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
9 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 24min
Unsteady state: Somalia in disarray
Tom Gardner, Africa correspondent for The Economist, dives into Somalia's alarming descent into chaos after a period of progress. He highlights the power struggles, political unrest, and humanitarian crises plaguing the nation. Gardner contrasts the federal government's precarious situation in Mogadishu with the relative successes of autonomous regions. He also emphasizes the crucial role of international support in fostering stability and resilience, shedding light on the complex challenges that continue to hinder peace in Somalia.
23 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 21min
Consultant management: McKinsey loses its shine
Tom Lee Devlin, Business Editor at The Economist, delves into the struggles of McKinsey & Company as AI and new competitors reshape the consulting landscape. He discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by traditional consultancies and how they can adapt. The podcast also touches on intriguing airline pricing disparities for solo travelers versus companions, and the rise of women's sports bars in America, celebrating female athletes and reflecting a cultural shift in sports engagement.
18 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 25min
Degrees of freedom? Harvard’s shakedown dilemma
Kenneth Werner, Deputy Culture Editor at The Economist, dives into the complex tensions at Harvard, where rising anti-Semitism clashes with government pressure. He discusses the influence of the Trump administration on academic freedom and the precarious decisions facing the university. The conversation shifts to European security, featuring insights from General Thierry Burghardt on Russia's threats. Finally, they explore the challenges of political satire in an era where humor meets an unprecedented political landscape, testing its boundaries like never before.
25 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 29min
State swing: recognising Palestine
Edward Carr and Henry Kerr from The Economist dive into significant global issues. They discuss the rationale behind Canada, the UK, and France recognizing Palestinian statehood, dissecting its potential impact on peace efforts amidst U.S. tensions. The conversation shifts to the dual nature of AI's promise for economic growth—balancing potential advancements with workforce disruptions. Lastly, they remember the satirical songwriter Tom Lehrer, whose witty commentary humorously critiqued serious social issues of his time.
30 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 23min
Luxe run out? LVMH
Avantika Chilkoti, a global business writer at The Economist, dives into the challenges facing LVMH, the giant in luxury goods, led by Bernard Arnault. They discuss how shifting consumer behavior and tough market conditions are testing the company’s resilience. Chilkoti also examines the dangerous allure of South Korean dramas in North Korea and the severe risks viewers face. Additionally, the conversation touches on the impact of tariffs on American consumers and how they are linked to a faltering dollar and rising prices.
16 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 20min
Heavy meddle: Trump and Brazil
Anna Edelstein, Brazil bureau chief at The Economist, discusses the strained relations between Donald Trump and Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, emphasizing Trump's loyalty to ousted leader Jair Bolsonaro. Leo Marani, the India correspondent, reveals that India has overtaken China in private jet ownership, driven by a growing affluent class amidst urban challenges. The conversation also touches on the cultural evolution of Hong Kong’s famous cha chan tang cafes, adapting to the diaspora while navigating political changes.
16 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 23min
Pause for little effect: a trickle of aid in Gaza
Greg Carlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and Moeka Iida, Japan correspondent, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss the tactical pauses in Gaza, arguing they primarily relieve international pressure rather than aid the starving population. The conversation shifts to Japan's surname law, exploring how changing it could boost birth rates. Finally, they highlight Bad Bunny's meteoric rise in the music industry, showcasing the power of Latin culture in gaining worldwide recognition.
6 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 21min
EU gotta know when to hold ‘em: America’s latest trade deal
In this engaging discussion, Joel Budd, the social affairs editor at The Economist, dives into the nuances of the recent U.S.-EU trade deal involving 15% tariffs for American promises. He elucidates the geopolitics at play and the complexities of international negotiations. The conversation also spotlights the often-overlooked Midlands region, exploring its cultural identity and contributions, while celebrating the inspiring life of Fauja Singh, who completed a marathon at age 88, leaving a lasting legacy.
9 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 23min
Xiaomi the way: a Chinese tech giant gets bigger
Don Weinland, China business and finance editor for The Economist, and Kenley Salmon, Latin America correspondent, dive into Xiaomi's evolution from smartphone powerhouse to contender in the electric vehicle market. They discuss the challenges of expanding abroad and how the company's success at home influences its global strategy. The conversation shifts to the South Atlantic's rising geopolitical significance, reshaping U.S.-Britain-Argentina relations, and how women's sports are on a thrilling upswing, marked by increased investment and growing popularity.
16 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 24min
Anti-anti-corruption? A bill in Ukraine sparks protests
Oliver Carroll, a seasoned Ukraine correspondent, discusses the significant protests erupting in Ukraine over a contentious anti-corruption bill. He delves into how the bill threatens the independence of anti-corruption agencies, centralizing control under the prosecutor general and alarming citizens and international observers alike. This rising discontent reflects the broader struggle for reform and accountability in wartime. Carroll captures the urgent voices of Ukrainians demanding transparency amidst ongoing political tensions.
