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
Sep 30, 2022 • 23min
Form-annex trick: Russia’s Ukraine-seizure bid
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, offers sharp insights into the looming annexation of Ukrainian regions by Russia and the questionable legitimacy of recent referendums. Meanwhile, Su Lin Wong, China correspondent, shares a glimpse into Xi Jinping's journey to power amidst potential political shifts in the CCP. They also explore the rising prestige of video game music, tracing its evolution from simple tunes to celebrated performances, highlighting its impact on the cultural landscape.
Sep 29, 2022 • 27min
Lula loop: meeting Brazil’s presidential front-runner
Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, interviews Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a prominent politician eyeing a return to the presidency. They discuss the delicate balance Lula must strike between his populist agenda and the need for fiscal responsibility. Wendelin von Bredow delves into Germany's economic vulnerabilities, highlighting its dependence on Russian gas and challenges within its industrial sector. The conversation also touches on Vietnam's controversial revival of propaganda loudspeakers, stirring public debate.
Sep 28, 2022 • 25min
Off the top of their heads: Iran’s widespread protests
Join Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent, and Noah Snyder, Tokyo bureau chief, as they dissect Iran's explosive protests ignited by Masa Amini's death. Pelham reveals how women's defiance is reshaping the societal landscape, sparking a call for personal freedoms. Snyder connects the dots between the aftermath of Abe Shinzo's assassination and the political turmoil it may provoke in Japan. Together, they explore the intricate dynamics of protest, political legacy, and even innovative robotics inspired by nature.
Sep 27, 2022 • 23min
In for a penny, in for a pounding: Britain’s economic gyrations
Sumaya Keynes, Britain’s economics editor at The Economist, discusses the turmoil in Britain’s economy, marked by currency fluctuations and new tax cuts that concern investors. Alice Su, Senior China correspondent, delves into China’s DNA collection practices in Tibet, raising critical human rights issues. The conversation also highlights a trend of 'unretirees' returning to work, driven by inflation and changing labor dynamics. Energy efficiency amid global electrification is another pressing topic as both nations confront economic and social challenges.
Sep 26, 2022 • 24min
Giorgia on my mind: Italy’s far-right government
John Hooper, The Economist's Italy correspondent, analyzes Italy's shift to a far-right government led by Giorgia Meloni, highlighting the uncertainty for both Italy and Europe amidst this political change. Georgia Banjo discusses the alarming rise in prison populations in Latin America, revealing dire conditions and societal impacts driven by strict policies. They also touch on a surprising hit film from China that has raised concerns among authorities due to its candid depiction of rural struggles and social issues.
Sep 23, 2022 • 26min
Empire State v real-estate empire: Donald Trump’s legal woes
Idris Kaloun, the Economist's Washington Bureau Chief, dives into Donald Trump's myriad legal challenges, including a sweeping lawsuit by New York's attorney general and allegations surrounding January 6th. Guy Scriven discusses the rapidly evolving cloud computing industry, spotlighting major shifts and key players like Amazon. Meanwhile, Charlotte McCann reflects on the cultural impact of 'The Joy of Sex' 50 years later, exploring how it reshaped views on sexuality amid significant social movements of the 1970s.
Sep 22, 2022 • 24min
Inflation nation: The Fed raises rates, again
Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor at The Economist, dives into the Federal Reserve's recent aggressive interest rate hikes aimed at combating high inflation and their possible effects on the labor market. Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, reflects on Frank Drake's groundbreaking quest for extraterrestrial intelligence. The discussion also highlights alarming trends in forced labor globally and the necessity for stronger regulations to tackle modern slavery, creating connections between economic vulnerability and human rights.
Sep 21, 2022 • 29min
The 300,000 body problem: Russia mobilises and threatens
Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, dives into Vladimir Putin's recent troop mobilization, shedding light on Russia's goal of 'liberating' eastern Ukraine. He analyzes the implications of Putin’s nuclear threats and the challenges facing Russia's military, including leadership and training deficiencies. The conversation also touches on upcoming referendums in occupied territories that could reshape military strategy. Additionally, the discussion contrasts these global tensions with shifting political landscapes in rural America.
4 snips
Sep 20, 2022 • 23min
Charles in charge: the future of the Commonwealth
Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-at-large at The Economist, joins Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent, to discuss the future of the Commonwealth under King Charles III. They explore the Commonwealth's evolving role and its diverse member states, highlighting its potential in global diplomacy. Meanwhile, Pelham paints a vivid picture of Jeddah's cultural erosion amid rapid urban transformation under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, addressing the implications for residents and heritage. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing China's economy as it seeks to compete with the U.S.
5 snips
Sep 19, 2022 • 22min
The first draft is history: Chile’s rejected constitution
Ana Lankes, The Economist’s Chile correspondent, shares insights on the recent constitutional referendum in Chile that faced overwhelming rejection, detailing the political fallout and public reaction. Arjun Rahmani, the global business correspondent, discusses declining fertility rates in wealthier nations, challenging the link between fertility and prosperity, and exploring policy responses. The conversation also touches on innovative solutions to aging populations, such as robotic caretakers, and the use of HARM missiles in Ukraine’s air defense strategy.
