

Economics Explained
Economics Explained
On Economics Explained, we take a look at interesting countries, policies, and decisions from the point of view of an economist. The world is an interesting place and we hope to uncover some of this intrigue in our short, informative podcasts.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 20, 2023 • 17min
China’s Crumbling Economic Story
Explore the transformation of Shenzhen into an economic powerhouse and China's rapid growth. Discuss concerns about economic collapse and the disparity between China's growth rate and Western economies. Examine the impact of assuming strong career growth on personal finances and China's provincial debt challenges. Discover the consequences of nominal wage increases, inflation, and deflation on China's economy.

Nov 8, 2023 • 20min
Is Poland the New Economic Powerhouse of Europe?
Poland's economic success defies European trends, outperforming even resource-rich Russia. Privatizing state-owned departments in transitioning economies brings challenges and potential for corruption. Poland's careful transition to a market economy led to growth, stability, but also dependence on stagnant European markets. Brain-drain, Ukraine conflict, and military expansion pose economic challenges. Poland's population growth, GDP per capita, stability, manufacturing industry, and potential for further development are analyzed.

Nov 1, 2023 • 17min
The $6.5 Trillion Dollar Problem Nobody Notices
The podcast explores the unnoticed cost of infrastructure maintenance in developed economies. It discusses the significance of infrastructure in economic success and failures, the impact of infrastructure on economic growth, challenges faced by lower income developing economies in managing their economic growth, and the consequences of debt-funded infrastructure projects. It also highlights the importance of feasibility studies, cost-benefit analysis, and maintenance in infrastructure projects.

Oct 25, 2023 • 16min
Why Saudi Arabia Pours Billions Into Sports (And It Makes Sense)
The podcast discusses why Saudi Arabia spends billions on sports, exploring whether it's a PR stunt or a clever strategy. It explores the economic rationale behind investing in sports teams as a means to diversify national income and attract tourism. The podcast also delves into how Gulf states use sports to attract businesses and create industries, but face challenges like corruption and lack of public knowledge. It examines the potential of sports in transforming developing countries and fostering unity. Additionally, it explores 'sports washing' and the influence of globalization on these investments.

Oct 18, 2023 • 18min
The Failing Economy of Niger
Niger's coup and its economic impact, including France's involvement with uranium, China's belt and road initiative, and Russia's Wagner group. The challenges faced by Niger in terms of trade, political instability, and the lack of infrastructure development. The plans for a Niger oil pipeline and the involvement of the Wagner mercenary organization in Niger's economy.

Oct 12, 2023 • 22min
Skills Wars Are the New Trade Wars
LinkedIn Jobs helps you find the qualified candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/ee. Terms and conditions apply.Trade wars are costing the world trillions of dollars every year, but far less attention is paid to the movement and control of the movement of skills and labour. It is much easier than ever before to take an education and move to a country where workers can benefit personally, but at a certain cost to the country that trained them. Skills wars may be the new trade wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 11, 2023 • 13min
How Brunei Built the Laziest Economy in the World
Exploring the challenges of Brunei's welfare state and its heavy reliance on oil reserves. Discussion on efforts to diversify the economy and concerns about future growth. Comparing investment strategies in Brunei and Alaska. Exploring working conditions, salaries, and the uncertainty caused by the depletion of oil reserves.

Oct 6, 2023 • 16min
Why Nations Fail
Exploring the paradox of economic growth in developing countries facing collapse. Identifying common factors behind these failures and discussing potential solutions. Contrasting characteristics of advanced and developing economies. The relationship between democracy and economic development. Understanding the reasons for economic failures and shocks.

Oct 4, 2023 • 15min
Do We Need More Children, or Fewer Children?
Economists debate whether we need more or fewer children; challenges of overpopulation and benefits of reduced population; economic burden of children and its impact on society; potential benefits of population decline; relationship between economic growth, resource usage, and population growth; consequences of population growth and the case for depopulation.

Oct 2, 2023 • 13min
Capitalism Doesn't Need Consumers Anymore
The podcast explores the impact of AI and automation on the economy and society. It discusses the potential consequences of widespread unemployment caused by advanced robots and AI, such as reduced birth rates and challenges faced by developing countries. The podcast also highlights the concerns surrounding technology and AI, while predicting that AI-related jobs will contribute to economic prosperity.


