Narendra Modi is one of the most popular politicians on the planet. India’s prime minister is eyeing a third term atop the world’s biggest democracy. A tea-seller’s son, Mr Modi began life an outsider and the man behind the political phenomenon remains hard to fathom. India has become an economic powerhouse during his ten years in charge. But he’s also the frontman for a chauvinistic Hindu nationalist dogma. Can Mr Modi continue to balance both parts of his agenda and finish the job of turning India into a superpower? The Economist’s Avantika Chilkoti finds out what makes him tick. Launching June 2024.To listen to the full series, subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

Discover the economic impact of weight-loss drugs reshaping the world, with Novo Nordisk leading the way. Explore the challenges, market dominance, and future growth potential of these miracle drugs. Uncover the link between obesity, healthcare costs, and societal perceptions, envisioning a transformation in global economic systems. Dive into discussions on beauty standards, energy consumption, smartphone market shares, and consumer interests in physical gold bars.

Amazon faces competition from Chinese e-commerce giant Temu as they battle over market dominance in the US. Timu's aggressive marketing strategy, cheap unbranded products, and innovative business model challenge Amazon's position. Insights from Etsy's CEO shed light on the competitive landscape of e-commerce. Additionally, the hosts discuss the unexpected crow population boom in downtown Portland, drawing humorous parallels to the competitive dynamics between Temu and Amazon.

Exploring the effectiveness of financial warfare through sanctions on Russia, challenges in enforcing sanctions, impact on international policy, historical evolution of sanctions, middle-income countries' role in relief amidst sanctions, US push for seizing Russian assets in Europe, and humorous economic proposals

European firms dominate the luxury landscape, accounting for two-thirds of sales. Topics discussed include the challenges and consolidation in the industry, Europe's dominance in luxury goods, and the growth and acquisitions of a luxury platform. The podcast also explores the logic behind acquiring companies in the supply chain and compares returns on investments in luxury goods.

The business of Broadway is explored, discussing the challenges faced by actors and producers, raising capital for shows, the immersive experience of investing, and the uncertainties of the industry. The impact of the pandemic on theater and personal theater journeys are also discussed.

Benedict Evans and The Economist's technology analysts discuss the recent chaos surrounding OpenAI, including Sam Altman's departure and return as CEO. They explore the worries about AI development and the implications for the wider industry. The podcast also dives into OpenAI's significance in the AI market, its structure and history, and the need to ensure safe development of artificial general intelligence. The discussion touches on concerns and fears surrounding the safe deployment of AI and the importance of regulations and technical solutions to mitigate risks.

President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act has sparked a surge in green infrastructure projects across America. Toyota's investment in a new electric vehicle plant in North Carolina is discussed. The debate between economists and politicians on place-based policies and incentives is explored. The effectiveness of the Industrial Revival Act is analyzed. Shifting dynamics of dating and the industrial transformation of Stanton, Tennessee are also covered in the podcast.

CZ, the boss of Binance, discusses the strained relationship with SBF, concerns about safety in crypto exchanges, and regulatory actions. The purpose of cryptocurrency and the skepticism towards financialization are explored. The legal issues surrounding Binance, the future of crypto exchanges, and the current state of crypto regulations in the US are analyzed. Finally, there's a spotlight on economic growth in Saudi Arabia and the Mormon love for jello.

Learn about the hosts, podcast's unique qualities, and The Economist's global presence in this introductory chapter.