Economist Podcasts

Dominic Ziegler, a columnist on Asian affairs for the Economist, and Andrew Knox, the Korea correspondent, dive into Bangladesh's complex economic landscape. They discuss how corruption and dwindling reserves threaten the country's development narrative. The importance of the garment industry is highlighted as a key driver of growth facing new challenges. They also explore North Korea's bold funding of its weapons program through audacious cryptocurrency thefts, revealing a shadowy world of cybercrime and its global implications.

Kerry in Richmond-Jones, a finance and economics writer for The Economist, and Mathieu Favas, the publication's finance correspondent, dive into China's Belt and Road Initiative, which is becoming more efficient but still ambitious. They discuss the shifting landscape of China's overseas lending and the potential risks for developing nations. The podcast also covers the unexpected success of 'The Chosen', a series about Jesus that resonates with audiences while reshaping Christian entertainment with innovative funding and relatable storytelling.

Join John Peete, the Brexit editor for The Economist, as he navigates the intricate challenges of Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade status. Peete discusses the Windsor Framework and the mix of optimism and skepticism it invokes among political groups. He outlines how this deal could potentially enhance UK-EU relations. The conversation also shifts to urban development, exploring the conversion of office spaces into homes amid changing work dynamics, and concludes with a poignant reflection on the devastation of Bakhmut, a symbol of resilience in Ukraine.

In a vibrant discussion, Ore Ogunbiyi, a dual British-Nigerian journalist, shares her firsthand experience voting in Nigeria's presidential election, highlighting the youthful enthusiasm around candidate Peter Obi. Max Rodenbeck, The Economist’s Berlin bureau chief, analyzes Germany's significant shift in defense policy in response to the Ukraine crisis. The two guests explore the impact of these developments on global politics and the hopeful yet tumultuous atmosphere back in Nigeria, marking a critical moment for both nations.

Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, offers a gripping analysis of Ukraine's military resilience and the potential for a counteroffensive. Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia editor, reveals the shifting landscape of Russian civil society and the mass exodus of educated citizens fleeing repression. Kate Buchoslavska provides a heartfelt account of her return to Kharkiv, sharing the profound personal transformations and challenges faced due to the ongoing conflict. Together, they explore the war's impact and the enduring spirit of those affected.

Joining the discussion are Callum Williams, a Senior economics writer at The Economist specializing in inflation insights, and Tom Nuttall, a Senior editor at The Economist who focuses on the impact of Ukrainian refugees in Europe. They delve into why inflation predictions clash between markets and central bankers. The conversation also explores the struggles and adaptations of millions of Ukrainian refugees navigating new lives while maintaining hopes of returning home. Additionally, the evolution of ice fishing through technology is highlighted, showcasing modern comforts in this cherished winter tradition.

Edward Carr, a renowned expert on the Ukraine war, offers profound insights into the contrasting speeches of Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden. He discusses Putin's blame game versus Biden’s firm defense of democratic values. The conversation also touches on the struggle of a Chinese blogger revealing truths about the conflict amid state censorship and the growing trend of young Japanese professionals leaving for better opportunities abroad. Carr's analysis sheds light on the complexities of these international issues and their implications for peace.

Leo Marani, The Economist's South Asia correspondent, dives deep into the air pollution crisis plaguing South Asia, where nine of the ten cities with the worst air quality exist. He discusses how poor policies and agricultural practices worsen health and economic issues. Marani also touches on the urgent need for international collaboration to combat pollution. Additionally, he shares a gripping tale of two Russians who escape their oppressive homeland and highlights the lifestyle habits of the Seventh Day Adventist community that contribute to their longevity.

Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the dire humanitarian crisis in northwest Syria post-earthquake, highlighting the complex dynamics of aid amid political tensions. He discusses how longstanding sanctions complicate relief efforts. Mike Bird, Asia business and finance editor, explores South Korea's precarious property market, detailing how rising interest rates and household debt are driving housing prices down, posing risks to the economy. Together, they paint a picture of two interconnected crises.

Avantika Chilkoti, an international correspondent for The Economist, discusses how Silicon Valley billionaires are reshaping philanthropy with data-driven, impactful giving. Meanwhile, Tomas Keen, an incarcerated individual, shares his eye-opening experiences with day trading behind bars, revealing how he navigates finances while confronting the challenges of the prison system. The podcast also touches on the artistic legacy of Maya Widmaier-Picasso, highlighting her deep bond with her father and her struggles to preserve his work.