Economist Podcasts

Join David Smith, an analyst of Argentina’s tumultuous political scene, and Katrine Bragg, a climate change expert, as they delve into the alarming effects of political shifts in Argentina after President Macri's recent primary loss. They discuss the lifting of austerity measures to win back voters amid economic turmoil. Meanwhile, Katrine shares insights on the catastrophic wildfires ravaging the Arctic, highlighting their devastating impact on global temperatures. The conversation also touches on the unique literary culture emerging in the Gulf states despite stringent censorship.

Join John Peet, Brexit editor for The Economist, and Shashank Joshi, Defense editor, as they tackle the looming possibility of a no-deal Brexit and the political turbulence surrounding it. They discuss the clash between the Prime Minister's approach and parliamentary opposition. Shashank shares insights from naval exercises in the Black Sea, emphasizing military cooperation and the shifts in regional power dynamics. Meanwhile, they touch on China's tech-savvy elderly, revealing how older generations are engaging with smartphones and the market opportunities that arise.

Sasha Nauta, The Economist's public policy editor, and Amun Rizvi, a correspondent focused on West African piracy, dive into the booming fertility industry. They discuss how companies are innovating in in vitro fertilization and the ethical dilemmas faced by would-be parents. The conversation also shifts to the alarming rise of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, highlighting the emotional toll on sailors and the ineffective responses from governments. Expect a mix of hope and realism in these pressing global issues.

Roger McShane, Middle East editor for The Economist, delves into Yemen's turbulent conflict, highlighting the recent armed rebellion in Aden and the fragile alliances involved. He explores the impact of the Emirati withdrawal on Saudi strategies and the rise of the Southern Transitional Council. The conversation shifts to the challenges in cloud gaming, addressing its potential and demographic changes. They also discuss evolving narratives around female desire, contrasting modern insights with past perceptions, emphasizing women's sexual agency in today’s world.

Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, dives into the complex negotiations between the U.S. and the Taliban regarding Afghanistan's future. He discusses the intricacies of the withdrawal process and the Taliban's uncertain commitments, raising concerns about security and women's rights. The conversation also shifts to public health, highlighting a new vaccine for the drug-resistant typhoid fever that threatens vulnerable communities. Lastly, Joshi explores the economics of short flights in Scotland, debating their sustainability and potential electrification.

In this discussion, Sarah Maslin, the Brazil correspondent based in Sao Paulo, sheds light on the alarming rise in deforestation in the Amazon, revealing how government policies may push the rainforest to a breaking point. Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent, critiques Malaysia's reformist coalition for their slow progress on liberalizing laws, despite significant voter expectations. The conversation highlights the urgent need for effective environmental protection and governance reform as global impacts loom large.

Alex Trevelli, an India correspondent reporting from Delhi, dives into the profound political shifts in Jammu & Kashmir after the revocation of its autonomy. He discusses how this change stirs fears of demographic shifts and affects local identity amid rising tensions with Pakistan. The conversation also touches on the dangers faced by deep-sea divers in the volatile oil industry and the unsettling implications of deepfake technology in media, highlighting challenges of misinformation in today’s digital landscape.

James Miles, China editor for The Economist, delves into the turmoil in Hong Kong, discussing the ominous language hinting at potential military intervention by China. He highlights the rising tension from public service strikes and the heavy-handed responses from law enforcement, including rubber bullets. The conversation shifts to the complexities surrounding the controversial push for employee ownership and the astonishing rise in concert ticket prices, revealing the intricate web of today's music industry dynamics.

In this engaging discussion, John Fasman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, delves into the persistent epidemic of gun violence in America, linking it to rising political extremism and debates over gun control. Mariana Palau shines a light on the struggles of Venezuelan migrant women seeking healthcare in Colombia amidst a collapsing infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the tense political landscape affecting travel advisories in the Middle East, illustrating the intricate connections between global crises and everyday lives.

In this discussion, Idris Kahloon, a U.S. policy expert, explores the fallout from the United States’ retreat from the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces treaty and its implications for global arms control. He delves into Baltimore's soaring crime rates, linking them to poverty, addiction, and failed leadership, while also suggesting necessary community interventions. Additionally, the surprising rise of rosé wine in France is examined, showcasing how this once-overlooked drink has become a seasonal favorite, appealing to new consumer trends.