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
Feb 1, 2023 • 25min
Troubled shares, troubles shared: Adani and India Inc
Tom Easton, The Economist's Asia business correspondent, sheds light on the turmoil surrounding the Adani Group amid serious allegations of fraud by an American research firm. He discusses the unexpected support from Indian business leaders during this crisis and examines broader implications for corporate accountability in India. Additionally, Easton highlights Mexico's strategic advantages in the electric vehicle market and delves into the intriguing rise of MAGA rap, exploring its impact on political discourse and culture.
Jan 31, 2023 • 21min
Not shy about retiring: strikes in France
Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief for The Economist, offers sharp insights into the ongoing strikes in France over pension reforms. She explains how President Macron's push to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 clashes with core French values, igniting widespread protests. Additionally, Petter highlights the gloomy economic outlook as large tech firms grapple with layoffs amidst sluggish growth. The conversation also touches on fascinating shifts in American views on polyamory, exploring the dynamics of throuple relationships and emerging social recognition.
Jan 30, 2023 • 28min
Didn’t protect or serve: Tyre Nichols’s killing
Tyre Nichols's tragic death sparks intense conversation around police violence and accountability in America, challenging standard narratives, especially since the involved officers were Black. The discussion then shifts to the perilous situation for women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, emphasizing urgent humanitarian issues. In a scientific turn, the podcast dives into how sounds influence emotions and how animal brains adapt learning paradigms, paving the way for insights into AI development that may reshape our understanding of intelligence.
Jan 27, 2023 • 23min
Tunnel, no lights: South Africa’s crumbling infrastructure
John McDermott, The Economist's chief Africa correspondent, discusses South Africa’s failing infrastructure, shedding light on the energy crisis and rampant blackouts affecting daily life and productivity. He reveals how corruption and mismanagement in state-owned enterprises like Eskom and Transnet have led to economic stagnation. Additionally, Anne Rowe reflects on the legacy of Ronald Blythe, a celebrated British rural writer, offering a glimpse into the changing facades of rural life, intertwined with themes of tradition and resilience.
Jan 26, 2023 • 26min
Bibi’s gambit: Israel’s government v its judiciary
Anshul Pfeffer, who brings his insights on Israel's political landscape, discusses the troubling attempts by the right-wing coalition government to diminish the Supreme Court's authority, raising alarms about democracy. Don Wineland shares personal experiences from Shanghai post-lockdown, revealing resilience amidst lingering challenges. They also touch on the cultural significance of China's Lunar New Year migration. The podcast wraps up with a lively debate on the controversial status of gas stoves amidst safety concerns and legislative responses in America.
Jan 25, 2023 • 25min
Tanks, a lot: arming Ukraine
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, shares insights on Germany's bold decision to send tanks to Ukraine, which could change the dynamics of the conflict. Tom Gardner, Horn of Africa correspondent, discusses the turmoil in Sudan, detailing the stalling of its democratic transition and the economic decline exacerbating humanitarian crises. The conversation also offers a delightful tangent into the cultural evolution of British chips, exploring their historical significance and the journey to culinary perfection.
Jan 24, 2023 • 26min
Marshalling resources: rebuilding Ukraine
Matt Steinglass, The Economist's Europe correspondent, discusses the staggering economic toll of the war in Ukraine and the critical steps needed for recovery, comparing it to the Marshall Plan. Rachel Dobbs sheds light on the Montreal Protocol's success in healing the ozone layer and its implications for future environmental policies. Callum Williams debunks fears about job displacement during the pandemic, revealing that automation didn’t lead to widespread job losses, countering initial predictions and sparking a broader conversation about job security.
Jan 23, 2023 • 26min
Feeling un-Wellington
James Astell, Asia editor for The Economist, reflects on Jacinda Ardern's impactful leadership and the challenges facing her successor, Chris Hipkins. Sarah Burke, Economist and Mexico City Bureau Chief, discusses the growing role of grandparents in modern families and its implications. Erin Braun, West Coast correspondent, analyzes the alarming trends of America's far-right movements targeting the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting shifts in their activism since January 6, 2021. Together, they tackle pressing global issues with insightful commentary.
Jan 20, 2023 • 27min
A rarefied air: a dispatch from Davos
Join Zannie Minton-Beddoes, Editor-in-chief of The Economist, as she shares insights from the World Economic Forum in Davos. Despite a decline in its allure, Davos remains a vital networking hub amidst global challenges. The discussion touches on the closing of the iconic Noma restaurant and its implications for fine dining. There's also a poignant look at Adolfo Kaminsky, a forger whose brave efforts saved countless lives during WWII, highlighting the enduring power of human resilience and ethical responsibility.
Jan 19, 2023 • 24min
Turkey stuffed? A democracy’s last stand
Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, offers deep insights into Turkey's precarious political climate under President Erdogan. As elections approach, he discusses the diminishing democratic institutions and the looming threat to Turkey's stability. The conversation also touches on the implications of non-compete clauses in the U.S. job market. Additionally, legendary composer Ryuichi Sakamoto reflects on his latest album, '12', navigating themes of mortality and resilience amidst his health journey.
