The David McWilliams Podcast
David McWilliams & John Davis
The aim of this weekly podcast is to make economics easy, uncomplicated and accessible. With the world at a political, technological and financial tipping point, economics has never been so important to all of us and yet, it’s made inaccessible and complicated by so many.I’ve always thought what is complicated is rarely important and what is important is rarely complicated.That will be our motto.Every week we are going to tease out some big economic or political issue facing us, not just here in Ireland but in Europe and further afield. Globalisation has brought us all together. We all face similar challenges whether you live in Dublin, London, Minnesota or Milan.If you would like to enjoy all of our content ad-free and have early access to episodes, subscribe to DMCW+ on Apple Podcast.If you would like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/DavidMcWilliams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Aug 27, 2024 • 41min
A Kick In The Jackson's Hole
Dive into the secluded realm of Jackson Hole, where economic elites ponder global markets amidst picturesque wilderness. Discover how industrial farming has overshadowed traditional Mediterranean agriculture, leaving communities deserted. Explore the resurgence of gold as nations seek stability amid economic turmoil, while competition among currencies heats up. Uncover the psychological drivers behind gold and Bitcoin investing, all against the backdrop of evolving financial landscapes and cultural anxieties.
9 snips
Aug 22, 2024 • 35min
Economics of Trust: What's Next for the UK?
Join Andy Haldane, former Chief Economist at the Bank of England and now head of the Royal Society of Arts, as he dives into the pressing issues surrounding the UK. Haldane discusses the roots of recent riots, highlighting the critical need for social capital and community trust. He also tackles the role of social media in eroding this trust and its impact on institutions. Explore innovative public investment strategies and how rebuilding trust can reshape societal dynamics, especially in light of Brexit and economic inequality.
11 snips
Aug 20, 2024 • 36min
Can Ireland Fix Its Infrastructure Crisis Before It's Too Late?
Laughter meets reality as tales of Irish disaster take center stage. Discover the chaos of the Children's Hospital project and the endless MetroLink saga. Despite ample funds, why can't Ireland deliver? Compare this with Serbia's rapid rail projects and Italy's efficient infrastructure tactics. The conversation questions whether Ireland needs to invite foreign experts to tackle its shortcomings. A humorous reflection on Ireland's pub prowess highlights a stark contrast to its struggles with major construction. It’s a call for change and innovation!
23 snips
Aug 15, 2024 • 43min
How to Destroy a Country: Venezuela with Noah Smith
In this discussion, Noah Smith, an expert commentator on economic policies, sheds light on Venezuela’s dramatic decline from wealth to poverty. He outlines how misguided economic strategies, including nationalization and price controls, paved the way for hyperinflation and a humanitarian crisis. The conversation draws parallels with leadership trends in Latin America and unveils the broader implications of Venezuela's plight on global economic policies. Listeners gain insights into the complexities of economic ideology and the stark realities of mismanagement.
7 snips
Aug 13, 2024 • 35min
Can Dublin Avoid the Donut Effect?
Dublin is facing the troubling 'donut effect,' where rising crime and exorbitant rents threaten to hollow out its city center. With increasing commercial vacancies and a dramatic decline in hospitality spending, the city's vibrant atmosphere is at risk. Drawing comparisons to the declines seen in cities like San Francisco, the discussion emphasizes the urgent need for strategic interventions. Suggestions for revitalization echo successful strategies from the past, showcasing the importance of urban planning and diverse entertainment options to reverse the decline.
13 snips
Aug 8, 2024 • 35min
The Downward Spiral of Upward Social Mobility
Explore the disconcerting trend in Ireland where today's youth may face declining prospects compared to their parents. Discover the historical shifts in social mobility and the lasting impact of the Celtic Tiger era. The conversation reveals intriguing concepts like "kitchen table capital," emphasizing the role of family in shaping success. Comparisons with the U.S. highlight a worrying pattern of stagnation, suggesting that diminished mobility could lead to increased societal tensions. Join in for a thoughtful analysis of the future landscape of social class and mobility.
27 snips
Aug 6, 2024 • 35min
Inside the Head of the FED
The podcast tackles the suspense surrounding the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions and their ripple effects on commercial real estate and stock markets. A sharp decline in job numbers raises recession fears, while the impact on Ireland is highlighted, especially following Intel's significant stock drop. The conversation draws parallels between the Fed's decision-making and ancient stargazing, emphasizing the blend of data analysis and unpredictability in economic forecasting. Consumer confidence indicators and the tech sector dynamics further enrich the discussion.
Aug 1, 2024 • 34min
Inheritance Tax & The Curse of the Silver Spoon
Explore the hot-button issue of inheritance tax in Ireland amidst soaring house prices. Middle-class families face hefty tax bills, leading to discussions on possible reforms like raising tax-free thresholds. The podcast delves into historical influences on perceptions of inheritance and the clash of ideas between libertarianism and Marxism regarding wealth distribution. Can adjusting tax rates make a difference in economic fairness? The conversation challenges traditional views and examines inheritance's role in shaping society and addressing economic inequality.
6 snips
Jul 30, 2024 • 38min
The Napster of Finance: A Revolut-ion
Explore the revolutionary journey of Revolut as it disrupts traditional banking. This Lithuanian powerhouse shifts from a simple travel card to a major mortgage player, impacting 2.7 million Irish customers. The conversation dives into the evolution of money, banking complexities, and the challenges posed to established banks. Discover how modern financial technologies echo historical changes in banking practices, highlighting the future of a digital-first financial landscape. It's a fascinating look at how Revolut is redefining our monetary experience!
15 snips
Jul 25, 2024 • 33min
Kamala's Cash, Vance's Chance, and Biden's Big Exit
Gen X vibes and Gen Z energy exude from Kamala Harris as she breaks fundraising records, while J.D. Vance, embodying Elon Musk's innovation, stirs up the MAGA movement with anti-corporate views and controversial policies. The podcast dissects these political upheavals and their global economic implications, including Ireland's neutrality at risk with potential EU shifts and military expenditure concerns.
