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
28 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 24min
The summit of its parts: Ukraine, Trump and Putin
In this discussion, Oliver Carroll, a Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the complexities of peace negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the challenges of territory swaps and the vital role of the U.S. and Russia. Meanwhile, Don Wineland, China’s business and finance editor, explores how Chinese cities are fiercely competing to become leaders in electric vehicle manufacturing, revealing the strategic shifts in the automotive landscape as they pivot from petrol to electric.
11 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 26min
Not all’s fair: Israel and accountability
Shul Pfeffer, the Israel correspondent for The Economist, and Catherine Nixey, the culture correspondent, delve into the pressing issues surrounding Israel's justice system and allegations of war crimes in Gaza. They discuss the complexities of accountability amidst high civilian casualties and resource limitations. The conversation also touches on the outmoded notion of job-hopping for salary growth, juxtaposed with economic realities. Additionally, they reflect on the life of Father Patrick Ryan, an emblematic figure in the IRA's history, highlighting themes of innocence lost.
18 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 23min
Duty regime: America’s consumers will foot the tariff bill
Rachana Shanbhogue, The Economist's business affairs editor, and Shishank Joshi, the defense editor, dive into the impact of Trump's tariffs on American consumers, highlighting the financial strain these duties impose. They discuss how tariffs may persist beyond Trump's era and the broader implications for global trade. The conversation shifts to the U.S. Space Command's evolving role in space defense amid rising tensions with countries like China and Russia. Lastly, they humorously touch on Gen Z's fascination with personalized water bottles, blending culture and commerce.
9 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 24min
Unsteady state: Somalia in disarray
Tom Gardner, Africa correspondent for The Economist, dives into Somalia's alarming descent into chaos after a period of progress. He highlights the power struggles, political unrest, and humanitarian crises plaguing the nation. Gardner contrasts the federal government's precarious situation in Mogadishu with the relative successes of autonomous regions. He also emphasizes the crucial role of international support in fostering stability and resilience, shedding light on the complex challenges that continue to hinder peace in Somalia.
23 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 21min
Consultant management: McKinsey loses its shine
Tom Lee Devlin, Business Editor at The Economist, delves into the struggles of McKinsey & Company as AI and new competitors reshape the consulting landscape. He discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by traditional consultancies and how they can adapt. The podcast also touches on intriguing airline pricing disparities for solo travelers versus companions, and the rise of women's sports bars in America, celebrating female athletes and reflecting a cultural shift in sports engagement.
18 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 25min
Degrees of freedom? Harvard’s shakedown dilemma
Kenneth Werner, Deputy Culture Editor at The Economist, dives into the complex tensions at Harvard, where rising anti-Semitism clashes with government pressure. He discusses the influence of the Trump administration on academic freedom and the precarious decisions facing the university. The conversation shifts to European security, featuring insights from General Thierry Burghardt on Russia's threats. Finally, they explore the challenges of political satire in an era where humor meets an unprecedented political landscape, testing its boundaries like never before.
25 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 29min
State swing: recognising Palestine
Edward Carr and Henry Kerr from The Economist dive into significant global issues. They discuss the rationale behind Canada, the UK, and France recognizing Palestinian statehood, dissecting its potential impact on peace efforts amidst U.S. tensions. The conversation shifts to the dual nature of AI's promise for economic growth—balancing potential advancements with workforce disruptions. Lastly, they remember the satirical songwriter Tom Lehrer, whose witty commentary humorously critiqued serious social issues of his time.
30 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 23min
Luxe run out? LVMH
Avantika Chilkoti, a global business writer at The Economist, dives into the challenges facing LVMH, the giant in luxury goods, led by Bernard Arnault. They discuss how shifting consumer behavior and tough market conditions are testing the company’s resilience. Chilkoti also examines the dangerous allure of South Korean dramas in North Korea and the severe risks viewers face. Additionally, the conversation touches on the impact of tariffs on American consumers and how they are linked to a faltering dollar and rising prices.
16 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 20min
Heavy meddle: Trump and Brazil
Anna Edelstein, Brazil bureau chief at The Economist, discusses the strained relations between Donald Trump and Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, emphasizing Trump's loyalty to ousted leader Jair Bolsonaro. Leo Marani, the India correspondent, reveals that India has overtaken China in private jet ownership, driven by a growing affluent class amidst urban challenges. The conversation also touches on the cultural evolution of Hong Kong’s famous cha chan tang cafes, adapting to the diaspora while navigating political changes.
16 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 23min
Pause for little effect: a trickle of aid in Gaza
Greg Carlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and Moeka Iida, Japan correspondent, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss the tactical pauses in Gaza, arguing they primarily relieve international pressure rather than aid the starving population. The conversation shifts to Japan's surname law, exploring how changing it could boost birth rates. Finally, they highlight Bad Bunny's meteoric rise in the music industry, showcasing the power of Latin culture in gaining worldwide recognition.
