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
5 snips
Jun 8, 2023 • 25min
No Khan do: Pakistan’s meddling army
James Astor, The Economist's Asia editor, explores Pakistan's political turmoil as the military faces off against former Prime Minister Imran Khan, raising fears of unrest. Max Rodenbeck, the Berlin bureau chief, discusses Poland's new law targeting Russian influence, which threatens democratic values and sparks controversy. Additionally, the podcast touches on Japan's evolving funeral traditions, including the rise of balloon funerals that reflect changing attitudes towards death. It's a captivating blend of politics and culture around the globe!
6 snips
Jun 7, 2023 • 26min
Not born yesterday: the world’s ageing population
Tom Wainwright, Technology and media editor at The Economist, delves into the promising yet uncertain future of Apple's Vision Pro headset, debating its real-world applications and market potential. Catherine Nixey, the Britain correspondent, highlights the revival of British seaside towns, exploring their historical significance and how changing travel preferences may foster their resurgence. Together, they navigate the challenges of a diminishing global population and the innovative solutions required to sustain economic growth amid aging demographics.
4 snips
Jun 6, 2023 • 24min
Dam and blast: Ukraine launches counter-offensive
Shashank Joshi, defence editor at The Economist, shares insights on Ukraine's counter-offensive, highlighting the implications of a dam's destruction in Kherson. Alice Su, the publication's Senior China correspondent, discusses the ongoing repression of Uyghurs in Xinjiang and the emotional toll on those who escape but fear for their families. They also touch on the psychological aspects of warfare through social media and the challenges of workplace sensitivities, offering a glimpse into the struggles faced by individuals in both conflict zones and everyday life.
5 snips
Jun 5, 2023 • 25min
Trouble in Shangri-La: Sino-American tensions escalate
Anton LaGuardia, The Economist's diplomatic editor, shares his insights on the rising tensions between the U.S. and China, particularly in the Taiwan Strait, highlighting the risks of military confrontations. Catherine Nixie, the Britain correspondent, dives into the controversial world of British boarding schools, discussing their costs and impact on students' mental health. The conversation also touches on Brazil's political landscape as Lula attempts to reverse Bolsonaro's policies amid lingering public support for his predecessor.
5 snips
Jun 2, 2023 • 27min
League of her own: Sheikh Hasina’s grip on Bangladesh
James Astor, Asia editor for The Economist, analyzes Sheikh Hasina’s two-decade rule in Bangladesh, discussing impressive growth marred by corruption and a potential talent drain. He critiques her firm grip on power, suggesting it may stifle further progress. Vijay Vaitheeswaran, Global Energy and Climate Innovation Editor, dives into groundbreaking direct air capture technology, highlighting a project aimed at capturing 500,000 tons of CO2 annually and the challenges ahead. They also touch on the booming popularity of Spanish-language music as a cultural response to these themes.
Jun 1, 2023 • 23min
On pain of death: Uganda’s anti-LGBT law
Liam Taylor, The Economist’s correspondent in Uganda, sheds light on the country’s draconian anti-LGBT law, revealing the local and international motivations behind it. Alice Su, senior China correspondent, discusses how satellite technology like Starlink gives Ukraine an edge and sparks concerns within China’s military. The conversation intertwines serious geopolitical issues with a quirky note on the unexpected revival of pinball, reflecting broader cultural shifts as vintage games make a comeback.
May 31, 2023 • 26min
Debtors’ prism: mounting crises of Africa’s loans
Join John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent, and Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent, as they unravel complexities of Africa’s mounting debt crisis. They discuss Ghana's negotiations for IMF assistance and the dichotomy between traditional loans and modern borrowing from China. Carroll shares touching stories from Kramatorsk, where love thrives amidst war. The conversation also bridges economic productivity to stimulants, including the historical impact of coffee on intellectual exchange and its modern parallels with focus-enhancing drugs.
5 snips
May 30, 2023 • 28min
Cash out: the digital-payments revolution
Explore the dynamic shift from cash to digital payments fueled by technology and innovation, comparing advanced and emerging markets like India and China. Delve into the architectural and emotional significance of Singapore’s crumbling Golden Mile, while community efforts spark a preservation debate. Uncover the intrigue surrounding historical hoaxes, from Edgar Allan Poe to the Cottingley Fairies, and examine the mesmerizing downfall of Anna Sorokin, who deceived New York's elite in a web of lies. A fascinating blend of finance, architecture, and history awaits!
May 29, 2023 • 22min
Poor more years! Erdogan triumphs in Turkey
Piotr Zilevski, a seasoned Turkey correspondent for The Economist, delves into Recep Tayyip Erdogan's surprising re-election and the resulting political landscape. He discusses the emotional reactions surrounding the election, ongoing economic struggles, and Turkey's deepening political polarization. In a troubling shift, the podcast also touches on rising youth suicide rates in South Korea, particularly among women, examining societal pressures and the need for effective mental health interventions. Finally, a look at the connection between dreams and musical creativity adds a whimsical note.
May 26, 2023 • 27min
Russian lessons: new and improved war tactics
Shashank Joshi, Defence editor at The Economist, discusses the evolving tactics of the Russian army in Ukraine, highlighting improved strategies that could challenge Ukraine's counter-offensive. Arjun Ramani, a global business correspondent, explores the economic implications of superintelligent AI, examining how it might reshape the workforce. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to the literary giant Martin Amis, reflecting on his creative process and legacy. This engaging conversation touches on warfare, AI, and the arts.
