Economist Podcasts The Intelligence: as Zuck would have it
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Nov 28, 2023 
Henry Tricks, a global business columnist for The Economist, and Alessandro Ford, an expert on Latin America, dive into the recent turnaround of Meta under Mark Zuckerberg’s leadership. They explore the illegal gold rush in Venezuela, where desperate workers turn to dangerous mining amid economic turmoil, and discuss the connection between mining and crime. Additionally, they touch on the cultural significance of North Korea's women's football team, examining how their success serves as propaganda amidst complex social dynamics.
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Venezuela's Dirty Gold
- Illegal gold mining thrives in Venezuela, often using dangerous methods.
- Workers use mercury and high-pressure hoses, risking their health for potential profit.
Gold Demand Boom
- Demand for gold increased due to central bank buying and a growing middle class in Asia.
- Instability, US-China tensions, and post-pandemic weddings fueled the demand.
Illegal Mining Growth
- Poverty and powerful allies drive illegal gold mining's growth.
- Venezuelan military, Bolivian and Brazilian presidents have supported or ignored the issue.