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
Jul 25, 2022 • 25min
With the grain, assault: Ukraine’s iffy deal
Anton LaGuardia, the Diplomatic editor for The Economist, sheds light on the missile strikes impacting Ukraine’s grain export deal, raising concerns about food insecurity. Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, discusses Tunisia's shift from democratic hope to potential autocracy as President Qais Syed pushes for a new, centralized constitution. Together, they explore the implications of these political crises and how global dynamics are influencing both conflict and governance.
Jul 22, 2022 • 26min
Duty unbound: the January 6th hearings
Idris Kalun, The Economist's Washington correspondent, dives into the January 6th hearings, discussing the bold claims of Trump's inaction and potential implications for accountability. Henry Kerr, the economics editor, unpacks the European Central Bank's surprising interest rate hike aimed at combating inflation while managing economic stability. Susanna Savage reveals the complex regulations of alcohol in Bangladesh, highlighting a hidden bar's defiance amidst shifting laws and cultural pressures. Each guest offers thought-provoking insights into political and economic landscapes.
Jul 21, 2022 • 23min
Knock-down, Draghi-out fight: Italy in turmoil
Mario Draghi, the former Prime Minister of Italy and ex-President of the European Central Bank, dives into Italy's political chaos as he grapples with his coalition government's unraveling. He emphasizes the urgent reforms needed for EU recovery while facing a cost of living crisis. The conversation also touches on the alarming impacts of pandemic-induced school closures on children’s education globally. Additionally, Draghi discusses innovative green solutions like using bacteria to create jet fuel, which could revolutionize the aviation industry.
Jul 20, 2022 • 24min
Variable-fate mortgage: China’s protests
Don Wineland, the China business and finance editor for The Economist, delves into the repercussions of the property crisis in China. He discusses the alarming trend of homebuyers boycotting mortgages in response to unfinished construction projects. The mounting protests highlight widespread discontent with government economic policies and the banking sector's instability. Wineland also touches on the implications of these civil unrest events on China's future, revealing the core struggles citizens face amid these financial upheavals.
Jul 19, 2022 • 24min
To a greater degree: widespread heatwaves
Catherine Bragg, Environment editor for The Economist, delves into the growing menace of heatwaves exacerbated by climate change. She highlights alarming patterns of extreme weather, urging immediate government action to protect vulnerable populations. The discussion also touches on the unique transition of former FARC rebels in Colombia to tourism workers and the dire challenges facing Ukrainian farmers amid war, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these global crises and the urgent need for adaptation strategies.
Jul 18, 2022 • 23min
Steal girders: Brazil’s fraught coming election
Georgia Banjo, a Foreign correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on Brazil's tense political scene as President Jair Bolsonaro hints he may reject election results. Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor, unpacks India’s evolving defense ties with Russia and the West amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Kenneth Werner, U.S. News Desk Editor, highlights an unexpected marketing twist with Asian carp as it's rebranded as 'COPI' to change public perception. This podcast offers a kaleidoscopic view of current global issues.
Jul 15, 2022 • 22min
Jeddah mind trick: Joe Biden in Saudi Arabia
Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, shares insights on Joe Biden's diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia, amidst his generally low-key approach towards the region. The discussion highlights the historical ties and complexities of U.S.-Saudi relations, contrasting Biden's strategies with those of Trump. They also touch on the challenges of effective sex education in Latin America, emphasizing the dire need for reliable information in schools, and delve into the fascinating adaptations that allowed dinosaurs to thrive for millions of years.
Jul 14, 2022 • 21min
A bird out of hand: Elon Musk and Twitter
Tom Wainwright, the Technology and Media Editor at The Economist, and William Warren, a Creative Producer, dive into Elon Musk’s tumultuous deal with Twitter. They dissect Musk's about-face on the acquisition and Twitter’s ongoing struggles with profitability. The discussion also touches on the pandemic-fueled rise of traditional herbal medicine and its market success. Additionally, they reminisce about Mario Paint, celebrating its cultural impact in digital art and creativity that still resonates today.
4 snips
Jul 13, 2022 • 20min
Bravery behind bars: Alexei Navalny imprisoned
Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, provides keen insights into the repressive environment surrounding Alexei Navalny's imprisonment. He delves into the harsh conditions Navalny faces and the broader implications for dissent in Russia, particularly post-Ukraine invasion. The conversation also touches on the resilience of protest movements and the surprising global population trends, including declining fertility rates. Lastly, a fascinating discussion on how light affects wine quality adds a unique twist to the dialogue.
Jul 12, 2022 • 24min
Field work: The race to succeed Boris Johnson
Mian Ridge, The Economist’s American social affairs correspondent, dives into the intense political landscape in Britain post-Boris Johnson. The conversation highlights the race to find his successor amid diverse candidates with varying economic policies. Ridge also explores the controversial topic of fetal personhood, examining its growing legal recognition and the ethical dilemmas it presents for abortion rights. Additionally, the podcast touches on Egypt's government challenges with houseboats on the Nile, reflecting broader urban development issues.
