Economist Podcasts

Henry Kerb, Economics editor for The Economist, alongside Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent, dives into the global inflation crisis plaguing developed nations. They examine the complex factors driving rising prices and debate various government strategies. Transitioning to Myanmar, they share the harrowing experiences of military defectors and the support networks that aid them. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of cover songs, blending issues of authorship and authenticity in music.

Vijay Vaithi Swaran, Global energy and climate innovation editor at The Economist, and Sumaya Keynes, Britain economics editor at The Economist, dive into ExxonMobil's surprising pivot to net-zero targets. They dissect the implications of this shift, including shareholder pressures and contrasting strategies with European firms. The discussion also navigates the peculiarities of tipping—examining psychological and economic factors, alongside unique insights into the vaccination trends among elite athletes, including the notable case of Novak Djokovic.

Tom Nuttall, the Berlin bureau chief for The Economist, discusses Austria's bold move to impose fines on the unvaccinated, exploring the implications and public response to such mandates. Noah Snyder, Tokyo bureau chief, shares insights on Japan's strategies for its aging population and the lessons they offer to other nations facing similar demographic shifts. They also delve into the challenges faced by the Mormon Church in retaining foreign converts and the impact of the Omicron variant on healthcare systems.

Democrats will spend the week battling for a tightening of laws on casting votes; that will overshadow Republicans’ worrying push into how those votes are counted and certified. Earthquakes remain damnably unpredictable, but new research suggests a route to early-warning systems. And why hammams, the declining bathhouses of the Arab world, will cling on despite even the challenge of covid-19. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Catherine Nixey, Britain correspondent for The Economist, discusses Prince Andrew's fall from grace and the monarchy's efforts to shield itself from his legal troubles. Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent, analyzes the political implications of sanctions against Mali, addressing concerns over security and foreign influences. The conversation also touches on the evolving genre of eco-horror, reflecting humanity's anxieties about the environment. Together, they unpack the complex interplay between royal controversies and geopolitical crises.

Duncan Robinson, Political editor for The Economist, discusses the growing pressure on Boris Johnson amid scandalous allegations of lockdown violations. Avantika Chilkoti, International correspondent, highlights how religious institutions are adapting to the pandemic through online services and property sales, while Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent, shares insights into a tragic road rage shooting in Florida. They also delve into the alarming rise of gun violence driven by road rage across America, offering a sobering view of contemporary social issues.

Mark Johnson, The Economist's education correspondent, discusses the profound impact of school closures on American children during the pandemic. He highlights the significant learning loss and mental health challenges faced by students, particularly in underprivileged communities. Johnson examines the contentious debates surrounding school openings and contrasts these issues with international responses. Additionally, the conversation touches on the growing market for digital real estate in the metaverse and its implications for future technologies.

In this intriguing discussion, Shoshan Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, and Ryan Avent, the trade and international economics editor, tackle the escalating U.S.-Russia tensions over Ukraine and the challenges of negotiating with a demanding Russia. They also explore the impact of the pandemic on work dynamics, including the rise of remote work and economic recovery hurdles. Additionally, the curious underground garlic market in Cuba offers a glimpse into how traditional cuisine adapts amidst food shortages and restrictive economic policies.

Max Rodenbeck, The Economist's South Asia bureau chief in Delhi, discusses India's dire Omicron wave, with hospitals facing oxygen shortages yet signs of optimism emerging as vaccination efforts ramp up. Sarah Berg, bureau chief for Mexico and Central America, dives into the president's controversial energy reforms that may increase costs and environmental risks. They also touch on historical railway dynamics, highlighting the complexities of reviving essential trade routes in the Middle East amidst ongoing conflicts.

Join expert Joanna Lillis, a journalist from Almaty, as she reveals the dramatic escalation of protests in Kazakhstan, initially sparked by fuel price hikes. Callan Williams discusses the surprising global surge in housing prices, despite predictions of decline, while Anne Rowe reflects on the remarkable life of April Ashley, Britain’s first transgender activist. The trio navigates these pressing topics, connecting political unrest, economic trends, and personal stories of resilience and advocacy in a captivating dialogue.