Ones and Tooze

Explore the intriguing dynamics of The Great Resignation as 10.4 million jobs remain unfilled in the U.S. Understand the cultural shifts and economic factors driving workers to leave their jobs. Delve into the booming pet food market, with a staggering $37.96 billion spent in 2020. This trend raises questions about consumerism versus the deep emotional bonds between humans and their pets, highlighting the significant investment Americans make in their furry companions.

President Biden's infrastructure bill promises $15 billion to enhance electric vehicle infrastructure in the U.S. The discussion highlights how America trails behind China in EV readiness and the critical need for charging stations and electric buses. Furthermore, the impact of COVID-19 on the healthcare economy and labor market is explored, revealing daunting statistics and future implications. The conversation underscores the urgent necessity for reevaluating healthcare funding and addressing the long-term economic effects of the pandemic.

On this episode, Adam Tooze and Cameron Abadi discuss the moves and countermoves of the bond market and the Federal Reserve Chairman in response to inflation.Also: A new alliance of banks and investment funds is committing $130 trillion to carbon neutral projects in the next 30 years. Green altruism or green washing?Save 15% on FP subscriptions. Visit https://foreignpolicy.com/subscribe/ and enter code TOOZE at checkout to claim this offer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Expect optimism for global climate action ahead of the summit. Discover how negotiations tackle rising food prices and potential humanitarian crises. Unpack the complexities of COP26, from financial commitments to the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy. Explore the alarming 33% surge in food costs, its roots in climate change, and the looming threat of political instability. Delve into the intricate links between food crises and social unrest, calling for innovative agricultural solutions.

Inflation rates are soaring, prompting a deep dive into its causes and effects. The discussion reveals intriguing insights about pasta consumption trends in Germany, highlighting the unexpected connection to the European economy. Transport logistics for pasta are also examined, showcasing innovative rail systems and the shift towards climate-friendly practices. The culinary journey of pasta reflects historical ties and evolving tastes, enriching European cuisine while addressing the environmental impact of food transport.

This discussion dives into the Nobel Prize awarded to economists who transformed economic practices through empirical testing. It highlights innovative approaches, such as applying medical experimental designs to economic policy. The hosts also explore the faltering cap and trade efforts in the U.S. contrasting with Europe's more successful emissions trading scheme. Challenges within Europe's system are examined, including pollution certificate allocation and the impact of rising costs on different socioeconomic groups.

Dive into the scandal at the IMF, where integrity and international financial rankings are under scrutiny. The discussion reveals the manipulation of the Doing Business Index amid U.S.-China tensions. China’s stunning rise in life expectancy since 1950 sparks a conversation about poverty and inequality. Compare this with the troubling decline in life expectancy in the U.S., highlighting broader issues post-pandemic. The episode also critiques the interplay between economic data and political ambitions, making it both insightful and entertaining.

Dive into the political dynamics of Germany as Olaf Scholz rises to power, drawing intriguing comparisons to Joe Biden. Explore his shift from centrist policies to a progressive economic approach, focusing on public investment and fiscal reform. Meanwhile, unravel the paradox of Greece's financial recovery, where it now borrows at near-zero interest rates, despite its tumultuous past. The hosts tackle investor behavior and the implications of rising inflation, making for a thought-provoking discussion on European economies.

The discussion revolves around Evergrande's staggering $300 billion debt and its potential to upend global financial markets, drawing parallels to the 2008 crisis. They explore the intricacies of China's state-backed financial system and the impact of U.S. monetary policy on countries like Brazil. Additionally, the podcast highlights the evolution of high-speed rail, contrasting France and Japan's advancements with the U.S.'s reliance on Amtrak. It dives into France's innovations in technology and the broader implications of global infrastructure developments.

Dive into the staggering U.S. debt ceiling at $28.5 trillion and the impending political showdown surrounding it. Discover how nearly 90% of workers faced furloughs during the pandemic and its lasting impacts on the workforce. The discussion sheds light on crucial economic lessons learned from past crises, emphasizing the need for preparedness and thoughtful policymaking. Unpack the transformation of budgetary processes into a political weapon and the potential consequences of government defaults on global stability.