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
May 27, 2022 • 23min
Take the first left? Colombia’s election
Ana Lankes, The Economist's correspondent covering Colombia, shares insights about the country’s pivotal election, where a leftist leader may emerge amid turmoil and violence. Kenley Salmon highlights the severe fuel shortages in Africa, revealing how rising prices affect daily life and government stability. Lastly, Anne Rowe reflects on the legacy of Lawrence MacEwen, laird of the Isle of Muck, exploring the tension between tradition and modernity on the island. This conversation offers a rich tapestry of political and cultural challenges across continents.
May 26, 2022 • 26min
Let’s get the parties charted: the Partygate report
A long-awaited inquiry into lockdown gatherings on Boris Johnson’s watch reveals lurid details of brash bashes. Yet the prime minister will be able, once again, to brush off the controversy. We ask why Switzerland is such a powerhouse in business and finance despite its modest resources. And how Russia’s war propaganda is winning over plenty of Twitter users. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer
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May 25, 2022 • 24min
Active shooters, inactive politics: America’s latest school massacre
After 19 children and two adults were gunned down in Texas, we ask why gun laws are actually loosening in many states and why even moderate gun controls do not get passed. The rapid spread of monkeypox has rattled a covid-weary world; how much cause for concern is there? And why teams of professional writers are getting involved in games development. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer
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May 24, 2022 • 25min
The city that never slips: Beijing and covid
David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, dives deep into China’s zero-COVID policy and the delicate balancing act faced by leaders in Beijing. He highlights the challenges of potential lockdowns and the implications for the city’s residents. Meanwhile, Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor, exposes the alarming baby formula shortage in America, dissecting its roots in supply chain issues and market concentration. The discussion also touches upon Turkmenistan's restrictive laws on women's rights, showcasing contrasting governance approaches.
May 23, 2022 • 22min
Labor’s day: Australia’s election
Anthony Albanese, Australia’s 31st Prime Minister and a pivotal figure in the recent shift towards climate-focused governance, discusses the implications of his election. He highlights the changing landscape of Australian politics influenced by independent candidates and voter sentiment on climate issues. The conversation also delves into the rise of surveillance software in workplaces, raising concerns about privacy and employee rights. Interestingly, Albanese touches on Brazil's cultural practice of shell-throwing, showcasing its relevance amid contemporary uncertainties.
May 20, 2022 • 26min
Straight out of Orwell: Russia’s propaganda machine
Noah Snyder, The Economist's Tokyo bureau chief with a rich background in Russian media, joins Robert Guest, the foreign editor focusing on Zimbabwe's economic woes, and Anne Rowe, the obituaries editor recalling the legacy of Katsumoto Saotome. They discuss Russia's propaganda machine and its impact on public opinion regarding the Ukraine war. The guests also analyze Zimbabwe's return to hyperinflation and the struggle of its citizens amidst economic turmoil. Lastly, they reflect on the importance of remembering historical atrocities.
May 19, 2022 • 24min
Pestilent peninsula: covid in North Korea
Andrew Knox, The Economist's Korea correspondent, dives deep into North Korea's COVID-19 crisis, revealing the stark contrast between the regime's claims and reality. With a healthcare system in shambles and rampant pre-existing conditions, Knox highlights the severe impact of isolationist policies. He discusses how these failures may affect North Korea's international relations moving forward. Alongside this, the conversation touches on rising tensions regarding Turkish refugees, exacerbated by political agendas, and the educational challenges faced by boys in the Arab world.
9 snips
May 18, 2022 • 25min
It’s his party: American primaries
Daniel Remler, a reporter focused on U.S. politics for The Economist, shares insights on the recent primary elections in Pennsylvania, highlighting the influence of Trump-backed candidates. David Hambling, a tech writer for The Economist, introduces Wide Area Motion Imaging (WAMI), a surveillance technology that’s transitioning from military to civilian use. They explore the implications of WAMI on privacy and data management, as well as how the war in Ukraine is unexpectedly raising berry prices in Britain.
May 17, 2022 • 24min
Luna landing: Crypto chaos
Join Alice Fullwood, an American finance correspondent for The Economist, and Charlie McCann, the Southeast Asia correspondent, as they dive into the chaotic world of cryptocurrency. They discuss how the collapse of the Terra stablecoin has shaken market confidence amid rising interest rates. The conversation also highlights the dire environmental impact of extreme heatwaves in India and the surprising conflict between Indonesia's beloved songbird competitions and the survival of wild bird populations. Tune in for insights on finance and nature!
May 16, 2022 • 23min
Not stuck in neutral: Sweden, Finland and NATO
In this engaging discussion, Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, delves into Sweden and Finland's historic shift toward NATO membership, driven by increased geopolitical tensions after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He highlights how both nations, previously neutral, are reevaluating their security strategies. The talk also touches on the waning appeal of Facebook for younger users and the groundbreaking imaging of the black hole at the center of our galaxy, which marks a major advancement in astrophotography.
