

The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Join Jason Palmer and Rosie Blau for noise-cancelling news and analysis from The Economist's global network of correspondents. Every weekday this award-winning podcast picks three stories shaping your world—the big shifts in politics, business and culture, plus things you never knew you needed to know. On Saturdays, download The Weekend Intelligence to dive deep into a single story, vividly told. If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.For more information about Economist Podcasts+, including how to get access, please visit our FAQs page at https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts
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Episodes
Mentioned books

19 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 21min
Sino-the-times: China gathers global allies
Patrick Fowles, Foreign editor at The Economist, and Anjani Trevedi, Global business correspondent, dive into China's recent international summit and grand military parade. They discuss how Xi Jinping is leveraging global political chaos to strengthen alliances. The conversation takes a sharp turn to the dark side of AI, revealing how it's amplifying cybercrime. They also explore Britain's controversial crackdown on strip clubs, questioning the wisdom behind uniform regulations amid evolving social attitudes.

Sep 2, 2025 • 21min
Call the shots: vaccine cuts imperil global health
Natasha Loder, the health editor at The Economist, discusses the perilous effects of funding cuts on mRNA vaccine research, significantly impacting future pandemic preparedness. She highlights the ongoing turmoil within the CDC following the firing of its director and challenges posed by health misinformation. The conversation also touches on Britain’s largest supercomputer, Isambard AI, reflecting on its groundbreaking research potential. Loder further explores the rising cultural fascination in Mexico with Japanese and Korean cultures compared to China's more economic focus.

17 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 23min
Indonesia ablaze: Riots test Prabowo
Join Asia correspondent Sue-Lin Wong, Planetary Affairs Editor Oliver Morton, and China business editor Don Weinland as they dive into Indonesia's recent chaotic protests fueled by socio-economic issues, including deep public discontent after a tragic incident. They discuss the potential collapse of the Atlantic current, highlighting the urgent need for climate action. The conversation also touches on the rise of fashionable facekinis in China, reflecting changing attitudes towards sun protection in a post-COVID world. It's a fascinating exploration of current global dynamics!

18 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 26min
Split ends: political in-fighting in Israel
Join Anshul Pfeffer, an insightful Israel correspondent, as he breaks down the political turmoil surrounding Bibi Netanyahu amidst the Gaza conflict. Explore how internal divisions impact military strategy and public sentiment. Daniela Raz, a savvy data journalist, discusses the revolutionary shift in college sports, as athletes can now get paid, challenging traditional economic models. Finally, Anne Rowe reflects on the legacy of Sen Genshitsu, the 15th master of the Urasenke tea ceremony, who promoted peace through his art, bridging cultural divides.

Aug 28, 2025 • 22min
Chill baby chill: Modi-Trump relations dip
Kira Huyu, Asia correspondent at The Economist, discusses the latest diplomatic rift between India and the U.S., following Trump's 50% tariff on Indian imports. She explores how Modi might respond and the broader implications for India's foreign relations, particularly with China. The conversation also touches on Palantir's potential overvaluation and the surprising resurgence of analog media, highlighting a nostalgic shift away from digital dominance in music and photography.

28 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 23min
Fed alert: can Trump fire a governor?
Rachna Shambhog, Business Affairs Editor at The Economist, Kinley Salmon, Latin America Correspondent, and Tom Nuttall, Chief Germany Correspondent, discuss the implications of Donald Trump's attempt to fire a Federal Reserve governor, highlighting issues of institutional independence. They delve into Uruguay's progressive legislation on assisted dying through the poignant story of Pablo Canepa and celebrate the cultural significance of shooting clubs in Germany, noting their community role and challenges amidst societal changes.

40 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 20min
Grand theft global: the business of street crime
Tom Sass, Britain Public Policy Editor at The Economist, uncovers the dark side of car and phone theft, revealing how these petty crimes have evolved into a global enterprise. He discusses the challenges law enforcement faces against sophisticated thieves exploiting modern technology. The conversation also touches on the impact of consumerism on crime rates and the emerging trends in private chefs catering to the elite, reshaping culinary choices in affluent circles. Expect insights into the intersection of crime, economy, and personal life decisions!

23 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 25min
That warm buzzy feeling: malaria and climate change
Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist, and Don Wineland, the China Business and Finance Editor, explore the alarming link between climate change and the resurgence of malaria, highlighting implications for vulnerable regions and innovative prevention strategies. They dive into China's cut-throat food delivery wars, showcasing the battle between tech giants and its impact on businesses and consumers. Additionally, the conversation touches on Florida's annual Python Challenge, where hunters face thrill and ecological responsibility in the fight against invasive species.

24 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 24min
Rule and divide: opposition grows in Syria
Gareth Brown, a Middle East correspondent, and Anne Rowe, The Economist's obituaries editor, delve into Syria's escalating dissent post-Assad’s fall. They discuss the violent clashes sparked by sectarian strife and the growing denouncement of the regime's failures. Attention turns to British pensioners leading political protests, highlighting a surprising shift in activism dynamics. Additionally, they celebrate Terence Stamp's illustrious film career, illustrating his journey from self-doubt to iconic status.

50 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 21min
Stake and chips: will America take 10% of Intel?
Join Charlize Chitness, a global business writer at The Economist, and Claire McHugh, a Latin America expert, as they dissect Intel's declining fortunes and the potential for government intervention in the chip-making giant. They delve into the political turmoil following a shocking assassination in Colombia, reflecting on the legacy of violence and instability in the region. Plus, enjoy a whimsical take on a local snail race in rural England, which humorously ties into broader themes of business and community spirit.


