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 7, 2022 • 23min
Fission creep: Iran nuclear talks resume
Anton LaGuardia, a diplomatic editor with deep insights into global negotiations, joins Susanna Savage, a South Asia correspondent, to dissect the swirling complexities of Iran's nuclear deal. They explore the precarious balance of ongoing talks and the ominous potential for failure. Savage highlights the impact of U.S. sanctions on Bangladesh's political climate, revealing their surprising effects amid rising violence. Together, they navigate the challenges of diplomacy and the pressing need for effective political strategies.
Feb 4, 2022 • 26min
Skin in the Games: Beijing’s nervy Olympics
David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief at The Economist, shares insights on the tense atmosphere surrounding the Beijing Winter Olympics, focusing on stark COVID restrictions and the curated experience of attendees. Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, sheds light on the horrific treatment of migrants by Libya's coast guard, exposing the EU's troubling role in this humanitarian crisis. Both guests discuss the shifting landscape of gun ownership in America, reflecting a growing diversity among gun rights advocates.
Feb 3, 2022 • 24min
A model result: our French-election series begins
Arjun Ramani, Global business and economics correspondent for The Economist, dives into the rising global debt crisis and its connection to increasing interest rates. He discusses how these rate hikes could lead to a staggering $20 trillion in interest obligations by 2026, impacting governments and households alike. The conversation also highlights the unique trends in the French electoral landscape, revealing how local voter concerns clash with political discourse, alongside an intriguing uptick in marriage rates during the pandemic in Saudi Arabia.
Feb 2, 2022 • 23min
Action pact: NATO’s Ukraine role
Sergio Mattarella, the re-elected President of Italy, shares insights on the political implications of his surprising return to office amid a fragmented political landscape. Anton LaGuardia, diplomatic editor at The Economist, discusses NATO's evolving role in addressing the Ukraine crisis, highlighting the alliance's commitment to diplomacy and military readiness in the face of rising tensions with Russia. The conversation weaves together themes of international relations, political dynamics in Italy, and a surprising cultural twist with nuns gaining fame on TikTok.
Feb 1, 2022 • 23min
Do as I say, except at my dos: Boris Johnson’s parties
Matthew Holhouse, a British politics correspondent, dives deep into the implications of the Sue Gray report on Boris Johnson's leadership, highlighting the political fallout from lockdown parties. Charlie McCann, a Southeast Asia correspondent, reflects on Myanmar one year post-coup, detailing the junta's struggles amid ongoing resistance and public defiance. Both guests unpack the intricate interplay of governance, accountability, and cultural identity, offering a lens into the broader challenges these regions face.
Jan 31, 2022 • 24min
Sunshine statement: Ron DeSantis’s Florida
Alexandra Sewage-Bass, a senior correspondent for politics at The Economist, discusses Governor Ron DeSantis's rise in Florida politics and his potential presidential ambitions. Elise Burr highlights changing divorce laws, making the process easier and more amicable across wealthy nations. Meanwhile, Matt Kaplan addresses the dire ecological impact of the Sumatran rhino's looming extinction, which threatens biodiversity and the rainforest ecosystem. Together, these topics paint a vivid picture of political, social, and environmental shifts in Florida and beyond.
Jan 28, 2022 • 23min
Insecurities in securities: why markets are sliding
John Fassman, a financial markets expert, and Susanna Savage, The Economist's South Asia correspondent, delve into the unsettling downturn of stock markets and the looming economic uncertainties of 2022. They discuss how rising interest rates are affecting investor confidence while exploring the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance in South Asia. Savage highlights the health crisis prompted by drug-resistant infections, while Fassman emphasizes the turbulent landscape ahead for financial investors, painting a picture of volatility and caution.
Jan 27, 2022 • 23min
On the edge of his seat: Stephen Breyer
The looming retirement of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer opens the door for pivotal nominations, particularly under President Biden's promise to appoint a Black woman. Meanwhile, the chaos following Burkina Faso's coup raises concerns for regional security and the fight against jihadism. The podcast also discusses Indonesia's ambitious plan to shift its capital to Nusantara, exploring the motivations and challenges of moving capital cities, with historical context from Nigeria's transition from Lagos to Abuja.
Jan 26, 2022 • 23min
Twist of faith: religious hatred in India
Max Rodenbeck, The Economist's South Asia bureau chief based in Delhi, dives deep into the alarming rise of Hindu nationalism in India. He highlights how minority groups, especially Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs, face increasing hostility and violence, often exacerbated by government inaction. Rodenbeck paints a troubling picture of sectarian discrimination that undermines India’s secular ethos. He also touches on the shift in Chinese propaganda tactics and the lighthearted yet concerning otter trend in Southeast Asia.
Jan 25, 2022 • 23min
What’s it good for? Putin’s Ukraine calculus
Shashank Joshi, defense editor at The Economist, dives into Vladimir Putin's strategic maneuvers regarding Ukraine, analyzing the implications of a military buildup and potential NATO responses. Sarah Burke, Bureau Chief for Mexico, discusses the country's unique approach to handling the Omicron variant amid ongoing pandemic challenges. Together, they also explore the controversial culture of workplace drinking, highlighting both the pros and cons in today's evolving work environment.
