Economist's American Midwest correspondent, delves into the opioid crisis devastating eastern Kentucky, revealing shocking overdose statistics and its role in early deaths. Oliver Morton, the publication's briefings editor, warns of the critical state of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation and its potentially dire climate consequences. Together, they discuss the urgent need for policy changes and a broader perspective on health and safety, alongside a light-hearted examination of business travel etiquette.
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Aug 9, 2023 • 22min

Trust the processor: America’s CHIPS Act one year on

Shailesh Chitnis, a business writer for The Economist, and Avantika Chokoti, an international reporter, tackle the impact of the CHIPS Act on U.S. semiconductor manufacturing. They discuss the challenges of boosting domestic production, especially against Asian competition. The conversation shifts to Britain's fading reputation in foreign aid, examining the controversial merger of key agencies and its effects on transparent aid delivery. Finally, they touch on innovative sound designs in electric vehicles aimed at enhancing safety and driving experience.
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6 snips
Aug 8, 2023 • 28min

Bloc can tackle? ECOWAS and Niger’s coup

Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, offers sharp insights into the military coup in Niger and the critical role of ECOWAS in regional stability. Rebecca Jackson, Southern correspondent, sheds light on the controversial Moms for Liberty group, discussing their growing influence in Republican politics amid public protests. Finally, Daniel Franklin, deputy US editor, shares fascinating principles behind effective flag design, highlighting how symbolism shapes national identity. This conversation is packed with current affairs and unexpected insights!
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7 snips
Aug 7, 2023 • 22min

Back to front: visiting Ukraine’s firing line

Tim Judah, a special correspondent for The Economist, shares gripping accounts from the front lines of Ukraine, highlighting the resolve of soldiers and the fears of civilians amidst ongoing conflict. Dominic Ziegler, the Singapore bureau chief, adds perspective on international diplomacy, especially during peace talks in Saudi Arabia. They also tackle Japan's contentious plan to release Fukushima's wastewater and explore the cultural rise of rosé wine as summer's favored drink, illustrating the shifting perceptions around it.
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8 snips
Aug 4, 2023 • 27min

Too big tech: is Alphabet approaching a growth ceiling?

Business editor Jan Piotrowski discusses the growth challenges facing tech giants like Alphabet, amid concerns of slowing returns and a struggling digital ad market. Meanwhile, Sophie Pedder sheds light on France's surprising economic vitality despite political turmoil, showcasing its strong GDP and luxury sector. The podcast navigates these intriguing contrasts, raising questions about future growth for tech firms and the resilience of the French economy as it balances prosperity with persistent social unrest.
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Aug 3, 2023 • 26min

Industrial waste: the world’s misguided manufacturing policies

Christian Odendael, European economics editor at The Economist, dives into the global industrial arms race as countries invest heavily in domestic manufacturing. He explores the potential economic pitfalls of aggressive subsidies, arguing for a reevaluation of policies that often lead to inefficiencies. The discussion also touches on Japan's stringent immigration policies, highlighting the struggles faced by asylum seekers. Additionally, the cultural revival of Los Alamos, driven by the Oppenheimer film, opens conversations about historical legacies and marginalized communities.
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Aug 2, 2023 • 25min

Big-claims court: Donald Trump’s latest indictment

Former American president Donald J. Trump discusses his unprecedented legal challenges, including federal indictments related to his claims about the 2020 election. He delves into the potential ramifications for his political campaign and the Republican response to his ongoing trials. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the modest post-pandemic recovery in China, where economic concerns are rising, alongside a fascinating examination of the underground piano trade in Iran, where luxury items clash with severe economic restrictions.
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4 snips
Aug 1, 2023 • 22min

Strong arms: North Korea’s pandemic era weapons program

In this discussion, Andrew Knox, careers correspondent at The Economist, and data journalist Marie Seger dive into North Korea's pandemic-era weapon strategies. They reveal how the regime's isolation has intensified under Kim Jong Un and the alarming rise in malnutrition among citizens. Additionally, Seger highlights innovations in dairy production through cowless cheese using precision fermentation, promising a sustainable future amid global challenges like the recent rice export ban affecting developing nations.

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