Economist Podcasts

Daniel Franklin, Deputy US Editor for The Economist, discusses the potential fallout from the recent deal to avert a government shutdown, which could jeopardize Kevin McCarthy's leadership. Mike Bird, Asia business and finance editor, shares insights on the electric scooter boom in Asia, highlighting China's dominance and India's emerging role. Catherine Nixie, Britain correspondent, delves into Britain’s risk registers, revealing the underlying statistics predicting national disasters and the challenges of preparedness. A thought-provoking blend of politics and innovation!

Simon Cox discusses China's economic woes, detailing the struggles in the real estate sector and the political constraints on the central bank. Shashank Joshi reveals how Russian spies exploit Latin American identities to operate in Europe, highlighting the geopolitical backdrop. Anne Rowe reflects on Colombian artist Fernando Botero, noting his signature style and the societal commentary woven into his work. Together, they explore the intertwining of politics and art in today's complex global landscape.

The discussion kicks off with a focus on the strides made in reducing HIV and AIDS deaths due to improved medication access in sub-Saharan Africa. Personal stories from South Africa highlight the stigma and barriers faced by those living with HIV. The financial challenges of developing new treatments reveal the importance of drug price negotiations. Meanwhile, Japan's adult industry is examined under new regulations and China's use of UNESCO to reshape historical narratives adds a layer of cultural complexity.

Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's military intelligence chief known for predicting the Russian invasion, shares insights with Oli Carroll, The Economist's Ukraine correspondent. They dive deep into Ukraine's counter-offensive strategies as winter approaches, emphasizing the importance of factual analysis over speculation. Budanov discusses the dynamics of drone warfare and the impact of Western support. Additionally, the conversation touches on Brazil's potential re-legalization of gambling and the influence of TikTok on publishing trends.

Sophie Petters, the Paris bureau chief for The Economist, and Matthew Simmons, a defense writer, delve into France's withdrawal from Niger amidst rising anti-French sentiment and shifting geopolitical landscapes. They discuss the implications of President Macron’s decision to pull back military presence and its effects on France's relations in Africa. The conversation also explores the evolving global arms market influenced by recent events, and touches on the clash between traditional boxing and the rise of internet influencers in the sport.

Join Matt Steinglass, Deputy Europe Editor at The Economist, and Tom Wainwright, Media Editor, as they delve into the alarming rise of right-wing populism in Europe, spotlighting Hungary, Poland, and Italy. They analyze the implications of the recent radical right demonstrations and the challenges faced leading into the 2024 European Parliament elections. Plus, discover the impact of Rupert Murdoch's retirement on the media landscape and explore the compelling case for shifting American school start times to enhance teen health and academic success.

Join Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's Eastern Europe editor, as he reports from Kyiv, revealing how the resilience of citizens clashes with the war's mental toll. He sheds light on the city's beauty amidst conflict and the internal challenges facing Ukraine. Anne Rowe reflects on Mangosuthu Buthelezi's legacy in South Africa, navigating the complexities of his political impact. Chris Impey dives into the world of ingenious prison escapes, showcasing the creativity of inmates and the challenges they present to law enforcement.

Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor for The Economist, and Tom Easton, South Asia business and finance editor, discuss the mysterious disappearance of China's defense minister and its unsettling implications for military discipline and geopolitical tensions, particularly with the U.S. They also explore Xi Jinping's challenges amid diminishing excitement surrounding the iPhone 15 launch. Additionally, the duo highlights the enduring cultural allure of the Bullet motorcycle in India, revealing its deep emotional connections and impressive sales figures.

Anton LaGuardia, Diplomatic editor for The Economist, dives into the escalating Canada-India tensions sparked by the assassination of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Najjar. Noah Snyder, Tokyo bureau chief, highlights Japan's rigorous earthquake preparedness a century after the Great Kanto quake. Claire McHugh, culture writer, discusses the booming resurgence of country music, particularly among younger audiences, and how contemporary artists are blending traditional styles with modern themes. This lively conversation weaves pressing global issues with cultural evolution.

Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent for The Economist and a former detainee in Iran, discusses the recent U.S.-Iran hostage exchange. He dives into the implications of unfreezing $6 billion in assets, shedding light on the historical use of hostages in negotiations. The conversation also explores the complexities of mortgage decisions in today's economy and highlights how chain restaurants like Olive Garden play a crucial role in promoting cross-class social interactions, emphasizing their importance in bridging socioeconomic divides.