Ones and Tooze

The U.S. economy has surged nearly 6%, marking the strongest growth in decades, yet dissatisfaction lingers. The discussion navigates the recovery post-pandemic, revealing deep-seated inflation concerns and political challenges. Interest rate hikes are examined for their potential effects on the housing and stock markets, showcasing the Fed's balancing act. A special segment on Valentine’s Day delves into the booming perfume industry, revealing how fragrances carry emotional weight and tracing their global production from France to China.

The cryptocurrency market has recently seen a staggering $1.1 trillion drop in value, sparking discussions about what this means for Bitcoin and its role in finance. Experts dissect its limitations and the trust established through blockchain. Shifting gears, the conversation shifts to the looming transfer of $36 trillion from baby boomers, exploring how inheritance shapes wealth distribution and societal views on privilege. The paradox of relying on inherited wealth versus meritocracy adds an intriguing layer to the complexities of capitalism.

Boris Johnson's legacy looms large as scandals threaten his leadership, with Brexit, COVID, and Partygate at the forefront. The hosts dive into the economic turbulence caused by these events, critiquing the government's crisis management. They also unpack the complicated aftermath of Brexit, questioning the UK’s economic strategy. On a different note, they explore midlife crises, revealing surprising age-related happiness data, and how financial pressures impact different generations in today's world.

The podcast dives into the exclusivity and elitism of the World Economic Forum in Davos, revealing its role in global economic discussions. It contrasts the rich who attend with regular aristocrats, shedding light on the political-business dynamics at play. The discussion also probes education, focusing on the importance of public investment and the impact of childhood education on inequality. Furthermore, it highlights how the pandemic has affected educational achievements, especially among disadvantaged youth, and examines the surprising spending disparity between youth sports and education funding.

Tensions escalate as talks with Russia stall over Ukraine, prompting discussions on potential economic sanctions. Experts analyze Russia's economy, its energy ties, and the human costs of conflict. The podcast also kicks off a mini-series on life cycle economics, starting with the growing trend of elective egg freezing among women navigating career and family choices during the pandemic. This shift highlights broader societal changes in parenting age and family formation, while raising questions about reproductive health technology and economic pressures.

Dive into a heated discussion on price controls and their historical context in the U.S., with insights on their potential impact on inflation. Explore the fascinating rivalry between the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, touching on cultural and economic shifts from the 1960s. Delve into how these aging rock legends connect with their devoted audiences and the unique challenges they face in the current music landscape. Reflect on the intersection of cultural reinterpretation and the legacy of these iconic bands.

Analysts warned of a looming inflation crisis, and now it's a reality with prices at a four-decade high. The discussion dives into the dynamics of inflation, revealing its impact on everyday consumers and potential long-lasting effects. Meanwhile, the innovative 'pasta trains' unveil how logistics are adapting post-pandemic, demonstrating sustainability in transport. Connecting ancient trade routes with modern supply chains, this conversation blends economics with cultural insights, culminating in an exploration of the European Union's role in shaping food consumption.

The recent approval of a massive defense budget sparks a debate on its scale compared to corporate giants like Walmart and Amazon. The hosts delve into the economic implications of military spending and its effectiveness. Meanwhile, holiday consumerism is explored, with Americans expected to spend $859 billion, raising questions about the true value of gift-giving. Insights on consumer debt and the emotional weight of presents add a philosophical twist to holiday spending. Listeners are engaged with fun discussions on gift quirks and the complexities of holiday traditions.

The podcast dives into the intricate relationship between democracy and economic performance, examining how governance affects economic outcomes. They discuss the implications of Biden's Democracy Summit and the economic void left by China's absence. Additionally, there's a fascinating look at the booming classic car market, especially the skyrocketing value of models like the 1968 Ford Escort, driven by nostalgia and collector culture. The episode wraps up with lighthearted personal stories and holiday reading suggestions.

Discover how U.S.-led sanctions have devastated Iran's economy but failed to stop its nuclear ambitions. Unpack the complexities of public sentiment in Iran, revealing a mix of patriotic resistance and hopelessness. Dive into the staggering impact of the pandemic on global tourism, accounting for over 10% of the world's GDP. Explore the evolution of tourism from the Grand Tours of yore to modern challenges, highlighting its economic significance and the need for equitable practices. Join the conversation around international diplomacy and economic resilience!